FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I be hypnotised?
There are many misconceptions of hypnosis. There is often suspicion that being hypnotised could label someone as being weak willed, naïve or gullible. We have all probably seen the tricks of stage hypnotists and been prejudiced by its mystical history.
Hypnosis is actually the oldest Western form of psychotherapy but it has been tarred with the brush of dangling watches and purple capes.
It is in fact a serious science being used to heal medical and psychiatric conditions and research over the past 40 years has proved hypnotic techniques to be safe and effective. Everyone can achieve varying degrees of hypnosis if they wish to do so. It is a natural state just like when we are deeply absorbed in a good film or lose track of time.
What is hypnosis?
​
Hypnosis is a method of inducing a brain state that research has now shown isn’t an all or nothing phenomenon but rather a continuum. A hypnotic trance is not therapeutic in and of itself, it is a state of attention, concentration and consciousness that can be used to facilitate a variety of other therapies, with the mind in a receptive state.
You decide your desired outcomes and with your mind in a receptive state, can profoundly update your thinking and behaviour. As you rehearse the new ways you want to think and feel you lay the groundwork for powerful changes in your life. Reviewing past experiences in controlled circumstances allows you to restructure your understanding of events and change associations that may have been laid down at the time.
Will I be out of control?
This is another big misconception about hypnosis. Your therapist cannot make you do anything you don’t want to do, because your mind will only accept suggestions you are happy with. You are fully aware and participating in the session.
How will I feel during and after my session?
​
You should feel relaxed and comfortable during the session and there is nothing to be scared of. Sometimes you will inevitably uncover some memories which may be emotional, but you are not reliving anything, merely reviewing them with my support. Clients report different experiences after their session depending on what they are working on and I will provide you with aftercare support. Most people have a sense of lightness and relief when blocks have been released. Change happens for people in different ways, sometimes instant but more often incremental or retroactive. Irrespective of how you feel you will be given a personal follow up session as part of your therapy package where I will be able to talk through your experiences.