Question 1

What are hypnosis and hypnotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Hypnosis is an altered state of mind. This simply means that it is a changed state from what we think of as being our normal state. It might surprise you to learn that we experience altered states of mind completely naturally in our normal every day lives. Have you ever been so focussed on a task that you don’t notice anything else going on around you? Or driven in the car to a destination but when you get there you don’t really remember the journey that well? Or been lost in a daydream? Those are altered states of mind, or forms of hypnotic trance.

While hypnosis is naturally occurring, it can also be induced for the purpose of therapy - hypnotherapy.In hypnotherapy you enter a very relaxed state which allows your unconscious to be more  open to the changes that you want to achieve.

Question 2

What is hypnosis like?

Accepted Answer

Most people find it very pleasant and relaxing. In fact it is so relaxing it is proven to soothe the body’s nervous system. This has physical as well as mental benefits.

There is nothing you need to do and nothing you need to know when you experience hypnosis. People normally experience hypnosis both as a state of relaxation and heightened focus. I will guide you into a relaxed state and use various techniques to address your specific issues.

Question 3

Will you be able to cure me?

Accepted Answer

There are many peer-reviewed scientific studies showing how hypnosis can help with different conditions and achieve different goals.

While hypnotherapy can be highly effective for many individuals, it is important to understand that it is not a guaranteed cure. The success of hypnotherapy depends on various factors, including the nature of the issue, your readiness for change, your commitment to the process and the identification of realistic goals and expectations.

Question 4

Is hypnotherapy safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, hypnotherapy is generally safe. It is a non-invasive therapy that does not involve medication. The main ‘side effects’ are improved confidence and a more positive outlook!

Like any form of therapy there may be mild side effects in certain individuals, such as emotional sensitivity if we explore deep-rooted issues, or drowsiness if you found the session extremely relaxing. Side effects are normally temporary and mild and you are less likely to experience them with a certified and experienced hypnotherapist

Question 5

Is hypnotherapy suitable for everyone?

Accepted Answer

Hypnotherapy can be beneficial for most people. There are certain conditions where it may not be recommended or should only be undertaken with medical permission. This includes severe mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia, psychosis, or dissociative disorders, personality disorders and severe clinical depression. I will take the relevant medical history confidentially before starting treatment to check there are no contraindications.

Question 6

What happens in a session?

Accepted Answer

Your first session will be up to 1 hour and 20 minutes. Follow up sessions last for up to 50 minutes. In the first session, we will talk about your situation, problem and goals and how hypnotherapy will help you. You will be able to ask questions whenever you like. We will discuss a tailored treatment plan. The rest of the session will be taken up with therapy. We will also discuss self-care and therapeutic exercises that are an essential part of your ongoing improvement.

Question 7

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

This varies by client and depends on the issue and goal. Hypnotherapy can be a rapidly successful form of treatment. I am a solution-focussed practitioner, which means I will be conscious of tailoring a treatment plan which consists of the minimum number of sessions you need in order to achieve your goals. In your first consultation I will be able to give you an idea of the number of sessions, which will be reviewed as we continue. Some goals and problems may only require one or two sessions and some may require a series of sessions.

Question 8

Can I be hypnotised against my will and will I lose control?

Accepted Answer

No, you cannot be hypnotised against your will.

Sometimes people have these concerns because they have seen stage hypnosis shows. However, the goal of stage hypnosis is entertainment and participants are often chosen because they are open to suggestion, willing to engage in the fun and go along with it. In reality, you cannot be hypnotised against your will.

In hypnotherapy we work together to promote positive enhancements. My goal is to help you access your subconscious mind in a way that promotes healing and positive change. Suggestions made during hypnotherapy are collaborative and based upon informed consent, meaning they are based on your desires and goals, and you are always free to reject anything that doesn’t feel right to you.

As a qualified member of professional bodies I adhere to strict ethical guidelines.

Question 9

Can hypnotherapy be used alongside other treatments?

Accepted Answer

Yes, hypnotherapy can be used in conjunction with other treatments. In fact, it has been proven to be more effective to combine hypnotherapy with other treatments in some circumstances. For instance, one study showed that “the average client receiving cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy benefited more than at least 70% of clients receiving the same treatment without hypnosis.” [1]

When we go though your medical history it is important to inform me of any other therapies or medications you are using so that your treatment plan can be tailored accordingly.

[1] Kirsch I, Montgomery G, Sapirstein G. 'Hypnosis as an adjunct to cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy: a meta-analysis.' J Consult Clin Psychol. 1995.

Question 10

What can be treated with hypnotherapy?

Accepted Answer

A huge range of psychological and emotional issues can be treated with hypnotherapy. It can also alleviate some physical issues as well as provide the inner resources to cope with them. Check the treatments page for more information. If you have an issue you don’t see listed, please contact me to find out if I can help you.

Question 11

Where are sessions held?

Accepted Answer

I see clients in my therapy rooms in London (in Wallington and Kings Cross) and I also hold sessions online via video call. So, whether you are looking for a hypnotherapist in London or indeed a hypnotherapist in the UK or internationally, please contact me.

Question 12

What will it cost?

Accepted Answer

Your initial session is up to 1 hour and 20 minutes and costs £195. Follow up sessions last up to 50 minutes and cost £145. The final cost will depend on the final number of sessions, which I can advise you on when we meet.

Smoking cessation is a single appointment which is up to two hours and is £345

Question 13

What happens if I need to cancel?

Accepted Answer

Don’t worry, life happens. Payment is taken when you book a session or a week in advance, but if you need to cancel or reschedule I ask for 24 hours notice in order to refund the fee. This allows me to offer that time to someone else who may need it.

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