What is Hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a totally natural state of mind which can be induced by concentration on a single idea or focus. In a therapeutic setting hypnosis provides a powerful tool to access subconscious thought patterns and behaviours and resolve issues that lie beyond the capabilities of the conscious mind.

The deep state of relaxation and solution focused awareness offers a perspective for new insights and understanding to develop with the skillful help and support of the Hypnotherapist.

Modern hypnotherapy utilises the techniques of Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) skills amongst others and combines them with the trance state to assist people in making significant positive and beneficial changes within a relatively short period of time, helping to resolve unwanted habits and thought patterns at a subconscious level. Willpower is required and for the truly committed hypnotherapy may be an effective way to help you achieve your goals.

What will I feel during hypnosis?

Hypnosis is not sleep it is a trance like state that you may be surprised to learn we experience several times a day. Perhaps you have driven along a familiar road and not remembered parts of the journey, or maybe you have been engrossed in a book or a film and haven't noticed when someone has called your name. If so you were in a trance like state at the time!

During hypnosis you will feel relaxed and calm and aware of everything around you. It is an extremely pleasant and enjoyable state which is very similar to daydreaming.

A Hypnotherapist cannot make a person do anything they do not want to or that they morally object to . You cannot get stuck in hypnosis and you can leave the state whenever you wish. You are in complete control at all times.

"We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them."

Einstein

What should I expect?

The initial consultation lasts up to an hour and is free of charge. It provides an opportunity for us to meet to discuss your issue. I will gather information about you and explain how the brain works in relation to your problem and symptoms which most people find enlightening.

I will explain the Hypnotherapy process and how it can help you and we will agree your proposed treatment plan. I will also give you a complementary CD to listen to in between sessions.

All subsequent lessons last up to an hour and begin with Solution Focused techniques followed by Hypnotherapy. Although treatment plans will be discussed and agreed on an individual basis during the initial consultation I have given an outline of average durations below:

Depression / anxiety states - 9/12 sessions (weekly to begin with)

Straight forward phobias - 3/4 sessions (weekly)

Stop Smoking session - 1 session of up to two hours (the initial consultation is included as part of this session)