Clinical Hypnotherapy

Hypnosis can be described as a natural, altered state of consciousness. It can be said that all hypnosis is self-hypnosis – as every individual enters hypnosis by themselves and of their own free will – the therapist effectively and appropriately guides you to move forward positively, whilst you take control of your life.

During Hypnosis the subconscious and conscious parts of the mind begin to work on the same concept at the same time without conflict. The experience of hypnosis is a natural state that most of us enter into many times during a day. Have you ever been so engrossed whilst watching the TV that you didn’t hear someone calling your name? Or driven your car somewhere, and upon arrival thought to yourself – How did I get here? Or sat day dreaming and then said to someone – I was miles away? These are all natural states just the same as hypnosis.

What does it feel like?

To an onlooker it can resemble sleep - Of course, you are not asleep, you will normally feel very deeply relaxed and will remain awake enough to be aware. You cannot feel hypnosis as such, because both parts of the mind are still only doing the things they normally do - it’s just that now they’re both doing the same thing at the same time. You are still aware of the conscious thoughts, and you will always remain unaware of the subconscious processes. So it feels just the same as normal.

What are the effects of hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a safe and natural means for allowing positive change in your life. It guides you into a "Deeply Relaxed State" allowing access to the subconscious mind where all deeply rooted behaviour and thought patterns reside.

Hypnotic suggestions are then used to uproot negative old thought associations, replacing them with positive new ones and thereby changing behaviour. Can I be forced to accept suggestions or do something I don’t want to do?

For most people, this is their greatest concern – many people say that they are afraid of having their mind controlled, like they have seen on TV. Mind control only takes place on TV!! In real life, your mind is very protective of you and you will not accept any suggestions that go against your morals or belief system. You will not experience loss of control or the feeling of being controlled. Hypnosis is not one person controlling another. You cannot be made to do something that you don’t want to do. You are in control and can open your eyes and stop the session at any time. In fact, clinical hypnosis requires your willingness for it to be successful.

How many sessions will I need?

One of the most important things is that you feel comfortable and at ease with your Therapist. At the assessment if we both feel that we can work together, it will then be determined how many sessions you will require, this can vary from person to person. With the exception of smoking cessation which is usually one session including the assessment.