FAQs
What is Hypnosis?
Healing by trance state (or an altered state of awareness).
Hypnosis is a state of mind enhanced by (although not exclusively) mental and physical relaxation, in which our subconscious can communicate with our conscious mind. It may be better to define ‘hypnosis’ by what it does rather than what it is, and in this regard, it is widely accepted as a most excellent method by which we may access our inner potential.
What is Hypnotherapy?
Psychological therapy and counselling (sometimes called the ‘talking cure’) is the treatment of emotional and psychological disorders, unwanted habits and undesirable feelings using psychological techniques alone. All such therapy aims to assist people (usually referred to as clients) in finding meaningful alternatives to their present unsatisfactory ways of thinking, feeling or behaving. Therapy also tends to help clients become more accepting of themselves and others and can be most helpful in promoting personal development and unlocking inner potential.
There are many forms of psychological therapy, but Hypnotherapy is distinctive in that it attempts to address the client’s subconscious mind. In practice, the Hypnotherapist often (but not exclusively) requires the client to be in a relaxed state, frequently enlists the power of the client’s imagination and may utilise a wide range of techniques from storytelling, metaphor or symbolism (judged to be meaningful to the individual client) to the use of direct suggestions for beneficial change.
Hypnotherapy is generally considered a relatively short-term approach in which beneficial change, if it is to occur, should become apparent within a few sessions. (N.B. In actual practice, most hypnotherapists combine hypnotic procedures with other appropriate counselling and therapeutic techniques.
Who can be hypnotised?
The answer to this question is undoubtedly ‘virtually everyone’. This claim must, however, be qualified by the observation that some are more readily hypnotisable than others and that it will also depend upon one’s willingness to be hypnotised at the time. This willingness will depend upon a number of factors, not least of which will be the strength of the person’s particular need and their trust and confidence in the therapist concerned.
Hypnotherapy can be extraordinarily effective, but it is not magic. However, if the right ingredients are present, the time is right, and a suitable practitioner can be found with whom the client is willing to work, then all their (realistic) goals are achievable.
Who may benefit from Hypnotherapy?
The answer to this question is ‘virtually everyone’. This answer is true because hypnotherapy can be utilised to access a person’s inner potential and that probably no one is performing to their actual potential. Hypnotherapy is effective in treating a range of issues: certainly includes: stress, anxiety, panic, phobias, unwanted habits and addictions (e.g. smoking, overeating, alcoholism), disrupted sleep patterns, lack of confidence and low self-esteem, fear of examinations and public speaking, allergies and skin disorders, migraine and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). As an adjunct to other counselling techniques, it can also assist in helping to resolve relationship difficulties and be useful within anger management strategies.
There are instances in which it may be contra-indicated. These could include some manifestations of depressive illness, epilepsy, psychosis (e.g. schizophrenia) and some breathing problems.
Some Common Concerns?
People are sometimes concerned that they will ‘lose control’ in hypnosis. However, consensus indicates that regardless of how deeply people may go in hypnosis and how passive they may appear to be, they remain in total control of the situation. They can talk if they wish to (or not, as the case may be) and can stand up and leave the room at any time. Neither can a hypnotised person be made to do anything against their usual ethical or moral judgement or religious belief.
The notion of a loss of control likely stems from most people’s misconception of stage hypnosis, wherein participants are made to perform all manner of (usually foolish) acts. However, the reader should be aware that participation in a stage act is an entirely voluntary process (thus, ‘permission’ is already given to the hypnotist) and that no such volunteer can be unaware of precisely what they are letting themselves in for.
Q&A
Q: I find it impossible to relax – can I be hypnotised?
A: Absolutely. Although many people become relaxed during a hypnotherapy session, it’s unnecessary. Most importantly, you focus your attention – almost like gaining tunnel vision. So we’ll use techniques which help you focus rather than relax.
Q: I’m worried you’ll make me say or do something I’m uncomfortable with.
A: You are completely and utterly in control during the session. Although we’re working with that more creative, receptive part of your mind, your logical, conscious part is still absolutely there – but toned down from its normal state. You can open your eyes at any time and will never say or do anything that you would find unacceptable in everyday life.
Q: Will I remember everything after the session?
A: You will be aware of what’s happening during the session. Sometimes your mind is working very hard, and elements of what I’m saying maybe vaguer than usual. You might find that you don’t remember some parts of the session in detail. But your unconscious mind will take what’s essential from the session without having to analyse or try to remember what you experienced.
Q: Can you guarantee that this will work for me?
A: I can’t guarantee that hypnotherapy will work for you, but I can ensure that if you’re motivated to change, then hypnotherapy can help you focus on and visualise that change and tap into your unconscious skills and abilities to help you achieve what you want to.
Q: Will I be asleep?
A: No. We want you to achieve the brain wave state between waking and sleeping. If you fall asleep, I’ll notice and say your name to bring you back to the desired state. If it is online, I will ask you to set your alarm at the end of the session to ensure you are fully awake once the session finishes.
Q: I don’t believe in hypnotherapy. Can it work for me?
A: Hypnotherapy is a trusted psychological approach and not a therapy where belief in a higher power or something not scientifically proven is necessary. However, you must be willing to engage in the process and trust that this can be effective for you, as no one can be hypnotised against their desire or will. You have to be committed to want to change.
DISCLAIMER
I do not provide medical advice; any medical questions should be directed to your doctor or health practitioner. I do not offer any diagnosis of any conditions or illness. Before making any changes to your medication or treatment plan, it is advisable to consult your doctor. Whilst I promise to do my best to help you solve your issue, I cannot guarantee complete success; however, I will facilitate change in helping you to reach your desired goals and empower you to make changes.