Questions and Answers

What does hypnosis feel like?

Hypnosis is a natural state of mind that we experience throughout the day, such as when reading a book, watching TV, or driving a car. We typically experience hypnosis when our minds are open and relaxed, placing us in a mild trance. Whereas ‘normal cognition’ involves being aware of your environment, hypnosis is a more internalised experience, where you engage directly with your emotions, memories, and imagination. Clinical hypnosis is a peaceful and creative process, that allows you to alter your mood, adjust your beliefs and change your state of mind.

People often conflate hypnotherapy with stage hypnosis, but these two practices are very different. Stage hypnosis is designed to elicit a behavioral response from a volunteer, for the purpose of entertainment. Clinical hypnotherapy, on the other hand, uses the power of suggestion to elicit a psychological response, promoting your overall health and well being. The therapist uses visualisation, voice techniques, and a relaxing ambiance to direct your attention inwards At this level, you have more access to your beliefs, emotions, and other internalised experiences.

You may find yourself daydreaming during your session, but your subconscious will hear all of the positive suggestions that the therapist shares with you. These suggestions can help you to conquer fears, overcome phobias, and liberate yourself from stress, and anxiety, to name but a few.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions required will really be dependent on your circumstances and the reason for which you are seeking hypnosis. If you are seeking hypnosis for a one-off service such as smoking cessation, for example, some hypnotherapists will deliver hypnotherapy in a single session of up to two hours. Other issues, however, may require a longer-term approach with regular weekly sessions. Your hypnotherapist will let you know how many sessions they feel you might need when you start therapy and will be flexible when it comes to decreasing or extending the number of sessions according to your progress and needs.

Can hypnosis make me feel something I'm not comfortable with?

There are many myths and misconceptions about hypnotherapy, but please rest assured, you will always be in control of the session. You won't be made to do anything that goes against your moral code, or relive something you don't want to experience. Some people fear they may get trapped in a state of hypnosis, but this is also impossible. You remain in control throughout the whole session, and can come out of a trance by merely opening your eyes. Clinical hypnotherapy relies on the power of suggestion and imagination to inspire, motivate and liberate the mind. During the session, we will work together on a mutual relationship of trust, allowing my voice to relax your mind and my words to influence your thoughts and beliefs.