Hypnotherapy - Frequently Asked Questions

In this section we describe what hypnotherapy is.

Contents

What is hypnosis?
What is a trance?
What is hypnotherapy?
Brief examples of how hypnotherapy works
What does a trance feel like?
Does hypnotherapy work?
How long is each hypnotherapy session?
How many hypnotherapy sessions does it take?
Is hypnosis safe?
Are there any side-effects?

What is hypnosis?

Hypnosis the ancient art of inducing a trance. Suggestions are offered to the client's unconscious mind while they are in a suggestible altered state of consciousness. top

What is a trance?

We have all experienced a trance. The most common form is daydreaming. Anyone who has been deeply engrossed and focused on a single task e.g. a repetitive task, reading or watching a good film will recognise a similar state. Hypnotherapists deliberately induce this relaxed state for therapeutic gain. top

What is hypnotherapy?

While a client is in an altered state of consciousness their unconscious mind is available to therapy. The unconscious mind is hidden beyond our awareness. In addition to it's more positive aspects, it is where impulses, habits, impulses, negative emotions and memories, and irrational thoughts reside.

In most forms of therapy the therapist makes suggestions at a conscious level. The conscious mind, whilst rational, can also be defensive, overly critical, overcome with negative thinking, cynical and not always in the mood for change. When in a trance, the clients' conscious mind relaxes, allowing the therapist to communicate with a more receptive unconscious mind.

Hypnotherapy dovetails seamlessly with many other psychotherapies, such as NLP (neuro-linguistic programming), CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) and psychodynamic therapy.

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Brief examples of how hypnotherapy works

Smokers are well aware (conscious) that smoking is harmful and yet find themselves compelled to smoke. For smokers, conscious awareness of health warnings, increasing social unacceptability, the cost, foul taste and smell on clothes, etc. do not override the unconscious habit. Hypnotherapy and NLP tackle the unconscious desire to smoke.

People with phobias know (are conscious) that the thing they fear is not really a threat. Still, their unconscious fear rises when the stimulus is present. Hypnotherapy and NLP build confidence. It can also be used to deal with causes such as exposure to a frightened parent as a child. top

What does a trance feel like?

Relaxing, pleasant and peaceful. Lightness, heaviness or tingling sensations are often reported. top

Does hypnotherapy work?

Hypnotherapy works for most people and most problems most of the time. Of course, hypnotherapy is not a 'miracle cure', however, and commitment and effort by the client is essential. top

How many hypnotherapy sessions does it take?

There are many variables such as client motivation and severity of the issue but you are likely to see clients for between 1 and 10 sessions and an average of 4 sessions. top

Is hypnosis safe?

Hypnosis and trance are 100% natural and safe. We all experience trance regularly. A client cannot get 'stuck' in a hypnotic state and they always remain in control. Clients can choose to go deeper or terminate a trance at any time. They always remain aware of themselves and their surroundings and they can speak at any time. NLP is safe. Only untrained or poorly trained hypnotherapy and NLP practitioners can be unsafe, as with any therapy. top

Are there any side-effects?

Of course - hypnotherapy brings many positive ones such as a client feeling more relaxed, realising their potential, problem-solving, feeling happier, less fearful, more content and/or sleeping better! Pins and needles and numbness can occur - not much for a someone to endure to change their life for the better! top

If you are interested in hypnotherapyand NLP training please give us a call or see the prospectus or hypnotherapy training FAQs.