QUELLING THE MYTHS

Frequently Asked Questions about Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy

What does hypnosis feel like?

Contrary to popular belief, you will not be unconscious or feel out of control during a hypnosis session. The hypnotherapist does not ‘take over’ your mind and make you do silly things such as ‘walking like a chicken’ as it can appear on TV! You have complete control and will feel very relaxed but with an acute sense of awareness, focus and concentration. This is why, when given a suggestion, the subconscious mind will take it all in as it is focused on what is being said.

When people experience hypnosis for the first time, they often think that nothing has happened as they think they should be unconscious and not able to hear anything. Hypnosis is not falling asleep and being unable to hear what is being said.

As it is a naturally occurring state of mind, the hypnosis itself can often feel somewhat disappointing, expecting perhaps that there should be some sort of magical element to it! As we enter this state often naturally, it all feels quite normal and relaxing.

Can anyone be hypnotised?

Absolutely, as it is a naturally occurring state of mind such as when we daydream, read a book or relax. However, you have got to want to be hypnotised to allow it to happen effectively. No one can force you into hypnosis as you have the control.

There are certain instances where hypnosis would not be recommended or may be ineffectual, for example, those individuals with an inability to interact and/or comprehend what is happening.

What to expect from a hypnotherapy session.

At the beginning of a session, there is an initial chat to get a clear understanding of what the problem is and the issues surrounding it. This could be a relatively quick chat or a longer discussion depending on the problem presented. The focus is on what you don’t want and then on what you do want with regards to feelings, thoughts, behaviours and how this can be achieved.

Following this, the treatment would then begin, either by taking a solution focused approach, using analytical therapy or perhaps a combination of the two.

Solution focused therapy involves introducing and implanting some positive suggestions or ideas within the inner mind which would change the behaviour of that person for the better.

Analytical therapy, on the other hand, involves rooting out the underlying cause of a problem and dealing with the negative emotions and beliefs surrounding it which in turn would improve that person’s symptoms and ultimately their behaviour.

Hypnosis feels very relaxing, where you are in complete control and will be fully aware throughout. You will feel comfortable and at ease. Even though you feel relaxed, you mind becomes more alert and will focus on certain ideas suggested to you. This is why hypnosis can be so effective in bringing about positive change through the use of the two approaches outlined above. Many people quite often feel very uplifted following their session where there is a short discussion to finish.

Depending on the issue, subsequent sessions may be needed which will be shorter in length. Simple habits and phobias can be treated in one or two sessions, more deeper issues such as depression and anxiety, I would recommend three to six sessions.

Follow up communication to check progress is part of the therapy.

Can I talk in hypnosis?

Yes, you can communicate during hypnosis and respond to any instructions being given or questions being asked. Body movements are also often used such as the nod of the head and finger movements. Communication is used in more analytical work, for example, when examining past events and memories. Self hypnosis techniques such as listening to a guided relaxation script would require no talk at all.

During hypnosis, will I tell you all my deepest secrets?

No. You can only be hypnotised if you want to be and will only accept suggestions that you are comfortable with and which feels right for you as a person. Again, you have the control and therefore, will not divulge anything that does not feel right to do so.

Can I get stuck in a state of hypnosis?

Never. Because hypnosis is a natural brainwave pattern between being fully awake and asleep, you will either become fully alert after hypnosis or fall asleep, especially if using self hypnosis relaxation techniques prior to going to bed.

Does Hypnotherapy work for everyone?

Most definitely. I have seen first-hand how hypnosis can be so beneficial during childbirth through my hypnobirthing work and more recently through my hypnotherapy 1:1 sessions. The change in people is amazing following a hypnosis session and this change can occur very quickly as hypnotherapy can resolve deep issues quickly. You do have to be willing and trust the process, however, as there is an element of ‘letting go’ and being able to relax. Therefore, if you find it difficult to relax due to an overactive, chatty mind, you will just need a little bit more time to train the mind to slow down. But we can all do it!