Frequently Asked Questions
about Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy

What is hypnosis and how does it work?

Hypnosis is a very natural learning state. It is akin to the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) state which occurs when we dream. Hypnosis is simply a narrow, focused state of attention. When you become engrossed in a really good book or television programme or when you are engaged in an activity in which you particularly zone out of the world around you and time seems to fly by, that is natural hypnosis!

During the last 3 months of foetal development we experience more REM than at any other time during our lives. It is during this time that many of our instincts become 'programmed'.

Our instincts try to help us out but sometimes, after birth, they can have learned in such a way that they generate some responses which are unhelpful, inapproprate and disadvantageous to us (e.g. stress and anxiety at the wrong times). As REM activity programs many of our instincts before birth, it makes sense for us to utilise the same state through hypnosis to update our instincts so that they generate more helpful, appropriate and advantageous responses.

How safe is hypnotherapy?

It is completely safe and is recognised by the NHS. People find hypnotherapy to be a very relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Will I be able to be hypnotised?

Yes. Hypnosis is a narrow focused state of attention. Some people will focus more deeply straight away and others will become more focused as time goes on. People find they can be guided into a state which can make real and beneficial changes for them.

Will I lose control in hypnotherapy?

No. You are in control. You will be aware of how you feel and what is being said at all times. Hypnotherapy is actually about giving control back to you e.g. if you smoke then the cigarette controls you. Once you have given up with hypnotherapy then you have taken control back from that cigarette.