FAQs about Hypnosis & Hypnotherapy

“But I'm not sure about hypnotherapy.” What exactly is hypnosis?

Our state of conscious awareness changes throughout the day quite naturally. Everyone changes their conscious state dozens of times a day - try and get someone's attention if they are absorbed in the television or a good book! Hypnosis describes a range of naturally occuring states of altered conscious awareness which may vary from momentary distractions to much enhanced states of relaxation to very deep states of inward focus and awareness. And that is all it is – totally natural and there is nothing magical about it. 

In terms of therapy hypnosis is merely a formal (or not so formal) guided relaxed state. It's very pleasant and you can hear everthing that is said. In this relaxed state your mental processes are far more flexible and potentially far more powerful in effecting change than those we can acheive in most everyday states of active conscious awareness.

The great benefit to you is that in such altered states the therapist’s suggestions or stories can speak directly to your unconscious mind. The words placed there will provide you with new perspectives, new ways of looking at your particular problem.

You are always in control during a hypnotherapy session. You will come out of trance if asked to do something that is contrary to your own morals and values.  By the way, that is why no hypnotherapist can make you do anything you don't want to do under hypnosis. That is why you must want to change your behaviour patterns.

You'll be pleased to know that you will always wake up! It is impossible to stay in a hypnotic trance.

Can anybody be hypnotised? 

Some say that 95% of people can be hypnotised by one therapist and the other 5% by someone else! Essentially, anyone can be hypnotised as long as they want to be and have an ability to concentrate. So it is not appropriate for very young children or people with certain mental disabilities.

How many sessions of hypnotherapy will I need?

How long does a session last?

Your assessment session will last up to 75 minutes.  Each subsesequent session lasts 50-55 minutes. If you are travelling a long way, 2 hour sessions or longer can be arranged. (See also personal breakthrough sessions.) Therapy for smoking cessation is a one-off session of 2½-3 hours.

How often will you need to see me?

This depends on the type of problem and on progress made. I recommend weekly sessions. However I do see clients on a fortnightly or even monthly basis depending on their circumstances, and naturally, progress will be slower.

How much does it cost?

Introductory assessment sessions whether in person or over the telephone cost £50. All subsequent sessions cost £60. Payment is by cheque or cash at the end of each session. Telephone consultations cost £60, to be paid by cheque prior to your consultation or by debit or credit card through PayPal on this website.

Go here to buy services and see more details and benefits. 

What happens if I need to cancel an appointment?

That’s fine, but please give me at least twenty-four hours notice to cancel or re-arrange appointments, otherwise you will be liable for the full fee.

What is the next step?

Please go to the contact page, pick up the phone and be curious! What would it be like if…?