Hypnotherapy FAQs

Quite understandably, this is one of the most commonly asked questions. The most accurate answer is"It depends". So what does it depend on?

There are a number of factors, that include how long you have had your issue, how severe your symptoms are, whether there are several interlocking issues, and whether other issues arise during the therapy. It's a bit like booking driving lessons. You can guess how many lessons you'll need based on averages, but you don't know for sure till you get behind the wheel!

I hope it makes sense to say that if your situation is related to serious trauma, or your symptoms are severe, you are likely to need more sessions than if it is short-term or temporary. For most people, I suggest you start with four sessions but this can only be an estimate. If we complete those, and both feel there is value in continuing, this can easily be arranged. If you reach your goals sooner, congratulations. The unwanted appointments can be cancelled (and refunded if you have paid in advance).

Rest assured that I will never unnecessarily prolong your therapy, I will simply make recommendations to get the best possible results for you.

A structured programme is offered for some issues, such as quitting smoking or working with IBS or high blood pressure, so slightly different arrangements apply, please see the relevant pages on this website.

Yes, and a 2014 study showed that it’s just as effective as face-to-face therapy. Others show that:

• significant improvements are possible with online therapy,
• results are equal, or in some cases better, to that of in-person therapy,
• client satisfaction is high.

Online therapy is very similar to coming to my office, but without the travel! You give me a ring to chat through your situation and we arrange a time and date that suits us both.

You complete my online intake form and make payment 24 hours before the session. When I receive these, I'll send you a Zoom link. 

If you’re still not sure, download my free factsheet which will help you decide if online therapy is right for you.

Or I am happy to arrange a free Discovery online to allow you to test it out. I use Zoom for my online sessions.

The Million Dollar Question! And the best answer is 'it depends on you'. Hypnotherapy can be very successful but it's also an interactive process, which means we work together and you play a vital, active role in your therapy.

• So, if you are looking for a quick fix or a 'magical' answer, then the answer is no.
• If you want someone else to take responsibility for your difficulties, or to do all the work so you don't have to, then the answer is no.
• If the only reason you are considering therapy is that someone else thinks there's a problem, but you don't, then the answer is probably no.
• But if you want to change, can be open-minded about hypnosis, and are willing to play an active part in achieving your goals, the answer is yes.

If you want more, see this comparison of hypnotherapy and other therapies which also supports what I've said above about the number of sessions required.

No. You could open your eyes and end the trance at any time, though of course that would end the therapy session. If you were to drift deeper you would simply fall asleep and later wake up normally.

Most people can use hypnotherapy safely if they see a hypnotherapist who is trained to work with the issue they want to address. However, there are a few 'contraindications', which might mean that hypnotherapy isn't suitable for you, or that you should use it only with a few extra safeguards in place. Examples include a diagnosis of a psychotic condition, a recent eating disorder (especially if it required hospitalisation), epilepsy, insulin-controlled diabetes, severe depression or recent suicide attempts.

I am happy to advise.

No, in fact, quite the opposite. Stage hypnotists work hard to make what they do seem like mind control because it makes a better act. (And stage magicians make it look as if they can cut someone in half and put them back together. Stage acts are never a good guide to real life.)

If hypnosis was mind control, all I'd have to do is click my fingers and say 'Stop it', and all your problems would magically disappear! Now that may sound easy, even desirable, but it's not very realistic.

Most people seeking hypnotherapy do so because they have already lost control in some way (for example, continuing to smoke when they don't really want to). The goal of therapy is to get that control back again.

Hypnosis is a very safe procedure if you see someone properly trained. I belong to several respected professional bodies. They require me to follow a strict code of ethics, take additional training every year for professional development and undertake regular supervision.

You can also download my free flyer on safety checks you can make if you're worried about starting hypnotherapy.

DOWNLOAD HYPNOTHERAPY & SAFETY FLYER

Not exactly a question, I know, and definitely tongue in cheek. But stereotypes from the stage do sometimes worry people who are thinking about hypnotherapy.

You just have to remember that, on stage, all the suggestions are given to entertain the audience. Hypnosis may be combined with sleight of hand, magic tricks, and misdirection. And, of course, no one volunteers for a hypnosis act if they're not prepared to go along with a few daft suggestions.

In a therapy room, all the suggestions are given for your benefit and while the therapy may be emotional at times, it won't include anything that makes you feel silly or ridiculous, or that is against your moral, ethical or religious values.

But the biggest difference is that the stage hypnotist's suggestions only last while you are in the theatre and in trance. No one goes home still believing they are Elvis or eating onions instead of apples.

Work you do with a hypnotherapist is not a two-minute trick. It should improve and change your life long-term and outside the therapy room, which means it's essential to work with your agreement and cooperation.

Once you have decided to go ahead, just phone me on 01977 678593. If I'm with a client, you'll get the answerphone. Please leave a message and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.