Hypnotherapy is a very gentle form of therapy. The aim of all psychological therapies is to help people to become more accepting of themselves and others, to promote personal development and to unlock inner potential. Hypnotherapy is distinctive because it is very relaxing, and enlists the power of the client’s own imagination in a therapeutic way.

The name “hypnotherapy” is originally derived from the Greek word “hypnos”, meaning “to sleep”, but in fact the hypnostic state is dissimilar to sleep. During a session of hypnotherapy, the client remains conscious at all times, but in a light trance. Healing by trance state has been acknowledged for centuries and has been observed in virtually every culture in the world. The way hypnosis works is that it helps the person to feel deeply relaxed and in this pleasant state, it is easier to contact the unconscious mind and address any difficulties.

Some common concerns

It is essential to ensure that the hypnotherapist is fully qualified and experienced, and the process is unlikely to work unless there is confidence in the practitioner. This means that it is very important to find a trustworthy practitioner. Clinical hypnotherapy is completely different to stage hypnosis, where participants are apparently persuaded to perform (usually embarrassing) acts. The important distinction is that clinical hypnotherapy takes place in a safe and private setting, and the client remains in control at all times. They are fully able to talk if they wish to, and can terminate the session, stand up and leave the room at any time.

Can anyone be hypnotised?

Virtually everyone can be hypnotised, but some people are more readily hypnotisable than others. The most important factor is that the person feels willing to try hypnosis. Even when a person feels that they have not been able to go into a trance, the desired outcome of therapy can still materialise in time. Although one session can be of benefit, hypnotherapy works best when it is practised.

Who may benefit from Hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy can be utilised for a variety of problems, and is versatile because it can be utilised to access the inner potential of the person. Problems that usually respond well to hypnotherapy include: stress management, anxiety, panic, unwanted habits and addictions, ( such as comfort eating and smoking) sleeplessness, lack of confidence and self-esteem, and health problems including migraine and IBS. It has proved of great value in surgery, when normal anaesthetics have not been practical, and in pain management. It can also be used to enhance artistic and sports performance, and in helping to resolve relationship difficulties.

Hypnotherapy is not recommended if the person has breathing problems, or depressive illness, epilepsy or psychosis.

Self-hypnosis

Anyone who has the willingness to learn self hypnosis can do so, and it can be of great benefit. Most hypnotherapists will teach self-hypnosis, and this can be of great benefit, as the client can practice in between sessions, reinforcing the positive and beneficial effects of hypnosis. Like most things, hypnotherapy works best when it is practised regularly, and is a wonderful way to achieve deep relaxation.

When the person is ready and willing to change, hypnotherapy is a relaxing and transformative experience.

How long will it take to work?

Unlike many psychological therapies, Hypnotherapy is generally considered to be a fairly short-term approach, in which beneficial change, if it is to occur, should become apparent in a few sessions. Hypnotherapy can be extraordinarily effective, but it is not magic!