Hypnosis is a natural state of deep relaxation in which the mind becomes detached from everyday cares and concerns. It feels just like those mornings when you wake up a little early and can luxuriate in that extra five or ten minutes in bed. Using Hypnotherapy harnesses the power of your unconscious mind. It can be used to relieve symptoms and alter unwanted behaviour patterns.

There are often misconceptions about hypnosis, many of which can be traced back to the unfortunate demonstrations of this therapy as a form of entertainment on screen, stage and television. Hypnosis is safe and puts you even more in control of your therapy.

Why Hypnosis?

In a world of constant change, we often find ourselves stuck in a rut or apparently with little or no choice about who we are and what we do. Have you ever wanted to change one area of your life which would, when addressed, cause a major change in all areas of your life? Hypnosis offers multiple techniques that can release limitations so allowing you to realise your ideals. It can provide change at an unconscious level, creating desired behaviours that arise automatically.

How does it work?

Initial Consultation:

The consultation looks at the area in your life that needs attention. It lasts 15 to 30 minutes and provides a brief assessment on the presenting problem. It clarifies the desired outcome, the appropriate course and duration of treatment.

History of problem:

A written history of the problem, completed by the patient prior to the session, identifies patterns and assists in locating the root cause of the problem. Completion of the life history prior to the session saves on research time during the session and therefore cost.

The session: A hypnotic state is where your body and mind relax. To onlookers it would seem as if you were asleep. You feel very relaxed although you remain awake enough to be aware of the content in the session.

The therapist may in certain cases use other techniques along with hypnosis, such as Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) to prepare the mind to accept the future changes.

What areas can be helped?

Confidence-building

To improve your self-projection and self-respect, to increase confidence and self-acceptance and to change negative into positive behaviours and to handle feelings of rejection.

Self-improvement and quality of life:

To attain personal fulfilment through motivation, goal-setting and achievement and install a positive attitude to learning and exams.

Alter bad habits and promote new ones:

To increase self-motivation, eliminate negative thoughts and release anger, grief and frustration.

Manage stress

Learn techniques to reduce or eliminate stress, cope better and change specific behaviour patterns and so help reduce high blood pressure and promote relaxation.

End anxiety, panic, fears and phobias:

To eliminate irrational fears of such things as lifts, air travel, crowds and spiders by learning to react differently and to cope with your fears in a new, more positive way.

Weight control and eating disorders:

To promote new eating habits and so motivate weight loss, gain or maintenance as necessary.

To boost energy and desire for exercise.

Overcome learning difficulties

To increase educational skills, improve study habits and enhance memory and concentration. To instil a positive attitude to learning and improve exam techniques.

Master public speaking and speech problems

To stop blushing, shyness, reduce 'stage fright' and to gain confidence in conversation. To eliminate tension prior to interview.

Release emotional and physical trauma

Frequently asked questions?

Can anyone be hypnotised?

Yes most people can providing:

(a) they wish to be hypnotised, and

(b) they cooperate with the instructions given.

Are there any unwanted side effects?

No, only the natural power of your own mind is used to relieve symptoms and alter unwanted behaviour patterns. Hypnotherapy is non-addictive and safe with no unwanted or unpleasant side effects.

Will I be in control and aware of what is happening?

Yes, all the time. You do not go 'out', 'under' or 'to sleep'. You are not unconscious; you are in an altered state of consciousness. You can hear everything that is being said. Nothing happens without your consent ?you have absolute control. However, you are extremely relaxed.

Could I be influenced to do anything against my will or nature?

Many people fear that when they are in a 'trance' they will be made to bark like a dog or cluck like a chicken or to reveal a secret. Be assured that you will not do anything that you do not think is acceptable. You cannot be made to violate your own values or accepted patterns of behaviour. You would either reject the suggestion or come out of the hypnotic trance.

How many sessions will I need?

Simple problems like smoking may only require as little as one or two sessions. More deeply rooted problems require more sessions. Many hypnotherapists offer a free initial assessment in which to meet the client, assess the problem, determine needs and the likely number of sessions and agree an affordable fee per session.

Hypnotherapy has been the subject of clinical trials in recent years and is now an accepted treatment in many fields including dentistry and certain areas of general practice. So don't dismiss it out of hand..... it could work for you.

Some therapists may specialise in particular areas, depending on experience, such as treating Dyslexia. Others offer Personal Breakthrough Sessions which help you rediscover your true purpose in life and gain a true sense of who you really are.