Does hypnotherapy work? ... and other FAQs

Hypnotherapy is not a magical cure, but there is a good success rate for those who are sincerely motivated to overcome their problem. For many people, hypnotherapy is a quick, pleasant, and relatively easy way to solve their problems. 

More than 12,000 articles demonstrating the effectiveness of hypnosis and hypnotherapy have been published in medical and psychological journals. There is now widespread academic and clinical agreement that hypnotherapy and hypnosis can be highly effective in the treatment of a wide range of psychological, emotional and physical conditions

Typically, hypnosis is a very pleasant and relaxing experience, sometimes like vivid daydreaming. Some people are often surprised by how ‘normal’ they feel while in a trance, fully aware of everything going on around them. There is no right or wrong way to be in a trance, and different people have different experiences. The only thing they all have in common is that they feel wonderfully relaxed, which is a lovely sensation to experience.

I will begin by talking you through a relaxation process that will relax both your body and your mind. Then, once you’re in that relaxed state, I'll simply talk to you about positive reinforcement in areas of your life where you’ve identified a need for assistance, and your subconscious mind will absorb and make use of what it knows is most appropriate.  

 During hypnotherapy, experiences vary. Some clients recall every detail, while others remember only fragments. Regardless, the subconscious shifts that occur often lead to positive changes in behavior and thought patterns, aligning with your desired outcome. Even if you feel you've drifted off, or can't recall much, rest assured the process is working. This deep relaxation, often mistaken for sleep, is a sign of effective trance, and facilitates lasting change 

No, it is not the same. It is an altered state of mind similar to daydreaming or becoming so absorbed in an activity, that you lose track of all time. During a hypnotic trance you are not asleep, merely unconcerned about your surroundings. Some people liken it to feeling in between being asleep and awake. 

Hypnosis is definitely not a state of mind control. You cannot be made to do anything against your will. On the contrary, normally you must want to accept suggested ideas and actively imagine responding to experience their effects. Contrary to how hypnosis is sometimes portrayed in films or on television, you do not lose control of your behaviour while under hypnosis. In reality, no one can be hypnotised against their will and even when hypnotised, a person can still reject any suggestion, Thus, hypnotherapy is a state of purposeful cooperation. Also, you generally remain aware of and remember everything in the hypnosis session. 

Hypnotherapy is completely safe when used in a responsible and professional manner. Nobody has ever been 'stuck' in hypnosis. However, hypnotherapy is unsuitable for people with epilepsy, and those with schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder should check with their consultant before undergoing hypnosis.

Absolutely! Online hypnotherapy is a safe and convenient alternative to face-to-face sessions. It is just as effective as working together in the clinic and follows the same structured approach. It's useful if you are restricted by time, location, family commitments or medical conditions, making it accessible to all. A systematic review in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (Vol. 14, No. 4) stated that results "indicate that e-therapy seems to be at least equivalent to face-to-face therapy".

The initial online consultation via Zoom, provides a safe and secure connection and allows you to trial the process before committing to future sessions. You'll just need a quiet, comfortable, and private place at home or work to talk and relax - without the need to spend time and money travelling and parking!