FAQs

Is hypnosis or trance safe?

Yes, trance is a safe and natural state that we all go in and out of many times a day, sometimes without even knowing it. Think about the times when someone is talking to you but you are miles away in your own world, or when you are sunbathing with your eyes closed, completely relaxed but still aware. If somebody called your name you would hear them and open your eyes.


Whilst in a trance or under hypnosis will I be under your control

No, you will be completely aware of what is happening even when you are in a trance. You may feel like you are daydreaming but you are in control and you will be able to open your eyes at any time.


What’s it like to be hypnotised?

When you go into a hypnotic trance you will be relaxed and comfortable, similar to when you are in bed feeling half awake and half asleep.


Are there people who can’t be hypnotised?

Everyone can go into a hypnotic trance but the depth of trance will differ for each person. Some may go into a very deep trance, and others much lighter. The depth of the trance does not matter, the therapy works however deep the trance is.


Is it possible to get stuck in a trance?

No, it’s like daydreaming, you are able to snap out of a daydream very easily. Even if, for some reason, I left you alone whilst you were in a trance, you would in time, either drift into a sleep and then awake in your own time, feeling refreshed OR simply get bored and open your eyes.


Are the online sessions and in particular, hypnotherapy, as effective as face to face therapy?

Yes, absolutely! There is no difference in the effectiveness of online therapy. As long as you have a private space with a comfortable chair and a reliable internet connection, online sessions are exactly the same as in person sessions. In fact, many of my clients prefer the comfort of their space and the fact that, after the trance session, they don’t have to go anywhere but can continue to relax. Online sessions are also perfect for clients who might find travelling difficult.


Do you work with teenagers?

Yes, but for safeguarding issues, I ask that a parent or guardian be present for anybody under 18 years old.


Do you offer guarantees?

No. This therapy gives you the opportunity to take back control of your life BUT you are in charge of your success.

You need to want to make the change, so for example if you are coming to stop smoking but actually you don’t want to stop, it’s your partner that wants you to stop then the treatment will not be effective.

You need to commit to doing the work and making the changes. This therapy does not change your behavior, rather it makes it easier for you to change your behavior, if that’s what you want.

I can guarantee that I will do my very best for you to help you reach your goal.


How many sessions will I need?

Solution focused hypnotherapy treats YOU, and not the label given to your issue, therefore it is impossible to answer this question accurately. However, most clients do report noticing a difference after 4 – 8 sessions.


What is the difference between a stage hypnotist and a hypnotherapist?

Although both use hypnosis or trance, there are several key differences.

A stage hypnotist’ objective is entertainment which sometimes raises ethical questions regarding consent and the potential for embarrassment or discomfort of participants.

The techniques used by the stage hypnotist are often more dramatic and rapid, designed to quickly induce hypnosis in volunteers and produce visible effects.

Generally a stage hypnotist’s background will be in entertainment.

The objective of the hypnotherapist is to promote healing and personal growth. Hypnotherapy is a treatment aimed at addressing mental health issues such as anxiety, stress, depression and phobias.

A hypnotherapist will use gradual and gentle techniques tailored to the needs and comfort levels of their client. Their methods are designed to create a deep, therapeutic state of relaxation and focus, allowing for meaningful work on the client’s issues.

The hypnotherapist will typically have undergone specialised training and certification in hypnotherapy and will be trained in psychological principles and other therapeutic disciplines.

The hypnotherapist must also adhere to professional codes of ethics and standards of practise , that prioritise the welfare and confidentiality of their clients. They must also demonstrate continual updating of knowledge via CPD.

Finally the hypnotherapist must work with a supervisor or mentor who will regularly check his work.


What is the difference between CBT and Solution Focused Hypnotherapy?

Both approaches are effective in helping individuals achieve positive change, but they do so in distinct ways.

CBT is a widely used therapeutic approach that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours. It is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected, and that changing one can lead to changes in the others.

Here are some key features of CBT:

  1. Unlike SFH, it is problem focused. It often begins by identifying specific problems or issues that the individual is facing. The therapy then focuses on these issues, working to develop strategies to address and manage them.
  2. One of the core techniques in CBT is cognitive restructuring, which involves challenging and changing unhelpful or distorted thoughts. This helps individuals develop more balanced and realistic thinking patterns.
  3. CBT includes various behavioural strategies such as exposure therapy, role-playing, and activity scheduling to help individuals modify their behaviours and responses.
  4. It requires the completion of formal regular homework assignments.

Solution Focused Hypnotherapy combines the therapeutic techniques of solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) with the relaxing and transformative power of hypnosis. This approach emphasises finding solutions rather than focusing on problems.

Here are some key features of Solution Focused Hypnotherapy:

  1. Solution Focused Hypnotherapy looks to the future. We focus on what you want to achieve and how to get there, helping you envision and work towards a positive outcome.
  2. This approach highlights your strengths and resources, empowering you to utilise these to overcome challenges. We believe that you have the skills and abilities to create change, and our role is to help you unlock and harness them.
  3. It includes hypnosis, which helps to reinforce the solutions and strategies discussed during the solution focused talking part of the session, making them more accessible in everyday life.
  4. Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is often shorter in duration compared to other therapeutic approaches. Because it is goal-oriented and focused on solutions, many clients experience significant improvements in just a few sessions.

Both CBT and Solution Focused Hypnotherapy are valuable tools for personal growth and overcoming challenges. The choice between them depends on your personal preferences and therapeutic needs. If you are looking for a positive, future-focused approach that lever-ages the power of your subconscious mind, Solution Focused Hypnotherapy may be the per-fect fit for you.


Are there any conditions for which Solution Focused Hypnotherapy, might not be suitable?

Solution Focused Hypnotherapy can be highly effective for many issues, but there are certain conditions for which it may not be suitable. I have listed below some of the more common conditions where alternative treatments or therapies might be more appropriate.

Before starting any hypnotherapy, a thorough consultation and assessment with a qualified hypnotherapist is essential. This helps to ensure that the therapy is appropriate for the individual’s specific needs and conditions. In cases where hypnotherapy is deemed unsuitable, the hypnotherapist can refer the client to appropriate medical or psychological professionals.

1. Severe Mental Health Disorders.

  • Psychosis: Conditions like schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and other psychotic disorders require specialised psychiatric treatment. Hypnotherapy is not recommended as it may exacerbate symptoms.
  • Bipolar Disorder: While hypnotherapy might help with some aspects of this condition, it is not a primary treatment. Patients with bipolar disorder typically need medication management and specialised therapy.

2. Severe Depression and Suicidal Tendencies.

  • Individuals with severe depression or those experiencing suicidal thoughts require immediate and intensive mental health support, often including medication and crisis intervention. Hypnotherapy alone is not sufficient in these cases.

3. Severe Anxiety Disorders

  • Certain severe anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder with agoraphobia, may need more comprehensive treatment plans that include medication. Hypnotherapy can be a supportive tool but should not be the sole treatment.

4. Addiction and Substance Abuse

  • While hypnotherapy can be helpful for some aspects of addiction treatment, it is not suitable as a standalone treatment for substance abuse disorders. These conditions typically require a comprehensive approach, including medical detoxification, counselling, and support groups.

5. Severe Personality Disorders

  • Disorders such as borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, and antisocial personality disorder often require long-term, specialised therapy. Hypnotherapy may be used as an adjunct but not as the primary treatment.

6. Neurological Conditions

  • Conditions like epilepsy can be sensitive to hypnosis. While some patients may benefit, it must be approached with caution and under medical supervision to avoid triggering seizures.

7. Lack of Client Consent or Interest

  • Hypnotherapy requires a willing and motivated participant. If a client is not interested or is skeptical about the process, it is unlikely to be effective. In such cases, other forms of therapy that align more closely with the client’s preferences should be considered.