Q & A

Is hypnosis safe?

Yes. Because hypnosis is a natural, everday state of mind it is perfectly safe.

When you become engrossed in a book or a film, you are in a state of hypnosis. When you are daydreaming you are also in a state of hypnosis. So you can see it really is an everyday state of mind.

Will I still be in control?

Yes you will be in control and fully aware during the session. This is a common question, and an understandable one for anyone who has seen stage hypnotism. What you see in a stage show is nothing more than co-operation on the part of the hypnotees. If they are asked to do something they don't want to do then they won't do it. Hypnosis is NOT mind control.

You cannot be made to do or say anything against your will while you are in hypnosis.

What's your success rate?

Very high. Success is difficult to measure accurately but the vast majority of my clients are satisfied with the treatment and care they receive.

I find that I'm unable to help about 5% of clients; in these case I tell them early on that I don't think I can help, and often recommend an alternative therapist (or even an alternative therapy).

Can I get stuck in hypnosis?

No you can't. A hypnotherapist will usually "bring you out" by counting from one to five, or something similar. If he wasn't to do this you'd come out in your own time.

What does hypnosis feel like?

There's no such thing as a hypnotised feeling. Everyone's experience is different and unique. Some people may feel very light, almost as if they're floating. Others might feel very heavy. For most people it's just a very nice feeling of deep relaxation. Some people expect to feel unconscious or "out of it". This simply doesn't happen.

Will I have a permanent outcome?

Where possible, yes. The methods I use attempt to deal with the root cause of the problem, whatever it is, so that a permanent positive outcome is achieved.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions does vary but as a general guide:-

Stop smoking is usually a single two-hour session.

Most phobias, and many habits, can be completely healed in just one or two sessions. (Social phobia and agoraphobia often need more sessions)

Anxiety issues, confidence, depression and panic attacks typically require between three and five sessions, but occasionally more if there are deep-seated causes.