Frequently Asked Questions and Fears
Have you thought about hypnotherapy before but weren't sure how safe or effective it was?
This is not an unusual thought but with the correct information you will find out that it is very effective for a wide range of conditions. So please read on...
Maybe you have seen people performing silly acts in films or television programmes during stage hypnosis. Just like most people you want to be in control. You will be. I am a hypnotherapist- I DO NOT DO STAGE HYPNOSIS.
So why is hypnosis often perceived as a strange and mysterious mind controlling technique?
It's because hypnosis has been likened to the evil Svengali and other films and media hype. But this is not what happens in reality. Hypnosis is a naturally occurring process. We go into trance every day. Do you remember the last time you were engrossed in a good film or an interesting book? Or are you a daydreamer? Perhaps you have driven somewhere in your car but couldn’t remember getting there. You were probably in a trance with all these experiences.
Maybe you have recently become interested in hypnotherapy because of things you have heard about or seen on the television?
The interest in hypnotherapy is certainly increasing and there is a growing body of research and evidence showing that it can help people with a variety of issues. Recently there has been television coverage for weight reduction, performing operations and relationship problems with hypnotherapy.
I have recently read that Kate Moss is seeking hypnotherapy.
Perhaps you have read that the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence confirms that hypnotherapy can help with the symptoms of IBS.
Hypnotherapy is used all over the world and is now supported by a lot of reasearch and evidence. I specialise in hypnotherapy for IBS.
How does hypnotherapy work?
It is not known exactly how hypnotherapy works but the results can be amazing. Some people think that it is a way of focusing the mind while other people think that it is an altered conscious state similar to the time just before you go to sleep. Hypnotherapy is used by doctors and therapists all over the world. I aim to answer all your questions and provide further information and evidence if requested.
Is hypnotherapy safe?
Hypnotherapy is generally thought to be safe when practised by trained hypnotherapy practitioners. The British Medical Association since 1955 has endorsed hypnotherapy.
However, not all hypnotherapists are trained to the same standards, so beware. This is because the UK doesn't have any legislation to control hypnotherapists. So make sure you check out any therapist that you decide to use.
I am fully qualified and registereed with the hypnotherapy Society and General Hypnotherapy Register. Both these organisations ensure that their members are qualified, insured and follow a code of conduct. Added to this I also have had considerable other training, I attend professional supervision and I keep updated.
Are there any side effects?
Recall of past memories while in a hypnotic state may not be accurate and may cause emotional or psychological distress. However, people often say that they feel much better after releasing past emotions.
Occasionally clients will not remember being in a trance or will be surprised how the session has flown past.
Some people tell me that they experience positive side effects. For example, some clients say that they have slept very well after their first hypnotherapy session even though the original issue was not related to insomnia.
Is hypnotherapy unsuitable for some people?
Hypnotherapy is not suitable for very young children or anyone who is unable to listen and understand. I would not use hypnotherapy for clients with severe mental illness or those people under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. I would always want to consult with the client's doctor before hypnotising a client with epilepsy.
What happens during hypnotherapy?
I invite you to sit in a relaxing chair and I talk to you in a hypnotic way. You do not go to sleep but we know that hypnotised people's brain waves slow down. Hypnotherapy usually involves relaxation and visualisation. It links with the subconscious mind where positive suggestion is introduced to encourage the change that you desire.
So what conditions can hypnotherapy help with?
Hypnotherapy has been found to help with many conditions including:
Hypnotherapy can help with performance issues including:
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Sports performance
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Exam nerves
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Learning to drive
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Improve your memory
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Presentation skill
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Speaking in public
- Wedding day nerves
