Get In Touch

Have a question or just want to get in touch? Message me below!

Get In Touch

Frequently Asked

What is Hypnotherapy?

Hypnosis is a naturally occurring state that we all experience at various times and in various depths throughout the day. The experience of hypnosis has been described in many ways but is often explained as a streamlined state of focused attention. Many people describe hypnosis as feeling similar to daydreaming, when they are neither fully alert, nor asleep. Everyone’s experiences and therefore descriptions of hypnosis will vary because all trance states feel different to different people. Hypnosis is usually associated with a pleasant feeling of deep relaxation and this can be part of the therapy, however not all hypnosis nor Hypnotherapy involves relaxation in the traditional sense.

The Hypnotherapist will use a combination of hypnosis and talking therapy to bring about changes in the client’s thoughts, feelings and behaviours at a deeper than conscious level; the subconscious level, where we automatically respond. The beliefs we all hold about ourselves (positive or negative) are stored within our subconscious mind, as are many of our behaviours, patterns and habits. These behaviours can be protective and useful, but where they are unhelpful, a client might want to work with a hypnotherapist because they want to change their deep-rooted, automatic responses and cannot access these alone.

During hypnosis insight can be gained through a new perspective and adjustments can be made to limiting beliefs that have influenced or directed the client’s life, sometimes resulting in radical change or gentle differences that increase positively over time.

Therapeutic techniques applied during hypnosis are usually quicker than the traditional forms of psychotherapy or counselling due to accessing the subconscious, consequently hypnotherapy is becoming increasingly popular.

If I'm hypnotised do I give up control?

No. Hypnosis is a streamlined state of focused attention, similar to when you are absorbed in a book, a film a sport or a craft. You have the ability to emerge from hypnosis at any time if you wish. Your hypnotherapist could be described as a guide taking you on a journey; they are the facilitator but any change can only be made by you. Realising that you are in control and can make changes yourself can be very empowering.

The more often you choose to go into hypnosis the easier it is to relax into the process, secure in the knowledge that you remain in control and can end a session of hypnosis at any point should you wish to. As most people find hypnosis deeply relaxing and a very pleasant experience they rarely choose to do this, but they are aware that they could if they so chose.

How will I feel in hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a natural state of mind similar to daydreaming. People are often surprised that they can hear what is being said and can move or speak if they want to. Everybody’s experience of it is different and how an individual feels may vary each time they go into hypnosis. Some people describe hearing every word the therapist says, while others find their mind wanders; many people lose track of time when they are in hypnosis. How aware or unaware you are during the process is unimportant and does not affect the efficacy of the session. Relaxation isn’t essential to hypnosis, but most people describe being very relaxed during and after the session and more enjoyable than they expected.

What issues to people seek hypnotherapy for?
  • Addictions
  • Anxiety and stress
  • Behavioural problems
  • Chronic pain
  • Fears and phobias
  • Physical conditions such as IBS
  • Unwanted habits
  • Skin conditions and migraines
  • Panic attacks
  • Poor sleep
  • Lack of confidence
  • Performance anxiety
  • Self-esteem issues
  • Trauma and complex trauma
What will happen in a hypnotherapy session?

I will ask what has brought you to therapy and what you would like to see or feel at the end of your sessions. They will explain what hypnotherapy is, their method of working and what you can expect from the sessions. After the consultation I will guide you into hypnosis using the method whichI believe is most appropriate for you. After a session you may feel uplifted, lighter and most likely, very relaxed. As your hypnotherapist I will be working with your subconscious mind, change is often very subtle, so you may just notice a very positive shift in how you are feeling.

Our Practice Locations

The Practice Rooms
32 Cambray Place
Cheltenham
GL501JP
The Practice Rooms
The Old Bake House
2A South Parade
Oxford
OX2 7JL
Fairford Therapy Centre
London Street
Fairford
Gloucestershire
GL7 4AQ

People do not come into therapy to change their past but their future.

Milton Erickson