What is it?
Hypnosis is a totally natural state of mind, a wonderful, useful aspect of the human condition. We pass through it every time we go to sleep or as we awake. We are also often in this state in our daily activities when the conscious mind becomes focussed on just one thing, perhaps a good book or film. Yet, even when our conscious mind is not fully aware of our surroundings, for instance when we are driving a car on ‘auto-pilot’, the subconscious mind is always ready to bring us back to full awareness if there is a threat to safety, for example sudden brake lights ahead of us.

The hypnotic state is usually one of relaxation and in hypnotherapy this relaxation is deepened through induction techniques. However, the individual is in no way asleep or unconscious and may have an increased level of awareness combined with a decreased level of concern.

Hypnosis is a voluntary state and can be resisted or exited at will. It is not possible to get ‘stuck’ in hypnosis. Also, nobody in hypnosis can be made to do anything they do not want to do (contrary to appearances created by the stage hypnotist). The ability to enter the state of hypnosis, and the depth attainable, vary depending on the individual. Effectively, all hypnosis is self-hypnosis.

There is no such thing as a 'hypnotised feeling'. It is different for everybody. Feelings of heaviness or lightness are commonly experienced. There may be sensations of tingling or numbness. Often there is no awareness of time passing. Sometimes nothing seems to happen. The good news is that you can not get hypnosis wrong. Whatever happens is right for you.

Who can and who should not be hypnotised?
Most people can be hypnotised. Exceptions are those who are unable to maintain the necessary attention, like the very young or those with a mental disability.

Some should not be hypnotised due to medical conditions, but this depends entirely on the aim and type of therapy. If a client with a medical condition requires therapy, or if a client actually wants help with a medical condition, I first give careful consideration to that client’s particular circumstances. It will sometimes be necessary to obtain agreement from the client’s doctor before proceeding with therapy.

How is hypnosis induced?
My preferred method to induce hypnosis is through my voice accompanied by relaxing music. The client is helped gradually to relax deeper and deeper, often with the use of calming visualisation.

How does hypnosis help?
Hypnosis alone will do nothing much, except create a state of deep relaxation. However, the state of hypnosis decreases inhibition and increases suggestibility. The client is able to verbalise and respond to the hypnotherapist in this state and that is where the therapy part of hypnotherapy comes in.