Hypnotherapy and how can it help me

For more information about hypnotherapy please visit this webpage by clicking here.

Stage hypnosis

Stage hypnosis uses willing participants who “want to be seen performing”. The hypnotist screens potential participants in advance of the show using a number of  susceptibility tests. The hypnotist does not have any actual power over them other than their desire to perform. The purpose is to create an illusion that someone can ‘take over’ another persons mind to get them to say and do things against their will. This is simply not possible. No person can take over another person’s mind using hypnosis. If it were possible we would all be like robots.

Hypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy sessions use hypnosis which is a very natural state of relaxation. It is a state we all experience on a daily basis. It seems like the state of daydreaming, something almost all of experienced at school. It is at this point that you become more aware of your subconscious and at the same time totally aware of your surroundings. Which is why you immediately ‘snap back’ to attention if the teacher says your name or asks you a question.

Hypnotherapy uses this relaxed state during treatment to allow direct communication with the subconscious mind. By asking questions it is possible to uncover and resolve the cause behind a problem. This ensures the subconscious mind disposes of it completely and permanently. Hypnotherapy can help all kinds of physical, emotional, psychological and habitual problems.

Are hypnotherapists regulated?

As it stands hypnotherapists are not currently regulated in the UK. This means there are no laws which outline the level of training and experience required in order to practice. However, there are professional bodies where hypnotherapists can join, and whose process verifies proof of relevant qualifications and insurance cover.

I am a member of the The Hypnotherapy Association and the Complimentary and Natural Health Council.    In addition I am a Registered Practitioner with the General Hypnotherapy Register . I am also an Accredited Practitioner with the General Hypnotherapy Standards Council. This means I have to undertake regular supervision, have professional insurance and be committed to continued professional development.

Health benefits of Hypnotherapy

While hypnotherapy may not cure underlying physical disorders, such as cancer, heart disease or infection, it can help boost the immune system. Hypnotherapy is also helpful in changing our attitudes to illness. Furthermore, hypnosis can help with the management of all types of pain. It can help to ease symptoms and reduce the effects of chronic conditions such as IBS, asthma, panic attacks etc.

Hypnotherapy can be used to treat a huge number of issues including anxiety, phobias, tension, compulsions and addictions. It can also enhance performance in situations that cause anxiety (ie improving athletic, public speaking and exam performance)

Can anyone be hypnotised?

Almost everyone can be hypnotised. However, alcohol and drugs can hinder the process. It is best not to receive hypnotherapy whilst suffering a cold. As constant coughing and sneezing may prevent you from entering the hypnotic state.

How regularly will I see my hypnotherapist?

We will decide together on how often we meet. Initially, we may meet on a weekly basis, but after a while you may choose to see me less often. It all depends on improvements and how you feel.

Your first hypnotherapy session.

In your first session we will discuss what you want to gain from therapy and together we will set some goals. I will also gather some personal information. For example, lifestyle information, sleep patterns, any medical symptoms and history, plus any other involvement with gp and health providers. I will also explain how the treatment works, and practical details such as how many sessions may be needed.

How long is a hypnotherapy session?

The length of your therapy session is really dependant on your circumstances. Generally speaking, a hypnotherapy session will usually take 50 – 60 minutes.

Number of sessions.

The duration of therapy will really be dependant on your circumstances and the reason for which you are seeking hypnotherapy. I will let you know how many sessions I feel you might need when you start therapy. I will be flexible when it comes to decreasing or extending the number of sessions to correlate with your progress.

What does hypnosis feel like?

There is no fixed ‘hypnotised feeling’. Every person reacts differently to hypnosis. Many people feel at ease and aware of their surroundings, as in a relaxed daydream.

After hypnotherapy

Most people report feeling of tranquil and calm after a hypnotherapy session. During hypnosis you may also be given post-hypnotic suggestions. This is a suggestion which involves an action to be carried out later when you are in a normal waking state. For example it maybe associating the word STOP everytime you feel like lighting up a cigarette. 

You may be given training in self-hypnosis to help you in specific situations, or to enhance treatment between sessions.

Will I lose control?

Hypnotherapy cannot make you do anything against your will. Whilst hypnotised you are in complete control of your mind and are entirely free to think your own thoughts.

You will always come out of hypnosis.

Hypnosis is not sleep and does not involve losing consciousness. Hypnosis is an enhanced state of relaxation. You remain aware of what is going on around you and will not at any time lose control. If anything, hypnotherapy heightens self-control and awareness.

We all enter a hypnotic state many times each day. For instance,when you are driving along and realise you cannot remember the last few miles. You have been driving safely and in control. You’ve reacted to traffic and the road conditions, but you were in fact in a light state of hypnosis.

Can I be made to do something against my will?

No. You remain in control throughout hypnosis. In the unlikely event that a suggestion were contrary to your values, beliefs or principles, you would ignore it or come out of hypnosis spontaneously.

Neuro-Linguistic Programming was initially created in 1975 by Richard Bandler and John Grinder. They began modelling and duplicating the ‘magical results’ of a few top communicators and therapists. In these studies they looked at how these people processed their thoughts to enable them to produce successful results. These models were duplicated in a series of techniques which can be applied to anyone.

Life-coaching

Life coaching focuses you on exactly what you want to achieve and gets you there faster. We often go through life constantly busy ‘doing things’. Rarely do we stop and consider our future, and where we want to be. I will help you to do just that.

I will be dedicated to you and your future. In each session I will listen, encourage, support and motivate you and help to keep you focussed. Furthermore I will help you identify options available to you that you may not otherwise considered.

Life coaching verses counselling or therapy.

In some ways they are similar in the sense that I ask you questions and sometimes there is a lot of soul-searching. However, Counselling and Psychotherapy investigate the underlying causes of mental health and emotional problems. This  proccess usually explores issues of the past, whereas, life coaching focuses more on the future.

Is there a particular kind of person who has a life coach?

Every type of individual will come to me for coaching. The only thing many of them have in common is the desire to change part of their life.

The benefits of life coaching.

The main benefit of life coaching is having someone that is solely dedicated to you and the achievement of your goals. I offer a non-judgemental, supportive, and encouraging service, and will motivate you just when you need it. I will keep you focussed on where you want to be and keep you moving forward in the right direction. My aim is to enable you to get to where you want to be in life, much faster than you could on your own.

An average life coaching session.

Normally every session begins with a summary of the last session. We will look at what has been achieved since the last session and review the list we made together. We will discuss all the progress made and note any successes.  Together we will decide on what you want to achive by the end of the session. We will also explore where you are in that journey.

We will look at what you have tried, what has worked for you, and what doesn’t seem to be working and why. Together we will explore all the possible options in achiveing that goal. Finally, we look at what actions you want to set yourself  to take before the next session.

Length of each session

Life coaching sessions are approximately 50 minutes to begin with. After a while, shorter sessions may be all that is needed. These sessions can be weekly, fortnightly or monthly, whatever works best for you. The great thing about life coaching is flexibility.

The number of coaching sessions.

The number of coaching sessions is entirely up to you. Most people have a specific goal in mind when they come to life coaching. The first step will be to break the main goal down into a series of smaller goals or steps. Each small goal or step is to move you closer to your overall goal. For some people this may take as little as 6 sessions and for others it will be more. It is a very personal decision based on your individual goal. The choice is yours.

Where does coaching take place?

Initially it is a good idea to meet face to face at my therapy room in Harold Wood. If this is not possible due to distance or time then we can meet face to face through Skype.

A lot of the time coaching can take place over the phone or online through Skype. We agree a time that is mutually convenient when you can phone me and the session takes place as normal. This is a very effective way to fit coaching into your busy life. You will need to find a quiet room away from any distractions so you can be focused on the session.

What do I have to do to get the best from life coaching?

You need a positive attitude and commitment towards the achievement of your goal. In addition you need to be open and honest with me and yourself. Furthermore, you will need to have the time and commitment to complete the actions you set from each session.

How will I feel?

At first it may feel strange to be the focus of attention and to be listened to. However, after while, it is often usual to  feel excited and empowered. For many people it is a new experience to have someone interested in helping you achieve your dream. As you start to achieve the small goals you set yourself, it is likely you’ll feel more determined to succeed.  Your confidence will increase and beliefs about yourself will become more positive. Furthermore you will have a sense of purpose in your life.

Confidentiality

You can be assured of complete confidentiality.