Frequently asked questions
Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is versatile, addressing a wide range of issues exacerbated by anxiety, such as phobias, panic attacks, and stress-related conditions like IBS. It's also very effective for transforming negative thinking and building self-confidence.
In my practice as a solution focused hypnotherapist, I help clients in addressing physical, psychological, emotional, and behavioural concerns. By combining the power of hypnosis with solution focused techniques, we can replace anxiety-driven thoughts with positive, proactive ones, helping you to achieve a significant improvement in your wellbeing.
What is hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a tool that helps you relax deeply while focusing your mind. Think of it like a key to your subconscious - that's where all your habits, feelings, and beliefs live. As your hypnotherapist, I use this state to spot and change patterns that might be bothering you. It's safe and can help with many issues like stress, fears, or breaking bad habits. Imagine hypnosis as a special way to unlock the amazing powers of your mind. With it, we can use new ideas and focused thinking to reshape your emotions and thoughts. This can lead to big, positive changes in your life.
I don't know if I can be hypnotised...
Actually, we all experience light trance states daily, like when we're daydreaming or falling asleep. So, everyone can be hypnotised to a certain degree, even if it doesn't feel like it. Don't stress about 'going deep' - just relax. The guided imagery I provide will help you with that. Remember, everyone's experience with hypnosis is a bit different. Some folks might find it easier than others to enter a hypnotic state. The key is to be open and trust the process. The more willing you are, the better the outcome tends to be. So, yes, you can be hypnotised!
How's hypnotherapy different from stage hypnosis?
Stage hypnosis is all about entertainment, where people are hypnotised to perform funny acts for an audience. Hypnotherapy, however, is a therapy technique that helps people make positive changes in their lives. The two may seem similar, but the intent and use are very different. As your hypnotherapist, my goal is to support you, keeping your best interests in mind. You'll always be in control and aware of everything happening during our sessions. Hypnotherapy is a safe, soothing experience. Once you know you're in friendly, professional hands, it's easier to relax and enjoy the process - and the results!
Can I lose control in hypnosis?
No, you won't lose control during hypnosis. Despite some common myths, hypnosis isn't about making you do things you don't want to do. You're always in control and aware of what's happening. The process begins with a conversation about your hopes and goals. Then, I'll guide you into a relaxed state with calming visual imagery. While you're in this state, I'll offer helpful suggestions to your subconscious mind - like visualising how you'll feel once your challenges are overcome. If anything doesn't sit right with you, your mind will simply ignore it. Also, stage hypnotism and therapeutic hypnosis are very different. Stage participants volunteer and are generally aware of the antics they may perform. In contrast, hypnotherapy is a safe and respectful process to support your wellbeing and growth. Remember, you're always in the driver's seat during hypnosis.
Can I get ‘stuck’ in hypnosis?
No, you can't get stuck in hypnosis, even though some movies or TV shows might suggest that. Being in a hypnotic state, or a trance, is just a relaxed focus, something we naturally experience many times a day. After a hypnosis session, you can't stay stuck in that state or be unknowingly triggered by certain words. I may give you tools to handle specific situations, like snapping a band on your wrist when you're feeling anxious or stressed to remind you of the positive thoughts we talked about in our sessions. But remember, you're always in control and fully aware during these exercises - they don't put you back into hypnosis.
What happens in the brain during hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a natural state of intense focus and relaxation that we often experience, like when we're engrossed in a book or drive a familiar route without actively thinking about it. During hypnosis, your brain activity shifts towards theta waves, which are linked to creativity and imagination. This allows you to vividly visualise positive changes and their benefits to your life. Meanwhile, your subconscious mind becomes receptive to positive suggestions, which it can then process over time. So while you're feeling deeply relaxed during hypnosis, your brain is actively working towards your goals.
What is hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a type of therapy that utilises hypnosis to assist you in making positive transformations. During hypnosis, you enter a relaxed yet highly focused state, becoming more receptive to beneficial suggestions. This allows us to change deep-rooted beliefs, behaviours, and emotions that might be causing issues like anxiety, phobias, or unwanted habits. It's essentially a partnership between us, designed to enhance your wellbeing, achieve your goals, and promote enduring change. By addressing the subconscious drivers of your issues, we can make significant strides towards a better, healthier you.
How does hypnotherapy work?
As your hypnotherapist, I guide you into a state of relaxation and focus, often called a hypnotic state. Here, your mind is more open to positive suggestions, making it possible to reframe negative thought and behaviour patterns. Hypnotherapy targets your subconscious, where deeply rooted habits and beliefs live. This approach facilitates meaningful, long-lasting changes. Whether you're aiming to quit smoking, manage stress, or achieve another goal, hypnotherapy can effectively help you on your journey.
Is hypnotherapy safe?
Absolutely, when conducted by a trained professional like me, hypnotherapy is very safe. It's a non-invasive, drug-free approach to therapy. However, it's crucial to remember that individual circumstances can vary. While hypnotherapy can be a great tool for many, it might not be the right fit for individuals with certain mental health conditions, such as psychosis or schizophrenia. If you are under the care of a psychiatrist for conditions such as these, you should always have a chat with them before starting any new treatment, including hypnotherapy.
What is "solution focused" hypnotherapy?
Solution focused hypnotherapy merges the benefits of hypnosis with a forward-looking approach. Instead of delving into past problems, we focus on your desired future. Through deep relaxation, your mind becomes more receptive to positive change. We explore solutions, reinforce your strengths, and build resilience. This approach is particularly beneficial for issues like anxiety, habits, and performance, supporting your journey to a healthier, happier life.
How can solution focused hypnotherapy help me?
Solution focused hypnotherapy is a powerful method for addressing a variety of challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, low self-confidence, OCD, a phobia, grief, stopping smoking, chronic pain, insomnia, weight issues, skin conditions, addictions, compulsions, eating disorders, overspending, procrastination, or more, this approach can bring transformative change. We begin by asking, "How would your future look if your present problem improved?". This vision forms our guiding light, always reminding us of the destination in your personal journey. By utilising your subconscious mind's receptiveness in a relaxed state, we can reinforce positive behaviours and build resilience. This method doesn't dwell on past traumas; instead, it focuses on creating the future you desire, making it a particularly empowering and uplifting therapeutic choice. Let's team up to make that future a reality, smashing the issues that have held you back, and unfolding the potential that has always been within you!
Why is solution focused hypnotherapy effective?
In solution focused hypnotherapy, we focus more on solutions than on problems. As your hypnotherapist, I will explain how your brain processes challenges, guiding you towards solutions. This approach is empowering, as it motivates you to create change from within. During the hypnosis part of our session, you'll have a chance to relax and engage your subconscious mind to bring these solutions to life. Over time, hypnosis can help create positive neural pathways, making improvements feel like natural progress rather than forced change. The beauty of solution focused hypnotherapy is that it doesn't delve into your past—it's all about your future. It combines the best practices of Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and elements of Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP). Our sessions are structured and centred on your plans and hopes for the future. Together, we'll help you move forward in life.
​Can solution focused hypnotherapy work online?
Absolutely, it can! Many of my clients actually enjoy the comfort of online sessions. If you're choosing between face-to-face and online sessions, here's what to consider: With face-to-face sessions, you get the benefit of personal interaction, a reliable setting free from tech glitches, and a dedicated, distraction-free space. On the other hand, online sessions let you relax in your own space (assuming it's private), spare you the hassle of commuting, provide flexible scheduling, and an immersive audio experience via headphones during hypnosis. Not sure which to choose? That's perfectly fine! We can chat about what best suits your needs. Either way, rest assured, you'll get a secure, welcoming space to work towards your therapy goals.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies for everyone, depending on the individual and their unique challenges. Some might see improvements within a few sessions, while others may need a little longer. With solution focused hypnotherapy, I aim for quick, lasting results and our therapy is often shorter than other types. I typically suggest around 8-10 sessions to start, but this is flexible. For instance, quitting smoking may only need one session, while overcoming a phobia could take 3-4 sessions. We'll work together to tailor a treatment plan to your needs, with weekly sessions initially for momentum and tracking progress. Then, we'll space sessions further apart to ensure long-term effectiveness. Remember, it's about finding a pace that suits you. We can discuss and adjust this as we go, creating a therapy plan that truly works for you.
What happens during the initial consultation?
In our first meeting, we'll focus on understanding your goals and aspirations. We'll chat about what you want to achieve and I'll guide you with some questions. I'll also explain, in easy-to-understand terms, how the brain works and how this knowledge will help you regain control and return to your true self. This is also when you'll learn what to expect from our sessions, and you'll have a chance to ask any questions. To boost your relaxation between our meetings, I'll provide you with an audio recording. We'll cover a few necessary steps such as completing a consent form, discussing why you're seeking therapy and your desired changes, and gathering some general information for me to serve you better. This initial consultation is a fantastic opportunity for us to get to know each other and to discuss your journey ahead. It's also a chance for you to feel comfortable and informed about our process. Remember, my goal is to guide you toward achieving yours, providing a clear pathway to change.
What's a typical solution focused hypnotherapy session like?
In each session, we'll start by catching up on your week, focusing on positive changes and steps you've taken towards your goals. We'll discuss how the brain works and connect it to your experiences. Next, we'll use solution-focused questions and techniques to refine your strategies for moving forward. Then comes the relaxation part. I'll guide you into a peaceful, daydream-like trance where your mind can fully absorb and reflect on our discussion. Along the way, we'll track, and celebrate improvements in your feelings throughout our sessions. My priority is your comfort and progress, and each session is a step towards your brighter future.
Why should I choose you as my hypnotherapist?
When you choose me as your hypnotherapist, you will be starting a journey with someone who is warm-hearted, approachable, and carries a wealth of life experience under their belt. I can grasp your unique struggles quickly, fostering a sense of trust which is fundamental to a fruitful therapeutic relationship. As your ally, I am committed to staying in sync with the latest therapeutic techniques—ensuring you're benefiting from the most current and effective methods available. My enthusiasm for this work isn't just professional—it's deeply personal and genuine. I consider it an absolute joy and a privilege to employ my skills to facilitate a lasting, positive shift in the lives of my clients. I trust in the power of your inherent strengths and resources and I'll help you access these reservoirs to shatter the glass ceiling of negative thinking that has been holding you back. With solution focused hypnotherapy, you won't just be battling against challenges; instead, you'll be actively steering towards the life you've always envisioned. And I'll be right here with you, every step of this transformative journey. So, let's team up and create the positive, fulfilling life you deserve!