Thanks to Hollywood and stage magicians hypnosis has been wrongly portrayed in the past and there is still a lot of confusion surrounding hypnosis and hypnotherapy. The following list of questions and answers is aimed to clarify those myths.
Is hypnosis the same as sleep ?
No, it's a relaxed state where the mind is focused internally. A bit like daydreaming or being so engrossed in the TV and loosing track of time.
Will I loose control during hypnosis?
Not at all, you remain in complete control of what you say and do. Just like being submerged in a daydream you will be aware of your surroundings. You can 'wake' yourself when ever you feel like it, however, as it is so enjoyable and relaxing people tend not to.
What does a trance feel like?
Very enjoyable ! A feeling of deep relaxation like the warm fuzzy feeling you have just before you fall asleep or just waking up. While feeling like this alot of people don't realise that they are in trance and are still expecting something to happen.
Can anybody be hypnotised against there will?
No definitely not. Anybody can be hypnotised but only if they want to be. If someone doesn't want to be hypnotised then, quite simply, nothing will happen.
Will I remember everything?
Most people do, sometimes there can be a little amnesia for the conscious mind. This is the decision of the unconscious which always remembers everything.
Can children benefit from hypnosis?
Yes up until the age of five most children tend to be in a state of hypnosis anyway. Children can be effectively treated from about 5 onwards with a parent or guardian present. I would require written consent from a parent or guardian for 16-18 year old if they were unaccompanied.
Will I be able to wake up ?
Of course, you can be 'woken up' from a daydream or snapped out of being engrossed in a TV programme. This is a similar state.
What's the difference between a hypnotist and a hypnotherapist?
A hypnotist uses some of the techniques that a hypnotherapist uses but only for amusement with little regard to the persons needs. Where as hypnotherapy is a goal orientated therapy which uses a partnership between the patient and hypnotherapist to access the patients inner resources for a positive solution.
What happens during a therapy session ?
In the initial consultation I will listen and ask questions to understand you as an individual and your problem. A full case history is taken. Then, together, we wil define goals for the desired outcome. There is usually time for a short hypnosis session. I have a number of techniques for different problems and after inducing a trance will begin guiding you though imagery, visulizations and make use of direct suggestions. Future sessions will include a recap on progress, goals and future therapy content.
for a chat or to book an appointment : 07737 491 728 / 0207 386 8857 / sian@peacefulminds.org.uk
