What is Hypnotherapy?


Hypnotherapy is a form of therapy based around hypnosis. Hypnosis is a totally natural state that the human mind enters several times a day. It is a state of concentration that we often recognise when we become immersed in a good book or discover that we have driven a portion of a familiar journey but have little recollection of it. Even day-dreaming is a form of hypnosis.

Hypnosis is a skill that is used by hypnotists in an entertainment setting or by hypnotherapists in a therapeutic setting. During hypnosis, the subconscious mind of the client is more susceptible to suggestions offered by the practitioner. If these suggestions are acceptable to the client’s subconscious, changes in mental state and attitude can occur. It is also possible for the subconscious mind to facilitate a change in the physical state of the body by blocking pain and promoting recovery. However, it is NOT POSSIBLE to force the client to accept a suggestion that is morally, ethically or personally unacceptable to them at a subconscious level. The people who are encouraged to make a public spectacle of themselves by stage hypnotists have a subconscious desire towards exhibitionist behaviour even though they may never have consciously shown any inclination towards this in the past.

During hypnosis, it is possible to maintain awareness of your surroundings and to have control over your own behaviour. You are able to awaken at any point and cannot ‘become lost within yourself’. It is possible to talk and discuss your thoughts and feelings. Many people notice sensations in their limbs, hot or coldness or small spasms. This is totally natural and part of the process. Most people become hyper-aware of their surroundings, being particularly aware of the therapists voice and movements.

Hypnotherapy can provide results in as little as one session for some issues although other more complex and deep-rooted problems may take several sessions before results can be seen.