In the realm of mental well-being, hypnotherapy is gaining traction as a unique blend of talking and hypnotic techniques. As we explore the most frequently asked questions about hypnotherapy of 2024, our goal is to offer straightforward and easily comprehensible responses, guiding you through the ins and outs of this therapeutic method without unnecessary complications. We want to make the information accessible and understandable, ensuring that you grasp the key aspects of hypnotherapy effortlessly.
What is hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a psychological therapy that combines talk therapy with hypnosis. It can be effective in helping you overcome mental health conditions such as anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, OCD and specific fears whilst improving sleep, boosting confidence and motivation. Hypnotherapy can also be used to help you remove unwanted behaviours, habits and beliefs.
Each session is enhanced by the use of hypnosis, a relaxed trance where your mind is more open to positive suggestions which increase the effectiveness of the talk therapy, allowing you to experience an uplifting period of peace and calm without the anxiety. Typically, you'll need a number of sessions to create change, on average you'll need around 6 - 8 sessions for anxiety and stress related issues, whilst some conditions require more depending on your individual situation.
What can hypnotherapy help with?
Hypnotherapy can be effective for a wide range of issues, including stress, anxiety, phobias, weight management, and improving self-esteem, boosting confidence. It is also used to enhance performance, manage pain, and address sleep disorders.
How does Hypnotherapy work?
Hypnotherapy works by helping you make beneficial changes in the subconscious part of your mind, where positive changes originate, rather than the conscious part. Because if your problems were simply at the conscious level, you may well have changed them yourself having come up with your own solutions. Because most of your thoughts, responses and behaviours are driven by the subconscious part of your mind, during a hypnosis, your hypnotherapist can provide suggestions to that part of your mind which helps you make beneficial changes to the way think, the way feel and the way you behave as you work together over a number of sessions.
Is hypnotherapy safe?
Yes, hypnotherapy is generally considered safe when conducted by a trained and qualified professional. Each session usually includes positive talk therapy, allowing you to reflect on your progress, goals or changes in a beneficial way before using relaxing hypnosis providing positive suggestions to your subconscious mind for beneficial change as you relax. Hypnosis (or trance state) is a natural state of mind that you enter willingly, and you remain fully in control of your actions during the session. Hypnosis cannot make you do anything you do not want to do.
Are you in control when hypnotised?
You cannot be hypnotised to do anything against your will during hypnosis, you remain completely in control and allow yourself to enter hypnosis. It means that you retain the ability to end the hypnosis session at any time because you maintain control over your thoughts and actions. If any suggestions made during hypnosis go against your values or morals, they will be rejected by you because even in a hypnotic state, you maintain your critical faculties to some extent, and so you are capable of discerning between appropriate and inappropriate suggestions. If a suggestion contradicts your personal values or goes against their ethical code, you will reject it. Hypnosis is a collaborative and consent based process and above all a relaxing and uplifting experience that many people describe as guided day dreaming.
What are the ethical considerations of hypnosis?
Professional hypnotherapists prioritise the wellbeing of their clients and are trained to avoid making suggestions that could be harmful, unethical, or against your will. I follow specific Codes of Conduct, Performance and Ethics guidelines, as well as meeting certain requirements for maintaining Professional Standards, by undertaking regular supervision and training as part of my continuous professional development. You can read more about these guidelines and code of conduct as explained by AfSFH who is the only professional association dedicated to the discipline of Solution Focused Hypnotherapy as a member I'm able to demonstrate my personal professional commitment to my clients and their needs during therapy.
What qualifications or credentials should I look for in an online hypnotherapist?
You should always seek out a qualified practitioner with clinical experience because the hypnotherapy profession is unregulated and every hypnotherapist is different. The National Council for Hypnotherapy or the General Hypnotherapy Register is a useful place to start if you're unsure. You can also ask the hypnotherapist you are meeting during your initial consultation about their training, qualifications, and ongoing professional development, all of which requires proof and a level of professional training, a commitment to sign up to a strict code of professional standards and ethics.
How many hypnotherapy sessions are needed?
The number of hypnotherapy sessions needed will vary depending on you and your needs and the issues being addressed. Some people may experience positive changes after just a few sessions, while others may require more to achieve their desired results. Whilst Hypnotherapy isn't a magical process, hypnotherapy can help you create positive change in a relatively short period of time. Typically for anxiety and stress related issues, on average clients have between 6 - 8 sessions to create a solid foundation of change, and further sessions are sometimes required to get you where you want to be.
Can everyone go into hypnosis?
Most people can be hypnotised to some degree, as long as they are willing and open to the process. The effectiveness of hypnotherapy depends on your motivation and willingness to commit to the process. In general, most people can benefit from hypnosis, but the degree of responsiveness can vary. An experienced hypnotist will tailor their approach to suit your needs to ensure the suggestions being provided are relevant and tailored for your specific concerns and during hypnotherapy.
For hypnosis to be effective it is only necessary to experience a light trance state for suggestions to be effective during hypnotherapy, because it allows your thought processes to be addressed without the constant critical thinking of your conscious mind and as you relax. Typically, as you relax into a light trance state, your brainwave patterns start to change, the dominant brainwave frequency shifts from the beta state (associated with wakefulness and active thinking) to the alpha and theta states associated with deep relaxation, daydreaming, creativity, and a sense of internal focus. This shift allows your mind to be more open to the suggestions being made.
What is the difference between hypnosis and hypnotherapy?
Hypnosis involves guiding you into a hypnotic trance-like state, while hypnotherapy combines hypnosis with talking therapy, also known as psychotherapy, and so the combination of talk therapy with hypnosis can be an effective way to overcome many issues which are made worse or caused by stress and anxiety. Combining Hypnosis with talking therapy is powerful because it creates positive changes at both the conscious and subconscious levels, which differs to many forms of traditional counselling, which is why hypnotherapy can be so beneficial, because in a relaxed trance state during hypnosis it allows ideas and solutions discussed to be fully explored and utilised by the brain for positive benefit.
How long does hypnosis last?
A typical hypnosis session lasts approximately 60 to 90 minutes in the context of hypnotherapy sessions with a therapist, depending on your needs. The initial part of the session usually involves some discussion, talking and exploring your progress and goals in a positive way before beginning hypnosis to provide suggestions to your subconscious mind for beneficial change.
For lasting change, you'll need more than one hypnosis session because the repetition of positive suggestions will work gradually to condition your thinking and reinforce positive changes in your mind. As you repeat hypnosis, your brain experiences neuroplasticity, strengthening neural pathways associated with desired behaviours or perceptions. The number of hypnotherapy sessions required for change differs for everyone, but you'll usually understand how many sessions are required during your initial consultation.
What is the average cost of a hypnosis session in the UK?
The cost of a hypnosis session in the UK can vary widely depending on factors such as the location, the experience and qualifications of the hypnotist or hypnotherapist, and the specific nature of the issue being addressed. On average, a single hypnosis session in the UK may range from £50 to £150 or more. Some practitioners offer package deals or reduced rates for multiple sessions. Additionally, fees can be influenced by the type of hypnosis used, such as clinical hypnotherapy, and the overall demand for hypnosis services in a particular region.
It's advisable to research and contact individual practitioners to inquire about their specific pricing and any available discounts or packages. You can read more about why hypnotherapy can seem expensive in my recent blog, which explores why hypnotherapy differs from other types of traditional therapies and what's involved for clinical hypnotherapists.
Is online hypnotherapy as effective as in-person hypnotherapy?
Yes, online hypnotherapy can be as effective as in-person sessions for many people. Research suggests that online hypnotherapy is successful in addressing issues and conditions such as anxiety and stress. The convenience of online sessions, coupled with advancements in virtual platforms, like Zoom make it possible for you to access therapy online wherever you are with a good Wi-Fi connection and a quiet space to talk.
How effective is online hypnotherapy for anxiety?
Online hypnotherapy is very effective for anxiety related conditions. In fact, some people prefer working online with their therapist because they are more relaxed and comfortable in their own space or home. Sessions follow the same process as in person sessions and as with any therapeutic approach, the success of therapy then relies on your willingness to engage and commit to the process. Several research studies support the efficiency of online therapy. Results have consistently shown that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, stress and depression. The quality of therapeutic outcomes is comparable, ensuring clients receive the same level of care and support.
Does hypnosis work online for anxiety?
Yes, hypnosis is just as effective online as it is in-person, and it does not require being in the same physical room with the hypnotherapist. Online hypnosis works when you have a quiet comfortable space where you can fully relax. When you work online, your therapist will need to monitor your progress, so you'll need to make sure you can be seen from your device or laptop once it's time to begin the hypnosis. Being relaxed in this way help you achieve a deep state of hypnotic trance where your subconscious mind can consider your solutions discussed and is more open to the positive suggestions being made by your hypnotherapist for positive change.
How to tell if hypnotherapy is right for anxiety disorders?
To check if hypnotherapy is right for anxiety disorders, it's important to speak to or arrange a free consultation with potential therapists so you can discuss your concerns and issues. It's important to research hypnotherapy whilst assessing your openness and willingness to the approaches being offered. Research and consult with a qualified hypnotherapist to clarify your treatment goals, and trust your instincts. It's crucial to make an informed decision based on your specific needs and goals. I like to offer my clients a free initial chat by phone in the UK or via Zoom elsewhere, so we can explore things before we begin working together.
What is the science behind hypnosis?
Hypnosis involves an altered state of consciousness characterized by heightened suggestibility and focused attention. Scientifically, neuroimaging studies like fMRI and EEG reveal changes in brain activity during hypnosis, indicating altered neural connectivity. While the exact mechanisms are still under exploration, research suggests that hypnosis influences both psychological and neurological aspects, contributing to its therapeutic effects.
What are the side effects of hypnosis?
Generally, the side effects of hypnosis as part of a hypnotherapy program for anxiety are positive, hypnosis because it helps to calm your mind and body which helps to regulate and balance your nervous system. However, hypnosis is not suitable if you have severe mental health disorders such as chronic depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia and psychotic symptoms and you should explore other treatment options with your heath care provider, Doctor or Psychiatrist.
What is the hypnotherapy session duration?
Typical hypnotherapy sessions last between around 50 - 60 minutes. Approximately half the session is talk therapy followed by relaxing hypnosis for the remaining time. Shorter or more extended sessions may be recommended based on your specific gaols and the therapeutic approach required.
Can I get hypnosis for anxiety on the NHS?
Hypnotherapy is not usually available from the NHS, so it is unlikely you would receive a referral, however NICE do recommend hypnotherapy for IBS and Anxiety UK is a charity which provides support to those suffering.
Can hypnotherapy help with other mental health conditions?
Yes, hypnotherapy can help with other mental health conditions, which are often cause by or made worse by stress and anxiety such as depression, panic disorder, social phobia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and insomnia. Hypnotherapy can also help you increase your self-esteem and confidence, overcome fears and phobias, stop procrastination, and manage chronic pain.
Can hypnosis for anxiety treat other forms of anxiety disorders?
Yes, hypnosis is an effective way to treat anxiety disorders such as generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, health anxiety, social anxiety, agoraphobia, panic attacks, fear and phobias, and OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder). Hypnosis itself, helps by engaging your relaxation response, and by providing positive suggestions to your subconscious mind helps reframe negative thought patterns and behaviours which encourages healthier patterns of thought which leads to changes in the way you think, respond and behave in the future.
Embracing Change
Hypnotherapy has been emerging as a promising avenue for positive change, touching on various aspects of mental health. Whether opting for traditional face-to-face sessions or embracing the convenience of online platforms, the collaboration with a qualified professional holds the potential for transformative experiences. As you navigate your journey in 2024 towards well-being, remember to prioritise practitioners' qualifications and embrace the possibilities that hypnotherapy offers for personal growth and fulfilment.
If you're interested in exploring the potential benefits of hypnotherapy, feel free to reach out. A complimentary initial chat is offered to discuss your situation and outline a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
