What conditions do you treat ?
I have experience of working with a wide variety of conditions. As well as working specifically with anxiety and depression, I have worked with phobias, fear of driving, insomnia, incontinence, chronic fatigue syndrome, relationship difficulties, examination and workplace stress, pain management, nervous tics, addictions, bereavement and compulsive behaviours including comfort eating and drinking. I have a particular interest in working with skin disorders and working with musicians and other artists to overcome performance anxiety or creative blocks. Any condition that creates or expresses anxiety, or in which an attitude of mind plays a part, can almost certainly be assisted by hypnotherapy.
Can you help me give up smoking ?
I particularly enjoy working with clients to give up smoking, explaining why we take up smoking to begin with, how no-one is actually 'a smoker', why it is not as addictive as you might think, how the brain tricks you into having 'just one more' and how, maybe without realising it, you already have all the resources you need to give up. Above all, I put you in charge of the process, whether you want to give up completely, give up gradually or just cut down.
Will you put me into a trance ?
I hope so ! Scientists debate whether hypnosis is a state by itself, or just a combination of other, normal states that we do not get into very often. I explain hypnosis as like being in a daydream. I can lead you there so long as you let me, and once you are there, you can leave all your cares behind, allowing your brain the time and space it needs to start working on the changes we will have discussed.
Do I lose control during hypnosis ?
No. It follows from the last question that you remain in control at all times. Being in hypnosis is a process that we collaborate in, rather than something that is done to you, and it is a skill you can learn and practice, just like any other skill.
Is hypnosis like being asleep ?
Hypnosis is like being asleep only in that you are very relaxed and will - for most of the time - have your eyes closed. Apart from this, you will remain alert, engaged and fully awake throughout.
Will you make me do anything I don’t want to do ?
No. I am professionally committed to one aim; enabling you to achieve the outcome you desire. Further, the mind is powerfully protective and will not let you do anything that is not for your benefit or which you just don't want to do.
Does hypnosis work for everyone ?
Almost everyone is capable of some degree of hypnosis although, as with any type of relaxation, some people find it easier to respond to than others.
Is hypnosis guaranteed to work for me ?
It would be an unwise hypnotherapist – or doctor for that matter – who would guarantee any treatment. That would be unhelpful for both of us. In some cases hypnotherapy can effect a complete cure. In many cases, if not a complete cure, it offers real improvement and a powerful tool for managing your condition into the future. In all cases, however, the more your commitment to the process (which will mainly involve listening to a relaxation CD each night between sessions) the more progress you will see.
How many sessions will I need ?
Each session lasts up to 50 minutes and most people will notice significant changes after 2 or 3 sessions. It is important, however, to continue the work so that the improvements you make are fully embedded. Phobias can be resolved in 2 or 3 sessions, whilst I generally deal with smoking in 1 or 2 sessions. Conditions relating to anxiety often resolve, or improve substantially, after about 8 - 10 sessions. You will know when the time is right for you to leave hypnotherapy, or to reduce to once a fortnight or once a month. And you can always come back for a top - up if you need it.