Frequently Asked Questions

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What is hypnosis?

Hypnosis is the word used to describe a state in which a persons mind remains calm, concentrated and aware while their body becomes completely relaxed, also known as a 'Heightened State of Awareness' (HSA).

Hypnosis is a naturally occurring state happening to us every day, during a hypnotic trance your mind goes into an altered state, where alpha brainwaves are present. This happens in a variety of situations - each time we read a captivating novel, float off in a daydream, or become absorbed in an entrancing movie, we are in this state.

People in hypnosis experience a tremendous sense of well being and peace of mind. In this state, the mind is more receptive to positive suggestions and it is possible to access areas of the mind that are beyond normal, conscious awareness. In hypnotherapy we use the word 'subconscious' to describe these areas and believe that the subconscious retains all our memories and experiences and also takes care all the automatic functions of body and mind.

For thousands of years people have inherently recognized the power of hypnosis to enhance learning, heal emotional scars, change habits and speed the healing process. During hypnosis, direct communication with your subconscious can be established. In a hypnotic trance, when guided properly, our minds and bodies are able to allow change much more readily. The door is open to the abilities of the very powerful subconscious. In hypnosis you are fully in control of your mind, in fact you are likely to be more in control than normal as you go about your day - distracted by your thoughts, mind racing, multi-tasking and living in a such a fast paced, ever changing world.

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What is hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is the therapeutic work carried out by the hypnotherapist while the client is in hypnosis, helping them to make the changes they wish to their lives. e.g. - negative habits, unwanted behaviour, phobias, fear, anxiety etc.

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Can anyone be hypnotised?

Yes, definitely. Everyone is capable of being hypnotised, most people enter a trance many times a day, whenever we daydream etc and this is a perfectly natural state of mind. The difference with hypnosis is that the Therapist is leading you into that state purposefully, and utilizing it to help you achieve your goals.

The only limit on entering hypnosis is the client's desire, or lack of, to do so. Anyone who wants to experience hypnosis and is willing and able to follow the instructions of the hypnotherapist will go into hypnosis. Some people go into hypnosis more quickly or easily than others but if you are willing and persist you will enter hypnosis.

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Someone I know cant be hypnotised, why?

As stated earlier the only restriction on entering a state of hypnosis is the desire to do so or when someone believes they cannot be hypnotised, that belief normally comes from a lack of knowledge of what hypnosis is, or the fear of losing control. Please read the next question to address that concern.

Some people who may have been coerced into seeing a hypnotherapist will also resist entering hypnosis as they would be doing it for someone else. It is most important that if you see a hypnotherapist, it is you that has a real desire for the results.

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Will I lose control in Hypnosis?

No. As mentioned, Hypnosis is a Heightened State of Awareness (and self-control).

The hypnotherapist does not take control of the subject's mind - it is more of a collaboration. Think of the hypnotherapist as a guide, for example if you were driving somewhere you've never been, you may ask someone to direct you, but you still have control of the car! Assuming you trusted that person, you'd go the way they suggest, in order to get where you want to be. After all it is your car and your destination.

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What If I Get Stuck In A Trance?

People go in and out of trance states every day. It is a naturally occurring phenomenom, and you naturally come out if it is not ended purposefully.

If however there was an emergency, your subconscious would immediately awaken you, fully alert and ready to take necessary action.

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Is hypnotherapy dangerous?

Hypnotherapy is perfectly safe, as previously mentioned the trance-like state is totally natural. When in hypnosis you are fully aware of what is going on around you and what is being said both by yourself and the therapist.

No permanent changes can be made without your co-operation, desire and unless they are in your best interest. The therapist will not give you any inappropriate suggestions and any suggestions given do not have to be accepted or acted upon unless you wish. Once out of hypnosis you will be able to recall the experience.

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Can You Make Me Do Something Against My Will?

Impossible. Many studies have shown that people in a trance state will not act against their moral code. You will be fully aware in hypnosis and you will be able to make judgments as to which suggestions to accept. Only suggestions that are for you benefit and made with your best interests at heart will be accepted.

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Will I be hypnotised to act like they do on the TV shows?

Hypnotherapists provide a professional service, and the client will always be treated with the utmost respect and discretion. Any treatment given will be relevant to the issues previously discussed and agreed by the client. No inappropriate suggestions will be made and all good hypnotherapists will belong to a governing body, which has strict guidelines for appropriate behaviour.

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Why are there different types of hypnotherapy?

The two main types of hypnotherapy are generally known as Suggestion and Advanced/Regression hypnosis:

Suggestion hypnosis uses the same HSA state to allow the therapist to give positive suggestions directly to the subconscious.

Advanced techniques access the subconscious and allow the client to understand where the roots of the problem lie, helping them to make the changes they desire. This method has a very high success rate and helps make more permanent changes.

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Does Hypnosis Really Work?

Yes, Hypnosis really does work. Hypnosis may not be suitable for everyone, and it is not a 'magic pill', but it will be of value in all situations.

For a list of the more common problems hypnosis can help with please see the home page or if you'd like more information about how hypnosis may help you in your particular situation, please contact us.

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Is hypnosis better than the patch or that nicotine gum?

Hypnosis works to change your habits on a subconscious level. It is very powerful and does not rely on a temporary chemical substitute. Instead of providing you with an alternate source of nicotine, hypnosis works at a deep level within your mind to make you a non-smoker!

Will hypnosis really help me lose weight?

Yes, although hypnosis is not a quick fix. It enables you to make the changes you want to your life by helping you discover the causes of any problems and by working on a subconscious level to change you attitudes. There is still work to be done by you, however the good news is Hypnosis will enhance your desire and ability to do this work.

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What Will Happen During A Session?

During the first session, your hypnotherapist will go over what will happen in that, and subsequent sessions, and make sure you are comfortable with the process. We explain in more detail the difference between conscious and subconscious, and how hypnosis works.

We explain again that you will be aware in hypnosis, indeed in a way, much more aware than in a waking state.

We explain that Hypnosis can't make you do something against your will, but it can get you in touch with your inner resources (or help create new ones).

There is a small amount of paperwork to do, and we will discuss what you are hoping to achieve.

Should you have a medical condition, we explain to you that Hypnosis is no substitute for medical care and that Hypnosis should be used in conjunction with your medical care - not in place of it. In some circumstances we may refer you back to your GP prior to receiving hypnotherapy.

We'll use a variety of hypnotic methods - some of them you might be expecting, others will be different, but all are essential in helping you achieve your goals.

During Hypnosis we are communicating with your subconscious mind, and that can happen in many different ways, the subconscious responds to different stimuli to the conscious.

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How Long are Sessions?

Each session lasts 1 hour, however due to the nature of hypnotherapy this must remain flexible. The first session, the initial consultation, is the exception, although we aim to complete this in the hour it is far more important that the client be happy with the process and the therapist is fully informed of the situation. This enables subsequent sessions to be far more effective.

There is no charge for the initial consultation, and there is no obligation to return for therapy, however we hope to show you how we can help you change your life for the better.

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Does Hypnosis Work For My Particular Problem?

Although it would be impossible for anyone to make a comprehensive list of what hypnosis is effective for, we've made a list of some of the most common problems that have successfully been addressed with hypnotherapy.

Some of them may have links to other pages on the internet that contain further information and explanations. These sites are pointed to only to allow you to fully and independently research hypnotherapy and In-Mind accept no responsibility for the content or views expressed on the sites, nor do we personally endorse any sites.

If you don't find your situation addressed here feel free to call or email to talk it over with us.

Before going into a trance during a session, understand that you will continue to be aware during hypnosis and will only accept suggestions that your mind deems moral and appropriate.

Not only is hypnosis safe, it is actually healthy for a variety of conditions. Anyone can be hypnotized and only a light state of hypnosis is required to achieve most changes. Many people have a talent for going into hypnosis - they go into a trance naturally and easily. Other people may have to learn the skill of going into a trance purposefully. Either way, hypnosis can be a powerful tool for self-empowerment and achieving any goal.

If you'd like to have your most powerful ally, your unconscious mind, working toward achieving your goals...feel free to contact us.