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What Is Hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is a gentle, collaborative process that combines hypnosis—a natural, focused state of attention—with proven cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques. The goal is to help you change unhelpful patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving in a way that feels more manageable and lasting.

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When you’re in hypnosis, you’re not unconscious or asleep—you’re actually more focused and receptive than usual. Think of it like being absorbed in a book or a film—you’re alert, but your attention is narrowed. In this state, your mind is more open to positive suggestions and therapeutic work.

What can You Expect

Initial Sessions - Understanding the Issue

In our early sessions, we'll explore any issues your facing (e.g. anxiety, habits, confidence), and how these show up in your life. With the help of some questionnaires and some simple exercises we will discuss and agree on shared goals for therapy - ensuring that I fully understand your presenting issue and can personalise your treatment.

Using Hypnosis Therapeutically

I will guide you into a calm, focused state - hypnosis - where we use imagery, suggestion, and behavioural strategies tailored to you. You're always in control and can stop at any time.

Cognitive & Behavioural Techniques:

Outside of hypnosis, we'll use CBT methods - like identifying negative thought patterns, testing beliefs and practicing new behaviours - to reinforce the work we do in hypnosis.

Homework

You play an active role in this process. You'll likely receive small tasks or self-hypnosis recordings between sessions. These are designed to strengthen your progress.

How Long Does It Take

Hypnotherapy isn’t usually long-term. The number of sessions depends on your goals and complexity of the issue. For specific problems like a phobia or habit, 3–6 sessions may be enough. More deeply rooted issues like anxiety or low self-esteem might take 8–12 sessions, sometimes more.

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We’ll review progress regularly, and your feedback helps guide the pace and direction.

Your Role

Be Open and Engaged

You don't need to "believe" in hypnosis for it to work, but willingness to try is key.

Practice Between Sessions

Change happens through repetition and reinforcement.

Communicate Honestely

Your honest and o feedback helps tailor the therapy to your needs

Common Misconceptions

  • You won't lose control or be "made" to do anything. This isn't stage hypnosis - this is a therapeutic, safe environment.

  • You can't get stuck in hypnosis. You're always fully aware and able to bring yourself out if needed.

  • It's not magic - it's a structured, evidence-informed process grounded in psychology.

If you would like to read more about Hypnotherapy - you can download a 'Hypnotherapy Fact Sheet'

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