Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a naturally occuring state of mind, like daydreaming, or the feeling just before you fall asleep or just as you awaken.  It occurs several times throughout the day without you really being aware of it.  It is an altered state of awareness that can be beneficially utilized to bring about physical and psychological changes in a person.

Is it safe?

In a word, yes!  When a person is hypnotised they are still in control, and can end the session at any time.  A person cannot be made to do anything that would go against their principals or morals.  A person cannot be "lost" in hypnosis simply because they are ultimately in control.  There is no documented evidence of anyone ever being harmed by hypnosis.  The British and American Medical Associations have approved the use of hypnotherapy for more than forty years.

Can it make me do or say anything I don't want to?

When in the hypnotic state a person still has control.  If something is a secret, it will remain so.  You will not be made to prance around the room like a chicken, or pretend to be Mick Jagger.  That is the domain of the Stage Hypnotist and it has no place in the therapeutic or clinical setting.

How does it work?

Hypnosis works by deeply relaxing the body and then the mind by simply following simple instructions from the hypnotherapist, enabling instructions and suggestions to go straight to the subconscious mind.  The conscious mind is the part of the mind that controls our personality and is used when we undertake our normal daily activities.  The subconscious mind controls emotions, feelings and behaviours.  It is where our memories are stored, it also controls every automatic bodily response.

What does it feel like to be hypnotised?

Exactly what it feels like is different for different people.  Nearly everyone reports a feeling of immense relaxation, they still have an awareness of where they are and what is going on around them.  Many people report that their hearing becomes more acute and this can lead some people to think that they were not hypnotised at all, but there are other physical signs that may manifest such as dry mouth or watery eyes for example.  You are left with a sense of well being afterwards.

How many sessions does it take?

This depends entirely upon the individual.  Some things can be sorted out in one or two sessions, but deep seated problems may take a little longer.  You will not be rushed, nor will you be brought back repeatedly when there is no benefit to be had.

E-mail: mail@inspire-hypnotherapy.co.uk    Phone: 0798 414 9084