Frequently asked Hypnosis questions

Can anyone be hypnotised?

Yes, with very few exceptions. Very young children may have difficulty, and also people with severe brain damage. People may not be hypnotized against their will. Other than that, we find the ‘trick’ to hypnotising someone is spending time with them to find the best approach to working with them. We won’t do the same thing with everyone.

Isn’t it just a matter of having a good imagination?

The ability to imagine is unrelated to the ability to experience hypnosis. Change resulting from hypnotherapy requires only that your intent and willingness are in place. I am strong-minded, with a formidable will. Can I be hypnotised? Only if you want to be, but not because of your relative "strength" of mind. We understand that there are parts of us that want to change, and parts of us that are happy with the way things are. While we accept that this is often the situation, we assume that if you’ve booked a session, then you want our help. It would be a waste of your time and money if you were to resist that help. We’ll always tell you if we don’t think hypnosis is right for you.

Do people who are hypnotised lose control?

In hypnosis, you’re perfectly capable of saying no or terminating the hypnosis session. Just as you’d refuse to jump off a bridge simply because someone told you to, so too would you reject any suggestion made to you in hypnosis that you did not agree with.

Will I forget what happened in my session?

Occasionally, spontaneous hypnotic amnesia does occur after a session, however this is uncommon, and most people will remember what is said to them during a session.

Will I be made to talk about things that I’d prefer not to?

Absolutely not. A hypnotist cannot make you say or do anything that you don’t want to say or do.

I have trouble relaxing. Does this mean I can’t be hypnotised?

Hypnosis does not require that you are relaxed, although it is more pleasant when you are, and relaxation may be a side-effect. But the hypnotic trance can be achieved when you are standing, running, angry, hurt, sad, in shock....you get the picture.

How do I choose a hypnotherapist?

It is important that you feel comfortable with the therapist that you choose. The person you call should be happy to give you information over the phone before you make an appointment. Ask questions! A good hypnotherapist will encourage their clients to be educated about the process. If you don’t know anyone who has been to see your chosen therapist before, it may be worth asking to have a previous client call you so you can discuss their experience. It's always advisable to choose a hypnotist who is a member of a recognised Association, as these have Codes of Conduct that must be adhered to, and members will generally have had to demonstrate their ability to practice with skill.