FAQ about Hypnotherapy and Hypnosis

Can I be hypnotised?
Yes. Just about everyone can be hypnotised and all hypnosis is self hypnosis - a hypnotherapist cannot force you to go into trance against your will. Some people find it easier than others, but everyone goes into natural trance states on a daily basis such as day dreaming, driving the car or just getting lost within your own thoughts. The first session is also dedicated to finding out what style of hypnosis will work best for you.

Can I speak whilst hypnotised?
Yes and sometimes the therapy requires your responses.

What is being in hypnotic trance like?
The trance state is an altered state of awareness and although your experience may be different from another person’s you will always feel comfortable relaxed yet still aware of whatever is going on around you - my voice or other noises.

Although it is not the same as sleep, many people feel refreshed whilst others feel little difference after being in trance yet most people report that it is a pleasurable feeling. You are likely to remember some of what was said but probably not every word. This is normal. After all, even under non-trance situations it is extremely unlikely you would remember everything that had been said for an hour period or more.

Is hypnosis safe?
Perfectly safe. If there was any problem you would naturally come out of trance.

Will I be in control?
Yes. You will be in full control at all times. The therapist works on issues that you have given consent to and guides you towards resolutions that you want.. Your unconscious protects you and so will not allow you to accept any suggestions that go against your ethics or morals..

Could I remain hypnotised?
No. If trance was not terminated, the person would either fall asleep or awaken naturally or they would simply get bored and get up and leave.

Do you use drugs?
No. Hypnosis is a natural state and does not require drugs of any sort.

Can you help with medical issues?
Yes - very often. It is however imperative that you first consult your Doctor regarding the issue. Many problems of a physical nature, including controlling pain, respond well to hypnosis.

What can I expect to happen?
You will be made to feel comfortable, at ease and any questions you have will be answered. You will be asked questions about yourself and your issue. The process of treatment will be explained and also possibly the estimated number of times that you need to attend. At this stage you may be gently guided into trance by listening to my voice, so that your mind and body are relaxed. There will then be a discussion about the experiences you had and if necessary, how we need to proceed. Apart from hypnosis other techniques may also be used in session - all of them to help you towards a successful outcome. Finally, payment for the session is made and any further appointments agreed.

How often will I need to see you?
This depends on the type of problem and the progress made. Some simple problems can be resolved in 1 or 2 hours. Sometimes, with more deep-rooted issues, longer is required. On occasions this can require regular weekly or fortnightly sessions for a period. Each person and each presenting problem is unique and will be treated as such. This means it can be difficult to say in advance that everyone with a similar issue will need the same length of treatment. Please call me to discuss your particular situation and I will be happy to offer advice without obligation.

How effective is hypnotherapy for smoking cessation?
Research comparing many different studies of hypnotherapy has shown that on average smokers are over 5 times more likely to break the habit with hypnosis than by willpower alone. Hypnotherapy in general is also proven to be more than twice as effective compared with nicotine gum. If you really want to stop smoking, then one session of hypnotherapy could be all you need.

Has any research been done to substantiate the beneficial effects of Hypnotherapy?
Using functional brain imaging, John Gruzelier, a psychologist at Imperial College in London, found that hypnosis affects parts of the brain that respond to errors, evaluate emotional outcomes and are involved with processing and behaviour.

The finding is one of the first to indicate a biological mechanism underpinning the experience of hypnosis.

Gruzelier and his colleagues studied brain activity using an MRI while subjects completed a standard cognitive exercise. He concluded that, under hypnosis, these brain areas are working harder. "This is confirming our model of hypnosis with very direct evidence of brain function," he says. Peter Naish, at the UK's Open University, says "We have a technique that has now moved towards evidence-based treatments. Gruzelier's work is showing that the brain is doing quite different things under hypnosis than in normal everyday existence."

Another study, with 80 children in Greece, all with cancer, showed that those under hypnosis suffered less pain than the control group who had simply been engaged in comforting conversation. The children were undergoing treatments such as lumbar punctures - where a long needle is inserted into the spine - and they were suffering continual pain from cancer. Dr Christina Liossi of the University of Wales in Swansea said "Hypnosis improves the quality of life for children and adults with cancer. We now have experimental evidence that hypnosis is an intervention, at least with children who undergo painful treatment procedures." Although hypnotherapy is made available as an alternative therapy, the work by Dr Liossi suggests that it should become part of standard practice. She is now about to start a second full study in Swansea.

New Scientist and Independent, 10th September 2004

How much is each session?
£60.00 for each session which lasts one hour including the first which may take between 60-75 minutes.

Please note that cancellations without 48 hours notice are charged at full charge.

How do I pay?
By cheque, cash or through transferring funds into my bank account (please ask for details).

Where and do you practice?
Ealing and Highgate - both locations are within easy distance of public transport and the underground. Appointments are available from 8am and the last evening appointment is at 17.00 and 18.00 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

How can I check that you are fully qualified ?
All my qualifications are published on this webiste about me which you can cross reference by clicking the various links to training schools and assocations at the bottom of the page or you can ask to see my qualifications and memberships documents when you visit.

What about testimonals?
In accordance with the NCH code of ethics I unable to to publish testimonals on the website (to protect the confdentiality of my clients).

How do I make an appointment?
Contact me