If people have not experienced hypnosis before then, they normally have a few questions about it. This section tries to answer most of the frequently asked questions that people have.

What is hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy means the use of hypnosis for the treatment and relief of a variety of somatic and psychological symptoms.

Hypnotherapy can be used to bring relief to existing conditions or to change areas where there are issues. The list of situations where it can aid the individual is endless and it is particularly effective for those who wish to take greater control - or perhaps regain control - of some aspect of their life.

Certain uses are well known such as for quitting smoking and for pain relief, but did you know that hypnotherapy can also be used to overcome a fear of public speaking, to improve performance on the playing field or even to prevent blushing?

Can Everyone by Hypnotised?

Yes, most people can if they want to be hypnotised. You cannot be hypnotised against your will.

What does it feel like to be hypnotised?

Hypnosis isn't sleep, you are awake the whole time and while the experience is different for everyone, most people compare it to daydreaming. It's often described as that pleasant Sunday morning feeling when you first wake up; you're not quite asleep but not quite awake either. Your body feels really relaxed and comfortable, you may be aware of sounds around you but you don't pay much attention to them.

Is hypnosis safe?

Absolutely, hypnosis is a natural state of mind that we all enter several times a day whether we're aware of it or not. When we daydream we are in a state of hypnosis, and when you daydream, you are always in control of the situation.

Can I get stuck in hypnosis?

Definitely not, it is comparable to daydreaming, you can open your eyes at any time you wish, although you may be feeling so relaxed that you just don't want to.

Will I be aware of what's happening?

Yes, you will always know what is going on around you and be aware of the hypnotherapist's voice. Hypnosis is a state of heightened awareness that is focused internally.

Can I be made to do something against my will?

No, this is a common misconception; you are always in control of the situation. You can never be made to do something that is against your values or morals. If you think of it like you're driving a car, the hypnotherapist would be the navigator, they can suggest to you to which direction to go in, but it is really your decision as you are in the driver's seat.

Is hypnosis mind control?

Hypnosis allows you to be more in control of your own mind. Most of my clients come to see me because they are feeling out of control in an area of their life. Hypnosis allows them to regain that control and take charge of their life. The hypnotherapist cannot make you do anything against your will.

I have seen stage hypnosis; surely those people were under the control of the hypnotist!

There is no way that anyone can get you to do anything against your will. If you think of the intention of a stage hypnosis show, it is for entertainment purposes. The participants volunteer to go up on stage and they know that they are going to be part of the entertainment. These people are happy to go along with it. If someone were dragged up on stage against their will; anything the stage hypnotist tried would not work.

Will I remember everything?

You will remember everything that you want to remember. Just as we choose to remember significant events in our daily lives, you will easily be able to remember anything about the hypnosis session that you want to remember. Most people remember everything that goes on in a session.