Hypnotherapy is a skilled verbal communication, used during hypnosis, which helps direct a client’s imagination in such a way as to bring about intended alterations in sensations, perceptions, feelings, thoughts and behaviour. In a typical hypnotherapy session, the hypnotherapist will ask the client questions about previous medical history, general health and lifestyle. The hypnotherapist and client will decide together on the changes or goals that are desired.

Hypnotherapy can be applied to a wide range of medical, dental and psychological problems. Areas of application include anxiety and stress conditions, weight control, addictive behaviours (including smoking, alcohol and substance misuse) and confidence issues. Hypnotherapy is also used to enhance performance in several areas such as sport and public speaking.

People may choose to have hypnotherapy for a variety of reasons – they may want to learn to relax deeply; to change an unwanted habit; to conquer a fear such as public speaking or to enhance an aspect of their lives such as sports performance.

When you meet with a hypnotherapist for the first time they will explore exactly what you want to achieve and how hypnotherapy may be able to help. Hypnotherapy works with the power of your unconscious mind and can often create positive benefits in a relatively short space of time.

Hypnotherapy is acknowledged by the Royal Society of Medicine as an effective therapy for a whole variety of issues – and is not to be confused with such things as stage hypnosis. An ethical hypnotherapist will work with you to enhance your wellbeing and will certainly not do anything to make you feel foolish or uncomfortable. Everything that you discuss will be in the strictest confidence.

.