Frequently asked questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  What is hypnotherapy?

A: Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic technique that uses relaxing hypnosis, a trance like state, to address various psychological and physical issues.  It helps individuals access their subconscious mind, where deep-seated beliefs and habits reside, and introduces positive suggestions for change.

Q: What is the difference between hypnosis and hypnotherapy?

A: Hypnosis is a natural, relaxed state of focused attention, while hypnotherapy is a therapeutic application of that state to create positive changes for health or habits, combining hypnosis with talking therapy to address issues like anxiety, pain, or phobias.

Q: Can anyone be hypnotised?

A: Most people can be hypnotised to some degree as it is a state of focused attention and heightened suggestibility.  While almost anyone can enter a light trance, individuals must be willing to participate for hypnosis to work.  Some people may feel no, or little difference, while others may experience a deep, almost sleep-like trance.  Being hypnotised does not mean you have a weak mind; it is a skill.

Q: What does hypnosis feel like?

A: Hypnosis feels like a deeply relaxed, daydream-like state of intense focus, like the feeling just before falling asleep and characterised by a sense of calm, mental detachment and altered perception of time.  During hypnosis you are concentrating on the hypnotist’s voice, often accompanied by theta-wave music, and guided towards your own personal imagery.

Q: What is theta-wave music?

A: Theta-wave music is specially created ambient music which uses sound waves known as binaural beats, ranging from 4 to 8 Hz to encourage the brain to enter a theta state, associated with deep relaxation, meditation, light sleep and enhanced creativity.

Q: Is it possible to get stuck in hypnosis?

A: No, it is physically impossible to get stuck in a hypnotic state as it is simply a natural state of focused relaxation, like being engrossed in a movie, a really good book, or daydreaming.  If a hypnotist left the room or stopped talking, you would either spontaneously wake up within minutes, or drift into a light, natural sleep and wake up normally once rested.  You remain fully aware and in control throughout hypnosis and can open your eyes and end the state at any time.

Q: Is hypnotherapy safe?

A: Yes, hypnotherapy is widely considered a safe, low-risk complementary treatment when performed by a trained and certified professional.

Q: Can you make someone do something against their will during hypnosis?

A: No, individuals cannot be made to do something against their moral or ethical beliefs during hypnosis.

Q: What is the difference between stage hypnosis and therapeutic hypnosis?

A: Stage hypnosis is for entertainment, where participants might do silly things.  Therapeutic hypnosis is a clinical tool used to address specific issues.

Q: What happens in a typical hypnotherapy session?

A: The solution focused therapist discusses the client’s successes and goals, induces a relaxed state, offers therapeutic suggestions and then brings the client out of the hypnotic state.

Q: How many sessions are typically needed for hypnotherapy to be effective?

A: It varies, some issues can be addressed in a single session e.g., smoking cessation, while others might require multiple sessions.  The number of required sessions will be discussed during the initial consultation.

If you would like to book in for an initial consultation with Rachael, please click on the link to complete the contact form.

Not sure and would like to speak with Rachael first, before deciding?  Please send a WhatsApp message or leave a voicemail on 07565 882429.

I offer a free 15-minute discovery call if you would like to have a chat with me before deciding to book in for your initial consultation.

If you would like to book in for a 30-minute hypnotic relaxation session with Rachael please click on the link to complete the contact form.