“ You use hypnosis not as a cure but as a means of establishing a favourable climate in which to learn.”

Milton Erickson*

We all experience trance-like states of mind in our everyday living. For instance, whether watching the tv or looking at a mobile device we can become so absorbed we may not hear someone speak to us. Or maybe you have had the experience of driving somewhere without really remembering much about how you got to your destination.

The only difference between these sorts of states and a hypnotic state is that you are guided into the latter. Specific techniques may include body relaxation, guided visual imagery, guided meditation, verbal cues and focused attention. It is possible to go into a hypnotic trance in under 60 seconds.

When you are in hypnosis you are better able to respond to suggestions ('Response technique') thereby allowing a change in behaviour, perceptions and sensations.

The 'Rewind technique'  is non-intrusive in the sense that there is no need for individuals to go into specific details of the events that may have traumatised them.

The first hypnotherapy session begins with a discussion of your requirements and goals and what you hope to achieve. We will assemble some general medical and personal information about you, so that later sessions can be tailored to your needs.

Once you are sitting comfortably and relaxed in the chair, you will be given a few simple instructions to follow ('trance induction'). The induction is designed to shift your focus from your current awareness and create deep relaxation.  In this state you will probably wish to close your eyes as you become calmer, your breathing slows and your conscious mind quieter.

You will hear my voice clearly at all times. You are not asleep and are always in total control. If at any time during the session you feel uncomfortable or don’t like what is suggested, then you can open your eyes and come out of the  relaxed  hypnotic state yourself.

Please remember, a trance is just an altered state of awareness; it is what we do with that state that matters. 

T o end the session you will be guided back into your present awareness where you will once again become familiar with your surroundings. You will remember everything that has taken place; you will feel deeply relaxed, safe and have a sense of well-being, happy in the knowledge that all is well in the present moment.

After your session and in the days and nights to follow, you should continue to feel this way and realise you feel better than you have felt for a long time. 

I aim to treat you in the shortest time possible. During our time together I will teach you self-hypnosis, so you can continue to work independently. Most people achieve their goal in 3-4 sessions, but some people may take longer.

*Milton Erickson:  American psychiatrist and psychologist, specialising medical hypnosis and family therapy. He is noted for his approach to the unconscious mind as creative and solution-generating.