Hypnotherapy Frequently Asked Questions
I'm not in your area... where can I find a therapist local to me?
We have a database of therapists that are trained in 'Pure' Hypnoanalysis. Contact us using the contact form on any page, telling us that you'd like to find someone local, and we'll help you if we can. See the find a therapist page for more information.
What is the difference between suggestion therapy, and hypnoanalysis?
Suggestion therapy is best used to tackle minor or habitual problems, such as stopping smoking, pre-test nerves, nail biting, etc., and typically takes between one and three sessions.
Analytical Hypnotherapy, or hypnoanalysis, is used for the problems where the cause is more deep-seated. The aim of hypnoanalysis is to help you resolve the cause of the problem and can take anything from six to twelve sessions.
Are Hypnoanalysis and 'Pure' Hypnoanalysis the Same Thing?
Not necessarily... for more information, see the article on this very subject... Are Hypnoanalysis and 'Pure' Hypnoanalysis the Same Thing?
Why visit a hypnotherapist?
Quite simply, visit a hypnotherapist if there is anything in your life you wish to change. Whether you would like to start doing something you wish to do, or stop doing something that's become a problem.
I'm a little nervous about hypnosis...
Don't be! Come for an initial consultation (not necessary for stop smoking sessions), and we will answer all your questions to put your mind at rest.
Do I have to be referred by my G.P.?
No, although doctors do refer clients for hypnotherapy, it is certainly not a requirement for most conditions.
Are drugs used?
No, not at all.
Is there a minimum age for analytical hypnotherapy?
Yes, because of the techniques used, analytical hypnotherapy is only suitable for people of around 22 years old or more.
How many sessions will I need?
It very much depends on the therapy being used. For example, suggestion therapy to treat smoking, nail biting, exam nerves, etc. would usually be expected to take one session. Analytical Hypnotherapy is a more involved process, and typically takes between six and twelve sessions.
I've tried countless diets, but still can't lose weight or keep it off. Can hypnotherapy help me?
Hypnotherapy for weight control is geared towards finding the reason why a person is repeatedly feeling the need to overeat - whether it be 'comfort' eating, or eating due to stress. Analytical hypnotherapy is by far the best method used here for this.
The other method that can be used for this is suggestion therapy. However, this is really only used for those times when a person is either on a diet, or about to embark on a diet and feels the need to treat themselves to an enjoyable visualisation session.
I've tried giving up smoking countless times before, why is hypnotherapy different?
Smoking serves a need to the smoker, a basic necessity which is actually laid down very early in their life: the need for 'oral satisfaction'. It is something that must be met.
When the smoker tries to stop smoking by willpower alone, the need is no longer met, and the person can feel anxious, restless, and irritable. Usually the need reinforces itself, and the smoking starts all over again. Curiously, it is this same need which can sometimes cause ex-smokers to put on weight.
Hypnotherapy aims to 'reprogram' that need, and channel its energies into feeling pride and pleasure in stopping the smoking habit. It also aims to counter the possibility of 'symptom substitution', which can lead to overeating, for example.
How will I feel afterwards?
After a course of therapy, many people feel invigorated, more confidant and enthusiastic about their new outlook on things.
It's very common too, for people to feel a great deal of relief in getting over the issue which had been causing such anxiety, often for many years.
What types of problems can hypnotherapy help?
Too many to list, but including...
What about confidentiality?
Your confidentiality is assured at all times. No details will ever be discussed with anyone else, without your permission.
Absolute confidentiality is one of the very strict requirements of our professional association.
I feel a bit 'funny' about going into analysis.
There's really no need to. No one is embarrassed about going to see an optician if they have a problem with their glasses, or consulting a mechanic for car problems, and hypnoanalysis is just the same.
There is absolutely no reason someone shouldn't seek professional help for any problem. There is certainly no 'stigma' to be felt when consulting a hypnotherapist. Indeed, we ourselves have had a full course of analytical hypnotherapy as an integral part of our training.
How do I book an appointment?
The procedure is very simple. Call or click here, and we can arrange a mutually convenient appointment time. Please also state at which practice location you would prefer to be seen.
How much does it cost?
The cost of a course of hypnotherapy depends on three things, the type of therapeutic session being used, the number of sessions required, and the location of the practice you wish to attend. Details of session fees can be found here
Why do you charge for an initial assessment session?
This is because rather than just offering a free 'quick chat', ours is a full, in depth, full hour assessment session where we can determine which type of therapy would be best for you. We are also professional therapists, and our pricing reflects this.
What is Hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a pleasant state of mind that is brought about by 'imagining' a series of progressively more relaxing images and situations. It has been described as 'guided daydreaming' and is a very relaxed and pleasant state. It is rather similar to being completely absorbed in your favourite book or movie.
Will I be aware of what is going on?
Yes, you will. You will hear everything that is said (in fact, for analytical therapy, you will be talking yourself!).
What does hypnosis feel like?
Believe it or not, there will have been many times in your life when you have already felt it, but maybe don't even know about it.
If you've ever said to someone "I'm sorry, I missed that, I was 'miles away'", then hypnosis feels just like the bit where you were 'miles away'!
Can I be controlled?
No, everything you do under hypnosis is done voluntarily. Your ability to decide what you should and shouldn't do is unaffected.
Can I be made to do something against my will?
No, your conscious will, conscience and morals will still be present.
Will I be asleep?
Contrary to popular belief, hypnosis is not like sleep at all. It might best be described as half-way between awake and asleep. You are still awake, able to think, hear, smell, feel, taste ... you are just extremely relaxed, and usually have your eyes closed.
Will I remember the session?
Another misconception is that you won't be able to remember anything that went on in the session. The truth is that you will be able to remember most of it. Any portions not remembered, will be where your mind has drifted off to some distant thought or memory.
Is hypnosis dangerous?
Not at all. It's just a state of relaxation.
Can anyone be hypnotised?
Almost. The only people who cannot (and indeed should not) be hypnotised, are the mentally handicapped / impaired, children under the age of eight years, or those whose brain function has been affected by drugs or alcohol.
How will you do it?
You'll simply be asked to close your eyes and imagine a series of situations where you find your body and mind relaxing into a state of deep relaxation. It's a gradual process, and is something which can be 'learned' by the client.
What if I don't wake up?
You will ! For an example, think of someone listening to a hypnotherapy tape or CD. They might be half-way through the recording, and be in a nice state of hypnosis. Suppose then at this point, there is a power cut, and the person never gets to hear the end of the session. This person will NOT get stuck. One of two things would happen ... either:
a) The person would simply go to sleep, and wake up normally a while later, or,
b) The person would open their eyes to see what had happened!
How can I pay?
For more information, see the fees page
What happens if I cancel my appointment?
Any appointments cancelled with less than 72 hours notice will be charged at the normal sessional fee, as your therapist's time and facilities will have been reserved for you.
For cancellations with greater than 72 hours notice, any fees already paid will be refunded, less a £12 administration charge.
What if I am late for my appointment?
In fairness to the client in the following session, the end time of the session will remain unchanged, resulting in a shorter session for you.
How do I get to you?
See the locations pages for practice addresses, or, if you're coming to Chatteris, click on the link below for driving directions on how to get to us.
If you are looking for a hypnotherapist outside of these areas, click here to find a hypnotherapist in your area
Book an initial consultation
Contact Us
You can call us on 01354 696155,
E-Mail us at mail@avonhypnotherapy.co.uk
...or, simply fill in your details below, and we'll get back to you!
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