Hypnotherapy means the use of hypnosis for the treatment and relief of a variety of somatic (pertaining to the body) and psychological symptoms. This can make it a practical treatment suitable for conditions such as Phobias, stress and anxiety, eczema, migraine, asthma and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) as well as helping people to quit smoking or biting their nails, etc.

Hypnotherapy can also be useful for Weight Control, improving Sporting Performance and even for boosting confidence. It has been estimated that 85% of people of all age groups will readily respond to Hypnotherapy. It can be successful when other, perhaps more conventional methods of treatment have failed.

How Does it Feel to be Hypnotised?

All hypnotic states are generally characterised by a very pleasant state of relaxation which allows for increased suggestibility, during this trance (altered state) therapeutic suggestions are given by the therapist to help resolve the issue. Hypnotherapy is a natural and safe form of therapy, and there are no harmful side effects. It is one of the oldest of all healing techniques.

Generally, the therapist will work with you in a one-to-one treatment session, although for some Workshops or Courses e.g. Stress Management, a group of people may experience hypnosis at the same time, however, each individual's own experience may differ. Stage Hypnotism for entertainment is not the same as therapeutic Clinical Hypnotherapy.

Always ensure the Practitioner you consult is suitably qualified, ask them about their training and qualifications and ask if they offer a free initial consultation, allowing you to meet them first before deciding on treatment.

Contributed by
Anna Lane SRN, OND, D Hyp, BSCH (Assoc.)
Clinical Hypnotherapist