What actually happens in a hypnotherapy session

Most people’s idea of hypnosis comes from stage shows and films. The reality is a lot quieter, and a lot less mysterious.

Before anything else, we talk

A session starts with a conversation: what you want to change, what it looks like now, and what you would like to be different. Nothing happens until you understand what we are going to do and are comfortable with it.

The relaxed part

I will guide you into a calm, focused state using your breathing and some simple imagery. Most people describe it as feeling very relaxed and absorbed, a bit like the moment just before you fall asleep, or being lost in a good book.

• You are aware of what is going on throughout.
• You can hear everything, speak, move and stop whenever you like.
• Nobody can make you do anything you do not want to do.

The work

In that state, we work on what we agreed at the start — rehearsing a different response, building a sense of calm you can return to, or changing the way a particular situation feels. Then I bring you back, and we talk about how it went.

Online works too

Sessions can be done by video call from your own home. Plenty of people find it easier to relax in a familiar space.

Hypnotherapy is not a substitute for medical or psychological treatment. If you are under the care of a doctor or mental health professional, tell me and we will make sure anything we do fits alongside it.