One of the most frequent questions I get is, “What can I expect in a hypnotherapy session?”, “Will you make me dance like a chicken?” “Will I reveal secrets that I do not want to be revealed?” “Can you brainwash me?” “Will I lose control?”

I found that although people are open to the idea of what hypnotherapy can offer them, there are some concerns surrounding the process and how much control you have during the session. 

Unfortunately, stage hypnosis has created a stigma and has given people the impression that hypnotherapy is mind control and that you can be made to do things you do not want to do consciously.

I want to assure you firstly; hypnotherapy is not the same as stage hypnosis. Secondly, stage hypnosis is for entertainment purposes, it is not to receive healing. Lastly, my priority is with my client and their healing. When you come to me for a session, it is about you and your journey and your healing. I will never want to cause any harm to anyone that comes to me for hypnotherapy and so, it is important to me that each and every person interested in starting their healing journey with me, understand and feel comfortable with what they can expect in a session.

With that being said, let me give you a brief overview of what you can expect from a hypnotherapy session and should you have any further questions, feel free to contact me so that we can further discuss how you can heal with hypnotherapy. 

Initially, a client will contact me with an interest in hypnotherapy. I send them forms specific to what they want to resolve or release in the therapy session whether it is anxiety, confidence, weight loss, smoking cessation,  fears or phobia’s, pain management, stress management or whatever they want to change form the inside. I ask them to fill out the forms and return them to me before their session. I then use this information as part of my preparation for their session.

The first consultation includes me delving into this a little further and understanding it on a deeper level through active listening and motivational interviewing. 

The session

Each session starts with a mindfulness, bringing the client into the present moment, focusing on breathing and various body parts, helping them to focus away from their busy conscious mind. As they relax and get comfortable, I take them deeper into a hypnotic state. I use imagery to really go into a very deep and relaxed state. When you are in this deep relaxation, your subconscious mind becomes open and accepting to suggestions and then I go into the therapy side of the session. I focus on what you want to release in your session and construct a session for your best and highest benefit.

People get worried when I use the terminology hypnotic state or trance state. So, let me give you a quick breakdown on this. A trance or hypnotic state is just a very deep and relaxed state. You can compare it to that relaxed feeling you feel just before you fall asleep.

Not to bore you with too much scientific jargon but this is important for your understanding; In hypnotherapy we consider the following brainwaves: