Hypnotherapy & NLP ~ Introduction

Hypnotherapy and NLP are often used together. Please note most issues featured here as being treated with hypnotherapy or NLP can also be treated without the use of Hypnotherapy.

How does Hypnotherapy work?

Our minds work on two levels, the conscious (logical) and the subconscious (or unconscious) part of the mind that has no logic. The subconscious part of the mind controls all our habits and everything we do automatically without thinking (like driving a car, riding a bike, making a cup of tea etc. as well as all our emotional responses).

Sometimes, there is conflict between the two parts of the mind. You may (logically) want to be a certain way, yet find yourself doing the opposite automatically and without thinking. For example: you know it makes sense to stop overeating, or stop smoking, yet you keep doing it, even though you want to stop. You may want to feel relaxed, yet you can’t help being anxious and panicky. You know it is illogical to be so frightened of a tiny spider, yet you find yourself automatically running away whenever you see one.

Hypnotherapy can help you to resolve that inner conflict.

What is NLP?

NLP stands for Neuro Linguistic Programming. It is about how we code information in our minds. We code things in terms of our senses (vision, smell, hearing, taste, touch). If something is coded differently, we respond to it differently.

Things we fear may seem big and bold in our minds, if we imagine them to be smaller, darker, and moving away into the distance, we can begin to think of them in a different way. NLP can also help re-code memories from the past (particularly of traumatic or upsetting events). NLP is also a stand alone therapy.

Frequently asked questions about hypnotherapy

Can anyone be hypnotised?
Anyone who can follow instructions and wants to be, can be hypnotised to a lesser or greater extent.

Will I be asleep?
No. It is more like being in a day dream.

Will I remember what happened?
Generally, Yes.

Will all my secrets come out?
If something is private and personal – you will be aware of it and able to say that it is private. Hypnosis is not a truth serum.

Will I lose control?
A hypnotherapist does not wish to or want to control you during the session – you are in control. We work together to achieve the results you want.

Can I be made to bark like a dog?
You cannot be made to do anything against your will. During stage shows, people who volunteer are usually people who at some level, do not mind doing silly things.

I am worried I will not wake up
You cannot be “stuck” in hypnosis. You will either fall asleep or come back to reality – just as you would if you were sitting day dreaming.

I find it difficult to relax, do I need to be relaxed in order to be hypnotised?
No. You do not have to be relaxed to be hypnotised. It is more like focussed  concentration or daydreaming.

What does it feel like to be hypnotised?
There is no particular feeling, and everybody feels different. It is like being in a day dream, which is a natural state for us to be in.

Does it work?
For most people, yes, hypnotherapy can be very helpful. If you really want to make the changes then a successful outcome is likely.

Is it safe?
It is a safe and natural therapy.

Are there any side effects?
Unlike medication, there are no side effects. We use what we already have, the power of the mind.

Can I bring my friend / partner with me?
Yes if you wish.

My friend and I have the same problem – can we have our therapy at the same time?
No. Everybody is different. So, all therapy is tailored  to the individual.
My experience is that group hypnotherapy sessions dilute the therapeutic effect.