FAQ about Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Hypnosis & Hypnotherapy

 

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to hypnosis and hypnotherapy. Whether you’re new to the concept or looking to deepen your understanding, this page answers the most common — and uncommon — questions about this powerful therapeutic tool.
 

What is hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention and heightened suggestibility, often accompanied by deep physical and mental relaxation. It allows your unconscious mind — the part of your mind that stores beliefs, habits, emotions, and memories — to become more open to helpful suggestions and guided change.
 
It’s similar to those moments just before you fall asleep or when you're completely absorbed in a book, film, or daydream.
 

What is hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis within a therapeutic context to promote psychological, emotional, or behavioural change. A qualified hypnotherapist uses guided relaxation, mental imagery, and tailored suggestions to help you access your unconscious mind and make changes aligned with your goals.
 
Hypnotherapy can be used successful as a stand alone therapy or alongside other modalities like neuro linguistic programming (NLP), mindfulness, coaching, or counselling.
 

How does hypnosis work?

Hypnosis works by bypassing the critical, analytical part of the conscious mind and communicating directly with the unconscious. When you're deeply relaxed and focused, your brainwaves shift (usually to theta or alpha states), making it easier to reshape habits, shift perceptions, and process past experiences.
 
Hypnosis can:
 
* Help release unconscious resistance
* Reframe limiting beliefs
* Reprogram unwanted behaviours
* Create emotional and neurological change
 
 

Is hypnosis the same as sleep?

No. But did you know, the term "hypnosis" was coined by James Braid, a Scottish surgeon, in 1843. Braid derived the word from the Greek god of sleep, Hypnos, because he mistakenly believed that hypnosis was a form of sleep. He later realised that hypnosis was not true sleep and tried to rename it to "monoideism" (meaning focus on a single idea), but by then, "hypnosis" had already stuck.
While hypnosis may resemble sleep from the outside (due to closed eyes and physical stillness), you're not unconscious or asleep. You’re in a deeply relaxed yet aware state — fully able to hear, respond, and recall what happens.
 
 

Can everyone be hypnotised?

Most people can be hypnotised, it depends on how good you are at following instructions! Because individual responsiveness varies. Those who are motivated, open-minded, and willing to engage in the process typically have the best results. You cannot be hypnotised against your will, and hypnotherapy is most effective when it’s a collaborative process.
 
Certain mental health conditions (e.g., psychosis, dissociative disorders) may affect suitability, so it's essential to work with a qualified professional.
 

Will I be under someone’s control?

No. You remain fully in control during hypnosis. You cannot be made to do anything against your values or beliefs. Hypnosis is not mind control — it's a process that requires your consent and cooperation. At any point during a hypnotherapy session, you could get up and carry on with your day but maybe just for a few minutes you might decide to relax and listen to the hypnotherapists words...
 
 

What does hypnosis feel like?

People often describe hypnosis as a familiar expereince:
 
* Feeling deeply relaxed
* A sense of calm or stillness
* Heightened focus or clarity
* Time distortion (sessions may feel shorter or longer than they are)
* A “floaty,” heavy, or tingly sensation
 
Some enter a light trance, others go much deeper — both are effective. Everyone’s experience is unique, and all levels of trance can create change.
 

What can hypnotherapy help with?

Hypnotherapy is used to support a wide range of personal and psychological challenges. Common areas include but not limited to:
 
Mental & Emotional Wellbeing
 
* Anxiety and generalised anxiety disorder (GAD)
* Stress and burnout
* Panic attacks
* Depression (as part of a wider care plan)
* Trauma and emotional release (when appropriate)
 
Habits & Behaviours
 
* Smoking cessation
* Alcohol moderation
* Nail-biting, hair-pulling, skin-picking
* Habitual procrastination
* Gambling or screen addiction
 
Physical & Health-Related Issues
 
* Insomnia and sleep disorders
* Chronic pain (e.g., fibromyalgia, migraines, IBS)
* Tinnitus management
* Weight loss and emotional eating
* Psychosomatic symptoms
* Menopause
 
Performance & Personal Development
 
* Confidence and self-esteem
* Public speaking and social anxiety
* Academic or sports performance
* Creative blocks
* Exam or driving test nerves
* Motivation and goal achievement
 

Is hypnotherapy scientifically proven?

Yes. There is a substantial and growing body of scientific research supporting hypnotherapy’s effectiveness for:
 
* Pain management (e.g., surgical recovery, chronic pain)
* Irritable Bowel Syndrome (NICE-approved)
* Anxiety and stress reduction
* Smoking cessation (when combined with other supports)
* Insomnia and sleep enhancement
 
Hypnotherapy is recognised by the British Psychological Society and the American Psychological Association as a valid psychological intervention when performed by a qualified practitioner.
 

How many sessions will I need?

This varies depending on the issue and individual responsiveness. General guidance:
 
* 1–2 sessions: Simple issues like nail-biting, public speaking, or smoking cessation (with high motivation)
* 3–6 sessions: Ongoing habits, phobias, or moderate anxiety
* 6+ sessions: Deeper emotional work, trauma, chronic issues
 
Some clients choose regular sessions for ongoing personal development or stress management. The unconscious mind learns through repetition. For that reason your sessions will be accompanied by hypnotherapy audios that you are to use in the comfort of your own home to reinforce the change work.
 
 

Is online hypnotherapy effective?

Absolutely. Online sessions (via Zoom, Skype, or similar platforms) are just as effective as in-person sessions, and for some, even more comfortable. You'll need a quiet space, stable internet, and a headset for the best experience.
 

What’s the difference between hypnotherapy and stage hypnosis?

Stage hypnosis is entertainment. It involves volunteers who are usually extroverted, highly suggestible, and willing to perform. Clinical hypnotherapy, on the other hand, is:
 
* Private and professional
* Focused on healing or personal change
* Conducted in a safe, supportive environment
  They are vastly different in purpose and practice.
 

Is hypnotherapy suitable for children or teenagers?

Yes. Children (typically over age 5–6) and teenagers often respond very well to hypnosis, especially for:
 
* Bedwetting
* Nightmares
* School-related anxiety
* Habits like nail-biting
* Confidence building
 
Sessions are tailored to their age, interests, and developmental level, often using metaphors, stories, or visualisation.
 

What if I can’t be hypnotised or “don’t go under”?

There’s no “right” way to experience hypnosis. You don’t have to feel deeply “under” for it to work. Even light trance states are effective. It’s not about being unconscious — it’s about being engaged, relaxed, and open to suggestion.
 

What happens in a typical session?

A standard session includes:
 
1. Consultation– We discuss your goals, history, and current concerns.
2. Induction – You’re guided into a relaxed, focused state.
3. Therapeutic Work – Using techniques such as suggestion, metaphor, conversational hypnosis, or even regression (only if appropriate).
4. Re-orientation – You return to full wakefulness, feeling calm and refreshed.
5. Tasking - In between sessions you will be given some tasks to do which may include things like listening to a hypnosis audio as part of your bedtime to routine to support the changework you've made.
 

Will I remember everything?

Some of the words may drift in and out of conscious awareness, which is perfectly normal. You’re always able to recall or ask questions if you wish.
 

Can I get stuck in hypnosis?

No. It is impossible to get stuck in hypnosis. Even if the session were interrupted, you would naturally return to usual waking state, just as you would wake from a nap.
 

Are there any side effects?

Hypnotherapy is very safe. Occasionally, clients may experience:
 
* Emotional release
* Temporary fatigue or vivid dreams
* Light-headedness immediately after a deep trance
 
These effects usually pass quickly and are signs of mental and emotional processing.
 

Can hypnotherapy be combined with other therapies or coaching?

Yes. Hypnotherapy complements other approaches beautifully, including:
 
* CBT
* NLP
* Mindfulness
* Psychotherapy
* Life coaching
* Energy healing
 
If you're receiving treatment for a mental health condition, it's advisable to let your healthcare provider know.
 

Still Have Questions?

Get in touch to:

* Ask about specific concerns
* Book a discovery consultation
* Learn more about how hypnotherapy could help you
 

Ready to unlock the power of your unconscious mind?

 

Take the first step towards real, lasting change.
 
Then Contact Catherine to book your session