What happens in a hypnotherapy session

Hypnotherapy is a partnership based on co-operation between therapist and client to achieve the changes you want. In general, hypnotherapy is effective in a few sessions, with most clients seeing solid change towards their goals with between 2-5 sessions (depending on the issue/s). The key points to remember about hypnosis and hypnotherapy are:

  • You are always in control of the session, and can snap out of the trance at any time, if you need to.
  • You cannot be made to say, do or reveal anything against your will.
  • You allow yourself to go into the trance, to the level you are comfortable with.
  • You are aware, and able to recall, what is said and done in the session.

Before the session

It's best not to eat a large meal or drink strong coffee or alcohol before your session. We also advise you to wear comfortable clothing and, if you wear contact lenses, to be ready to remove them for the session.

If you can, do a bit of thinking about the issue/s you want to deal with and what you want to get out of hypnotherapy. For example, you could consider:

  • What do you want?
  • How would you know you had it?
  • What would show that you had it?
  • When do you want it?
  • What's necessary to get it, and are you willing to do it?
  • What stops you having it?

In the session

Allow an hour and a half for your first session, as we will spend some time finding out about you and the issue/s you want to deal with. We'll focus briefly on the history of this issue, what you've a tried previously, what you've notice triggers or improves the condition, and what you'd like to achieve and how you would know you'd achieved it. We'll also agree how many sessions you're likely to need to achieve your goals.

I'll explain hypnosis and hypnotherapy in more detail, and answer any queries you may have about the process. And then, it's time to enjoy some well deserved calm and relaxation. You'll likely feel mentally and physically calm, with a relaxed awareness of everything that's happening. You should feel relaxed and positive after your session, and start to become aware of a growing confidence and calmness in the days that follow.

In follow up sessions, we'll discuss progress and any additional issues, and go into trance to carry on making the changes you want.

For more information on what happens in a hypnotherapy session, or to book an appointment, contact Sian on 07725 732810 or email.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it feel like to be hypnotised?
The state is similar to ones you experience every day, like daydreaming, being engrossed in a book or listening to music, or the state of relaxation just before you wake up or go to sleep.

You will probably feel relaxed and aware, and able to recall what is said and done in the session.

You won't feel like you are out of it, unconscious or asleep, as hypnosis is the opposite of these states ie you are aware, relaxed and conscious.

How will I know I've been hypnotised? You'll likely experience some or all of the following physical, emotional and mental effects:

  • breathing deepens and slows
  • circulation slows
  • muscle relaxation
  • eyes flickering, (similar to eye movements in sleep)
  • occasional swallowing (mouth can become dry, as you're not speaking)
  • sensations of heaviness/lightness, especially in hands and feet
  • increased awareness and focus (mental and physical)
  • feelings of calm and relaxation, as anxiety and worry dissolve
  • mind occasionally drifting, then returning to session content

Can anyone be hypnotised?
Everyone can be hypnotised, although your co-operation is key because you need to allow yourself to go into the trance, to the level you are comfortable with. Only fear, lack of knowledge or (rarely) an inability to concentrate sufficiently, result in someone not being able to go into the trance.

Will I be under the therapist's control?
No. You are always in control of the session, and can snap out of the trance at any time, if you need to.

Can I be made to do or say things I don't agree with?
You cannot be made to say, do or reveal anything against your will. You will also automatically reject any suggestions given in trance that you don't agree with.

Can I get stuck in the trance?
No. You can return to your usual awareness whenever you need to.