What is hypnotherapy?

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To understand hypnotherapy, it helps to begin with hypnosis itself.​

Hypnosis is the gentle art of guiding someone into a natural trance state - a deeply relaxed, focused state of awareness. In fact, we all experience these trance-like moments throughout the day: when daydreaming, absorbed in a book or film, or drifting between sleep and wakefulness. These are known as hypnoidal states, and because they occur naturally, everyone has the capacity to enjoy hypnosis.

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A skilled hypnotherapist understands the subtle cues that lead into these states and invites the client to reproduce them, allowing trance to unfold organically. ​

 

Hypnosis is a collaborative process, we all have the ability to accept or resist suggestions, and that inner choice plays a key role. When someone feels safe, supported, and open, hypnosis becomes a gentle and empowering experience. 

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Why use hypnosis?

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When in a relaxed trance state, the mind becomes more receptive. Our usual resistance to change softens, making it easier to explore new ideas, perspectives, and possibilities. This openness creates fertile ground for therapeutic transformation.

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Is Hypnotherapy safe? 

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Yes, hypnotherapy is considered very safe when practised by a qualified and ethically grounded therapist. It’s recognised by organisations such as the British Medical Association and is used in a wide range of clinical and therapeutic settings. That said, it’s not suitable for everyone, particularly those with conditions like epilepsy, psychosis, or certain forms of dementia. If you are undergoing medical treatment or have an undiagnosed condition, I always recommend checking with your GP first. Your wellbeing is paramount.

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What guarantees do you offer that it will work?

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Hypnotherapy isn’t mind control or magic, it’s a collaborative process, guiding you through it, tailoring each session to your unique needs, goals, and responses. While no therapeutic approach can offer guarantees, I am committed to working within an ethical framework ensuring that I will work with integrity, compassion, and confidentially. If I feel that another approach or practitioner might serve you better, I’ll always be honest about that, your progress is my priority.

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Is it confidential? 

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Yes. Everything you share with me is held in the strictest confidence, in line with professional ethical standards (BACP) British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, (NCH) National Council for Hypnotherapy, (CNHC) Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council, and (NSPsy) National Society of Psychotherapists. You are  free to share only what feels safe and relevant to you; I will respect your boundaries.

There are limits to confidentiality within therapy, this being if I believe there is a risk of harm to you or someone else, in which case I will aim to discuss it with you first, where possible and I will adhere to the professional ethical framework to ensure your own and others safety.

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