Hypnosis F.A.Q.

What is Hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a natural state and I emphasise ‘natural’. We all drift in and out of hypnosis every day. Just before going to sleep at night and upon awakening we are in a very similar state to being in hypnosis, by the way, these are very good times to give yourself positive affirmations as this is a form of self hypnosis. We also go into a natural trance state When we daydream or when we are reading a book or watching a movie. When in hypnosis your conscious mind is supressed and your subconscious or unconscious mind is then revealed. It is often said that all hypnosis is self hypnosis.

What is hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is used in a clinical setting. It is the therapeutic use of hypnosis to help you make any changes you wish to make. Your belief system, habits, emotions and long term memory are all within your subconscious mind. Because your conscious mind is supressed and your subconscious mind is revealed when in hypnosis the hypnotherapist can then make suggestions to your subconscious to help you make the changes you want to make.

Will I lose control while in hypnosis?

No, definately not. When you are in the state of hypnosis or trance you are totally and completely in control, the hypnotist cannot make you do anything that you do not want to do, you cannot be forced to do anything against you’re will, you are empowered. Losing control while in hypnosis is a very common misconception due to the media and stage hypnosis.

What if I get stuck in a trance?

You cannot get stuck when in hypnosis, some of my clients haven’t wanted to ‘come out’ of trance because it felt so good but you cannot get stuck, if the hypnotherapist fainted or left the room you would come back to your full awareness in your own time naturally.

Will I be asleep when in hypnosis?

No you won’t be asleep. The word hypnosis is derived from the greek word ‘hypnos’ meaning ‘sleep’. Some hypnotherapists use the word ‘sleep’ during their induction but you do not go to sleep. When in hypnosis you are physically and mentally relaxed with full awareness of what is going on and your senses are heightened. Because of this, some people believe that they have not been hypnotised as they expected to go into some sort of ‘zombie state’ or be asleep. Remember, you do not lose control when in hypnosis.

Can anyone be hypnotised?

Because we all go in and out of trance states daily we can all be hypnotised, some easier than others. Some people will resist going into a state of hypnosis for many different reasons. There are some contraindications around hypnosis and it should not be used with people who are taking anti – psychotic medication or who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs or who have a mental health condition.

Will I tell my innermost secrets when I am hypnotised?

Only if you want to. Again, please remember that you are in total and complete control of the hypnotherapy session.

Tom Smith common name, uncommon therapy