What does it feel like?
The hypnotic experience differs from one person to another, although in general, this trance state is similar to the day-dreamlike state; a feeling of being deeply and pleasantly relaxed and calm. Although some people think they will be asleep, you will actually be in a heightened state of self awareness.
You will always still be aware of what is going on and can come out of it at anytime you wish or need to – in the same way you can “wake” right out of a vivid daydream.
How does hypnotherapy work?
Under hypnosis, the conscious mind; the rational, analytical part of the mind, is temporarily dormant, thereby allowing you to access the subconscious mind which controls your emotions, imagination, experiences, memories, even your central nervous system, and which influences your mental, emotional and physical functions.
It becomes receptive, as you are in a state of mental calm and ease. In the hypnotic state, you can bypass barriers to inner thoughts and feelings, and suggestions are acted upon much more powerfully than in a normal state of mind.
Will you remember everything?
Different people remember different things. In general, you will usually be able to recall the process or certain parts of the process, although maybe not all details.
Sometimes people believe they remember everything but are unaware of information they have consciously forgotten. Total amnesia for the entire hypnotic experience is unlikely, although can occur when experiencing a very deep level of trance, which sometimes is mistaken for falling asleep.
In any case, your subconscious mind is aware and will remember all that is important for your successful process and change, even if you do not consciously remember.
Will you lose control? / Is it safe?
Hypnosis is completely natural and safe.
You are the one allowing yourself to enter the hypnotic state, with the guidance of the therapist, and you will only go as deep as you will feel comfortable with.
You will feel relaxed, but although the conscious mind is relaxed, it is not asleep.
You will be aware of what is happening and in control at all times.
What happens in a session?
In the initial consultation, details will be taken of your circumstances. Goals for therapy will discussed and agreed on, and a full explanation of hypnosis will be provided. Any questions or misconceptions about hypnosis will also be dealt with; please feel free to ask!
If it is felt and agreed that the Sedona Method would suit your needs better at this point, an introduction and the basics of the method would be provided, and hypnosis would possibly be used in subsequent sessions.
During the first session I will usually also teach you the basics of self-hypnosis; this way you are empowered to practice this on your own, and the more you use this, the more rapid and powerful the results you can expect.
Sometimes I will also give you ‘homework’ assignments…
The first session usually lasts one and a half hours, with subsequent sessions an hour. The length of treatment would depend on your individual circumstances, but usually requires only a small number of sessions. This will be possible to assess at the first consultation.
Your progress will be reviewed at every session and feedback is encouraged!
Feeling safe, comfortable and secure with your therapist is highly important for entering the hypnotic relaxation state and for gaining successful outcome to sessions - and you are never under any obligation to proceed with hypnosis following our initial discussion nor with any further sessions unless you wish to.
If you would like to meet for an informal chat over coffee to find out more, I would be happy to do that too, time allowing.
Again, please feel free to ask!
Next: would you like to get in touch and discuss your goals and how hypnosis can help you achieve them?