If you are considering hypnotherapy to help with a personal or work-related problem, there are commonly asked questions you might need to know before you start.
In this blog on hypnotherapy, I would like to briefly provide you with commonly asked questions and answers before your first session.
So, let’s start.
FAQ list for beginners to hypnotherapy
Over the years, many people have asked me the same sorts of questions because they may never have had hypnotherapy before.
These questions are, unfortunately, triggered by many myths about hypnosis, but you will be better informed with this list of questions and answers as I have been working as a hypnotherapist for over 18 years.
What is hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic technique that is a combination of hypnosis, a tool, and therapy to help you change.
It involves the mind in focused attention, absorption and imagination.
It’s a process that can happen quickly for some people while others take a bit more time.
What does hypnotherapy feel like?
Most people describe it as an incredible feeling of deep relaxation. It can also be described as a feeling of daydreaming.
Will I lose control during hypnosis?
No. You are not asleep or unconscious. You can hear what is being said to you.
I always explain to my clients what I will do so there are no surprises.
What types of issues can hypnosis help me with?
There are many ways that hypnotherapy can help people change.
For example, hypnotherapy can help you with stress and anxiety, fears and phobias, bad habits such as stopping smoking and nail-biting, sleep problems, some medical issues, pain management, goal setting and decision-making, sports performance and even bereavement.
How is hypnotherapy different from stage hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a tool.
Stage hypnotists use hypnosis for entertainment. They intend to entertain an audience.
Hypnotherapists use hypnosis to help people with emotional and performance issues to feel better.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the problem and the client, as we have different experiences and resources.
Three to six sessions are typical.
A stop-smoking session might be one or two sessions.
Help for Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) might be longer, say six to twelve sessions.
Is hypnotherapy scientifically proven?
Yes. There are many studies supporting hypnotherapy. A recent 20-year meta-analysis by Rosendahl et al. (2024) showed that hypnosis helps many medical and somatic conditions.
The efficiency of hypnotherapy has been tested in randomised control trials.
We can also observe changes in the brain with fMRI scans.
Can everyone be hypnotised?
Most people can be hypnotised.
Studies suggest that about 15% of people are highly hypnotisable, 15% are low hypnotisable, and the majority of people have medium levels of hypnotisability.
What happens during a hypnotherapy session?
Every hypnotherapist has a slightly different way of doing things.
In my practice, I like to start by giving people a free initial consultation so that we can get to know each other and you can ask me questions.
If you decide to proceed, you will fill in my registration form, including consent, and make payment before the first session.
Most of the time, I provide online hypnotherapy, although I have an office in Bournemouth.
In the first session, I will assess you and the problem you are presenting. I will ask you questions and maybe challenge some of your thoughts and feelings. As I am also a CBT practitioner, I may provide some psychoeducation and explain how to change negative thoughts and their impact on your body.
After talking, I will explain what I will do and then ask you to take deep breaths and close your eyes to listen to me talk. This is the hypnosis part.
Do I need to prepare for my first session?
Yes. You must be clear about what you want to change and how you want to feel.
Also, think about how we might know you have achieved your goal.
For example, if you lack confidence and don’t like public speaking, you might say when I can contribute to an online team discussion at work, I will know that things have changed for the better.
Is online hypnotherapy effective?
Yes, as long as you are comfortable working online.
Many hypnotherapists provide online hypnotherapy as there are benefits to you such as sitting in the comfort of your own home, no travelling expenses, and you can connect with therapists around the world to find the person who is experienced in your area of need and provide the sessions at the price and time that best suits you.
Is hypnotherapy safe?
Yes. Hypnotherapy is considered safe when practised by a qualified practitioner. However, like all professional services, you should check out the person you are dealing with and feel comfortable with them.
Practitioners are usually members of a professional body and have insurance.
In the UK, there are many professional bodies covering hypnotherapy. They include:
- National Hypnotherapy Society
- The General Hypnotherapy Standards Council
- The Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC)
- The National Council of Hypnotherapists
How does hypnotherapy work with other therapies?
Many hypnotherapists are also qualified counsellors, psychotherapists or psychologists. Some are also trained in alternative therapies, such as the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT).
What qualifications should a hypnotherapist have?
A minimum of a certificate course is required, but most have diplomas. A few hypnotherapists have a master’s degree. Check out my qualifications here.
How much does hypnotherapy cost?
Costs vary from area to area, as well as the experiences and qualifications of the therapist. Cost also depends on the issue. Stop smoking sessions are often more.
In the UK, one hypnotherapy session might cost 80 – 100 pounds, but it can be challenging to compare prices as not every therapist advertises their prices, and many provide different programmes.
As I like to be transparent, you can find my prices on my website. I offer programmes to suit your needs.
What if I don’t see results immediately?
We all respond to change differently.
Discuss any concerns with your therapist.
Can hypnotherapy help me stop smoking or lose weight?
Yes. These are two areas that are often helped.
Will I remember what happens during hypnosis?
Most people remember everything.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
No, but if you have a medical condition, it is best to consult with your doctor, and some therapists will write to your doctor.
What is the difference between hypnosis and meditation?
Hypnosis and meditation are similar because they help you relax your mind and body. However, hypnosis specifically can target the presenting problem using positive suggestions, regression and reframing issues for change.
Do you want more questions answered?
Please book a free online consultation and learn more about me and my service at www.awakenthechange.com/online-bookings/
