Frequently Asked Questions
Is hypnotherapy Recognised by the NHS?
Hypnotherapy is recognised by the NHS for certain conditions, primarily as a complementary treatment. It’s often recommended for managing pain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and some mental health conditions like anxiety. However, it is not universally covered by the NHS, and most people will need to seek treatment privately. In some cases, individuals can receive referrals to hypnotherapy from healthcare providers, especially if they are dealing with conditions where hypnotherapy has shown proven benefits. Despite its limited availability on the NHS, it is increasingly gaining recognition as an effective form of treatment.
What does hypnotherapy do?
By helping individuals get into a relaxed state, and allowing them access to their subconscious mind, hypnotherapy works. This is a state where people can ‘try out’ and reframe some thoughts, emotions, or behaviours which might be causing you distress. During hypnotherapy, a hypnotherapist will use suggestions or mental imagery to help the person change patterns of thought that may include anxiety, chronic pain or bad habits. It can bring about positive changes by tapping into areas of the mind that may not be accessible during regular consciousness, allowing for personal insight and behavioural adjustments.
Does hypnotherapy actually work?
For a variety of reasons, including anxiety, stress management, pain relief and breaking habits like smoking, hypnotherapy has been shown to be effective by many people. A huge part of whether someone has a successful treatment or recovery is their response to the treatment. There is some research into its use as an alternative to conventional therapies, especially in the management of conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and phobias. But like all treatments, it won’t work for everyone. This technique is most likely to work when clients open themselves to the process and are ready to commit fully to the therapy.
What do you do during hypnotherapy?
During a hypnotherapy session you will usually talk to the therapist about the issues you would like to work on during the session. Once the therapist knows what they want the goals of the session to be they will guide you into a state of deep relaxation, using soothing words and instructions that lead you to focus. During this state, the therapist will provide suggestions to help you change your thoughts, perceptions, or behaviours in a certain area of concern. You’re aware and in control all along, and when the session is finished you’re brought gently out of the relaxed state.
What happens in a typical session?
A hypnotherapy session starts with a consultation with the therapist, who will ask you about your goals and problems. The hypnotherapy starts when the therapist takes you into relaxation, with techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation or focused breathing. The therapist may use guided imagery to treat that problem, or if you are relaxed, the therapist might offer positive suggestions to address the problem you’re talking about. Usually sessions are 45 minutes to an hour long and end with a brief discussion about your experience. How many sessions are needed is also dependent upon the individual and the particular problem that is to be treated.
Will I be in control during hypnosis?
You remain fully in control during hypnosis, because there is no loss of awareness. Popular belief has it that hypnotherapy means putting someone under trance, where they are unconscious — but that isn’t true. It’s achieved through entering a deeply relaxed, focused state in which your mind is more open to suggestion, but you are still able to make decisions, rule out suggestions or even end the session. Hypnotherapy is based on the idea of collaboration between you and your hypnotherapist. You remain aware of your surroundings, you are able to respond to questions at all times. In this state you can access thoughts and feelings that possibly would be harder to access in a normal waking state.
How many hypnotherapy sessions will I require?
The number of hypnotherapy sessions will depend on what condition I am treating, and how you respond to hypnosis. For some, a single session may be all that it takes to bring about significant change, and for others, it may take several sessions for those changes to last. In general, for problems such as smoking cessation or mild anxiety, 3 to 6 sessions are advisable. Sometimes this is for chronic conditions or deep rooted psychological problems, such as PTSD or phobias. When you are in hypnotherapy, results are very much individual in terms of what works for you and what doesn’t but the therapist will take it one step at a time and will work with you to devise the best treatment plan based on your progress and needs.
Are results guaranteed?
Results from hypnotherapy are not a given. This form of treatment has produced positive outcomes in considerable numbers of people, but there are huge differences. How effective a hypnotherapist will be is strongly dependent on the nature of the condition, the person’s mind set, and how open they are to the process. Most of the time, the combination of techniques within a wider plan of treatment is best. Most clients report improvement after the first few sessions, but others don’t respond to treatment or prefer other methods. Hypnotherapy is quite successful, but varies greatly depending on personal and situational factors.
What can hypnotherapy help with?
Hypnotherapy can treat conditions that are physical and mental. Used for treatment of anxiety, stress, depression, phobia, as well as physical conditions such as chronic pain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), insomnia. Hypnotherapy can also help people overcome bad habits like smoking or overeating. Also, it is usually utilised in ‘stress management’, ‘confidence building’ and ‘concentration’. Hypnotherapy enables you to work with the subconscious mind, so even issues that may be hard to tackle on the level of conscious thought.
How much is a hypnotherapy session in the UK?
In the UK, the cost of hypnotherapy varies depending on location, the therapist’s experience, and the length of the session. On average, a single hypnotherapy session costs between £50 and £100. Some practitioners offer discounted rates for block bookings or longer-term treatment plans. More experienced therapists or those based in major cities may charge higher rates, while therapists in less urban areas may offer more affordable options. It’s important to research and choose a therapist who is both qualified and experienced, ensuring the best possible care and treatment for your individual needs.
How much does hypnotherapy typically cost in London?
The demand for this service and cost of living are higher in London than other parts of the UK which means that this type of treatment costs more in London. On average, sessions in London will run from £70 to £150, based on a therapist’s qualifications and reputation. Initial consultations are offered at some hypnotherapists by an introductory rate, and often, free. It allows clients to try the therapist out and see if they’re a good match before committing to several sessions. The reason for London prices being higher is that you have the benefit of people who are extremely experienced and who are licensed. Specifically if you are chronically ill or have a complicated problem, this is very advantageous.
Can 1-2-1 sessions be held via Zoom or Skype?
Yes, many hypnotherapists offer 1-2-1 sessions via Zoom or Skype. This option has grown in popularity due to its convenience, allowing clients to access therapy from the comfort of their homes. Remote hypnotherapy sessions follow a similar structure to in-person sessions, with the therapist guiding the client into a relaxed state and offering suggestions to address specific issues. While in-person sessions may be preferred by some, online hypnotherapy can be just as effective, especially for those who cannot attend sessions in person due to geographic, health, or time constraints.
How effective is online hypnotherapy?
Online hypnotherapy has proven to be just as effective as in-person sessions for many individuals. While some may worry that the virtual format would reduce the quality of the session, as long as the client can fully relax in their environment and follow the therapist’s guidance, the results can be comparable. Many people prefer online sessions due to convenience, especially if they have limited access to local hypnotherapists or mobility issues. Research and client feedback suggest that online hypnotherapy can effectively treat issues such as anxiety, stress, and habit changes when delivered by a qualified therapist.
How much does online hypnotherapy cost?
Online hypnotherapy sessions tend to be more affordable than in-person sessions due to reduced overheads for therapists. Prices typically range between £40 and £90 per session, depending on the therapist’s experience and expertise. Some therapists may offer packages for multiple sessions at a discounted rate, making online therapy a cost-effective option for those seeking long-term treatment. While prices can vary depending on the therapist’s location and specialisation, online hypnotherapy remains a popular choice for clients who value the convenience and affordability of virtual sessions compared to in-person treatments.
Does hypnosis really work for anxiety?
Yes, hypnosis can be an effective treatment for anxiety. It works by accessing the subconscious mind, allowing individuals to reframe anxious thoughts and develop coping mechanisms. Hypnotherapy helps people enter a relaxed state, reducing the physical and emotional symptoms of anxiety. By targeting the root causes of anxiety, such as negative thought patterns or unresolved trauma, hypnotherapy can bring about lasting change. Research supports its use as an adjunct to traditional treatments, and many people report significant improvements in their anxiety levels after undergoing hypnotherapy sessions.
How many sessions of hypnotherapy do you need to quit smoking?
For most individuals, quitting smoking through hypnotherapy requires between 1 to 3 sessions. The exact number depends on the person’s level of dependence, commitment to quitting, and how well they respond to the treatment. Many hypnotherapists offer specific smoking cessation programs that are designed to address both the psychological and physical aspects of nicotine addiction. In some cases, individuals may require follow-up sessions to reinforce the suggestions made during therapy. Hypnotherapy can significantly increase the likelihood of success for those who are ready to quit, especially when combined with other methods of support.