How does hypnotherapy work?
There are many misconceptions about hypnotherapy. Quite simply, hypnosis is a state of deep relaxation where the subconscious brain is engaged and receptive to positive suggestion. The subconscious mind governs our behaviours and feelings drawing on learnt experiences and engrained value and belief systems. The conscious mind is powerfully influenced by the construct of the subconscious mind and because of this we sometimes behave in ways which are unwanted. Although we consciously want change, change may be difficult due to the inaccessibility of the subconscious. The role of the hypnotherapist is to access and reshape the subconscious mind. This results in powerful and sometimes life changing emotional or behavioural changes.
An obvious example may be seen in the fear of spiders. Our conscious mind tells us that spiders are harmless, but when encountering a spider we experience an irrational fear. This fear is fed by a learnt response embedded in the subconscious mind, perhaps learnt by childhood observation of a parent’s fearful reaction to a spider. The role of the hypnotherapist is to reshape the subconscious mind in order to positively reframe the trigger and change the response. The fear can completely disappear.
The relationship between a hypnotherapist and a client is a partnership. The client must genuinely desire change and the hypnotherapist can only make changes that the client wishes to be made. At all times the client is conscious and in full control of the therapy being delivered and may terminate a session whenever they wish to do so.
What happens during a session?
A typical session 
lasts around an hour. We start with a review of what was discussed in the consultation and once we are both satisfied that the problem to be treated has been understood correctly we proceed with hypnotherapy. I use a recliner chair as I have found that clients differ in their preference to sit or lay. It’s important that you are comfortable so I recommend taking off shoes and wearing comfortable clothes. I also provide cushions and blankets should you wish to use them. In some cases the session is recorded and you will be sent a copy so you can periodically listen to the recording in order to reinforce the changes made. Hypnotherapy is a wonderful experience, a time when can be totally absorbed in you your own relaxation. The benefits of hypnotherapy are twofold, primarily in the resolution of the problem for which you are seeking help and secondarily in the immediate enjoyment and the longer term benefits of being able to just slow down, switch off and totally relax.
What does hypnotherapy feel like?
You will feel deeply relaxed, rather like the feeling you get just before going to sleep. During a hypnotic trance you will likely be conscious and aware of what is happening. Some people describe it as like being in a daydream state. You will be in full control and will be able to terminate the hypnotic trance at any point should you wish to do so.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on what is being treated. As a guide, two to six sessions are required to resolve most problems, however, others take less. As an example, smoking cessation is often achieved in just one session. I will always design and deliver a treatment programme which get results in the fewest possible sessions. Your recommendations to friends and family are important to me and as such it is paramount for me to deliver the best and most cost efficient service possible. If I believe that the issue with which you present is unsuitable for hypnotherapy, or that you are unlikely to get the results you expect, I will tell you. It is important to me that my services meet your expectations and that you are happy with your experience.
Am I suitable for hypnotherapy?
As long as you genuinely desire change then you are suitable. You will be more receptive to hypnosis which is delivered in a preferred communication style and it is my job to ensure that I deliver your session to suit your specific preferences. Hypnotherapy is a partnership. I will lead and control the session, taking you to a hypnotic state and suggesting positive change. All you need to do is be willing to accept the change.
What is neuro-linguistic programming?
Many of the techniques used in hypnotherapy have a grounding in neuro-linguistic programming, often referred to as NLP. NLP is defined as ‘the study of the structure of our subjective experience’. When used in hypnotherapy its purpose is to positively restructure or replace a person’s unwanted behaviours, feelings or beliefs.
What is the cost?
Preparation and a solid understanding of the issue to be treated is key to a successful outcome so I conduct a thorough initial consultation. After the consultation I will give you an indication of the number of sessions likely to be required. There is no obligation to proceed after consultation.
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- £35 for a no obligation consultation.
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- £60 per hypnotherapy session.
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- £180 for quit smoking.
- £300 for irritable bowel syndrome programme of 6 sessions.
When am I available?
I am available to practice weekdays between 0815 and 1600. I can sometimes arrange to be available at other times.
Cancellation Policy
Should you need to cancel an appointment you may do so without charge within 24 hours of your appointment time. Any later cancellations will be charged at 50% of the session fee. Unattended appointments, (without notice of cancellation), will be charged at 75% of the session fee.
Where am I located?
My practice is located just South of the city centre of Norwich at 103 Trafford Road, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 2QT. There is parking in the driveway of the property.
What are my qualifications?
I have a Diploma in Hypnotherapy and Counselling awarded by Chrysalis,a nationally established hypnotherapy and psychotherapy training company.
I am an accredited member of the National Hypnotherapy Society, which means that I practice in compliance with the National Hypnotherapy Society’s code of ethics. The National Hypnotherapy Society’s primary purpose is the advancement of the knowledge of hypnotherapy and the fostering of professional hypnotherapy expertise through training, accreditation and continued professional development of its members. The Society seeks to contribute to public wellbeing both through the use of hypnotherapy and by ensuring that hypnotherapists are safe, competent and ethical in practice.
I am a listed Hypnotherapist on the National Hypnotherapy Society’s Accredited Register. The Accredited Register is the result of a new scheme set up by the Department of Health, and administered by the Professional Standards Authority. The Professional Standards Authority are an independent body, accountable to Parliament. The Authority oversees statutory registers such as the General Medical Council and Nursing and Midwifery Council. The National Hypnotherapy Society’s register is the first and only current hypnotherapy register to be accredited by the Professional Standards Authority under its Accredited Registers scheme.
I am also qualified and practice as a Counsellor. I have an Advanced Professional Diploma In Psychotherapeutic Counselling and am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. My counselling training and experience enables me to understand the cause and complexity of presenting issues enabling me to better target hypnotherapy.
In addition to private work I volunteer for Norwich Mind and Sue Lambert Trust.
