This text is intended to allay some of the fears concerning the use of Hypnosis, the myths and mystery surrounding which are totally underserved, and to make clear that what takes place is very normal and non magical, with predictable results.

   There is absolutely no question of being controlled or manipulated, or even induced into a deep trance state. A person in Hypnosis (often referred to as Conscious Hypnosis) is not ‘asleep’ – they are often more aware of what is taking place than usual and their senses function more efficiently than normal. Nobody could possibly be made to do anything that they did not want to do, and anybody (except the truly mentally sub-normal, very young children and inebriates) can enter the hypnotic state. People who say or think, ‘Nobody could get me under’ or ‘I wouldn’t want anybody controlling my mind’, or ‘I might blurt my secrets out’, are really demonstrating that they have a total misconception of what hypnosis really is.

   The state of Hypnosis, a totally natural phenomenon, is most pleasant and particularly relaxing, and a person can converse quite easily whilst within the state. It is inconceivable that any harm could befall them. Indeed, the centuries old technique of hypnosis is being used increasingly as an adjunct to orthodox medicine where it is proving a valuable alternative to drugs for anaesthesia, to accelerate healing, relieve stress and control pain. A good definition of Hypnosis is ‘A state of relaxation and concentration at one with a state of heightened awareness induced suggestion’.

   Your Therapist will use his or her voice to induce you into the state of Hypnosis and, although you are unlikely to feel ‘hypnotised’ as such, you will probably experience a feeling or mental and physical relaxation and your memory may well be enhanced. You will find your Therapist to be a caring professional person totally devoid of any mystical or magical powers. No flowing robes or swinging watches – just a reassuring manner to put you at ease, and the expertise to help you with the problem.