Philip Green M.N.C.H. (Reg)

Registered Clinical Hypnotherapist

 

Questions Answered

 

Can anyone be hypnotised?

Yes, but only if they want to be. The only requirement is the desire to be hypnotised (or at least allow it to happen) plus an understanding of what they need to do in order to achieve the hypnotic state. The degree, however, varies from person to person. Occasionally a different induction method or a different therapist may be necessary. Most therapy sessions do not require more than a light trance state which everyone can easily achieve with training.

 


 

What if I can't be hypnotised?

The only people who cannot be hypnotised are those who are drunk or who are below average intelligence or who don't want to hypnotised. The fact that you are reading this means that none of these probably apply to you. Just remember that being hypnotised may not feel as you expect it to feel, but that does not mean you are not in hypnosis.

 


 

What is the difference between Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy?

Hypnosis has been around for thousands of years. Hypnotherapy is simply therapy which uses hypnosis as a powerful tool to facilitate change. It is used world wide.

 


 

Are drugs or tablets used? Is it safe? Are there any unwanted side effects?

No, only the natural power of your own mind is used to relieve symptoms and alter unwanted behaviour patterns. Hypnotherapy is non-addictive and safe with no unwanted or unpleasant side effects.

 


 

Will I be in control and aware of what is happening?

Yes, all the time. You do not go 'out', 'under' or 'asleep'. You are not unconscious. You are in an alternative state of consciousness with a very narrow focus of attention. You can hear everything that is being said. Nothing happens without your consent. You have absolute control. However, you are extremely relaxed.

 


 

Will I remember what happens during the session?

Ninety nine percent of people remember everything they or the therapist said during the session. In rare instances the therapist might need to remind them of one or two points that were talked about in order to trigger off the rest of the memory. It is possible for the therapist to give a posthypnotic suggestion to forget what was said but this is rarely used in therapy.

 


 

Is hypnosis suitable for children?

Yes, usually from about the age of six, provided they can understand what is being said, are intelligent and imaginative. In 1981 self hypnosis was introduced into the national curriculum in Sweden.

 


 

Will the therapist have to touch me?

Some therapists will touch you on the wrists, fingers, shoulder, neck or forehead to test whether you are properly relaxed or to assist you into a deeper state of hypnosis. Other than this form of contact, your therapist has no business touching you.

 


 

Will my mind be interfered with? Could I be influenced to do anything against my will or nature? When in trance can I be made to bark like a dog or cluck like a chicken? Will I say something private I've never told anyone before?

No, you will not do anything that you do not think is acceptable. You cannot be made to violate your own values or accepted patterns of behaviour. You would either reject the suggestion or come out of the hypnotic trance.

 


 

Could I harm myself?

The trance state can be terminated at any time you choose. It is your choice to enter trance and you can always choose to leave it. If you were left in a trance state by your hypnotherapist or by a hypnotic tape, you would either return to full consciousness on your own or enter a natural sleep and awaken after a short pleasant nap.

 


 

How many sessions will I need?

Simple problems like smoking may only require as little as one or two sessions of approximately 30 - 40 minutes. More deeply rooted problems require more sessions. A free initial session is offered in which to meet you, assess your problem determine your needs and agree an affordable fee.