Clinical Hypnotherapy
CHILLINGTON, KINGSBRIDGE, TOTNES, DARTMOUTH, SOUTH DEVON & ONLINE
What is Hypnotherapy
There is a common misconception that hypnotherapy is something mysterious or magical… most of us have seen stage hypnotists make people walk around like chickens, haven’t we! However, the truth is that stage hypnosis and hypnotherapy are actually very different things.
According to the professional body, The General Hypnotherapy Standards Council (GHSC), “Hypnosis is a state of mind, enhanced by (although not exclusively) mental and physical relaxation, in which our subconscious is able to communicate with our conscious mind”.
They also define hypnosis as an excellent and widely accepted method of accessing the inner potential. This mind state, or elevated state of consciousness, allows better access to the subconscious mind –where our repressed memories and fears are stored. We can naturally, unaided, go into states of hypnosis or self-hypnosis every single day, for example, when we drive a route so familiar that we go into auto-pilot.
As a professional hypnotherapist, I utilise hypnosis to beneficially access the resultant heightened state of consciousness to help change fears and negative core beliefs. This therapeutic process is ‘Hypnotherapy’.
How can Hypnotherapy help?
Hypnotherapy accesses the subconscious and taps into the inner potential and resources to effect positive changes, stimulating our body’s innate healing capacity.
Consequently, hypnotherapy is beneficial for many concerns; the list is long, but it is helpful for the treatment of:
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Lack of confidence
- Low self-esteem
- Sleep difficulties
- Fears
- Phobias
- Improving focus and concentration
- Enhancing public speaking
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Pain management
Common Concerns
Although some people feel concerned they might ‘lose control’ during hypnosis, there is a general consensus indicating that regardless of the depth of the hypnosis, they remain entirely in control of the situation and are able to talk, or not, if they wish to at any time. Someone hypnotised cannot be made to do things against their usual moral judgements or ethics. These concerns are likely to be based upon misconceptions based on stage hypnosis, where participants volunteer and are made to look foolish as they perform for the audience.
What does Hypnotherapy feel like?
It surprises most people to learn that being under hypnosis just feels like being deeply relaxed. You are aware of your surroundings at all times during hypnotherapy, and you are always in control. I cannot force you to do anything you do not want to do – which is why your own willpower and desire to make a positive change is vital to the success of hypnotherapy.
What to expect
In a session, prior to being guided into a hypnotic state, we would initially discuss and focus on what you are experiencing currently and what you would like to change or develop, We would then potentially use analytical techniques where I might ask you some questions to ascertain any underlying beliefs, negative thoughts processes or past problems that may be affecting or ‘playing out’ in the present, ‘here and now’ experience. Generally, it is considered that your personal motivation, or even a belief that change is possible, is helpful for positive outcomes.
I would then guide you into a relaxed, hypnotic state and draw upon the power of your imagination in a way that makes sense to you – it is not just about having to ‘visualise’. I may employ various techniques such as metaphor, symbolism, storytelling or direct suggestions, all relevant to your concern, to you as an individual and to the beneficial changes you wish to affect.
References:
general-hypnotherapy-register.com/what-is-hypnotherapy
