Hypnotherapy – FAQ’s

Can anyone be hypnotised?

Most people can be hypnotised—even if they believe they can’t. The exceptions include individuals who are senile, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or have significant cognitive impairments.

What is self-hypnosis? Is it safe? How do I do it?

Self-hypnosis is a powerful tool that allows you to make lasting changes in your mindset or emotional state. You can use it to boost confidence, reduce anxiety, or prepare for events like exams or interviews.

To practise self-hypnosis:

  1. Find a quiet, comfortable place.
  2. Use a remembered or recorded induction script.
  3. Relax deeply and “drop” into a hypnotic state.
  4. Once there, introduce positive suggestions to create the change you desire.

Yes, it’s completely safe when done correctly.

How do you hypnotise someone?

A client is guided into hypnosis through an induction script, spoken calmly at around 130 words per minute. Once relaxed, a deepener is used to guide the client into a deeper state. This process typically takes 5–15 minutes and prepares the mind for therapy.

Is hypnotherapy good for performance enhancement?

Absolutely. Hypnotherapy excels at enhancing performance in a wide variety of areas, including:

  • Sports
  • Career development
  • Memory and concentration
  • Stage and public performance
  • Academic study and exams
  • Speaking and presenting

Is there anyone who should not be hypnotised?

I do not treat individuals with:

  • Psychotic disorders
  • Active epilepsy
  • Recent heart attacks or strokes
  • Pregnant women (due to potential emotional sensitivity)

How does hypnotherapy work?

Hypnosis opens a temporary gateway to the subconscious mind, allowing the therapist to introduce new, positive suggestions. This bypasses the Critical Conscious Faculty (CCF), the mental filter that normally rejects new beliefs or behaviours.

What is hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a state of altered awareness. Some describe it as a form of deep relaxation or focused attention. Though not a sleep state, it can feel like you’re between being awake and asleep. There are no measurable changes in brainwaves, but most people report feeling calm, heavy, or slightly detached.

What does it feel like to be hypnotised?

Everyone experiences hypnosis differently. Some feel light, heavy, or tingly; others see colours or feel time pass unusually fast. A common effect is time distortion—a 50-minute session may feel like just 20 minutes.

How can you tell if someone is hypnotised?

Typical signs include:

  • Facial flush
  • Stillness and deep relaxation
  • Eyelid flickering or rapid eye movement (REM)
  • Slower breathing
  • Jaw loosening
  • Increased swallowing

Can hypnotherapy make people do things they don’t want to do?

No. People under hypnosis will only act within their own moral code. Hypnosis can empower you to do things you want to do (e.g., overcome a fear), but would normally avoid.

Can someone get “stuck” in hypnosis?

No. It’s impossible to get stuck in hypnosis. If left alone in a hypnotic state, you would simply return to full awareness naturally.

Is hypnosis dangerous?

Not in the hands of a properly trained therapist. Hypnosis is completely safe when used ethically and professionally. Issues can arise only if conducted by unqualified individuals, but even then, no serious harm can occur.

How is hypnotherapy different from stage hypnosis?

Stage hypnosis is designed for entertainment. The hypnotist selects willing and suggestible participants who enjoy being the centre of attention. In contrast, therapeutic hypnosis is confidential, respectful, and designed for personal change—not showmanship.

How long do results last?

It depends on the issue and the approach used:

  • Direct suggestion therapy: Effective for short-term needs like exam nerves; results may last days or weeks.
  • Hypnoanalysis: Addresses the root cause of an issue and typically results in permanent change.

Is hypnotherapy effective for real phobias?

Yes, especially when the root cause is addressed through hypnoanalysis. While direct suggestion can offer temporary relief, long-term resolution requires uncovering and releasing the underlying fear.

Does hypnotherapy always work?

Not always—but no therapy is 100% effective. A skilled therapist will know when hypnotherapy isn’t the right fit and may refer you elsewhere. Sometimes, it’s simply about finding the right client-therapist match.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on the issue:

  • Simple issues (e.g. stopping smoking, exam stress): 1–2 sessions
  • Complex issues (e.g. anxiety, phobias): 3–12 sessions with hypnoanalysis

Are there any ethical or legal concerns with hypnosis?

Yes. Hypnotherapy must only be used for the benefit of the client. Ethical practitioners aim to resolve issues in as few sessions as possible and always respect the client’s privacy, autonomy, and well-being.

Want to Learn More?

If you’re curious about hypnotherapy or unsure if it’s right for you, I offer a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your needs and goals.

📍 In-person sessions are available in Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire.