Hypnotherapy Unveiled: Separating Fact from Fiction

“Look into my eyes, not around my eyes…” I can’t tell you how often I encounter jokes, uncertainty and scepticism about hypnosis, particularly in reference TV shows like Little Britain and stars like Derren Brown.

For the record: no I don’t use a pocket watch!

Today, I'm going to have a look at those myths and shed light on the scientific basis of hypnotherapy.

First and foremost, let's address the elephant in the room: stage hypnosis. While entertaining, stage hypnosis is a whole other animal from the therapeutic practice of hypnotherapy. Unlike the flashy antics you may have seen on stage or TV, hypnotherapy is a scientific, evidence-based approach to personal growth and healing.

So, what makes hypnotherapy different? For starters, it's all about collaboration and empowerment. In a safe and supportive environment, my clients are guided into a state of deep relaxation where their subconscious mind becomes more open to positive suggestions.

Contrary to what many people fear, you remain fully aware and in control throughout the process, actively participating in your own transformation. You could open your eyes, get up and walk away at any point.

Hypnotherapists like me use this alongside more conventional talking psychotherapy to really get to the root of your problems. As I always say - most of us know what we need to do and where our issues stem from, but there’s still ‘that block’ keeping us from making changes.

So is hypnotherapy in any way spooky or mystical? Absolutely not! At its core, hypnotherapy is grounded in neuroscience and psychology. It's a natural state of mind that we all experience daily, whether we're daydreaming, engrossed in a book, or simply lost in thought. During the Initial Consultation, bringing understanding to the neuroscience, and how it relates to you, is what we focus on.

Research has shown that we can positively influence our own brain activity, leading to changes in perception, behaviour, and even physical well-being.

Furthermore, hypnotherapy such a versatile tool that it can address a wide range of concerns, from anxiety and phobias to smoking cessation and weight management. By tapping into the power of your subconscious mind, we can unlock hidden potentials, overcome obstacles, and create lasting change in your life.

Whether you're struggling with a specific issue or simply seeking self-improvement and increased confidence, hypnotherapy offers a gentle yet powerful path to healing and growth.

In conclusion, hypnotherapy is not spooky or mystical; it's a scientifically grounded practice that empowers you to tap into your inner resources and unleash your full potential. Book in for an Initial Consultation (still free for appointments booked in January!) or if that feels like too big a step, why not give me a call for an informal 10 or 15 minute chat.