Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can't be hypnotised?
Don't worry. The only people who can't be hypnotised are those who don't want to be hypnotised. Everyone else can be hypnotised, but the depths and response levels do differ from person to person.
Is the depth of hypnosis important to the success of the therapy?
Yes, which is why the therapy is generally tailored to your needs and according to the level of hypnosis that suits best.
Will I be unconscious?
There is a lot of confusion about the word unconscious. Because hypnotherapy deals with the unconscious mind this leaves a realm of ambiguity around the word unconscious. If you were unconscious you would not be able to hear the suggestion from the hypnotherapist. Hypnotherapy is a state of calm, relaxed, focused attention creating suggestions and commands directed to your unconscious mind for conscious change.
I don't like the idea of having my mind being controlled.
It won't be, you will be in control at all times. Within each human being there is a protective me chanism of ethics, values, beliefs and identities, which protect you as an individual. It would be as crazy to suggest this, as it would be for the hypnotherapist to suggest that you would go and rob a bank and bring back all the money!
Will I know what's going on?
Of course. You will also be able to remember the details of the session(s). In the same way as when you are lying in bed in the morning, no need to get up, with almost a feeling of "I couldn't be bothered to get up" and you can hear everything going on around you, but it doesn't bother you at all. It is not a loss of control; instead it is rather like a guide to your resources.
So I am not asleep then?
Not at all. You will just be very relaxed and your awareness will be enhanced, not dulled. Often you may feel as if you have not been “under” although in actual fact you have been hypnotised in the session.
Will I be made to do silly things like those you see on stage or TV?
No, of course not! You will always be treated with the utmost respect, and your confidentiality will be safeguarded. Entertainment hypnosis relies on compliance, expectation from the audience and perception of what the audience expects. In fact, if you should choose to go to an entertainment hypnotist, you are going with the express intention of having fun and being asked to do silly things.
Also, do remember that the therapist's job is to make you better, not worse. David works according to the Codes and Ethics laid down by his professional organisation, The Hypnotherapy Association (see www.thehypnotherapyassociation.co.uk).
Can you guarantee me a cure?
Nothing in life is guaranteed, and it is not professional to offer one. However, you can be assured that as a professional I can indeed guarantee that I will bring all my skills, knowledge, experience and ongoing training to bear in bringing you lasting relief in your problem.
Why would I need a therapist? Can't a good friend help me?
Several reasons. First your friend is not trained to deal impartially with such problems. Any hurt or upset or problem you have may also affect your friend, who being close to you, would not have the detachment necessary to help you to deal with the emotional content of the problem professionally. Also a good hypnotherapist works at your deeper psychological levels in order to deal with the problem at deeper levels.
How can I be sure that the therapist I am going to see would be the right one for me?
You can first be assured of the integrity of our therapists, personal and professional. That is why we suggest you should always meet one of our members in person first. Some of our members actually offer this first consultation free. Then you give yourself the chance to think it over, if you wish, before finally making up your min d. It is absolutely essential that you and your therapist have excellent rapport. A good therapist will respect all this.
Can I have hypnotherapy on the NHS ?
Yes, if your doctor refers you to a hypnotherapist. David has an NHS Provider Number and is a Member of the NHS Directory for Alternative and Complementary Practitioners.
Can children be treated with hypnotherapy?
Yes, children can be treated using hypnotherapy from the age of about six, provided they have a good attention span. Children respond very well usually and enjoy the experience. David has had 20 years as a teacher ( 11 as a Head) and engages very well with children. If the child is a minor a parent is required to sit in on the session.
Hypnotherapy has proved very beneficial with thumb sucking and nail biting. It is also frequently used to treat school phobia and affects of bullying and also help children who suffer from bedwetting.
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