Solution-focused hypnotherapy (SFH) holds no secrets. Throughout my website, and during our time together, you’ll find out exactly how it works and why. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about SFH, hypnotherapy in general and what you can expect from sessions.
Hypnotherapy is a safe, effective type of therapy where a hypnotherapist uses hypnosis, or trance, to enhance therapeutic work with clients. It can be used to treat a vast range of issues – you’ll find a list here.
Solution-focused hypnotherapy (SFH) is a clinically proven, science-led talking therapy that combines the principles of solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) with the power of hypnosis. It helps clients identify their strengths and resources to imagine and build a desired future instead of dwelling on past problems. You can learn more here.
Hypnosis, or trance, is where the conscious and subconscious mind come together in focus. You’re then able to access the vast intellectual resource of your subconscious mind, enabling you to get the very best out of yourself and achieve your goals.
Fun fact: we all go in and out of trance multiple times a day – when we’re concentrating or something, watching TV, at the gym or on a run, and even when driving a regular route. If you’ve ever arrived at your destination, unsure of exactly how you got there, then congratulations – you’ve experienced hypnosis!
Hypnosis can feel different for each person, but generally, it’s incredibly relaxing – like being in a wonderful deep sleep. You might remember everything I say, some of what I say or nothing at all – it’ll work regardless.
Personally, when I’m in hypnosis, I feel like my body is floating, and my head and limbs are light as a feather. I’ve never met anyone who doesn’t enjoy it.
Yes, hypnosis is perfectly safe. You’re never unconscious and always in control of the situation – and there are no possible adverse side effects, either. (The positive ones: you’ll sleep better and feel fantastic.)
Hypnosis isn’t sleep, though it activates the same brainwaves as REM. It induces a state of deep relaxation, but you’ll be conscious and able to respond to instructions if you need to.
During hypnosis, you’ll be completely in control, and your mind will be conscious – albeit nicely relaxed. Your brain is incredibly powerful – so it simply isn’t possible for a hypnotherapist to make you do anything you don’t want to. (That includes clucking like a chicken.)
Anyone can be hypnotised, though it’s true that some people are more susceptible than others, and a small percentage of people find it harder. Rest assured that I’ll work with you to make sure you get the full benefit of trance during our sessions.
One reason people might struggle is that you can’t enter hypnosis if you don’t want to – which is why it must be your decision to attend sessions, and not a friend, family member or partner’s.
It’s physically impossible to get stuck in hypnosis, no matter how deeply you’re in trance, because you’re not unconscious at any point during it.
You can come out of hypnosis anytime, either of your own accord or because I tell you to open your eyes at the end of our session. Most people are so relaxed, they want to stay in a trance state as long as they can!
Yes – hypnotherapy works incredibly well on children and can be used to treat the same problems adults have. Kids can even go into hypnosis while colouring or playing, which is a relief, as we all know that little ones often struggle to stay still for too long!