How does hypnotherapy work?
The first step to discovering how hypnotherapy works is to understand the two parts of your brain and their functions; these are:
The conscious mind
The conscious mind consists of four parts; thinking, feeling, sensing and intuiting. It involves everything you are currently aware of and thinking about, such as a tree blowing in the wind outside the window.
The unconscious mind
The unconscious mind consists of your feelings, thoughts and urges that have been built from the day you were born. It stores all the memories and experiences you do not consciously think about unless they are brought to light.
It is your unconscious mind that is responsible for decisions making and is far deeper than your conscious mind – this is what hypnotherapy focuses on. Once you can tap into your unconscious mind, you can begin to change your mindset toward particular situations; therefore, changing your conscious mind, your reactions and your behaviours.
What is hypnotherapy used for?
Hypnotherapy has been recognised by the British Medical Association as an approved treatment since 1955, meaning its uses are far broader than many assume.
Not only can it treat fears, phobias, anxiety and other impacts on mental well-being but also physical conditions. This includes pain management, IBS and hay fever, just to name a few.
Take a look at my Hypnotherapy Services page for more information on how sessions can help you.
See servicesIs hypnotherapy different from hypnosis?
In short, yes, hypnotherapy is different from hypnosis; however, it isn’t uncommon for the two to be confused for one another.
Hypnosis
Hypnosis is a state of trace; it reduces an individual’s peripheral awareness and, therefore, makes them more responsive to suggestions. It is often used in entertainment to encourage physical/external response.
Hypnotherapy
While hypnotherapy does use a state of hypnosis to initially relax the mind, it is then combined with talking therapy to reach a particular goal. Hypnotherapy triggers a more psychological/internal response and is performed by a fully trained, certified professional.
What happens during a hypnotherapy session?
Hypnotherapy holds the common stereotype that you will be put into a trance and no longer have control over your actions, but this is most definitely not the case.
Instead, you will be in a deeply meditative, mindful state and remain fully in control. This means that hypnotherapy is most effective when you have an open mind; the more willing you are to focus on your subconscious mind, the more sessions will benefit you.
I will always spend time getting to know the root of your circumstances to understand how I can tailor hypnotherapy to be as successful as possible in changing your mindset towards the area you want to focus on.