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Hypnotic or suggestive therapy is the oldest of all healing techniques. From the Sleep Temples of Egypt through the histories of ancient Greece and Rome, some form of hypnosis has always been an part of the culture.

In the 18th Century, when it was believed that illness was caused by the magnetic influence of astral bodies, Franz Anton Mesmer would induce people into a trance like state by what he erroneously believed to be Animal Magnetism. Although Mesmerism was soon discredited, it continued to be used even after the death of Mesmer as it often produced “miracle” cures. When James Braid re-examined Mesmerism in the 19th Century he discovered that simple suggestion was just as effective as Mesmerism or any other method to induce trance-like states. He it was who coined the phrase Hypnosis and for a time hypnosis became a scientific technique with scientific respectability.

In the early part of the 20th Century hypnosis was used almost exclusively by stage hypnotists, thereby projecting a hopelessly distorted view of this very powerful therapeutic tool. However, in 1955 the British Medical Association endorsed the practice of hypnosis in Medical School education. It has since become a valuable addition to conventional medical treatment.

As you are neither asleep nor awake, the actual experience of being hypnotised is difficult to describe. However, all hypnotic states are characterised by an extremely pleasant state of relaxation. It is an altered state of consciousness into which you allow yourself to enter. In this way, the desired, beneficial suggestions may be given directly to your subconscious mind. It is a natural and very effective way of making contact with your inner self, in a way that allows you to access a tremendous reservoir of unrecognised potential strength and knowledge.

Hypnotherapy means the use of hypnosis for the treatment and relief of a variety of somatic and psychological symptoms. Modern Hypnotherapists use hypnosis not only for medical purposes but also as an aid for the resolution of many problems of psychological origins.

It is estimated that approximately 85% of people of all age groups will readily respond to Clinical Hypnotherapy. It is often successful when other, more conventional methods of treatment, have failed. Although a very powerful treatment, hypnotherapy is also very relaxing. It can help you to finally control those unwanted worries, feelings, or habits. Time and again it has proven very effective in reducing overall stress and the accompanying symptoms. You are guided gently into a state of relaxation and focused attention, relaxing in such a way that your unconscious mind becomes receptive and open to positive suggestions. It is here that change and healing takes place and where your goals are achieved naturally and easily.

Hypnotherapy is completely natural and safe and there are no harmful side effects. When administered by a professionally trained and skilled Hypnotherapist, the benefits are long lasting and often permanent.

There is an initial consultation where your requirements and goals are discussed. Your personal information is gathered which might include sleeping patterns, lifestyle information, medical symptoms, medication or any treatments involving other healthcare providers. Any questions or concerns you may have are discussed during consultation, although you are always encouraged to speak about how you feel at any point during therapy. In subsequent sessions, the practical application of clinical hypnosis begins. It is during these sessions that the work for change takes place.

No. You will not lose control. In fact, the trance state cannot be achieved without your cooperation.

No.

This varies from patient to patient. You may find yourself reflecting deeply on what has taken place, you might feel a certain amount of release or the first sparks of change. Most people feel very relaxed.

You will remember everything that your subconscious mind wishes you to remember. You are always in control.

Initially, I encourage 6 sessions. It is my personal goal to work with you to make the changes you want happen as quickly as possible. You will not be encouraged to stay longer than is felt necessary and you are free to stop therapy at any time. Your situation will be reviewed on a regular basis to make sure that the process is working for you.

Hypnosis has the capacity to work for the majority of people and there is no doubt that some individuals are more susceptible to suggestions than others. The most important thing to remember is that you must be fully committed to the process and keep an open mind.

No. You will be aware of everything that’s happening. You will be in a deeply relaxed state and most people find the experience very pleasant and comfortable. In fact, many are reluctant to return from the trance state and say they would have liked to have stayed there longer.

No, I can’t. You are always in control. If you don’t wish to speak at all, then I can’t make you.

This kind of thing is reserved strictly for entertainment purposes and the extroverts the entertainer selects to be a part of the show. Although celebrity hypnotists have done much to bring awareness of the skill into the mainstream, what they do has no place in serious clinical hypnotherapy. Hypnosis can reduce inhibitions but it can’t make you do anything you do not want to do.

Those who are motivated towards change have the most success. Hypnosis helps to make the change process easier and more natural so that the desired changes seem effortless. If change has been made to a flawed belief system, then the cure will be permanent and last for a life-time. If only superficial changes are made, then it might only be a few days or weeks. However, this will still allow for a window of opportunity in which change can happen.

Hypnosis is deep relaxation with suggestions and your mind is guided to where it needs to focus. There is nothing harmful in relaxation.

Initially, you may decide you wish to meet on a weekly basis, but depending on improvements and how you feel, you may then choose to see me less frequently.

Absolutely! What takes place during the sessions and any personal information gathered is kept in the strictest confidence.

This is a London based practice. Depending on the distance, therapy can take place in the comfort of your home. Alternatively, it takes place in rooms based in Notting Hill (W2) or Brockley (SE4).

1 Hour.

• £70.00 per hour
• £200.00 per session for “Stop Smoking” therapy.  If a 2nd session is necessary, it is free of charge
• Concessions available
• Payment is made in advance of your session

Please contact me as soon as possible if you are unable to attend and you will be re-scheduled for the next available slot. Any appointments cancelled with 24 hours of your appointment will not be refunded.

Access to hypnotherapy on the NHS is very limited. You can, of course, discuss the option with your healthcare provider, but know that it is not widely available.