Hypnotherapy
What is hypnotherapy - and can it really help?
Hypnotherapy uses a state of focused relaxation - hypnosis - to help people make changes that feel difficult through willpower or talking alone. It is not the stage hypnosis you may have seen on television. It is a legitimate therapeutic tool used by trained professionals for a range of psychological and behavioural difficulties.
What actually happens in hypnotherapy?
A hypnotherapist guides you into a deeply relaxed state - similar to the feeling just before sleep - where the conscious mind becomes quieter and the subconscious mind is more receptive to suggestion and change.
You are not asleep, unconscious, or under anyone's control. You remain fully aware throughout and cannot be made to do anything against your will or values. Most people describe the experience as deeply pleasant - like a very focused daydream.
While in this relaxed state, the therapist uses guided imagery, direct suggestion, and therapeutic techniques to help you address specific patterns, fears, habits, or beliefs.
You are always in control. Hypnosis is a state of focused attention - not unconsciousness. You cannot be made to do, say, or believe anything against your will.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies significantly depending on what you are working on. Some issues - such as a specific phobia or stopping smoking - can respond well in as few as 1-3 sessions. Others, such as anxiety or long-standing habits, may benefit from a longer course of 6-12 sessions.
Most hypnotherapists will offer an initial consultation to understand your situation and give you a realistic idea of what to expect. It is worth asking about this before you commit to a course of sessions.
Hypnotherapy works best when you are genuinely motivated to change. It is not something that can be done to you - your willingness to engage with the process is an important part of how it works.
Call us to discussMyths and reality
Hypnotherapy is one of the most misunderstood therapeutic approaches. Here is what it is not - and what it actually is.
"You lose control and do whatever the hypnotist says"
You remain fully aware and in control throughout. You cannot be made to act against your values or will.
"Only weak-minded or gullible people can be hypnotised"
The opposite is often true. People who are imaginative, focused, and open to the process tend to respond best.
"Hypnotherapy can make you remember things that didn't happen"
Responsible hypnotherapists do not use techniques aimed at recovering memories. Reputable practitioners follow strict ethical guidelines.
It is a state of focused, relaxed attention
Similar to being absorbed in a book or film - your awareness narrows, your body relaxes, and your mind becomes more receptive.
It is evidence-supported for several conditions
There is good evidence for hypnotherapy in IBS, pain management, anxiety, phobias, and habit change including smoking cessation.
You do it with the therapist, not to you
Your motivation and engagement are central to the process. A good hypnotherapist works collaboratively, not as a passive procedure.
What can hypnotherapy help with?
Hypnotherapy has a strong evidence base for some conditions and is used therapeutically for many others. It works particularly well for issues where subconscious patterns, habits, or automatic responses are involved.
What qualifications should a hypnotherapist have?
Hypnotherapy is not a legally regulated profession in the UK, which means it is important to check a practitioner's credentials carefully. Look for membership of a recognised professional body such as the National Hypnotherapy Society, the General Hypnotherapy Standards Council, or the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC).
All hypnotherapists at the Matlock Therapy Centre hold appropriate qualifications and professional memberships. If you have any questions about a specific practitioner's training, feel free to ask them directly or call us.
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