Frequently Asked Questions

Clinical hypnotherapy is a therapeutic technique that uses guided relaxation, focused attention, and suggestion to access the subconscious mind. In this highly focused state — called a trance — the mind becomes open to positive therapeutic suggestions, enabling lasting behavioural and psychological change.

No. Hypnosis is a state of heightened focus and relaxed awareness — not unconsciousness. You remain fully aware, in control, and able to hear everything the therapist says. Many people describe it as the deeply relaxed state between wakefulness and sleep, but with very focused attention.

Most clients describe deep physical relaxation, a sense of mental calm, and pleasant detachment from everyday concerns. You may feel your eyelids are heavy, your limbs are very comfortable, and your breathing slows. It is frequently described as the most profoundly relaxed sensation a person has ever experienced.

The vast majority of people can enter a therapeutic trance state. Hypnotic responsiveness exists on a spectrum — approximately 10-15% of people are highly responsive, 75-80% achieve a moderate therapeutic trance, and a small percentage find it more challenging. A skilled practitioner adjusts their approach to maximise your responsiveness.

Absolutely not. Stage hypnosis has created this myth, but clinical hypnotherapy is entirely different. You retain full conscious awareness and voluntary control throughout every session. You cannot be made to reveal secrets, do embarrassing things, or act against your values. If you were ever uncomfortable with a suggestion, your mind would simply not accept it.

Standard sessions last 60 minutes. Some specialist sessions (including initial trauma sessions and the stop smoking programme) last 75–90 minutes. The first session always includes a detailed intake consultation.

This depends on the concern and the individual. Many clients experience significant change after 1–3 sessions (particularly for specific issues like phobias or smoking cessation). Deeper issues such as complex trauma, weight management, or long-standing anxiety typically benefit from 4–8 sessions over several weeks. Your practitioner will outline a personalised plan in your first session.

Come to your session well rested if possible, avoid heavy meals immediately before, and wear comfortable clothing. Most importantly, come with an open mind. You do not need to "believe" in hypnotherapy for it to work — you simply need willingness to relax and engage with the process.

Yes. Research and our own extensive clinical experience confirm that online hypnotherapy sessions are equally effective. Many clients actually find the comfort of their own familiar environment enhances relaxation and the depth of trance achieved.

For well-structured interventions targeting specific issues (stop smoking, phobias, specific behaviour change), results are typically permanent. For more complex or layered issues, the improvements are lasting, and maintenance sessions are available if needed. Most clients never need to return for the same issue once properly resolved.

Hypnotherapy is completely safe when delivered by a qualified practitioner. It is a natural state of focused relaxation that your mind already enters spontaneously (when driving a familiar route, watching a film, or falling asleep). It has no harmful side effects.

Yes. All sessions are held in absolute professional confidence. We adhere to strict ethical guidelines and confidentiality codes set by our accrediting bodies. Information is never shared with third parties without your explicit consent, except as required by law in cases of significant safeguarding concern.

Hypnotherapy is generally safe and often highly beneficial for people with mental health conditions. However, certain presentations (including active psychosis, severe dissociation, and some personality disorders) require specialist protocols and a trauma-informed approach. We always conduct a thorough clinical assessment before beginning work with any client.

No prior experience is required for our Foundation or Practitioner Level courses. An open mind, genuine motivation to help others, and willingness to engage with the coursework is all you need.

Yes. Our practitioner certifications are accredited by the International Hypnotherapy Association (IHA) and the National Guild of Hypnotists (NGH) — two of the most widely respected bodies in the field. These credentials are recognised by insurance providers and employers internationally.

Yes, upon completion of the Practitioner Level programme or above, you are qualified to see clients professionally and apply for professional indemnity insurance. We provide full guidance on setting up your practice, insurance, and professional registration.