FAQ – You may be wondering…..

Can I be hypnotised?

All hypnosis is self-hypnosis, it isn't something that is 'done' to you.  Whenever you are thinking of something that is not happening in the 'here and now' then you enter a state of dissociation, that is, you are using your imagination to create or re-live images and experiences.  All of us have imagination, which we can either use to create stress and worry, or as a powerful agent for positive change and well-being. Hypnosis relies on your ability to imagine, and if you can also follow simple instructions, then you can be hypnotised.  The main thing is your willingness to allow yourself to relax and work together with the therapist.  Just about everyone can use hypnosis as a practical, therapeutic tool to make lasting changes in their lives.

What will it feel like?

Some people think that being hypnotised will feel like an incredibly different ‘out of body’ experience, and sometimes it can be.  But more commonly, the experience will feel like daydreaming, drifting inwards, while still remaining aware of what is said to you. You feel very relaxed and tuned out from everyday worries and concerns but it doesn’t necessarily feel like something really different. After a session you will feel uplifted and relaxed. You may notice changes straight away, or effects may be subtle with a positive shift in how you are feeling.

Do I need to discuss anything I don’t want to?

You only need to discuss what you think is relevant to therapy and what you are comfortable talking about.  I am interested in helping you find solutions for your problems by focusing on your goals and the simplest steps to getting you there. Gaining some insight and understanding may help with this process but this does not involve unnecessary delving into the past.  The reason for using hypnosis is not to find out more information, but to reinforce the changes we have agreed on and to help them become instinctive for you.

Will I be in control?

You remain aware of your thoughts and feelings and will still feel like you are in control. You can bring yourself out of hypnosis whenever you want to; it’s always your choice how much you become immersed in hypnosis.

How many sessions will I need?

That depends.... hypnosis can be a 'quick fix' for some problems, while for others it is best if you allow yourself the time to practice new learning.  Often, behaviours are really symptoms of underlying feelings like anxiety and lack of self-worth. Problems that have taken a long time to grow may need longer than a couple of sessions to resolve. I offer programmes for problems that may need a bit more time (see below).

How much will it cost?

Again, it depends on how many sessions are required. I offer a 30 minute complimentary session to discuss the best plan. The initial session of 1.5 hours is $160 - this allows us time to talk about the problem and to start treatment. Further 1 hour sessions are $120. If your problems are longstanding or complex, I may recommend some timeline work in addition to any programmes outlined below. Payment by cash/cheque at the session or internet banking prior - no card facility. 

All programmes require prepayment before the first session.

Reducing Anxiety  - 3 sessions $380 Virtual Gastric Band  (incl support audios and written material) - 4 x 90 min sessions $599 - 6 sessions $799 Hypnosis and Mindful Eating for weight loss - 4 sessions $599 (as above)
Reduce Your Alcohol -  3 sessions $380                                                            

I require at least 24 hours notice of change or cancellation. 

Why can't I just make these changes myself?

My guess is that you've tried... and tried.  Whenever we react to a situation with the same old coping strategies (aka bad habits), that's our unconscious mind at work. This is the reason we behave in the same ways over and over, even when we know it's not helpful to do so.  Very often we deal with negative feelings and stress by turning to coping strategies such as anger, anxiety, avoidance, drinking too much, overeating, or other harmful habits. Telling yourself that you ‘should’ change never really works for long.  Resisting does not change the emotions that lie behind the problem behaviour; ultimately emotions are far more powerful than logic.