“But I still haven’t found what I’m looking for…”

Here you will find a list of the most common questions I am asked about therapy, hypnosis, hypnotherapy and how my practice works. If you don’t find the answer to your question below get in touch. 

Is therapy confidential?

Yes, it is. Everything you share with me from our initial contact is confidential. However, there are exceptions where confidentiality must be broken.

It is compulsory to report terrorism, potential radicalisation, money laundering and female genital mutilation to the appropriate authorities.

If I become aware of, or have good reason to suspect, that you have knowledge of:
·  A past or future incident that is not already known to the relevant authorities that may be dangerous or harmful to a child, to you or to another adult
·  Future or past criminal activity that has not been resolved in a court of law. For the purpose of therapy, this is anything classed as a serious offence for which you could be imprisoned for.
In these circumstances we would work together to make appropriate disclosures.

I adhere to the ethical framework of CNHC and UKCP. This requires me to take part in regular supervision with an accredited supervisor. To ensure I am working safely and providing you with the best possible care, I may discuss your case with my supervisor.

Does therapy work if I don’t have a mental health problem?

Absolutely! There is a misconception that therapy is only for people with ‘really serious problems’ or those with clinical mental health conditions. This is not true. We face many challenges in our life; including, anxiety, fear, loss, relationship breakdown, low self-esteem, imposter syndrome, loss of confidence, work pressures, loneliness, physical illness, stress and unwanted habits. Therapy will enable you to explore these challenges and help you find ways to make change and overcome them.

How long does therapy take?

As long as it needs to. I do not guarantee results in a specific time period. I will always work with you to reach your goals as quickly as possible, but this is different for every person. Some people may only need six sessions, and others may need longer to make sense of their issues and work through them. As part of the sessions, I will check-in regularly with you to make sure we stay on track, and you are getting the most out of your therapy.

Will I be in-control during a hypnotherapy session? Can hypnosis make me do things I don’t want to?

I adhere to the ethical codes set out by the NCHC and UKCP. Your safety and best interests are at the forefront of the work we do together. During a hypnotherapy session you are fully in control of what you say and do. The therapist does not ‘do’ anything to you. You will not engage in any activity that you don’t want to. You are not asleep or in a special state that is out of your control. You can exit hypnosis at any point during the session.

Can everyone be hypnotised? What if I can’t?

Hypnosis is simply a focused state of attention. It is a natural occurrence that everyone experiences many times throughout the day. People may experience different depths, but everyone can experience hypnosis. The only people who can’t be hypnotised are those who do not want to be hypnotised.

Is hypnosis safe?

Yes, it is perfectly safe. The British Medical Association approved hypnotherapy as therapeutic intervention in 1955. You are in control at all times during the session and can exit hypnosis at any point.

What does hypnosis feel like?

Hypnosis is different for everyone, but most people report it as being a pleasant relaxing experience.

Does hypnosis have side effects?

There are no unpleasant side effects from hypnosis. In fact, most people report feeling more relaxed and have improved sleep following the sessions.

What’s the difference between a Hypnotist and a Hypnotherapist?

A Hypnotist can help guide you into relaxation, which some people can find really helpful. However, a Hypnotherapist has advanced training and skills that can be used to work with individuals on wide range of complex issues.  

What is your cancellation policy?

Sometimes things happen that are completely out of our control and we need to change plans. That’s no problem at all. I always try to be as flexible as possible with appointments. I ask for 48 hours to reschedule or cancel your appointment. If you provide less than 48 hours notice the full session rate will be charged.

Why aren’t there client testimonials or case studies on your website?

I do not publish testimonials or client case studies on my website. This is because, in order to comply with advertising requirements, those testimonials or case studies would need to be verified if requested. To do that would be a breach of client confidentiality and the UKCP code of ethical conduct.