What is it?

Hypnotherapy is a type of complementary therapy that uses guided relaxation, focused attention and suggestion to help individuals make positive changes in their thoughts, feelings and behaviours.

Many people have preconceived ideas about hypnotherapy because of the way it’s portrayed by stage and television hypnotists. These performances often focus on entertainment rather than genuine therapeutic practice, leading to misconceptions about what hypnosis really involves and how it can be used to support mental and emotional wellbeing.

It aims to induce hypnosis, a natural, deeply relaxed state of focused awareness, to access the subconscious mind.

What does it involve?

Hypnotherapy is the induction of a deeply calm state using progressive muscle relaxation, breathing techniques while being guided by the therapist’s voice.

There is no loss of control or awareness, only a sense of inner peace which in turn can help you cope with a range of stressful situations and experiences.

The therapist helps you enter a calm, focused and relaxed state, sometimes referred to as a trance. While in this state, your conscious mind relaxes, allowing the therapist to communicate with your subconscious mind. The therapist offers therapeutic suggestions or guides you through visualisations designed to help you change unwanted habits, manage emotions or overcome fears.

Contrary to public perception, it’s not mind control or being “asleep” and you can’t be made to do anything against your will.

How can it help you?

It can help reduce the side effects of medical treatment and related anxiety. If you are experiencing negative thoughts or depression, hypnotherapy can also provide you with coping skills you can practice on your own and help promote a more positive way of living.

For more information, you can read more here.