Is hypnosis safe?
Hypnotherapy is a practice which has been around for nearly two centuries. It is one of the most widely researched mental health treatment, together with Cognitive Behavioural therapy. It is considered safe when conducted by a trained and qualified professional.
The insurance which a hypnotherapist must obtain costs no more than any other complementary therapies, which speaks for itself.
How is Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy different?
Just like in any form of therapy, hypnotherapy also has different approaches from different ideologies. Some therapists believe in age regression, visiting past periods or situations.
This version is based on the theories of CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) where the emphasis is on the connection of the thoughts and actions.
Will i lose consciousness and do things i wouldn’t want to?
This is a common concern for people, but since the nature of hypnosis requires the candidate to know everything and work in an alliance with the therapist, it is impossible to make anyone do something they don’t wish to.
One of the main components of hypnotherapy is client education and self-hypnosis. People who are more susceptible to hypnotherapy are actually the more driven and motivated individuals who are willing to put in the work, it doesn’t just happen to you.
Do i just lay back and the therapist does it to me?
This is probably the most popular image people have in mind when thinking of hypnotherapy. It couldn’t be further from reality.
Not everyone has the same susceptibility to hypnotherapy, though it is a skill that can be learned. During the treatment you form a team with the practitioner, working together in setting goals, choosing approach and tackling obstacles. Constantly communicating and putting in equal effort.
Can i get rid of memories or know things i didn’t before?
Unfortunately erasing memories doesn’t work like that, but worth more to explore why would someone want to do such a thing and work around that.
Creating new memories or information also something which isn’t achievable. There is a spectrum with the current abilities which hypnotherapy helps to stretch further and make you more efficient at utilising them.
Will i be sleeping?
You are very much needed to be awake and focused for the length of the session. People often have the in-and-out sensation of not knowing whether they are awake or not, this comes from the deep relaxation it provides.
At times a little snooze might happen, but you will be wakened by the therapist as you can’t work with the suggestions when sleeping.