What Is Hypnosis?
One of the questions I’m asked most often is, “What exactly is hypnosis?”
There are many ways to explain it, but the simplest answer is that hypnosis is a state of focused attention and increased responsiveness to suggestion. Despite what you may have seen in films or on television, hypnosis is not mind control, and it is not the same as being asleep.
In my experience, most clients are surprised by how normal hypnosis feels. Many describe it as being deeply relaxed, focused, or absorbed in their thoughts while still being aware of what’s happening around them.
Is Hypnosis Safe?
For most people, hypnosis is considered a safe technique when used appropriately by a trained professional.
You remain aware throughout the process and cannot be made to do anything against your values or wishes. In fact, many clients tell me afterwards that the experience felt familiar, similar to becoming absorbed in a good book, a film, or simply daydreaming.
If you have a diagnosed mental health condition or concerns about whether hypnotherapy is suitable for you, it is important to discuss this with a qualified healthcare professional before starting treatment.
Understanding Trance States
The word “trance” is often used in hypnotherapy, but it can sometimes sound more mysterious than it really is.
Most people have experienced periods of focused attention where they become so engaged in an activity that they lose track of time. Examples might include reading a book, watching a film, driving a familiar route, or becoming deeply involved in a hobby.
Some researchers and practitioners describe these experiences as trance-like states, although there is ongoing debate about exactly how hypnosis should be defined and understood. While hypnosis has been studied for many years, researchers continue to investigate the psychological and neurological processes involved.
How Can Hypnotherapy Help?
Hypnotherapy uses hypnosis as a tool to support positive change.
Depending on the reason for seeking help, hypnosis may be used alongside discussion, goal setting, and other therapeutic approaches to help clients develop new habits, challenge unhelpful patterns of thinking, or respond differently to situations that cause stress or anxiety.
Over the years, I have worked with clients seeking support for a wide range of issues, including confidence, anxiety, phobias, stress management, and habit change.
Every person is different, and outcomes vary from one individual to another. Hypnotherapy is not a magic solution, but many people find it a useful part of their personal development or wellbeing journey.
A Different Perspective
One aspect of hypnotherapy that many clients value is the opportunity to reflect on their thoughts, feelings, and experiences from a calmer perspective.
Sometimes, when we are less caught up in stress or worry, it becomes easier to understand patterns in our behaviour and consider new ways of approaching challenges. This increased self-awareness can often support positive change both during and after therapy.
Unlocking Your Potential
At its heart, hypnotherapy is about helping people make changes they would like to make in their lives.
Whether that means becoming more confident, reducing anxiety, breaking unwanted habits, or pursuing personal goals, hypnotherapy may help you develop the mindset and behaviours that support those changes.
Most of us have something we’d like to improve. Hypnotherapy provides a structured and focused way of working towards those goals.
Author: Garry Webster MCNHC is a qualified hypno-psychotherapist and NLP Master Practitioner with more than 26 years of experience helping clients across Derbyshire and the East Midlands.
Call 07428 590066 to arrange a confidential consultation.
Garry is fully insured, professionally supervised, and registered with recognised professional organisations including the National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH) and the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC).
Important: Hypnotherapy is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent medical or mental health conditions. If you have concerns about your physical or mental health, you should seek advice from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.