As soon as you mention anything that starts with the word Hypno, people typically think about comical stage acts!

So, if that’s not what it’s remotely about, which it isn’t, what actually is hypnotherapy?

A hypnotherapist uses clinical hypnosis as a form of therapeutic treatment.

Clinical hypnosis is a tool used as therapy – it’s not funny, but it is very, very, clever.

How does a typical Carrie Swain hypnotherapy session work?

Every client and every session are different, but typically we’ll start by having a chat, just like a consultation you may have with your GP. I’ll ask you why you’ve come to see me and what impact the issue is having on your life. I’ll ask you to complete a form to help me to be aware of your situation and any other health information I need to know. Your personal information is strictly confidential, and I follow all appropriate privacy guidelines.

Fully dressed, fully aware and no needles

We then move on to the therapy part of the session, you’ll remain fully dressed, and it doesn’t involve needles! Most people remain fully awake and aware throughout the entire session, but if you feel yourself drifting off as you feel comfortable and relaxed, that’s fine!

I use a form of hypnosis to open up your subconscious. This is the part of your mind that stores your habits and beliefs. I’ll then ask you to imagine specific scenarios and deliver positive suggestions to replace the negative beliefs.

Positive suggestions replace negative beliefs

A typical session lasts between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the issue. Many clients see an immediate change in the way they feel and think about their problems after just one session, particularly those related to smoking, weight and fears. You’ll be the judge of how you’re coping, and extra sessions may be needed.

For many issues, the positive effects and change of mindset created by hypnotherapy are permanent. However, everyone is different, and some people may benefit from further refresher sessions at some future point.

Just like with traditional medicine and therapies, there are no guarantees. I have many different approaches and techniques that I will try to bring lasting change. It also helps if you really want to make a change in your life and you’re not going through the process to satisfy a partner, for example. Hypnotherapy may also be unsuitable for people with extreme learning difficulties. If, despite having tried, you’re not seeing the change you hoped would happen, I’ll give you suggestions as to the best way forward.

I always offer lifestyle and self-care advice to my clients to keep them positive and on-track with their new life direction.

After the session ends, you’ll be okay to go back to your normal daily activities. I advise that you don’t discuss your therapy with anyone and don’t think about it too hard. Just relax back into your routines, and let it sink in. You may start to feel differently about your issue quite quickly, or it could take weeks, it largely depends on the depth of the problem and how long you’ve held the beliefs.

And that’s about it, not scary, not embarrassing or overly revealing, just me helping you to make a positive change in your life.

Choosing a hypnotherapist checklist

The best way to make sure you have a really positive experience with hypnotherapy is to follow this simple checklist:

1) Choose an accredited practitioner (I’m a registered practitioner with the General Hypnotherapy Register and the General Hypnotherapy Standards Council).

2) Do your homework! My Facebook page and website feature reviews and feedback from people who have benefited from a hypnotherapy session.

3) Be determined and empowered about making the change you want to see for yourself with the support of hypnotherapy.

National No Smoking Day is on the 11th March 2020 – to support this I am offering Hypnotherapy for Stopping Smoking at half price!