Frequently Asked Questions
Find the answer to some of the most common questions here.
General Questions on Hypnotherapy
What is hypnotherapy?
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Hypnotherapy uses hypnosis as a therapeutic tool to address emotional, behavioural, or psychological concerns by working with the subconscious mind. Read this blog for more information.
What is hypnosis?
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Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention and deep relaxation, allowing the subconscious mind to be more receptive to suggestions for positive change.
Read this blog for more information.
What’s the difference between hypnosis and a guided meditation?
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A guided meditation focuses on relaxation and visualization to calm the mind. Whilst hypnosis goes deeper, using specific language to access the subconscious, facilitating deeper insights and behaviour changes.
Will you make me bark like a dog?
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No, hypnosis cannot make you do anything against your will. Stage hypnosis is for entertainment, while clinical hypnotherapy is a professional practice focused on positive change. Read this blog for more information.
I don’t believe in it, how can it help me?
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You don’t need to “believe” in hypnotherapy for it to be effective. It's a process that works with your mind’s natural capacity to enter a relaxed, focused state, allowing your subconscious to process and release old patterns.
However, my personal preference is to only work with individuals who are open to hypnosis. If you are closed or disbelieving about it being able to help you, it likely won’t.
I heard you work with different brainwave states?
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Yes, here is a quick overview of the states:
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- Beta: Active, awake, thinking state. - where our conscious mind is.
- Alpha: Light relaxation and focus. - the entry point in hypnosis.
- Theta: Deep relaxation, where the subconscious is most accessible.
- Delta: Deep sleep.
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Does hypnotherapy work?
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Yes, hypnotherapy is effective for many people, particularly for issues like anxiety, stress, habits, phobias, and self-development. Its success often depends on the individual’s openness and the practitioner’s skill.
A 2018 meta-analysis on the efficacy of hypnotherapy for depression and anxiety found that around 58% of participants reported significant symptom improvement through hypnotherapy interventions, suggesting a substantial positive impact for anxiety-related disorders.
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Milling, L. S., Valentine, K. E., McCarley, H. S., & LoStimolo, L. M. (2018). A meta-analysis of hypnotic interventions for depression symptoms: High hopes for hypnosis? American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 61(3), 227–243.
Is hypnosis safe?
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Yes, hypnosis is safe when conducted by a trained professional. You remain in control throughout the process and can exit the hypnotic state at any time.
Can anyone be hypnotized?
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Most people can be hypnotized, though the depth of trance varies. A willingness to relax and focus increases the effectiveness.
What is self-hypnosis?
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Self-hypnosis is the practice of using relaxation and suggestion techniques on yourself, often to reduce stress or reinforce positive habits.
What does hypnosis feel like?
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Hypnosis often feels like a deeply relaxed, daydream-like state. You are aware of what’s happening but more detached from distractions.
What happens in a hypnotherapy session?
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A hypnotherapy session involves a check-in ahead of the hypnosis, a relaxing induction to guide you into a focused state, and then the use of specific suggestions or techniques to address your individual needs.
What is the hypnotherapy session duration?
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Sessions typically last between 60-90 minutes, depending on the client’s needs. A longer session does not equate to being more successful. Accessibility to the subconscious is the defining 'success' factor. Which is why working with a practitioner you connect to is extremely important.
Does online hypnotherapy work?
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Yes, online hypnotherapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions, as long as you have a quiet space and reliable internet.
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The camera simply needs to be positioned in a way where I can see your face and chest to monitor your breathing.
Are there side effects?
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Side effects are rare. Some clients may feel emotional or very relaxed afterward, which usually passes quickly. It’s a generally safe and non-invasive process. I provide my clients with an information sheet ahead of time and also advise that they try to have a low stimulation day after the session. You may dream more or have a deeper sleep that evening.
Can I get stuck in hypnosis?
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No, you cannot get stuck in hypnosis. You are always in control, and if needed, you can end the session at any time by simply opening your eyes.
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How much do your hypnotherapy sessions cost?
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For an updated pricing list see here.
How many sessions will I need?
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The number of sessions varies based on the issue and the client. Some problems can be resolved in a few sessions, while deeper, long-standing issues might require more.
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My 6 week rapid reset programme takes you through a profound journey in 6 weeks - read more here.
Who do you work with?
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I work with highly-functioning entrepreneurs and professionals who have (long-term) anxiety and overthinking. However, this should not be seen as a barrier if you don’t feel you ‘fit’ within this description. Instead I invite you to reach out with your questions and areas of concern for a conversation. The most important aspect is that you feel aligned to the practitioner, my perspective is if I can help, I will.
Can I hypnotise myself?
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Completely! I invite you to learn more about it here [Information coming soon]
Why do you also offer therapeutic sessions?
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These sessions support individuals who feel that hypnotherapy is not for them, or who prefer a more conscious mix of a talking therapy type approach that integrates energetic principles, such as Emotional Freedom Technique. These can be great for transition moments in life, or to talk through or integrate information consciously from experiences such as plant medicine ceremonies.
These can also be beneficial after a series of hypnotherapy sessions to integrate the learnings and outcomes.
To book a session email: hello@laurenwigmore.co.uk