What is Hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a form of treatment which seeks to achieve cure at a deeper
level of awareness than we are accustomed to using in ordinary life. Lying
somewhere between complete wakefulness and deep sleep is that state of consciousness
which Hypnotherapists use in order to improve either a person’s health or
ability to function freely. It is known as the hypnotic state.
The state is induced by therapists during a consultation but is otherwise
similar to one occurring quite naturally when daydreaming, or in passing
into waking from sleep.
It is a state we all recognise and are familiar with as part of the normal
rhythm of our lives. When in this state, patients remain aware of their
surroundings as it is a condition of altered consciousness and not unconsciousness.
How does it work?
The therapist uses the client’s co-operation to bring about physical or
mental changes when in the hypnotic state. These changes may include healing
physical illness, reducing pain, promoting relaxation or gaining insight
into present difficulties and those past events which may have some bearing
upon them. In this way, mental and emotional blockages may be gently released
and clients freed to move on, being more in control of their lives and able
to take more appropriate and effective action.
The therapist, using positive images and suggestions that are more readily
accepted by someone in the hypnotic state starts this process. Once accepted
by the subconscious are acted upon by the conscious mind, energised by the
client's own desire for change.
How can Hypnotherapy help?
People come for Hypnotherapy for many different reasons. It may be that:
You are experiencing an immediate crisis, such as bereavement, job loss
or end of a relationship (anxiety and stress).
You may not be happy with yourself.
You may feel over or underweight.
More and more people find that smoking is anti-social, as well as bad for
their health, but cannot (addictions).
You may be frightened of flying, or spiders, or even the dark (phobias).
Maybe you just need some deep relaxation! (Who doesn’t at some time?)
Even general levels of performance can be improved and enhanced.
What about Appointments?
There are four Hypnotherapists currently working at St George’s, as listed below. They all work slightly differently, so please view their profiles to find the one that will suit you best.
Emma Clegg
Margaret Cook
Edna Duckett
Philip Monaghan