FAQs about hypnotherapy
Common questions about hypnotherapy, anxiety, and working together
What is hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a gentle, focused approach that works with the subconscious mind and nervous system. It supports change by working with automatic patterns — such as anxiety responses, habits, emotional reactions, and stress — that are often difficult to shift through conscious thought alone.
Hypnotherapy is safe, collaborative, and nothing like stage hypnosis. You remain aware and in control throughout.
Will I lose control during hypnosis?
No. You are always aware and in control during hypnotherapy.
You can speak, move, or stop at any point. Hypnotherapy cannot make you do anything you don’t want to do, and nothing is done without your consent.
What does hypnosis feel like?
Hypnosis feels different for different people, but it’s often described as:
deeply relaxed
calm and focused
inwardly attentive
Some people notice physical sensations such as warmth or heaviness; others simply feel settled. There is no “right” way for hypnosis to feel.
Do I have to talk about everything that’s happened to me?
No. You don’t need to share details you’re uncomfortable with, and you don’t need to relive or retell difficult experiences.
This approach focuses on what you’re noticing now — in your body, emotions, and responses — and works at a pace that feels safe.
How many hypnotherapy sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies from person to person.
Some people notice changes in a small number of sessions, while others prefer to work more gradually. We review progress together, and there is no obligation to commit to a fixed number of sessions.
Can hypnotherapy help with anxiety and trauma?
Hypnotherapy can be helpful for anxiety, panic, trauma responses, phobias, and stress-related symptoms, particularly when these are experienced physically rather than just as thoughts.
My approach is trauma-aware and nervous-system-focused, with an emphasis on safety, regulation, and choice.
What if talking therapy hasn’t helped me?
Many people come to hypnotherapy after finding that insight alone hasn’t led to lasting change.
Because hypnotherapy works at an embodied level — supporting the nervous system rather than trying to “think symptoms away” — it can be helpful when talking approaches haven’t fully resolved things.
Do you offer online hypnotherapy?
Yes. I work with clients online worldwide, as well as in person in West Sussex, primarily from Chichester.
Online hypnotherapy can be just as effective as in-person work and allows you to stay in a familiar, comfortable environment.
What happens in the free initial consultation?
The free initial consultation is an informal conversation where we:
talk through what’s been going on for you
explore whether hypnotherapy feels like a good fit
answer any questions you may have
There is no pressure to book further sessions.
How do I get started?
If you’d like to take the next step, you’re welcome to get in touch to:
book a free initial consultation
book a session directly
or ask any questions
A note on expectations
Results vary from person to person. Hypnotherapy is a collaborative process, and lasting change depends on individual circumstances and engagement with the work. I don’t offer guarantees, and hypnotherapy is not a quick fix — but many people find it a supportive and meaningful way forward.