Hypnosis can be described as ‘a focused state of attention’. Most of us experience this state when doing repetitive tasks, like ironing or driving. Have you ever driven somewhere, been aware you’ve arrived but don’t remember the actual journey? Or maybe you’ve been absorbed in music or watching TV, or being so completely focused on a task that you don’t notice the time passing. Whatever we're doing becomes subconscious, whilst our conscious mind is free to wander. Hypnosis is a tool that helps you to connect with that subconscious part of your brain - that part that does things automatically or repetitively without conscious input - allowing you to change the way you think, to literally change your mind. You are always in control during hypnosis, helping you to take back the control in your life.

Hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis for therapeutic purposes. It is a talking therapy which focuses your imagination and subconscious to help bring about positive changes to your thoughts, feelings or behaviours. It is safe and non-invasive and can help with many of the issues that health problems may bring.

I like to describe hypnosis as a bit like meditation with a goal. Sometimes you will be guided to what you see, feel or experience, and sometimes you will wander off on your own journey of discovery. Physically, it feels a little like that time just before you fall asleep or just as you’re waking up. You’re not asleep but you’re not really awake either.

Yes, if you want it to. Of course, you do have to be engaged with the process, you do have to want the changes it can bring about. You do need to be invested in the therapy and the outcomes and do the work. If you come to me for help to stop smoking but actually really don’t want to step, for whatever reason, then you won’t stop.

Hypnotherapy is safe and non-invasive. It is widely endorsed as a treatment for habit breaking, stress-related issues and for a range of long-term conditions, and supported as a complementary therapy by the NHS. The therapy takes place in a safe, warm, comfortable and private space in complete confidentiality. It is not at all like stage hypnosis where you could end up dancing on a stage and clucking like a chicken - unless you actually want to and that's what you come for! Neither will you be asked to disclose your PIN number or any other confidential information under hypnosis. You are in control at all times and won't do anything that you don't want to or is against your morals.

Almost everyone can be hypnotised, although some people find it easier than others. It really depends on your willingness to be hypnotised and your trust and confidence in your therapist. There are some people for whom hypnosis may not be appropriate, or that I may not have the experience or training to work with. It is contraindicated for some medical conditions and some conditions require co-management with another healthcare provider. I never work with any condition where I am not qualified to do so. There is always a full and thorough intake process, including medical history, before any course of therapy starts and, if it is unsuitable for you, you will be referred to your GP or another suitable professional.

Before your first session, there will be discussion about what has brought you to hypnotherapy and what outcomes you would like. I will explain what hypnotherapy is, the way I work and what you can expect from the sessions. You can ask questions whenever you need to throughout the therapy. Each session will be planned, with your input and agreement, to be the most appropriate for you. Therapy is always tailored to your needs, I don't follow fixed programmes. Most sessions will include both discussion and hypnosis, and you will be asked to do some ‘homework’ to enhance and maintain progress. After each session you may feel uplifted, lighter and most likely, very relaxed. As I will be working with your subconscious mind, change is often very subtle and you may not notice much other than a positive shift in how you are feeling. Over time you will notice a bigger effect overall as the change becomes integrated into your life.

Not always. Sometimes during our initial discussion, it will become apparent that there are other routes we could consider before hypnosis. But it is likely to be included somewhere along the line, as long as you are agreeable and we both feel it would be beneficial.

Hypnotherapy is a talking therapy. As a hypnotherapist with an extensive range of hypnosis techniques to draw from, my integrative approach may include some elements of coaching, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), positive psychology, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprogramming), REBT (Rational, Emotive, Behavioural therapy) and CBT (Cognitive behaviour therapy). I am also an experienced and qualified life coach, which is likely to play a part in our discussions. I firmly believe that feeling good about ourselves can greatly influence how able and ready we are to change, particularly when something has been a feature in our lives for some time. So we may spend some time initially getting you back in touch with your inner self and remembering how to love and respect everything about yourself to facilitate moving forward. As a Reiki Master I have a love of energy work, so there may be some Reiki involved where appropriate and acceptable too. Reiki is a great tool for promoting relaxation and may help the relaxation process prior to and during hypnosis. Hypno-Reiki is widely used in the spiritual community and is a powerful tool for anyone who is open-minded and willing to embrace their spiritual side. The addition of Reiki is only ever with your consent.

Yes. I do offer coaching as a standalone service, without the inclusion of hypnotherapy. Indeed, in some instances it may be a more appropriate route for some people.

No. I can work with all ages, if appropriate. Parental consent and attendance is required for children.

Hypnotherapy can be used to help with many issues. Whilst my special interest is in habits and behaviours, I have been trained to work with many conditions. In no particular order, including but not limited to: Anxiety and panic attacks Chronic pain Confidence and self-esteem Fears and phobias Grief and loss Habit change Recovery from addiction Health conditions Insomnia and disturbed sleep Relationships Stop smoking Stress management Weight loss ... and so much more.