Hypnotherapy: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hypnosis a miracle cure?

No - hypnosis is not a miracle cure. Hypnosis has never 'cured' anyone. People "cure" themselves. Hypnosis is a method of empowering us with the ability to access our hidden resources in order to help facilitate change.

What is the unconscious mind?

The conscious mind sleeps when the person sleeps, it is more logical and is focused in terms of activity on the left hand side of the brain. The unconscious mind represents 90 per cent of the total capacity of the human brain. It is focused on the right hand side of the brain. (More about the conscious v unconscious mind...)

How is hypnotherapy different from psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is an umbrella term used to descibe a therapist with skills in a number of areas of psychology. Hypnotherapy has advanced very rapidly over the years and has now integrated the most effective methods and techniques from most other areas of psychology. In the case of Bill Frost these areas of study include all forms of hypnotherapy, NLP time based techniques, Gestalt therapy, HNLP and much more besides. Modern hypnotherapy is therefore a form of psychotherapy. More about psychotherapy...

How is hypnotherapy different from historical psycho-analysis?

The primary objective of hypnotherapy, NLP and similar therapies is to facilitate positive results as rapidly as possible and to avoid client dependence on the therapist. This is why for many issues only a few sessions are required.

This is achieved by identifying the key factors that when acted upon will trigger the greatest level of positive change possible. This can involve going back to past events in order to gain new insight, but not necessarily. Many modern goal-focused techniques keep the past constant and instead change current / future behaviour / ways of thinking.

In situations where "why" is important a variety of rapid hypno-analytical techniques can be employed to change how the past is perceived in order to change current / future behavioure / thinking.

In contrast traditional analytical approaches may seem to meander through client's history, family, working life, memories, views, values and beliefs in a much less targetted manner to answer the "why" question. The result can be decades (literally) of therapy at great cost. The analytical movement was derived from the work of Freud etc - which although important historically in my opinion now has much reduced merit in the light of current research. However, the traditional analytical approach does suit some.

Is confidentiality assured?

No information shall be disclosed to a third party without your permission and all files / notes are physically secured. Electronic records of client history are not maintained. You may view your notes at any time on request. All appropriate UK law is adhered to, in addition to the BSCH code of conduct.

How is hypnotherapy different from stage hypnosis?

Stage hypnotists are not allied or associated in any way with with qualified Hypno-therapists. Moreover, their 'victims' are never really hypnotised - they are simply very, very willing performers and are carefully selected for that trait. Stage performers are banned from membership of the BSCH.

Is it sleep?

Hypnosis is not sleep. It is similar to the state between being awake and being asleep.

Will I be aware of what is happening?

You will hear everything that is said, your mind can wander, you don't have to listen - unconsciously you will hear what is said.

What will I feel?

You may feel sensations of heaviness, lightness or disassociation during the session but this is perfectly natural. When you 'wake' all normal sensation will be returned to your body and all parts of you will be back in the present.

Will I remember?

You may well remember everything, but it is also fine not to remember everything. You will consciously remember what is necessary and appropriate for you. If you do forget something this can be an automatic protective mechanism. Your unconscious mind decides whether the conscious mind should have access to memories or not.

Does hypnosis take control of my will power?

You are in control throughout. A hypno-therapist cannot do anything without the your co-operation. Hypnosis is simply a way of improving will power to achieve a goal faster and more easily than normal.

Who is in control?

You are in control throughout. You are the driver, and the therapist is the navigator. You will hear everything and can open your eyes at any time.

Are there any dangers?

Hypnosis is a perfectly natural state that empowers you with a level of control over your subconscious mind.

Do I have to do anything at all?

Hypnosis is a partnership. Only you can achieve your goals. Hypnosis is a way of reducing the amount of time / effort required in order to do so. Hypnosis does not however remove the need for you to put effort into the process.