What is Solution focused hypnotherapy?
Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is a modern, evidence-based approach that combines the latest insights from neuroscience with the powerful benefits of hypnosis. It's designed to help people create positive and lasting change—often in a relatively short period of time.
Unlike traditional therapies that explore painful past experiences, Solution Focused Hypnotherapy looks forward. It’s all about what you want to achieve and how you can get there. While we can't change the past, we can change how we think about it—and more importantly, how we think about ourselves, our present, and our future.
During our sessions, I’ll guide you with carefully chosen questions that help shift your focus from problems to solutions. We'll explore the steps you can take to move toward the life you want to live. Together, we’ll work to change unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour, build on your existing strengths, and create a clear picture of your preferred future.
This approach combines effective, research-backed psychotherapy with the gentle, relaxing experience of hypnosis. Each session includes both talking therapy and guided trance work, helping you take meaningful, positive steps toward feeling more like your best self.
As long as you're willing to engage in the process and make small changes between sessions, Solution Focused Hypnotherapy can be a powerful and enjoyable way to bring about the change you’re looking for.
Unlike traditional therapies that explore painful past experiences, Solution Focused Hypnotherapy looks forward. It’s all about what you want to achieve and how you can get there. While we can't change the past, we can change how we think about it—and more importantly, how we think about ourselves, our present, and our future.
During our sessions, I’ll guide you with carefully chosen questions that help shift your focus from problems to solutions. We'll explore the steps you can take to move toward the life you want to live. Together, we’ll work to change unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour, build on your existing strengths, and create a clear picture of your preferred future.
This approach combines effective, research-backed psychotherapy with the gentle, relaxing experience of hypnosis. Each session includes both talking therapy and guided trance work, helping you take meaningful, positive steps toward feeling more like your best self.
As long as you're willing to engage in the process and make small changes between sessions, Solution Focused Hypnotherapy can be a powerful and enjoyable way to bring about the change you’re looking for.
What is hypnosis and how is it used in solution focused hypnotherapy?
Hypnosis, often referred to as trance, is simply a natural, relaxed state of focused attention. We all drift in and out of trance-like states throughout the day—when we’re engrossed in a book, watching a film, or even going for a walk. It’s in these moments that the conscious mind takes a step back, and the subconscious becomes more open to new ideas and solutions.
In hypnotherapy, we make use of this natural state to quieten the busy, analytical part of your mind. This allows us to work more directly with the subconscious—the part of the brain that stores habits, patterns, and emotions—so that positive changes can begin to take root.
During trance, I’ll gently guide you through relaxing visualisations, metaphors, and positive suggestions that align with the goals you want to achieve. It’s a peaceful, calming experience—many clients describe it as deeply relaxing and enjoyable.
Importantly, you remain in full control at all times. Hypnosis is not something I do to you—it’s something you allow yourself to experience. Just like daydreaming, you’ll likely hear everything I say, and your mind will only accept suggestions that feel right for you.
Using trance in this way helps us release unhelpful thinking patterns, ease symptoms of anxiety and low mood, and move toward a more positive, confident version of yourself.
What’s the Difference Between Hypnotherapy and Stage Hypnotism?
People sometimes think hypnotherapy is the same as the stage shows they may have seen on TV or in theatres – but in reality, they are very different.
Stage hypnotism is all about entertainment. A stage hypnotist chooses volunteers who want to perform, often encouraging them to act in funny or exaggerated ways to amuse the audience. It’s a show, not a therapy session.
Hypnotherapy, on the other hand, is a professional and confidential process designed to help you make positive changes in your life. In a hypnotherapy session, you remain fully in control, relaxed, and comfortable at all times. The aim is never to make you do anything silly or embarrassing – instead, it’s about helping you focus your mind, reduce stress, build confidence, and move towards the life you want.
In short:
Stage hypnotism = entertainment
Hypnotherapy = positive change and wellbeing
People sometimes think hypnotherapy is the same as the stage shows they may have seen on TV or in theatres – but in reality, they are very different.
Stage hypnotism is all about entertainment. A stage hypnotist chooses volunteers who want to perform, often encouraging them to act in funny or exaggerated ways to amuse the audience. It’s a show, not a therapy session.
Hypnotherapy, on the other hand, is a professional and confidential process designed to help you make positive changes in your life. In a hypnotherapy session, you remain fully in control, relaxed, and comfortable at all times. The aim is never to make you do anything silly or embarrassing – instead, it’s about helping you focus your mind, reduce stress, build confidence, and move towards the life you want.
In short:
Stage hypnotism = entertainment
Hypnotherapy = positive change and wellbeing
Myths About Hypnotherapy – FAQ
1. Will I lose control if I’m hypnotised?
No. You are always in control during hypnotherapy. You can open your eyes, move, or stop at any time. Hypnosis is simply a focused state of attention and relaxation—rather like being absorbed in a good book or film.
2. Can the hypnotherapist make me do something I don’t want to do?
No. Hypnotherapy is very different from stage hypnosis. A professional hypnotherapist cannot make you cluck like a chicken or reveal secrets against your will. You only accept suggestions that fit with your values and goals.
3. What if I can’t be hypnotised?
Most people can experience hypnosis because it’s a natural state of mind. If you’ve ever daydreamed or “zoned out,” you’ve already experienced something similar. Some people go into a lighter state, others deeper—but both can be effective.
4. Is hypnosis the same as being asleep?
No. You may feel deeply relaxed, but you remain aware of what’s happening. Many clients describe it as a calm, daydream-like state where they can still hear everything clearly.
5. Could I get “stuck” in hypnosis?
No. That’s a common myth. You can come out of hypnosis at any time you choose. If a session ended unexpectedly (for example, if the hypnotherapist’s connection dropped in an online session), you would simply come back to full awareness naturally.
6. Is hypnotherapy mind control or brainwashing?
Not at all. Hypnotherapy works by encouraging positive change through suggestion, imagination, and focus—but always with your cooperation. It’s a collaborative process, not something “done” to you.
7. Is hypnosis dangerous?
Hypnosis itself is a safe, natural state. In fact, most people find it very relaxing and beneficial. The only risk comes from unqualified practitioners, which is why it’s important to choose a properly trained and accredited hypnotherapist.
It is always advisable to consult a doctor before having any complementary therapy, including hypnotherapy.
Hypnotherapy is not recommended for people who have been diagnosed with epilepsy and psychosis.
8. Will I remember what happens during hypnosis?
Yes, usually. Some people may feel so relaxed they don’t recall every word, but they generally remember the important parts. It’s not like being unconscious—you’re aware the whole time.
9. Does hypnotherapy work instantly, like magic?
No. While some people notice positive changes quickly, hypnotherapy isn’t about “snapping fingers.” It’s a process that helps build lasting change through relaxation, positive focus, and shifting patterns of thought.
10. Is hypnotherapy only for weak-minded people?
Quite the opposite. Hypnosis works best when you have a good imagination and can focus your attention. Intelligence and strength of mind actually help the process.
1. Will I lose control if I’m hypnotised?
No. You are always in control during hypnotherapy. You can open your eyes, move, or stop at any time. Hypnosis is simply a focused state of attention and relaxation—rather like being absorbed in a good book or film.
2. Can the hypnotherapist make me do something I don’t want to do?
No. Hypnotherapy is very different from stage hypnosis. A professional hypnotherapist cannot make you cluck like a chicken or reveal secrets against your will. You only accept suggestions that fit with your values and goals.
3. What if I can’t be hypnotised?
Most people can experience hypnosis because it’s a natural state of mind. If you’ve ever daydreamed or “zoned out,” you’ve already experienced something similar. Some people go into a lighter state, others deeper—but both can be effective.
4. Is hypnosis the same as being asleep?
No. You may feel deeply relaxed, but you remain aware of what’s happening. Many clients describe it as a calm, daydream-like state where they can still hear everything clearly.
5. Could I get “stuck” in hypnosis?
No. That’s a common myth. You can come out of hypnosis at any time you choose. If a session ended unexpectedly (for example, if the hypnotherapist’s connection dropped in an online session), you would simply come back to full awareness naturally.
6. Is hypnotherapy mind control or brainwashing?
Not at all. Hypnotherapy works by encouraging positive change through suggestion, imagination, and focus—but always with your cooperation. It’s a collaborative process, not something “done” to you.
7. Is hypnosis dangerous?
Hypnosis itself is a safe, natural state. In fact, most people find it very relaxing and beneficial. The only risk comes from unqualified practitioners, which is why it’s important to choose a properly trained and accredited hypnotherapist.
It is always advisable to consult a doctor before having any complementary therapy, including hypnotherapy.
Hypnotherapy is not recommended for people who have been diagnosed with epilepsy and psychosis.
8. Will I remember what happens during hypnosis?
Yes, usually. Some people may feel so relaxed they don’t recall every word, but they generally remember the important parts. It’s not like being unconscious—you’re aware the whole time.
9. Does hypnotherapy work instantly, like magic?
No. While some people notice positive changes quickly, hypnotherapy isn’t about “snapping fingers.” It’s a process that helps build lasting change through relaxation, positive focus, and shifting patterns of thought.
10. Is hypnotherapy only for weak-minded people?
Quite the opposite. Hypnosis works best when you have a good imagination and can focus your attention. Intelligence and strength of mind actually help the process.
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Member of the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council
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Member of the British Psychological Society
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Member of the Association for Solution Focused Hypnotherapists
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Member of the Plymouth Mental Health Network
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