Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What kind of problems can counselling and Hypnotherapy help me with?
A: These therapies can help with a wide range of concerns including

• Abuse
• Addiction
• Anger
• Anxiety and stress
• Bereavement and loss
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Health issues (weight management, stopping smoking, sleep problems)
• Major life changes
• OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder)
• Phobias and fears
• Relationship difficulties
• Self Esteem
• Sexuality
• Trauma
• Worry

Q: How long before I start to see a change or an improvement? 

A: Counselling and Hypnotherapy is not a quick fix, it needs time for you to connect to your therapist to open up and for the therapist to understand the depth of your problem. I will assess progress after the 6 session mark to check that you are still heading the way that you need to be going. It is important to realise that therapy only works with communication and cooperation from you.

Q: What kind of counselling style will work best for me? 

A: There are many different approaches to counselling that a therapist can use. I use an integrative approach. This mean using a number of approaches and flowing from one style to another as the therapy progresses. This is based on how I think each approach may work for you as they all have benefits and when put together it creates a strong base for improvement and change.

Q: What can I expect from hypnotherapy ? 

A:  I will create a bespoke hypnotic screed which will be designed around the elements of life that you like and enjoy. This is to relax your mind and body. Before I begin with the suggestions for your subconscious I will state that you are in control at all times and that you can remove yourself from the trance at any time that you should choose. It depends on your level of relaxation, some clients fall asleep, some relax but are still aware of elements around them. In order for hypnotherapy to work there needs to be a relaxed state of mind so that the suggestions placed in your mind when in the relaxed state can start to work.

Q: When counselling will you give me advice? 

A:  I will not give you advice, my job is to listen to you and allow you the freedom to come to your own conclusion(s) through listening to you. I will ask questions designed to challenge your current way of thinking and your thought processes. I will ascertain whether you are engaging in negative behaviour which is stopping you from reaching where you want to be. I will not judge you, my role is to give you a safe space to be heard.

Q: What should I look for in a therapist?
A: Things to check with any therapist you visit are:

• recognised academic qualifications
• adhere to a professional code of conduct
• they have regular, ongoing supervision to ensure safe and ethical practice
• that you feel comfortable in their presence
• that they discuss certain issues with you up front before any commitment is made to the sessions including: 
  • counselling approach
  • confidentiality issues
  • fees and length of sessions
  • how they intend to monitor progress
  • their responsibilities to you
  • your responsibility to them

Q: What if I do not feel comfortable with my therapist?

A: It is so important that you feel relaxed with your therapist as you are there to share elements of your life. Therapy can only work if there is that willingness to share and that can only happen if you feel comfortable and relaxed with your therapist. Sometimes things do not work out but be honest and ask for some other recommendations from your therapist. A good true therapist will be able to recognise that the rapport is not there and will help you (if asked) to find someone that is suited to you. Feedback is always good positive or negative as it allows the therapist to rethink their approach if necessary.