Clinical Hypnotherapy Brighton & Hove.
When understanding something isn't enough
Sometimes we know exactly what we want to change.
We may understand where a pattern comes from, recognise the thoughts that keep it going, and still find ourselves responding in the same familiar way.
This is where hypnotherapy can offer another way of working.
Hypnosis can help us access a quieter, more focused state of awareness where we can work with the patterns, associations and responses that may sit outside our usual conscious attention. Rather than trying to force change, we create the conditions for something different to become possible.
What is hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic approach that uses hypnosis alongside psychological techniques to support change.
You remain aware and in control throughout the process. You are not unconscious or being controlled, and you cannot be made to do something against your wishes.
Hypnosis can be understood as a naturally occurring state of focused attention. We experience similar states when we become absorbed in music, reading, driving, creativity or our own thoughts. In a therapeutic setting, we use this state intentionally.
It can create space to work with thoughts, emotions, habits, imagery and automatic responses in a different way.
Why might hypnotherapy help?
Sometimes the conscious mind understands something, while another part of us continues to respond differently.
I work with a range of concerns, including:
Anxiety, stress & emotional wellbeing
Anxiety and overwhelm
Stress and burnout
Health anxiety and illness-related fears
Emotional regulation
Confidence, fears & performance
Confidence and self-esteem
Stage fright and performance anxiety
Fear of flying
Specific fears and phobias
Habits, patterns & behaviour
Self-sabotage
Behavioural patterns that feel difficult to change
Inner conflict and feeling “stuck”
Sleep, pain & physical experience
Sleep difficulties
Working with the emotional experience of pain and fatigue
Relaxation and nervous system regulation
Regression & Inner Child/Parts Work
At times, we may gently explore earlier experiences, memories or emotional patterns that continue to influence how you respond in the present. Regression can be used to revisit these experiences from a different perspective, with the aim of developing greater understanding, emotional integration and choice.
Regression is not about forcing memories or assuming that everything experienced during hypnosis is a factual memory. We approach emerging material with curiosity and care, focusing on its meaning and relevance to your present experience.
How I work…Beyond the symptom
My approach draws on my wider experience as a integrative counsellor and somatic practitioner. This means we can be curious about what sits underneath the presenting issue as well as the change you would like to make. Depending on what brings you to hypnotherapy, our work may include:
Focused attention
Using hypnosis to create a state of calm, concentration and openness.
Imagery and metaphor
Working with the imagination to explore experiences and create new possibilities.
Somatic awareness
Noticing how thoughts, emotions and patterns are experienced in the body.
Parts and inner responses
Exploring different aspects of yourself that may have different needs, intentions or ways of protecting you.
Future pacing
Practising how you would like to respond in situations that currently feel difficult.
Emotional regulation
Developing greater capacity to stay present with thoughts, sensations and emotions without becoming overwhelmed by them.
Sessions & Packages
Sessions are available online and in person.
Hypnotherapy sessions are either 80 minutes and can also be integrated into your ongoing therapy journey where appropriate.
If you are booking hypnotherapy as a standalone service, we begin with a 60-minute online consultation.
This gives us space to understand what you would like to work on, explore whether hypnotherapy is appropriate, and agree on the most suitable way forward.
For focused hypnotherapy work, this will usually involve a package of three sessions.
Focused Hypnotherapy Package | £450
Includes:
60-minute initial consultation
3 × 80-minute hypnotherapy sessions
FAQs
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Hypnotherapy is a form of therapy that utilises hypnosis to help individuals achieve a state of focused relaxation, allowing them to access their subconscious mind and make positive changes in their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Hypnosis is a natural state you enter many times a day. It means your subconscious mind is in a focused state of attention. Hypnosis relaxes your conscious mind allowing for beneficial suggestions to enter your unconscious mind to make the changes you desire. It is a pleasant feeling and is completely safe with no side effects.
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Hypnotherapy works by inducing a trance-like state through relaxation techniques and guided imagery. In this state, the conscious mind becomes relaxed, allowing the subconscious mind to become more receptive to suggestions and therapeutic interventions.
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Hypnotherapy can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including anxiety, phobias, smoking cessation, weight management, stress, insomnia, inner child, chronic pain, and self-esteem issues. It can also be used as an adjunct to traditional therapy for a range of psychological and emotional issues.
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Yes, hypnotherapy is safe when practiced by a qualified and experienced hypnotherapist. It is a non-invasive and drug-free therapy. However, it's important to ensure that you work with a certified professional to ensure proper guidance and safety.
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Most people can be hypnotised to some degree. However, the depth and effectiveness of hypnosis may vary from person to person. Factors such as willingness, belief, and the skill of the hypnotherapist can influence the level of hypnotic trance that can be achieved.
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No, hypnosis does not involve losing control or being unconscious. You remain aware of your surroundings and are in control of your thoughts and actions. Hypnosis is a state of focused attention where you are deeply relaxed but still able to respond to the hypnotherapist's suggestions.
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No. You are in control at all times and can come out at any time you wish.
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The duration of a hypnotherapy session can vary but is typically around 60 to 90 minutes. The number of sessions required depends on the individual and the specific issue being addressed. Some concerns may require only a few sessions, while others may require more extensive treatment.
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While hypnotherapy can be highly effective for many individuals, it does not guarantee specific outcomes. Results can vary depending on the individual's motivation, receptiveness to hypnosis, and the nature of the issue being addressed. A skilled hypnotherapist will work with you to set realistic goals and maximize the potential for positive change.
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Yes, self-hypnosis techniques can be learned and used at home for relaxation and self-improvement. However, it is recommended to initially work with a trained hypnotherapist who can guide you and teach you the techniques. This will ensure you have a solid foundation and understand how to effectively use self-hypnosis for your specific goals.
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With the integrated techniques that I use, you will feel better from the first session. A few sessions can replace weeks, months or years of therapy. Please book a free 15 minute consultation so I can advise you for your specific requirements.
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Trust is absolutely key. The content of your sessions and personal details are strictly confidential and you can have complete confidence.
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This is an important frequently asked question about hypnosis because you want to know what to expect.In the first session we will have a discussion about you, your life and the reason you are here.
Sometimes we won’t even discuss much at all and get straight into change work so you leave your first session feeling different. Many of my clients have had CBT or counselling previously and it had helped in understanding things but they want to feel significantly different.
This is the whole premise of my work; to change how you feel and give you techniques to manage your emotions for life.
In subsequent sessions we will release issues and unhelpful emotions so that your life can be better. Your future well-being is my priority and sometimes you will find yourself releasing emotions that you have carried for a long time.
I may provide you with Hypnotic recordings to listen to at home to support your treatment.
When your course of sessions has finished, you will find yourself feeling very different about things and will find it easier to relax whenever you need to.
Being relaxed puts you in control, helps you make better decisions and manage your emotions