The history of hypnotic or suggestive therapy is one of the oldest healing techniques. From the Sleep Temples of Egypt through the histories of ancient Greece and Rome some form of hypnosis has always been an intimate part of all cultures.

In the Middle Ages, healing through touch and prayer became the major way of treating disease.  In the 18th Century - when it was believed that illness was caused by the magnetic influence of astral bodies - Franz Anton Mesmer would induce people into a trance-like state by what he (erroneously) believed to be Animal Magnetism.  Although Mesmerism was soon discredited, it continued to be used even after the death of Mesmer as it often produced "miracle" cures.  When James Braid re-examined Mesmerism in the 19th Century he discovered that simple suggestion was just as effective as Mesmerism or any other method that induced trance like states.

In the early part of the 20th Century hypnosis was used almost exclusively by stage hypnotists, thereby projecting a hopelessly distorted view of this very powerful therapeutic tool.  However, in 1955 the British Medical Association endorsed the practice of hypnosis in Medical School education, since when it has become a very valuable addition to conventional medical treatment.

Hypnotherapy means the use of hypnosis for the treatment and relief of a variety of somatic and psychological symptoms.  It can bring relief to existing conditions or to change areas where there are issues.  With hypnotherapy it is possible to work with and transform the thoughts that lead to self limiting beliefs - mainly this is achieved through using complete mental and physical relaxation and visualization techniques.  It is vital to have the cooperation of the patient.

Hypnotherapy is completely natural and safe and there are no harmful side effects.  When administered by a professionally trained and skilled Clinical Hypnosis Practitioner  the benefits are long lasting and often permanent.  It is estimated that approximately 85% of people of all age groups will readily respond to clinical Hypnotherapy.  It is often successful when other, more conventional methods of treatment have failed.

There are over 300 uses for Clinical Hypnosis. Listed below are some of the conditions for which Hypnotherapy is indicated as a practical treatment:

What is hypnosis?

The word hypnosis refers to a trance like state between sleeping and waking.  It is an altered state of consciousness similar to either daydreaming, or that lovely stage you go through just before drifting into sleep or just as you wake up.

How does it work?

Nobody knows exactly how hypnotherapy works, but our mind is believed to be divided into 2 main parts - the conscious and the unconscious.  We use our conscious mind every day in making decisions, and we are capable of holding a number of thoughts at any one time in our conscious mind, whilst our unconscious mind holds all our experiences, our memories, beliefs, fears and behaviour patterns.  it is the unconscious mind that responds to hypnosis.  Because the unconscious mind is most accessible when we are deeply relaxed, relaxation techniques are used to induce a trance and various techniques are used to overcome negative emotions or thinking patterns, destructive habits or poor health.

Can anyone be hypnotised?

It is estimated that around 90%of people can be hypnotised.  However children under the age of 5, and some people with psychotic disorders or learning difficulties may find it too difficult.  People with severe depression or epilepsy are advised to avoid hypnosis.

How safe is hypnosis?

Contrary to the impression given by stage hypnotists, clinical hypnosis is extremely safe and puts you in complete control of what happens to you.  It empowers you to bring about the changes that you need to make in your life - it doesn´t put you in someone else´s power.  Nobody can be hypnotised against their will and even when hypnotised, people can reject any suggestions that do not fit in with their own set of personal belief systems and their own personal integrity.  You can also come out of trance at any time you choose - all you have to do is open your eyes!  You cannot get stuck in hypnosis - at the end of your therapy session you will be awakened to your conscious state, but with all the benefits of treatment.

What is the difference between stage hypnosis and clinical hypnosis?

The hypnosis is the same, but the application of the skill is what separates the two. Stage hypnotists try to get willing, susceptible people, often under the influence of alcohol, to perform for entertainment.  In hypnotherapy the therapist and the client keep a confidential relationship of trust, and the care of the client and their best interests are paramount.

How many sessions are needed?

That really depends on the reason for your visit.  For instance, smoking cessation is generally 1 session.  Before agreeing the number of treatments required, I like to take some time getting to know you a little better.  Therefore I always build in 20 minutes initial consultation, free of charge.  This gives us both the opportunity to get to know each other a little better and allows you the opportunity to ask any questions that you may have.  At the end of the free consultation you will be able to make an informed decision about whether or not you want to go ahead - the appointment following your free consultation will be available for you should you decide to progress with the treatment we've discussed and agreed.

• Stop Smoking Now appointments generally last 1½ - 2 hours

• The first appointment for other therapies lasts approximately 1½ hours

• Subsequent appointments last 1 hour

By now you may be asking yourself why you would chose to see me to help you to deal with sensitive areas in your life, so let me tell you a little bit about myself, and you can decide for yourself.

One of the most important things about our relationship is that we are able to work together and trust each other.  It is important that you know that everything that is discussed between us is treated with absolute confidentiality.  I am bound by a strict Ethical Code of Conduct, being an Associate Member of the British Society of Clinical Hypnosis.

I started my working life training as a State Registered Nurse  at the Royal Masonic Hospital, in London, and I qualified in 1973. Part of my training covered psychiatric nursing at Longrove Hospital in Surrey.  Following my registration, I gained nursing experience in gynaecology, cardiology and geriatric nursing.  After a few years working in both the National Health Service and the private sector, I moved into the pharmaceutical industry, working initially as a representative, then moving into management.  I worked for about 17 years in that industry, 10 of which were in management positions. During these years I attended many training courses which included coaching skills, presentation skills, leadership skills and personal development.  I also delivered very many presentations and training courses to various-sized groups.  Consequently I am comfortable working with individuals as well as very large groups of people.

In 2002 I enrolled with the London College of Clinical Hypnotherapy (LCCH) and have completed both their Certificate, Diploma & Practitioner (Advanced level) exams.  Unlike some other training courses on Hypnosis, the training provided by the LCCH  involved attending lectures,  tutorials and completing practical work over a period of about 14 months. In addition, as part of my ongoing professional training, I have completed Continuous Professional Development in the format of Master Classes which have covered areas concerning:

Weight control
Positive thinking
Improving self esteem
Improved performance
Romancing the self
Yoga
Fertility training with Sjanie Hugo (hypnotherapist at the Zita West clinic)
Advanced fertility training with Sjanie Hugo

I have completed the trainee lecturer programme with the LCCH and have been involved in lecturing at Imperial College in London.  I am a course tutor and Clinical Supervisor with the LCCH.

In Sepetember 2007 I completed my training to become a HypnoBirthing® Practitioner - the Mongan method.

I see my ongoing professional training as vital to keep me abreast of learning new skills and increasing my knowledge in this fascinating area.

I enjoy working closely with people, and my guiding principles are honesty and integrity.  I adopt a holistic mind, body and spirit approach to my therapies. 

Appointments may be made by telephone on:

01299 409011