FAQ
Because it works! Scientists have captured the changes in the brain during hypnosis that modulate pain. Hypnosis is safe and effective, and it works very quickly – as demonstrated in a large number of .
Hypnosis is an effective treatment for any form of chronic or acute pain. No matter the condition or location, hypnosis can help. There’s a wealth of evidence from controlled trials on the effectiveness of hypnosis for various conditions – we’ve summarised them .
More than likely, yes. It is surprisingly easy to benefit from hypnosis. Around 9 in 10 people are ‘suggestible’ enough to benefit significantly. Got 2 minutes? Take our free self-assessment quiz.
Hypnosis is a state of deep relaxation and focused awareness, often accompanied by a heightened sense of imagination and suggestibility. The conscious mind enters a relaxed state while the subconscious mind is receptive to positive suggestions. Patients describe hypnosis as a state of focus, where they can concentrate deeply while blocking out distractions.
A hypnotherapist is trained in (a) gently inducing states of relaxation, and (b) making tailored suggestions to alleviate your symptoms.
It is relatively straightforward to induce a hypnotic state. Much of the skill of the hypnotherapist is in the timing and framing of suggestions – tailoring the dialogue to the client’s individual needs.
Hypnosis has been tested extensively and is very safe. The only known vulnerability is for persons that have been diagnosed with schizophrenia or another disorder associated with psychosis.
No. Not unless you count positive ones. 🙂 Empirical studies have tracked a LOT of different patients with different symptoms and conditions. Their conclusion? Hypnosis is ‘safe and effective’ for managing chronic and acute pain.
Some studies found positive spillover effects, such as a higher quality of life.
You can book a time here. Alternatively, you can call 1300 583 900.
Hypnotherapy is a proven treatment for reducing pain. The reduction in symptoms is rapid and sustained. And there are no side effects – unless you count reduced stress and a deep sense of peace.
Pretty much. It’s a very normal process of ‘spacing out’ that you probably experience a few minutes each day. Researchers estimate that 90 per cent of people can be hypnotised. Try our free quiz to see where you sit!
No. It’s a very gentle process. It’s different to therapy – there is a clear focus on managing and reducing your symptoms. Whilst you may fall into a dreamlike state, your mind is still in control and you can choose to come back to the present at any time
Yes. Hypnosis can reduce your symptoms quickly, safely, and effectively. The confirms that most participants can expect a 30-40 per cent reduction in symptoms, with no negative side effects.
Yes. Hypnosis can reduce nerve pain quickly, safely, and effectively. Hypnosis changes key parts of the brain that modulate nerve pain (discussed here). The participants can expect a 30-40 per cent reduction in symptoms, with no negative side effects.
Yes. Hypnosis is safe and effective in reducing painful symptoms, on its own and in conjunction with other treatment. Hypnosis changes key parts of the brain that modulate pain (discussed here). The confirms that participants can expect a 30-40 per cent reduction in symptoms, with no negative side effects.
You might recognize being in a trance by experiencing deep relaxation, heightened focus, and a sense of detachment from your surroundings. Time distortion and vivid imagery are also common. Others describe it as a state of deep peace.
What if I don’t wake up from hypnosis?
This is a myth. Hypnosis is a gentle state of relaxation. It’s a lot like spacing out for a few moments – you come back to the present gently and without effort. When the time is right, your practitioner will lightly guide you back.
No. You decide whether to participate and how much. Hypnosis can’t make you do anything against your will or values; it’s a collaborative process where you actively participate.
Yes. In fact, a key use of hypnosis is to work with patients to enable them to reduce their use of analgaesic medication. Just inform your hypnotherapist about any medications you’re taking, so they can adjust your treatment if needed.
It varies. Some people remember every detail, while recall the key themes. Rest assured that you do not need to remember everything for hypnosis to be effective. Your hypnotherapist will teach you techniques to activate the parts of the brain that modulate pain. It’s the techniques and the general experience of the sessions that provide the symptom relief.
Pretty much. Around 9 in 10 people are ‘suggestible’ enough to benefit significantly. Got 2 minutes? Take our free suggestibility test.
Does hypnosis cause changes in the body?
Yes. Hypnosis induces beneficial changes in the brain. Neuroimaging shows that hypnotherapy activates key areas that modulate pain. Hypnosis can also induce moderate physical changes associated with relaxation, such as a slight reduction in heart rate. By in large these are mild – you might feel more relaxed and less tense following your session.
Hypnosis is safe and effective for children. Just be sure that your practitioner is experienced in treating minors.
Hypnosis and meditation both involve altered states of consciousness, but they differ in purpose and technique. Hypnosis achieves specific outcomes through guided suggestions, while meditation focuses on mindfulness and a more open-ended exploration of one’s thoughts and feelings.
Hypnosis is associated with altered brainwave patterns, often characterized by increased theta brainwave activity. Results from an EEG show that a person’s brainwave frequencies may shift towards theta, reflecting the trance-like state induced by hypnosis.
It varies. The number of sessions will depend on the individual and the issue being addressed. Some may respond within one or two sessions. Others may need up to 8 sessions to lock in permanent benefits.
The effects are often rapid. Some people might experience immediate changes, while others may need a few additional sessions for noticeable results.
Hypnosis changes key parts of the brain that modulate nerve pain. More information is provided here.
The first session lasts 90 minutes. Sessions are 60 minutes thereafter.
We’ll build rapport and discuss some resources we might draw on – such as peaceful places or activities tIn the first session we will get a clear picture of your symptoms and your goals for treatment. hat you enjoy. Next, I’ll take you through a gentle induction that helps you to relax and focus. I’ll then place in some positive suggestions to reduce your symptoms. It’s a very relaxed form of treatment – your job is to ease back and relax, and let the suggestive power of hypnosis guide your focus.
Patients typically report feeling relaxed and focused, a bit like after a massage.
Yes. All that is required is that you listen to your therapist’s instructions and give it a go. Once you experience a session you might find that your perspective shifts.
Nervousness, anxiety, and difficulty relaxing don’t prevent you from being hypnotised. A skilled therapist can adapt the techniques to suit your needs.
You can enhance your results by being open to the process, following instructions, and building rapport with your therapist. Also listening to any recordings you are given, or engaging in any brief take-home tasks.
There’s not much you need to do – leave it to us. It may help to reflect on your situation, on places where you feel most relaxed and ‘in flow’, and on the goals of your treatment.