Hypnosis can be defined as a relaxed, altered state of consciousness, somewhat like a deep meditative state. Clinical hypnosis (sometimes referred to as hypnotherapy) is the use of hypnotic techniques for therapeutic benefit. The altered state of consciousness induced by hypnosis allows the brain to be more receptive to suggestions of change and is an effective way of accessing the subconscious to facilitate therapeutic change. Clinical hypnosis has made particularly large advancements in the past 50 years; multiple scientific studies and meta-analyses have shown clinical hypnosis to be effective and safe with long-lasting benefits.

Clinical hypnosis is probably best known for its use in breaking habits, such as smoking, and has also been shown to be helpful across a large variety of conditions. These include:

• Fear and phobias
• Anxiety
• Sexual problems
• Alcoholism
• Smoking control
• Speech disorders
• Weight control
• Chronic pain
• Self-esteem/ego strengthening
• Memory/concentration improvement
• Many more, including in medical settings for surgeries, dental procedures, and dermatological conditions.
• The use of self-hypnosis will help prevent stress and tensions caused by modern day living, reduce high blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• Hypnotherapy is effective for weight control, increasing work/study/sporting performance, improving concentration and memory, boosting self-confidence, and achieving more of the potential which we each possess.

Generally speaking, all hypnotic states are pleasant and relaxing. Hypnosis can vary from a light hypnotic state, to a deep hypnotic state, but is most commonly somewhere in between. During medium level hypnosis, your breathing and heart rate will slow, and the brain produces alpha waves. Alpha waves are different to the brain waves present when awake and alert, and are also different to the waves present during sleep. Alpha waves are associated with quiet and receptive relaxation, and are commonly found when daydreaming, meditating, or being totally absorbed in a book, a movie or music. There are many different ways to achieve this state with the guidance of your therapist. You will be very relaxed and receptive, but still gently aware of your surroundings.

Some people may be concerned that they will be unconscious, or will not be able to exercise free will during hypnosis. This is a common myth that comes from stage hypnotists, and this is not at all the case in clinical hypnosis. While hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness, it does not make you unconscious, and is more akin to meditation, or being extremely relaxed. You will still be aware of your surroundings, and able to exercise complete control. Furthermore, no one can be hypnotised against their will.

Another common concern people have is that they may not be able to be hypnotised. While there is a small percentage of the population who cannot be hypnotised, the majority of people (up to 85%) can be, if they are willing to be hypnotised. Usually people enter hypnosis or trance quite easily, and depending on the individual, different people may reach different levels of hypnosis or trance.