I know from my own experience that starting therapy can be a big step, and it’s natural to have lots of questions. This FAQ page has been designed to give you clear, reassuring answers about Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (SFH), how it works, and what you can expect from working with me. Whether you’re considering hypnotherapy for stress, anxiety, low mood, confidence, phobias, habits, or simply to make positive changes in your life, I hope these questions and answers will help you feel informed and at ease.

 

Will I be awake?

Yes, you will remain fully aware throughout your session. Hypnotherapy is not sleep; it’s a calm, focused state of deep relaxation. Occasionally, some people become so comfortable that they drift off, but even then the subconscious mind continues to respond positively to the process.

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What happens in a session?

Each session begins with a relaxed conversation about where you’d like to be and the positive changes you want to make. Together, we’ll explore how the subconscious mind can sometimes create unhelpful habits or patterns, and how you can start moving towards healthier, more helpful ones.

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I’ll then guide you into a calm, soothing state of hypnosis. This gentle process helps your mind become more open to positive suggestions, making it easier to develop new ways of thinking and behaving that support your goals.
 

​Why is the Initial Consultation Free?
Starting therapy can be a big step, and it’s important you feel comfortable with your therapist. That’s why I offer a free consultation. It's a chance to talk through your goals, understand how hypnotherapy can help, and decide if I’m the right fit for you. There’s no pressure to book, just an opportunity to explore your next steps.

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Do I have to talk about my past?
No, Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is all about looking forward. We focus on your strengths, goals, and the future you want to create, rather than revisiting past experiences.

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Can you make me do things I don’t want to do?
Absolutely not. You remain in control at all times. Hypnotherapy cannot make you do anything against your will, it’s a collaborative process, working with your goals and values.

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What can SFH help with?

Solution Focused Hypnotherapy can address a wide range of concerns, from anxiety, stress, depression, and related conditions such as OCD or IBS, to unwanted habits like nail-biting or skin-picking. SFH can help clients overcome frustrating or debilitating phobias, and transform future health for clients who are motivated to quit smoking/vaping.

 

Many clients also come to me for help with improving performance (sports, work, presentations, stage fright) or reducing stress (e.g. driving tests, exams, stage fright)

Please explore my list of common issues and conditions that clients seek support for.​

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How long will it take? 
It depends on your goals and circumstances, but most clients notice positive changes within one or two sessions. I usually work with clients for 3 -12 weeks. Some people notice changes quickly, while others may benefit from ongoing support. We can review your progress together so the pace always feels right for you.

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Simple phobias and smoking are however specific: Smoking/vaping cessation is one session, and simple phobias are three sessions. Packages are available.

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How effective is it?
Many people find SFH highly effective and experience powerful, positive results for a wide range of issues. Results can vary from person to person, and committed and motivated clients are more likely to achieve their goals.​

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Studies in recent years show some exciting results - and there are clinical trials happening as we speak, with some very positive chatter about promising conclusions. I will of course share those when they're published! In the meantime, here are a couple of links to recent studies looking at the efficacy of SFH:

 

In 2021, a Feasibility Study to measure the effectiveness of Solution Focused Hypnotherapy in Northumbria Police Force found:

• 100% of participants that completed treatment responded i.e., were getting better as a result of therapy.

• 78% of participants completed therapy with no clinical symptoms i.e., they recovered completely

• Data demonstrated that participants progressed regardless of their therapist’s years of experience or confidence as a therapist

• Life wellness score increases of 84% echoed the reduction of anxiety and depression symptoms, demonstrating an improvement in participant wellbeing and wellness.

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In January 2024, Frontiers in Psychology published a report "meta-analytic evidence on the efficacy of hypnosis for mental and somatic health issues: a 20-year perspective" This systematic review of meta-analyses provides a broad overview of the substantial evidence supporting the use of clinical hypnosis to treat a range of mental and somatic health issues. The vast majority (99.2%) of outcomes demonstrated positive effects, with over half exhibiting at least a medium effect size.

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Is online therapy any different?
No. The sessions are the same and clients report their results to be just as impactful and helpful. I support clients in person or online via video call on Zoom. Many clients like to visit me at my relaxed private clinic in Ferndown, Dorset (close to Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole, and Ringwood). I also have clients throughout the UK, Europe, and North America who love to work with me from the comfort of their own home.

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If you'd like to try online but are not tech-savvy, I am happy to help you - all you will need is reliable wifi, a phone/laptop/ipad, and a comfortable space with no interruptions. You don't need any software; I will send you a link.

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Where can I get more information?

For more information, visit the Association for Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (AfSFH) or the National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH) websites. I'm a member of both organisations and follow their Code of Ethics.
You can also visit the Royal College of Psychiatrists website which has a useful guide to Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy, explaining what they are, who can benefit from them, and how they work.