Welcome to Hazel Smyth Hypnotherapy (Dip Hyp C, MHS)

What is hypnosis? 

Hypnosis is a natural and deeply relaxing state of focused attention in which you remain fully aware, comfortable, and in control throughout the session. Hypnosis opens the subconscious mind to increased positive suggestions, which can help you reframe any negative thoughts and beliefs, ultimately supporting your mental health.  

Will I have ever experienced hypnosis in my day-to-day life?

Yes—like daydreaming when your mind wanders off; being completely absorbed in a book or film; driving somewhere and arriving without remembering how you got there; or scrolling through social media posts.  

What is hypnotherapy? 

Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic technique in which a trained hypnotherapist guides you into a deeply relaxed state using gentle verbal suggestions and imagery. In this relaxed state, they can help you address specific issues such as anxiety, low self-esteem, self-confidence, phobias, or addictive behaviors. When relaxed, you have greater access to your subconscious mind, allowing you to reframe negative thought patterns and develop positive habits and beliefs. Clinical hypnotherapy was approved by the BMA (British Medical Association) and the AMA (American Medical Association) in the 1950s and is recognized as a therapeutic treatment for mental health concerns. 

Can I be hypnotised? 

Almost anyone can be hypnotized, and it is a skill that improves with practice. The effectiveness of hypnosis relies on the commitment, belief, and motivation of the individual. This can be greatly enhanced by building a strong therapeutic relationship between the hypnotherapist and the client.  

Is it dangerous? 

No—hypnotherapy is not dangerous. You are always in control and cannot be made to do or say anything you do not want to. You also cannot get stuck in hypnosis. Hypnosis is a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable experience. The only time hypnotherapy may not be suitable is if you have a history of psychosis.  

Why can’t I make some of these changes on my own? Is willpower not enough? 

Our minds consist of both the conscious and subconscious. The conscious mind is aware of our thoughts and feelings and deals with immediate situations such as problem-solving and decision-making. This is where our “willpower” originates. For example, you might think, “I know I shouldn’t smoke, so I’m not going to have a cigarette.”  

Our subconscious mind is like a filing cabinet in the brain, storing our memories, beliefs, learned behaviors, and automatic responses. The subconscious controls automatic habits that heavily influence our behavior and are often more powerful than the conscious mind. For example, in the case of smoking, you know you should stop for all the right reasons, but your subconscious reminds you how good you feel after that first drag or how it helps you feel less stressed.  

Another example of this subconscious reaction is becoming defensive during criticism. Negative self-talk when you fail can be much more powerful than your conscious thoughts. No matter how often you tell yourself, “I am good enough,” the subconscious might respond with, “You will fail; you know you always do.” This is why willpower alone is often not enough to change deeply rooted beliefs and habits. 

Changing or “reframing” negative thought processes can occur when you access the subconscious mind, which happens when you are in a deeply relaxed state, such as during hypnosis.  

Who uses hypnotherapy and why? 

Anyone and everyone can benefit from hypnotherapy. People of all ages use it, from young individuals to older adults. Well-known figures have also used hypnotherapy, including sportspeople such as Tiger Woods to improve focus and performance, Jennifer Aniston to conquer her fear of flying, and Matt Damon to help him stop smoking.  

People commonly use hypnotherapy for stress relief, to help manage anxiety, improve self-confidence and self-esteem, and overcome phobias such as fear of flying, public speaking, or spiders. It can also assist with weight management, habits, and addictions. Increasingly, hypnotherapy is also being used to support women through menopause.  

Young adults and hypnotherapy 

Hypnotherapy can be particularly beneficial for young adults. Young people face many pressures, including school and exam stress. The increased use of social media can also negatively affect mental health, contributing to issues such as anxiety, low self-esteem, and poor sleep. 

Hypnotherapy can help manage anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, and other behavioral issues by promoting relaxation, changing thought patterns, and building confidence.  

How many sessions will I need? 

This depends on the issue being addressed. After your initial consultation, you will be given an idea of the number of sessions that may be required.  

Do I need to inform my doctor if I start hypnotherapy? Hypnotherapy can complement any medication or treatment you are currently receiving. You should continue to follow your doctor’s advice and take any prescribed medication. It is important to inform both your hypnotherapist and your doctor about the treatments you are receiving.