Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions people often ask before starting therapy.

What issues can hypnotherapy help with?

I work with a wide range of issues, including:

  • Anxiety and overthinking

  • Low confidence or self-esteem

  • Stress or burnout

  • Unwanted habits (e.g. smoking, nail biting, emotional eating)

  • Sleep issues

  • Motivation and focus

Even if your concern isn’t listed here, feel free to get in touch. I can let you know whether I’m the right fit for what you’re experiencing.

What is solution-focused hypnotherapy?

Solution-focused hypnotherapy combines modern talking therapy with the natural state of focused attention known as hypnosis. Rather than dwelling on problems or the past, the focus is on how you’d like things to be and the small steps to help you get there.

This approach is brief, practical, and rooted in neuroscience and psychology. It’s designed to help you gain clarity, build confidence, and feel more in control of your thoughts and actions.

What is hypnosis and will I be in control?

Hypnosis is a relaxed, focused state of awareness — similar to becoming absorbed in a good book or film. You’re fully in control throughout and can bring yourself out of the state at any time. Hypnotherapy simply uses this state to help you access positive, solution-focused ideas and suggestions more easily.

You won’t be “put under” or made to do anything you don’t want to. It’s a collaborative and empowering process.

Can everyone be hypnotised?

Yes — most people can enter a light hypnotic state. It’s a natural part of how the brain works. Some experience it more vividly than others, but effective therapy doesn’t rely on how ‘deep’ you go. With the right approach, most people find it easy to engage.

What if I feel I’m in crisis?

You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy — many people come to gain clarity, build resilience, or make a positive change.

However, if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsafe right now, it’s best to seek urgent support from your GP or NHS 111 before beginning therapy. Once you’re feeling more stable, hypnotherapy can offer you additional support moving forward.

Is hypnotherapy safe?

Yes. Hypnotherapy is recognised by the NHS as a complementary therapy. It’s safe, gentle, and often experienced as deeply relaxing. Many clients say it becomes one of the most calming parts of their week.

Is there any scientific evidence for hypnotherapy?

Yes. There is more scientific research supporting hypnotherapy than many other complementary therapies. It has been shown to be effective for issues like anxiety, IBS, pain management, and habit change. The approach I use is evidence-based and draws on current neuroscience, solution-focused therapy, and brief psychotherapy.

What is your approach?

I work from a human givens perspective, drawing from solution-focused psychotherapy, cognitive behavioural approaches, NLP, and research-backed hypnotherapy.

Sessions are structured, forward-focused, and tailored to you. Rather than revisiting painful memories, we focus on building new strategies to help you feel better and live more fully.

What’s your experience and training?

I’ve been a qualified hypnotherapist and solution-focused psychotherapist since 2007. I trained with Uncommon Knowledge — one of the UK’s most respected providers of hypnotherapy training — and later served as a supervisor helping to train other therapists.

I’m a full member of the General Hypnotherapy Register (GHR) and accredited by the Hypnotherapy Standards Council (HSC). I adhere to their code of ethics.

Do you work online or in person?

Yes. I offer both online and in-person sessions. In-person sessions are available in Sutton Coldfield (Birmingham), and online sessions are held via secure video platforms. Both options are equally effective — what matters most is what suits you best.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on what you’re seeking support for, but many clients notice a shift within just a few sessions. Some people feel ready to move on after 4–6 sessions, while others prefer a longer-term space for ongoing support.

We’ll regularly review how things are going and you’re never tied in.

What happens in the first session?

The first session is all about understanding what you’d like help with, how things are affecting you, and what changes you’d like to make. I’ll explain how hypnotherapy works and answer any questions.

You’ll also experience a gentle, relaxing guided hypnosis so you can get a feel for the process.

How do I book a session?

You can use the contact form on the Contact page to request a free initial chat, or click on the booking section on the home page.

Do I need to prepare anything?

Just find a quiet, private space for your session (especially if working online) and make sure you won’t be interrupted. You don’t need to “do” anything special — just bring an open mind and a willingness to explore.

Do you offer smoking cessation sessions?

Yes — I offer a dedicated smoking cessation session, which is typically a single, extended session. Please contact me for pricing and availability.

If you have a question that isn’t listed here, feel free to get in touch. I’ll be happy to help.