Understandably, you may have several questions regarding clinical hypnotherapy or hypnosis in general. To help you answer some of these, we've compiled a brief list of the most frequently asked questions by those interested in Harley Clinical Hypnotherapy and hypnotherapy in general.

What does the hypnotic state feel like?

Being hypnotised feels similar to the experience of falling into a vivid daydream and is akin to a deep trance-like state. It is also a natural form of consciousness that we can experience normally without generally being aware of it. For instance, you might experience a light hypnotic state while watching a particularly absorbing film or reading a favourite book. Upon waking from hypnosis, clients commonly feel refreshed and considerably more relaxed than when they entered the clinic, as if they had just awoken from a full night's rest.

Can hypnotherapy be used instead of medical intervention to treat a physiological condition?

Hypnotherapy should never be used as a replacement for the medical treatment of a serious illness. It can, however, be used as safe and effective partner to conventional medical treatments for certain conditions. For this reason, Harley Clinical Hypnotherapy has partnered with the Harley Street Health Centre to better serve our clients with complete quality.

What is the difference between 'clinical hypnotherapy' and 'normal' hypnosis?

Clinical hypnotherapy refers to the use of hypnosis as a means of therapeutic intervention, or as a part of a larger therapeutic programme. The primary difference between this and common hypnosis, is that clinical hypnotherapy is administered by a highly trained and qualified professional who has spent years learning specific techniques to help clients overcome their difficulties, rather than someone who has only a generic understanding of hypnosis. Clinical hypnotherapists require stringent certifications and, in the same way as doctors, nurses, and psychiatrists, they are governed by a comprehensive code of ethics.

Can the hypnotherapist make me do things I wouldn't want to?

Just as when you're awake, in the hypnotic state you hear everything that is said or suggested to you. You are also equally capable of rejecting information you find unacceptable. It is important to remember that, when hypnotised, the therapist is your educated guide but you are the one in control. You will be aware of your surroundings and what is being said to you - at any time you can wake yourself from hypnosis, much in the same way you do when snapping out of a daydream. For the hypnotherapist to even attempt to make you do something you do not want is a serious breach of the code of ethics.