hypnotherapy...

Introduction

So What is Hypnosis?

Hypnotherapy is a natural state of relaxation where the conscious mind is focused on allowing the unconscious mind to be experienced in an expanded awareness. In this state, you can use imagination and respond to positive suggestions in a creative and productive way. Hypnosis is natural, safe and can be learned by people of all ages to enhance their lives. It should be used with respect and concern for optimum success (for instance do not listen to an CD with hypnotic suggestions when driving a motor vehicle).

Hypnosis is not mind control by an unethical person. In fact the aim should be a strengthening of your own will, personal power and confidence. You will not be made to do things you would normally not do (eg. bark like a dog!)

You are not asleep in hypnosis, just in a trance. Hypnosis is not a miracle cure where you take no responsibility for positive change. It is a way of harnessing inner strength to achieve what is naturally good for you.

In Australia and New Zealand, hypnosis can be legally practised by qualified members of the Medical, Psychological and Dental profession. These practitioners undergo a rigorous academic and practical study program over two years which includes over fifty hours of professional supervision. The course emphasizes the ethical use of hypnosis for therapy. It is strongly recommended that you ask your potential hypnotherapist about formal qualifications and their likely approach to helping you achieve your goal.

Anyone who is motivated to change is a likely candidate for hypnosis. You are not being weak-willed or easily led - you are tapping in to a natural power. It's just more economical to be taught/facilitated by an expert.

A good subject for hypnosis is someone who is willing to believe in their own inherent ability for positive charge. If you can commit to a worthwhile outcome you are a likely subject. If you are sceptical and fearful of losing control, and just wanting to 'set-up' the hypnotherapist, why waste your time and money?

Since hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness, please make sure your mind and body is in a maximum state of receptivity. This means avoidance of mind altering drugs during therapy and having your body in an optimum state (well fed, well rested and definitely no hangovers!) It's important that you strike up a good rapport with your hypnotherapist. Are they warm, caring and clear in their communication? Is the setting comfortable and reassuring? (Avoid clinical or cluttered settings.)

Your hypnotherapist is trained to 'induce' the hypnotic state. This involves getting you to relax deeply, both mentally and physically. Sometimes this involves direct methods such as 'eye fixation', hand levitation or counting. Some people respond more easily to indirect methods where the therapist may be seeming to 'just talk' but is actually weaving powerful positive suggestions into the 'talk'.

You are consulting a professionally trained expert and can expect a professional service at a professional fee. In some cases your private health fund may allow for rebates so it is wise to investigate this early.

Book a session with Dr Jan: Tel: 03 9419 3010 or email