Frequently asked questions about hypnotherapy
This page answers common questions about hypnotherapy in Maidstone with Specialist Hypnotherapy. It focuses on how sessions work, which issues are supported, how hypnotherapy fits alongside medical care, and what to expect in practice.
If you do not see your question here you are welcome to ask when you get in touch.
About hypnotherapy sessions
What does hypnotherapy involve
Hypnotherapy usually involves a calm, focused state where you pay close attention to guided suggestions, imagery or ideas. You stay aware and in charge. The aim is to practise new ways of responding so they start to feel more familiar in everyday life.
Will I stay in control during hypnosis
Yes. You stay in control throughout every session. You hear what is said, you remember what happened and you can speak or stop at any point. You cannot be made to do anything that goes against your values or wishes.
How many sessions will I need
This depends on what you want help with and how long the patterns have been in place. Some people book a focused block of 4 to 6 sessions. Others prefer a longer run of weekly work. At the first meeting you agree together what feels realistic and review as things progress.
Is hypnotherapy the only approach used
No. Many sessions blend hypnotherapy with elements from counselling and coaching, such as talking through what is happening, building insight and planning steps between sessions. The balance between these ways of working is agreed with you.
Issues hypnotherapy can support
Specialist Hypnotherapy supports a wide range of issues for adults, teenagers and children. The main areas of work are:
- Weight, eating and body image – including weight loss, emotional eating and hypno-gastric band work.
- Anxiety, mood and stress – including general anxiety, panic attacks, sleep disturbance and feeling overwhelmed.
- Phobias and fears – such as fear of flying, driving, sickness, needles or dentists.
- Habits, addictions and urges – such as smoking, alcohol and gambling issues, nail biting or hair pulling.
- Confidence and performance – including public speaking, exams, sports and performance nerves.
- Health, pain and medical support – including IBS linked with stress, chronic pain and support around medical procedures.
- Fertility, birth and family life – including fertility support, hypno-birthing work and support after miscarriage.
- Children and young people – including bullying, school confidence, separation anxiety and habit issues.
You can read more about each area on the Hypnotherapy services page.
Safety and medical care
Does hypnotherapy replace medical care
No. Hypnotherapy sits alongside medical care. It does not replace it. You continue to follow advice from your GP or specialist and use hypnotherapy as an extra source of support with thoughts, feelings and habits.
Is hypnotherapy suitable for serious mental health difficulties
For some people with severe mental health difficulties hypnotherapy is not the main form of support. In those situations work takes place only with clear boundaries and good communication around any other professionals involved. Where hypnotherapy is not appropriate you will be encouraged to use services that are better placed to support you.
What if there is risk of self-harm, suicide or harm to others
Where there is risk of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, severe addiction or risk to you or others, sessions focus first on safety and appropriate links to medical or crisis services. Hypnotherapy does not replace urgent medical help. In any emergency you contact your GP, NHS 111 or emergency services.
Online and face to face sessions
Is online hypnotherapy as effective as in person
Many people find online hypnotherapy works well, especially for anxiety-related issues, habits, performance work and stress-related difficulties. It suits those who prefer not to travel or who live further away. In-person work may feel more suitable where you value being in the room together or where privacy at home is difficult.
What do I need for online hypnotherapy
You need a quiet, private space where you will not be interrupted, a comfortable chair, and a stable internet connection. Sessions usually take place over Zoom or Microsoft Teams. You agree beforehand what you will do if the connection drops so the session still feels safe.
Where are face to face sessions held
Face to face sessions take place in quiet, comfortable rooms at Buckland Hill in Maidstone and at Barham Court in Teston, with free parking available at both locations.
You can read more about rooms, parking and availability on the Location and availability page.
Working with children and young people
Do you work with children and teenagers
Yes. Hypnotherapy and related approaches are available for children and young people, with a focus on age-appropriate explanations, consent and collaboration with parents or carers.
How are parents or carers involved
For younger children, parents or carers are usually involved in part of the session to share information and support changes at home. For older children and teenagers, there is more privacy, but key practical information can still be shared with consent so that home and school can support the work.
What kind of issues do you see in younger clients
Common reasons for contact include bullying, school refusal, separation anxiety, exam nerves, fears and phobias, and habits such as thumb sucking, nail biting or hair pulling. Work is tailored to the child’s age and what feels safe for them.
Practical questions
How much does hypnotherapy cost
Session fees and any block options are discussed at your initial enquiry. Costs are set in line with local hypnotherapy and counselling services in Maidstone. You are told the fee clearly before you decide whether to book.
How do I book an appointment
You can phone directly or use the website contact form to outline briefly what you would like help with. If it looks like a good fit you can then agree a first appointment time.
Can I ask questions before I decide
Yes. You are welcome to ask questions by phone or via the contact form before you decide whether to book. It is important that you feel comfortable with the way of working and with the focus of hypnotherapy.
What happens if I am running late or need to cancel
The practical arrangements around lateness, cancellations and holidays are explained clearly when you first book so you know what to expect. As a general rule, giving as much notice as possible helps keep a regular, predictable pattern of sessions.