At the outset it is important to state that HYPNOSIS IS SAFE and surprisingly children and young adults do it all the time!

It is something that is subject to considerable myth and misperception and thus benefits from a little clarity and common sense.

Hypnosis is a state of relaxation which can be varied depending on the situation, circumstances and desired outcome.

So in simple terms, it can be ‘deep’ which is akin to the moment just before we fall asleep or when your child does not hear you when you have been calling them or talking to them for a period of time – a deep relaxed state in which everything else is tuned out except the focus for concentration. As a parent, I am sure that you can recall a time when you have driven on a motorway or familiar route and at some point have a realisation of your position and not be consciously aware of how you got there!

Familiarity means that your conscious mind is less attentive allowing your subconscious to become more active and focused on what is coming its’ way. For individuals under the age of 16 years written parental consent is always requested prior to hypnosis taking place. A clear explanation of what hypnosis is and why it would be useful for your young person will always be given, providing an opportunity for any questions to be asked and answered.

Not all young people will be able to access and experience a deep relaxing trance with their eyes fully closed for a long period of time. This is where a ‘lighter’ open eyed trance is better suited – a hypnotherapist is trained to notice subtle changes in awareness (i.e. when light trance is achieved) and it is at that point that I would implant specific suggestions for change. This ‘awake’ trance can be achieved through an activity or when a young person is listening to a story (a metaphor) and is highly receptive to subtle and hidden suggestions.

At no time will your young person be out of control or in a coma like state. Their conscious mind will always respond appropriately to external stimuli even if they should inadvertently fall asleep! At the end of a session he or she will be brought back to full wakefulness in a calm and gentle manner to a familiar and friendly face.

Hypnotherapy can be highly effective. Each young person is different so every session is tailored to the needs of the specific individual and although results can be quick, the rate can vary from person to another. Following the initial consultation I would be able to provide details of the nature and number of sessions for change that would be required. To discuss this further:

Phone: 07779 211230
E-Mail: Heather@NLP4Kids.org