Frequently asked questions

Hypnosis is a natural state of deep relaxation and focused attention that allows your conscious mind to quieten, making it easier to access the subconscious mind—where many of your habits, beliefs and automatic behaviors are stored.

Contrary to what you may have seen on television, hypnosis is not mind control. You won’t lose awareness, reveal your deepest secrets or do anything against your values.

Instead, you’ll simply feel calm, relaxed and comfortable while we work together to help your subconscious create healthier, more positive patterns.

Most people are surprised by how natural it feels.

In fact, you’ve probably experienced a similar state many times before without even realizing it. Have you ever become completely absorbed in a good book, lost yourself in a movie, daydreamed while looking out the window, or driven a familiar route and arrived at your destination with little memory of the journey? In each of these moments, your attention became so focused that the outside world temporarily faded into the background—a natural trance-like state that most people experience every day.

Clinical hypnosis simply guides you into this same relaxed state of focused attention with purpose, allowing us to work with your subconscious mind to help create the positive changes you want to make.

Your journey begins with a complimentary 30-minute consultation.

This is an opportunity for us to get to know each other, discuss your goals and determine whether hypnotherapy is the right approach for you. If we believe another form of support would better suit your situation, we’ll tell you honestly.

If we decide to work together, we’ll create a personalised plan designed specifically for your needs.

During your hypnosis session, you’ll be comfortably seated or lying down while I gently guide you into a deeply relaxed state using calming language, breathing and visualisation techniques.

While you’re relaxed, we’ll work with your subconscious mind using carefully chosen positive suggestions and imagery that support the changes you want to make.

Every session is tailored to you—there are no “one size fits all” scripts.

Most clients leave feeling lighter, calmer and deeply relaxed.

Meditation and hypnosis are both wonderful tools for improving mental and emotional wellbeing, and while they share some similarities, they have different purposes.

Meditation is primarily about becoming present, calming the mind and developing greater awareness of your thoughts without judging them. It encourages mindfulness, relaxation and mental clarity.

Hypnosis also begins with deep relaxation, but it has a different goal. Once you’re in a state of focused attention, we work with your subconscious mind using carefully chosen language, imagery and positive suggestions to help change unwanted habits, behaviors and limiting beliefs.

A simple way to think about it is this:

Meditation helps you become more aware of your thoughts.

Hypnosis helps you change the subconscious patterns that create many of those thoughts and behaviors.

For example, consciously you probably already know which foods are healthy and which aren’t. Yet many people still find themselves reaching for unhealthy foods without really thinking about it. That’s because habits are largely driven by the subconscious mind.

Hypnotherapy helps reinforce healthier subconscious patterns so that positive choices begin to feel more natural and automatic over time.

At Zen Hypnotherapy, we often incorporate mindfulness and relaxation techniques alongside hypnosis because the two approaches complement each other beautifully.

Most people describe hypnosis as one of the most relaxing experiences they’ve ever had.

You’ll feel deeply relaxed both mentally and physically. Your breathing naturally becomes slower, your muscles soften and your mind begins to quieten.

Many people say it feels like drifting somewhere between being awake and asleep. You may feel wonderfully calm, pleasantly heavy or completely absorbed in my voice, almost as though you’re daydreaming.

Although you’ll be deeply relaxed, you won’t be unconscious. You’ll still hear my voice and remain aware of what’s happening around you.

This deeply relaxed state allows your attention to become more focused and your imagination more vivid, making it easier to engage with the positive suggestions and visualizations that support the changes you want to make.

Everyone experiences hypnosis a little differently, but almost everyone leaves feeling calmer, lighter and more refreshed than when they began.

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and hypnotherapy are both designed to help create positive change, but they use different approaches.

NLP is generally more interactive. It focuses on the relationship between language, thoughts, emotions and behaviors, using a variety of practical techniques to help people change the way they think and respond to different situations.

Hypnosis begins by guiding you into a deeply relaxed state of focused attention before working with the subconscious mind through positive suggestions, imagery and visualization.

The two approaches have many similarities and are often used together because they complement each other well.

Both aim to help people replace limiting beliefs and unhelpful behaviors with healthier, more empowering patterns.

Whichever approach is used, one thing remains true: lasting change begins with your own willingness to change. No technique can force someone to change if they aren’t genuinely ready, but when you are motivated and committed, both NLP and hypnotherapy can be powerful tools for personal transformation.

Every person is different, so there isn’t a single answer.

Some people experience significant change after just one session, particularly for specific habits or simple fears.

More complex challenges such as anxiety, confidence, emotional eating or long-standing behavioral patterns often benefit from a personalised program of four to six sessions.

The goal isn’t simply to create short-term improvement—it is to create lasting subconscious change.

Sessions generally last between 60 and 150 minutes depending on the program.

Most people describe hypnosis as one of the most relaxing experiences they’ve ever had.

You may feel physically heavy or wonderfully light. Your breathing naturally slows, your muscles relax and your mind becomes calm and peaceful.

Many people say they feel as though they’re drifting somewhere between being awake and asleep.

You’ll still hear my voice throughout the session, and you’ll remain aware of what’s happening around you.

Everyone experiences hypnosis slightly differently, but almost everyone leaves feeling refreshed, relaxed and mentally clearer.

Yes.

Clinical hypnotherapy is considered a safe, gentle and non-invasive therapy when practised by a qualified professional.

Throughout the session you remain aware of your surroundings and cannot be made to say or do anything against your wishes or values.

Hypnotherapy isn’t suitable for everyone. If you experience psychosis, hallucinations or certain serious mental health conditions, you should first seek advice from your doctor or psychiatrist.

At Zen Hypnotherapy, your wellbeing and safety always come first.

No.

This is probably the biggest myth about hypnosis.

You remain in control throughout the entire session. You can speak, move, ask questions, adjust your position or even end the session whenever you choose.

Hypnosis is simply a state of focused relaxation—not unconsciousness.

Many clients tell me afterwards that they were surprised by how aware they remained throughout the experience.

No.

This is impossible.

Hypnosis is simply a natural mental state.

If I stopped speaking, you would either gradually return to full awareness or, if you were extremely relaxed, simply drift into a natural sleep and wake up normally a short time later.

Most people remember almost the entire session.

Some parts may feel a little dreamlike simply because you were so deeply relaxed, but you do not lose your memory.

Many clients are surprised by just how aware they remain during hypnosis.

Most people who genuinely want to be hypnotized can experience hypnosis.

The most important ingredients are your willingness to relax, your ability to follow simple instructions and your desire to create positive change.

Some people naturally enter hypnosis very quickly, while others simply need a little more practice.

The more you experience hypnosis, the easier it often becomes.

Many people become extremely relaxed during hypnosis, and it’s quite common to feel as though you’re drifting somewhere between being awake and asleep.

In fact, this is the ideal state.

The greatest benefit comes when you are deeply relaxed but still able to hear and follow my voice. You may feel heavy, dreamy or as though you’re daydreaming, yet you remain aware enough for your mind to engage with the positive suggestions and visualisations throughout the session.

If you drift into a deep, dreamless sleep, you are no longer consciously listening to the guidance. While simply relaxing is still beneficial, you won’t receive the full therapeutic value of the hypnosis because you are no longer actively engaging with the process.

For this reason, I will occasionally encourage you to remain gently aware throughout the session—not fully awake, but not fully asleep either.

Think of it as the peaceful space between wakefulness and sleep. That’s where hypnotherapy is generally most effective.

Hypnotherapy may help with a wide range of issues, including:

• 🧠 Anxiety and stress management
• 😴 Better sleep and relaxation
• 🚭 Smoking and vaping cessation
• ⚖️ Weight management and emotional eating
• 💪 Confidence and self-esteem
• 🦋 Fears and phobias
• 🎤 Public speaking
• 🎯 Motivation and procrastination
• 🔄 Breaking unwanted habits
• 🏆 Performance enhancement
• 🌱 Creating healthier thought patterns and behaviors

We’ll discuss your individual circumstances during your consultation to determine whether hypnotherapy is likely to help you achieve your goals.

Sometimes it is.

For issues such as smoking cessation, nail biting or a specific fear, hypnotherapy alone may be enough.

More complex challenges—including anxiety, emotional wellbeing or long-standing behavioral patterns—often respond best when hypnotherapy is combined with counselling, psychology or appropriate medical care.

Hypnotherapy is designed to complement healthcare, not replace it.

Success depends on several factors, including your motivation, your commitment to change and whether hypnotherapy is the most appropriate approach for your situation.

No ethical hypnotherapist can guarantee results.

However, when clients are genuinely ready to change and actively participate in the process, hypnotherapy can be a powerful tool for creating meaningful and lasting improvements.

Yes.

Research and experience have shown that online hypnotherapy can be just as effective as face-to-face sessions for many people.

The most important factors are that you feel comfortable, have a reliable internet connection and are able to relax in a quiet, private environment without interruptions.

Many clients actually prefer online sessions because they’re already in the comfort of their own home.

Preparing for your 20-minute Clarity Call is easy—there’s nothing you need to do beforehand.

Whether your Clarity Call is conducted face to face, via Zoom or through a video questionnaire, its purpose is simply to gain a clear understanding of your goals, answer your questions and determine whether hypnotherapy is the right approach for you.

We’ll discuss what you’d like to achieve, what you’ve already tried, any obstacles you’ve experienced and whether I believe hypnotherapy can genuinely help you. If I don’t believe it’s the right solution for your situation, I’ll tell you honestly and may recommend a more appropriate course of action.

There are no right or wrong answers, and there’s nothing you need to prepare. Simply come with an open mind and be ready to talk openly about the changes you’d like to make.

If we decide to work together, preparing for your hypnosis session becomes much more important.

For certain programs, including Smoking & Vaping Cessation and Weight Management, you’ll receive a detailed preparation guide before your first session. These instructions have been developed to help you get the greatest possible benefit from your hypnosis experience and should be followed carefully.

For all hypnosis sessions, I recommend the following:

Create a peaceful environment

Choose a quiet, private room where you won’t be disturbed. Dim the lights if possible, minimise outside noise and create a space where you can completely relax without interruption.

Sit comfortably

For most sessions, I recommend sitting in a comfortable chair or recliner with good head and neck support rather than lying flat. Sitting upright helps you remain in the ideal state of deep relaxation while reducing the likelihood of drifting into deep sleep.

If you tend to feel cool while relaxing, have a blanket nearby. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and remove anything that feels restrictive.

Remove all distractions

Switch your phone to silent, turn off notifications on all devices, close unnecessary computer programs and let family members or housemates know that you shouldn’t be interrupted. If possible, arrange for pets to be in another room for the duration of the session.

Give your mind time to unwind

For at least one hour before your session, avoid social media, emails, television, news, work and other highly stimulating digital content. This allows your mind to begin slowing down naturally before hypnosis even begins.

Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs

Please avoid alcohol or recreational drugs before your session, as they can interfere with your concentration and your ability to engage fully with the hypnosis process.

Download and test your recording

If you’ve been provided with a personalized hypnosis recording, please download it to the device you’ll be using for your session—whether that’s your smartphone, tablet or computer—as early as possible.

If you’re using Bluetooth headphones or AirPods, pair them with your device ahead of time and test that everything is working correctly. I also recommend playing a minute or two of the recording to check the volume and sound quality.

Doing this well before your session helps avoid unnecessary stress or technical issues and allows you to begin your hypnosis feeling calm and relaxed.

Use quality headphones

Good-quality headphones, Bluetooth headphones or AirPods are strongly recommended. They improve sound quality, reduce outside distractions and allow you to become fully immersed in the hypnosis experience.

Before you begin, make sure your devices are fully charged, notifications are turned off and your audio is working correctly.

Have water nearby

Keep a glass or bottle of water within easy reach. Occasionally your mouth may become dry during deep relaxation, and having water nearby means you won’t need to interrupt your session.

Optional: Keep a rubber band nearby

Some personalised programs may include a simple anchoring technique using a loose rubber band worn around your wrist. If this forms part of your program, I’ll explain exactly how and when to use it.

Give yourself time afterwards

If possible, avoid scheduling important meetings or rushing straight back into a busy day immediately after your session. Allow yourself at least 15 to 30 minutes afterwards to absorb the experience and enjoy the sense of calm before returning to your normal routine.

Come with an open mind

You don’t need to “try” to be hypnotized or wonder whether you’re doing it correctly. Simply relax, listen to my voice and allow the experience to unfold naturally. The more willing you are to engage with the process, the more rewarding your experience is likely to be.

Finally, remember that hypnotherapy is a partnership. I will guide you throughout the process, but lasting change comes from your willingness to participate, follow any preparation instructions, listen to your personalised recordings as recommended and genuinely commit to the positive changes you want to create.

A little preparation beforehand can make a remarkable difference to the depth of your relaxation and the overall effectiveness of your session.

Absolutely.

Your privacy is one of my highest priorities, and I understand that sharing personal thoughts, experiences and emotions requires trust.

To protect your privacy, I do not require your full name, home address or other unnecessary identifying information. In most cases, your first name (or even a nickname) and your email address are all that is needed to communicate with you or prepare your personalised hypnosis recording.

Everything you share with me—whether during your consultation, questionnaire, video interview or hypnotherapy sessions—is treated as strictly private and confidential. Your information is used only for the purpose of providing your hypnotherapy program and is never sold, shared or disclosed to any third party, except where required by law.

If your program includes a questionnaire, video interview or personalised hypnosis recording, any interview recordings, transcripts and supporting materials are securely deleted within 30 days after your recording has been delivered, unless you specifically ask me to retain them for future updates or additional recordings.

You are always in control of what you choose to share. If there is anything you would prefer not to discuss, simply let me know. While the more I understand about your goals and experiences, the more personalised your program can be, you should never feel pressured to disclose anything that makes you uncomfortable.

My goal is to provide a safe, respectful and supportive environment where you can relax, knowing that your personal information is handled with professionalism, discretion and genuine care.

Yes.

Depending on your personalised program, you may receive a professionally recorded hypnosis session to reinforce the work completed during your appointments.

Listening regularly between sessions can help strengthen your progress and support lasting subconscious change.

Many clients continue listening long after their program has finished as part of their ongoing wellbeing routine.

At Zen Hypnotherapy, we believe that professional hypnotherapy should be accessible without compromising on quality.

That’s why every new client begins with a 20-minute Clarity Call for just $49.

During your Clarity Call, we’ll discuss your goals, answer any questions you may have and determine whether hypnotherapy is the right approach for your situation. If I believe another form of support would be more appropriate, I’ll tell you honestly.

Because every person and every goal is different, there isn’t a single fee that suits everyone.

Some people may only require a single personalised session, while others may benefit from a structured program over several weeks. The investment depends on your individual circumstances and the program that’s right for you.

You’ll find current pricing for all of our programs on the Pricing page of this website, and I’m also happy to explain all available options during your Clarity Call. There is never any obligation to proceed.

One of the ways I’m able to keep my fees affordable is by combining modern technology with personalised care.

Rather than requiring multiple in-person appointments, many of my programs include a detailed video questionnaire, allowing me to gain a deep understanding of your goals before creating your personalised hypnosis program. Your hypnosis is then professionally recorded, allowing you to listen repeatedly in the comfort of your own home. Repetition is one of the keys to reinforcing positive subconscious change, and having your own recording means you can continue benefiting from it long after your session has finished.

Although this approach makes hypnotherapy more accessible and affordable, every paid program is still individually created for you. Your recording is based on your personal circumstances, goals, motivations and the information you share with me—it is never a generic script.

If you’re not quite ready for a personalized program, I also offer a growing library of free hypnosis recordings. These sessions are designed to help with general relaxation, better sleep, stress reduction, confidence and everyday anxiety. While they aren’t personalized to your individual circumstances, many people find them to be a wonderful introduction to hypnosis and an excellent way to experience its calming benefits before deciding whether a bespoke program is right for them.

Explore our free hypnosis library here: Free Videos & Audio Recordings