Clinical Hypnosis
A gentle, evidence-informed tool for change
For when you know what you want to change, but talking about it hasn't shifted it.
Sometimes the patterns that hold us back aren't really about insight . You already understand why you feel anxious, why the habit persists, why the guilt won't lift. Clinical hypnosis works differently to talk-based counselling: instead of analysing a pattern, it works with it directly, using focused attention and relaxation to help old responses loosen and new ones take hold.
What is clinical hypnosis?
Clinical hypnosis is a therapeutic technique that uses focused attention, relaxation, and guided imagery to help you access a calmer, more receptive state of mind. In this state, the part of your mind that's usually busy analysing, judging, or resisting tends to quieten, which can make it easier to explore new ways of thinking, respond differently to old patterns, or simply feel more settled in your body.
You remain aware and in control throughout. You can hear everything, choose to open your eyes at any time, and nothing happens without your consent.
Common myths about hypnosis
Myth 1: You lose control or "black out." In reality, you're aware and present the whole time. You can speak, move, or stop the session whenever you choose.
Myth 2: The hypnotherapist can make you do or say things against your will. Hypnosis isn't mind control. You won't do anything that goes against your values or that you wouldn't otherwise be willing to do.
Myth 3: Only certain "suggestible" people can be hypnotised. Most people can experience a hypnotic state to some degree, it doesn't require any special personality trait, and it often becomes easier and deeper with practice.
Myth 4: It's the same as what you see in stage shows. Stage hypnosis is entertainment, built around volunteers selected for their willingness to perform. Clinical hypnosis is a therapeutic tool used in a calm, private, one-to-one setting with a clear purpose tied to your goals.
Myth 5: You might get "stuck" in hypnosis. You can bring yourself out of a hypnotic state at any time, it's simply a form of focused relaxation, not sleep or unconsciousness.
How clinical hypnosis may help
People explore clinical hypnosis for a range of reasons, often alongside ongoing counselling work. It may support:
Managing stress and anxiety
Pain relief
Building calmer responses to overwhelm
Addictive habits
Working through unhelpful habits or patterns
Supporting confidence and self-belief
Processing difficult emotions at a gentle pace
Improving sleep and winding down more easily
Chronic pain (as a complementary approach to pain management, alongside medical care)
Self-worth and self-esteem
Guilt and shame that talk therapy hasn't fully shifted
Everyone responds differently, and hypnosis works best as part of a broader, personalised approach rather than a guaranteed fix. We'll talk through what you're hoping for and whether it feels like a good fit for you.
What to expect in a session
Sessions are conducted via telehealth, in the comfort of your own space. We'll begin with a short conversation about what's on your mind and what you'd like to explore, before moving into the relaxation and hypnosis component. Throughout, I'll guide you with a calm, clear voice, and you're always free to pause, ask questions, or stop.
In order to embed new positive commands effectively, you will need between 4 to 6 sessions, sometimes more depending on what you need to work on.
Sessions are recorded so you can listen to it as many times as needed.
Is clinical hypnosis right for you?
Clinical hypnosis isn't a replacement for medical or psychiatric treatment, and it isn't suitable for everyone or every concern. If you're unsure whether it's a good fit, the free 15-minute consultation is a good place to start , we can talk through what you're hoping for and whether this approach makes sense alongside your counselling.
Please note that I do not provide clinical diagnosis, medication advice, or crisis response. If you require immediate help, please call 000, Lifeline (13 11 14), or SA's Mental Health Triage Service (13 14 65).