Hypnosis is a totally safe, natural phenomenon. It is simply a form of very deep mental relaxation, rather like meditation. In a clinical setting it is neither dramatic nor exciting, but don't let this give you the impression that it can't therefore be as powerful as you may have believed, it is in fact far more powerful than most people imagine. It is potentially as powerful as the human mind itself - and don't forget that it is the mind that is the root cause of most problems that people come forward with, whether it is a phobia, a state of anxiety or just a craving for cigarettes.

The state of deep mental relaxation is very pleasant and your mind will remain very clear throughout, however deeply you go. You remain the 'captain', the hypnotherapist is just the 'navigator'. There is no question of being controlled or manipulated against your will, you remain in control at all times. Hypnosis is obtained through focused concentration, for example on the therapist's voice. Once the deep state of hypnotic relaxation has been reached, the subconscious mind is able to absorb information, suggestion and other content which bring about the therapeutic changes.

Although almost all hypnotists/hypnotherapists use the word 'sleep' during an induction, it is purely a signal to get the mind to relax very deeply, sometimes referred to as 'hypnotic sleep' You may look as if you are asleep but your mind will remain very clear and in control. (Should you actually fall asleep it will probably be necessary to gently wake you up as no suggestions can take effect during real sleep and time may be wasted).

Powerful changes are made but only ones that you want. You will enjoy a definite feeling of increased control. Nobody can be hypnotised against their will. 'Being under' may not be what you've always believed it is. People go in and out of trances almost every day and are not aware of it! You just feel mentally very, very calm and content, relaxed, focused and alert, like during a good film at the cinema. At these times the subconscious mind is accessible. Afterwards you feel normal, very relaxed and positive.

You will not be asked to look follow a swinging watch or to look into a spiral ! It was realised years ago that such props are totally unnecessary. People of all ages can be hypnotised, so long as they are over four years old, do not suffer from serious mental disorders and are not under the influence of alcohol. Hypnotherapy is short term treatment that can bring about long term change.

I am Danni Phillips, a hypnotherapist, I work in Ealing, West London. You can read more about this fascinating and effective therapy and about me on my website www.hypnotherapylondon.me.uk