How does hypnosis work for older children? (9 – 16)

In a very similar way to how it works with adults. When our body relaxes comfortably and the mind is in a calm, day dreaming state, we are said to be in a light state of hypnotic relaxation.  Children frequently experience this kind of state quite naturally; when they are waking from sleep or falling asleep, or just becoming absorbed in thought or in imaginative play.  Children have a well-developed sense of imagination.

In this state the sub-conscious part of the mind is really receptive to positive suggestion and can come up with creative solutions to problems.

How does hypnosis work with young children? (6 – 12)

In a similar way as for older children, they will see / feel / hear things in their imagination, guided by me.  The process is similar to engaging in active imagination games, which they can do with ease.  Children spend much of their lives using their imagination and I get them to use this in a positive way to help them to overcome their problems.

Can I come into the session with them?

Of course.  In the case of young children I always encourage parents to stay, so your child will feel more at ease.  It can also put your mind at ease to see that the process is safe and positive.  Older children may prefer to be on their own; you should have a chat with your child and go along with their preference.  Sometimes, even some younger children are quite happy and even prefer to be on their own for the session.

I talk directly to your child rather than just ask you questions about them.  If I need extra information I usually ask them if it is ok if I ask mum or dad a question to see what they think.  In this way they are reassured that they are the important person in the room and their opinion counts.

What happens in the session?

First of all we have a chat about the issue they have come for.  We talk about how things are now, how long they have been this way and how they would prefer to think, feel and behave instead.  I ask them about the qualities they already have which will help them get over the problem and in this way elicit from them that they are strong, optimistic, determined or confident in other situations.  Focusing on a positive element will help with the solution.

Then, according to the individual, I may help them to relax in a similar way to the way I would do with adults but using appropriate language for their age.  Or I might just get them to imagine something as if telling them a story.

There will always be positive suggestions in some form and a boost to their confidence in addition to some guided visualization for overcoming their problem.

Can hypnotherapy force children to do something against their will?

Certainly not.  I am always happy to talk with them and answer any of their questions.  As a member of the Clinical, Therapeutic Hypnosis Association (http://www.ctha.co.uk/) I abide by a strict code of ethics.

Are there any side effects?

In the hands of an expert, hypnotherapy is completely natural and safe. Any side effects noticed are the positive ones: children report feeling happier and more confident than before.

What happens after the session?

Normally they are given a recording of the hypnotherapy part of the sessions so that they can use it at home to reinforce what we did in the treatment session. This as an important part of the therapy and regular listening to their CD, will speed their progress.

I usually suggest that they listen to their recording every night when they go to bed because this is a time when they begin to unwind. Occasionally, I may suggest that they listen in the daytime just relaxing in a chair.