Whilst these are some essential elements, leading hypnotherapists, such as Paul Mckenna, have developed further insight into the mind, brain, trauma connection and work with not just hypnosis but NLP and Havening too.

Dr Spiegel, leading hypnosis expert and professor of psychiatry at Stanford University School of Medicine, simplifies what he acknowledges as ‘the many myths of what hypnosis exactly is’ with an analogy: ‘hypnosis is like losing yourself in a book – those times when the outside world fades away and a person is completely absorbed in what they are reading.’ He adds, ‘Whilst most people fear losing control in hypnosis, it is in fact a means of enhancing mind-body control.’

Whilst Hypnotherapy remains misunderstood as a life transforming technique, case studies show that it is beneficial in reducing depression, anxiety and trauma: however, in extreme cases and particularly for those suffering with PTSD, combining hypnotherapy with other forms of therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are actually most effective.

Sessions generally last an hour: the depth of the trauma generally dictates how many sessions are required.

Leading Hypnotherapists to visit:

London Clinic of Hynotherapy founded by Lydia Johnson

Harmony Hypnotherapy founded by award winning hypnotherapist Darren Marks