They will then be finding out some more general background information such as family, friends, work, relationships, hobbies etc together with any information that may be relative to the presenting problem including possible contributory factors. Their first aim of course is to make you feel at ease, therefore, they will be endeavouring to not make the session feel like a grilling.

Remember the therapist needs to find out as much as they can about you in order to choose the most appropriate techniques for you.

questions and concerns

It is also important that the therapist puts you at your ease so you will be given an opportunity to raise any concerns you may have or to ask questions. No question will be regarded as ‘silly’ or ‘stupid’. If it’s of concern to you then the therapist will take it seriously and answer it to the best of their ability and knowledge.

We would generally expect this first part of the session to about 30 minutes.

It is possible that in some cases no formal therapy will actually take place during this first session. This will be determined by the therapist based upon the presenting problem/ symptoms and how at ease you are. You will, however, be introduced to the experience of hypnosis, taught how to hypnotise yourself and given some general ego boosting suggestions before awakening.

The teaching of self-hypnosis is important. It is this that you will use to help yourself not only in between sessions but long after treatment has finished.