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Frequently Asked Questions

Explore answers of  your queries here.

Understanding Hypnosis

Hypnosis is one of the most misunderstood tools in the therapeutic world — and one of the most effective. These questions address what it actually is, how it works, and what you can expect.

Hypnosis is a natural, focused state of attention — not sleep, not unconsciousness. Physically it may resemble sleep: breathing slows, muscles relax, eyes close. Mentally, you remain relaxed yet alert. You can think, speak, and respond throughout. Measured by electroencephalogram (EEG), the brain typically shows Alpha or Theta waves during hypnosis — both of which indicate a conscious state.

No. Despite the common misconception, hypnosis is not sleep. Most people hear everything said during a session and may retain full recall afterward. On rare occasions, someone may relax so deeply toward the end of a session that they need gentle prompting to re-orient — but this is simply deep relaxation, not sleep.

Most people describe a deep sense of calm and physical heaviness, with a quiet, clear mind. You remain aware of your surroundings and in control throughout. Many find it one of the most restful experiences they have had — deeply peaceful without being asleep.

Yes. Anyone who feels safe, comfortable, and willing can be hypnotised. The ability is not linked to personality strength or weakness — it is closely connected to the capacity to focus and imagine. People already enter informal hypnotic states every day: the absorbed drift of a long drive, deep immersion in a film, or that threshold moment just before sleep. Formal hypnosis simply uses this natural ability deliberately.

Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention combined with deep relaxation. In this state, the mind becomes quieter, more receptive, and more open to learning, change, and internal re-patterning.

It is not something mystical. It works through well-established psychological processes that we already use in different ways every day, including:

• focused attention
• nervous system down-regulation and relaxation
• visualisation and mental rehearsal
• repetition of new thoughts and beliefs
• intentional self-instruction

In sessions, we create a structured mental framework aligned with what you want to change — whether that’s breaking a habit, building confidence, or shifting your stress response.

While in hypnosis, you begin to rehearse new internal patterns. Through guided imagery and suggestion, your brain starts to associate previously automatic triggers with calmer, more grounded responses.

Over time, this repetition helps shift how your mind and body respond in real situations.

Each session is recorded so you can revisit it and reinforce the process between sessions, allowing the change to deepen and stabilise over time.

The opposite is closer to the truth. Hypnotisability is not a sign of weakness — it reflects the ability to concentrate and engage imaginatively. In fact, people with strong intellect tend to understand and accept the process more readily, with fewer misconceptions getting in the way. The only people who genuinely struggle to enter hypnosis are those with significantly impaired concentration — not those with strong wills.

No. Historically, hypnosis was misunderstood and associated with mysticism — but that belongs to another era. Hypnosis is a science. It is studied, evidenced, and practised within mainstream healthcare, psychology, and performance settings. There is nothing supernatural about it.

Safety & Control

No. This is one of the most common misconceptions about hypnosis.

You do not lose control at any point, and you will not say or do anything that goes against your personal values, ethics, or wishes. Most professional hypnotherapists agree that deeply held beliefs and boundaries cannot be overridden — if anything feels misaligned, you simply won’t engage with it or you’ll naturally come back to full alert awareness.

You are in full control throughout the process.

Hypnosis is a collaborative process, not something done to you. The role of the practitioner is to guide and support your goals, not to direct or influence you outside of what you already choose for yourself.The structure and flow of each session is always discussed and agreed upon beforehand, so you know exactly what to expect. All sessions are recorded for your reference, and you are also welcome to record your own audio if you wish.

No. You will not say or disclose anything you do not wish to. That said, hypnosis can allow buried thoughts, feelings, or memories to surface more easily — which is part of its therapeutic value. A skilled, ethical hypnotherapist creates a safe space to explore and process whatever arises, always at your pace and with your consent.

No. Hypnosis is a state of focused attention, not a trap. Because you are always in control, you can emerge from the state at any point. All hypnotic states end — either guided by the therapist or naturally by the client. No one has ever been permanently stuck in hypnosis.

Yes. Anyone who feels safe, comfortable, and willing can be hypnotised. The ability is not linked to personality strength or weakness — it is closely connected to the capacity to focus and imagine. People already enter informal hypnotic states every day: the absorbed drift of a long drive, deep immersion in a film, or that threshold moment just before sleep. Formal hypnosis simply uses this natural ability deliberately.

In many cases, particularly where mental or physical health is a factor, your GP or specialist’s details may be requested. This allows us to work collaboratively with your wider healthcare providers and ensures they are kept informed — always with the goal of achieving the best possible outcome for you. This will always be discussed with you openly beforehand.

No. Hypnosis is a normal, natural state of mind that most people experience informally every day. It carries no side effects and is non-invasive. Used ethically and professionally, it is a safe and well-established therapeutic tool. Clinical hypnotherapy has been studied at leading universities worldwide since the 1930s and is practised across multiple professional disciplines.

What hypnotherapy can help with.

Hypnotherapy is highly effective for stress, anxiety, burnout, phobias, sleep difficulties, low confidence, performance blocks, unwanted habits, and emotional patterns that haven’t shifted through other approaches.

It works at the subconscious level — where most automatic thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are formed — allowing change to happen in a way that feels natural, rather than forced.

At its core, hypnosis works by shifting the automatic mental and emotional patterns that drive behaviour. By updating these internal responses, people can begin to respond differently in situations that previously felt automatic or difficult.

People often seek support in areas such as:

  • Public speaking and social confidence
  • Smoking and vaping cessation
  • Performance preparation (actors, singers, musicians, auditions)
  • Breaking unwanted habits (nail biting, skin picking, hair pulling)
  • Fears and phobias, including fear of flying
  • Mind–body related concerns influenced by stress and patterning
  • Sexual confidence and relationship challenges
  • Recovery and rebuilding emotional empowerment
  • Weight management and healthier behavioural patterns

Yes. These are specialist areas within this practice. For weight management, the focus is on the relationship with food, body image, emotional eating patterns, and the subconscious beliefs that drive behaviour — addressing the root rather than the symptom. For fertility support, hypnotherapy is used to reduce stress, regulate the nervous system, and address fear or emotional blocks that can impact the body’s natural processes. Both areas are approached with care, clinical awareness, and deep respect for what you are going through.

Trauma-informed practice is central to this work. If you have a history of trauma, you will never be pushed beyond what feels safe. Sessions are always paced to your comfort, and nothing is explored without your readiness and consent. The goal is always to create safety first — healing follows from there.

Yes, and in many cases this is the ideal approach. Hypnotherapy works well in combination with medical treatment, counselling, coaching, and other therapeutic modalities. Where relevant, your GP or specialist may be involved to ensure a fully integrated approach to your wellbeing.

Hypnotherapy is safe for the vast majority of people. However, it is not recommended as a standalone approach for individuals with certain conditions, including active psychosis, epilepsy, schizophrenia or some personality disorders. A thorough intake process is completed before any session begins to ensure hypnotherapy is appropriate for you. If it is not the right fit, you will be referred to the most suitable support.

Yes. Hypnosis and hypnotherapy are supported by a growing body of clinical research and are widely used in psychology, medicine, and behavioural health settings.

Studies have shown that hypnosis can be effective in areas such as stress and anxiety reduction, pain management, habit change), sleep improvement, and support for phobias and performance-related challenges.

Modern hypnotherapy is best understood as a structured psychological process that uses attention, relaxation, imagery, and suggestion to help shift automatic patterns of thought, emotion, and behaviour.

It is also commonly used alongside other evidence-based approaches, rather than as a replacement for medical or psychological care

What to except

No. Belief is not a requirement.

Scepticism is completely normal — and often helpful. What matters more is willingness, openness, and the ability to follow simple guidance in the process. Many people who are initially unsure still experience meaningful results once they engage with the work.

Hypnosis works through how the brain naturally processes attention, imagination, and repetition — not through belief or expectation.

Most people are capable of experiencing hypnosis if they are willing to participate and follow instructions.

It does not require any special personality traits or abilities. In fact, it is very similar to everyday natural states such as deep concentration, meditation, or becoming absorbed in thought or daydreaming.

The key factor is simply cooperation with the process and a willingness to engage

Each session begins with a focused conversation around your goals, your current patterns, and what you are looking to change. This creates clarity and forms the foundation for the shift you want to create.

Your first session is also Step 1 of the overall stepping-stone process. It is where we begin laying the groundwork for deeper change. A range of techniques are introduced, some of which are more advanced and need to be paced in gradually so the mind and nervous system can integrate them safely and effectively.

You are then guided into a relaxed, receptive state where targeted processes are used to work at a deeper level of the mind. Sessions typically run for 90–180 minutes, and everything shared remains strictly confidential.

 

The hypnosis portion of the session usually lasts 20–60 minutes and includes:

  • Guided relaxation
  • Focused breathing
  • Visualisation of your desired outcome
  • Structured suggestions aligned with your goals

 

Your personalised hypnosis session is recorded and provided as an audio track so you can continue reinforcing the work over the following weeks.

You will also be introduced to simple self-hypnosis techniques, giving you practical tools to regulate your internal state and support the change outside of sessions

No special preparation is needed. Come as you are. It can help to arrive having eaten — not too heavily, but not on an empty stomach — and to give yourself a little time beforehand to decompress from the day. Wear something comfortable. Come with an open mind and a willingness to engage. That is genuinely all that is needed.

Most people leave feeling calm, clear, and lighter. Some notice shifts immediately; others find changes emerge gradually over the days that follow as the subconscious continues to integrate the work. Occasionally, old emotions or memories may surface briefly — this is a normal and healthy part of the process. You will always be supported through whatever arises.

This varies depending on the individual and what is being worked on. Some people notice meaningful shifts after a single session. For deeper or longer-standing patterns, change tends to build progressively across several sessions. What most people find is that results feel natural — not forced — because the change is happening at the level where the pattern originally formed.

This depends on what you are working on. Some issues resolve in one to three sessions. Others — particularly long-standing or complex patterns — may benefit from a longer process. After an initial consultation, you will receive a clear recommendation tailored to your specific situation and goals.

This is more common than you might think and is not a cause for concern. The first session is often about familiarisation — your nervous system learning what the process feels like and building trust with it. Responsiveness typically deepens with each session. No two people are identical in how they engage, and the approach will always be adapted to what works best for you.

Yes. Online sessions consistently produce outcomes equivalent to in-person work.

Hypnosis works very effectively online. The process does not depend on physical presence — it depends on focused attention, guidance, and your ability to follow the process, all of which translate seamlessly over video.

In fact, many clients find online sessions just as effective because they are in a familiar, comfortable environment where they can relax more easily. This often supports deeper focus and engagement.

The structure of the session remains the same: we begin with a focused conversation around your goals, followed by guided hypnosis using the same techniques used in in-person sessions.

All you need is a quiet space, a stable internet connection, and the ability to be uninterrupted for the duration of the session.

Yes, with parental or guardian consent. Younger people often respond very well to hypnotherapy — they tend to have a natural openness and imaginative capacity that makes the process highly effective. Sessions for younger clients are always age-appropriate, gentle, and fully explained to both the child and their parent or guardian beforehand.  My practice works predominantly with individuals 18 years and over. Exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis, and where hypnotherapy is not the right fit for a younger person, I am happy to refer you to trusted colleagues who specialise in working with children and adolescents.

Practical Information: Reset with Shai

Yes. An initial consultation is available so we can connect, explore what you are looking for, and ensure this is the right fit before any commitment is made. This is a relaxed conversation — not a sales call. Your comfort and clarity come first.

You can get in touch directly via the contact page or send me a text message to arrange your initial consultation. Please do not call in case I am in a session. In all cases, I’ll endeavour to respond to you promptly. This is a relaxed, no-obligation conversation where we explore what you are looking for, answer any questions you have, and determine the best path forward together.

Individual session fees are stated upfront and will be confirmed during your initial consultation. For corporate work and customised engagements, pricing is scoped based on the specific needs, objectives, and scale of the programme. Payment options will be outlined at the time of agreement. Payment is accepted via bank transfer or card. Package and programme options are also available for individuals seeking a more structured, supported journey.

Yes. Alongside individual sessions, tailored programmes are available for those who want a more structured, supported journey. These are particularly beneficial for deeper pattern work, performance goals, or significant life transitions. Your options will be discussed during the initial consultation.

I ask for a minimum of 24 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations or missed appointments are subject to a 50% fee. I understand that life happens — please just communicate as early as possible and I will always do my best to accommodate you.

Like any professional healthcare or therapeutic service, results can vary between individuals. A session represents professional time, expertise, and a tailored therapeutic process — and as with seeing a doctor, psychologist, or any allied health professional, the service has been delivered even when outcomes differ from expectations. What I can promise is that every session is approached with complete commitment to your progress. If something is not working as hoped, we adjust. The process is always responsive to you. Refunds are not offered for completed sessions, but your experience, your progress, and your satisfaction genuinely matter — and that conversation is always welcome.

The P3 Reset Method

This work sits at the intersection of clinical science, performance psychology, and nervous system regulation — drawing on over 20 years of experience across healthcare and corporate environments. The approach goes beyond symptom management.

At the core is the P3 Reset Method — a signature three-phase methodology built on one principle: real performance change requires working at the level where behaviour is actually generated.

Most programmes add more — more strategies, more tools, more frameworks. P3 Reset removes what gets in the way. Because the problem is rarely a lack of knowledge. It is internal interference.

Only 5% of behaviour is governed by the rational mind — the conscious mind — the part responsible for logic, planning, and conscious decision-making. The other 95% runs automatically through the subconscious mind, driven by the limbic system — particularly the amygdala, the brain’s threat-detection centre. Under pressure, the amygdala hijacks the prefrontal cortex before rational thought has even registered what is happening. Reactions, habits, and stress responses take over. This is not a character flaw. It is neuroscience.

You cannot out-strategise a nervous system in protection mode. High performance doesn’t collapse under workload. It collapses under internal strain.

P3 Reset works directly with the subconscious — where behaviour is actually generated. That is why it works where other approaches don’t.

It addresses the deeper patterns shaping how you think, feel, and respond — so that change feels natural, not forced, and lasts. Every client is seen as an individual. There are no scripts, no generic programmes, and no one-size-fits-all answers. Just precise, personalised work focused on getting you real results.

Phase 1 — Stabilise.  Restore clarity and emotional regulation under stress. Build the internal foundation everything else depends on.

Phase 2 — Interrupt.  Identify and disrupt the automatic patterns undermining performance. Shift what drives the behaviour — not just the behaviour itself.

Phase 3 — Integrate.  Embed composed, consistent, high-performing responses in real-world conditions. Sustainable capacity. Clarity under pressure. Results that hold.

Ready to find out if this is right for you? An initial consultation is the best place to start.

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