What to Expect in Your First Session

Walking into a hypnotherapy appointment for the first time can feel a bit daunting, especially if you're not entirely sure what's going to happen. This guide takes you through the entire process, from arriving at the clinic to heading home afterwards. No surprises.

Before You Arrive

There's nothing you need to prepare. You don't need to bring anything, do any "homework" beforehand, or arrive having starved yourself or avoided caffeine (unless you want to). Simply come as you are.

Wear whatever you feel comfortable in. Most sessions take place sitting in a reclining chair, so there's no need to remove any clothing or change into anything special. Some people prefer loose, comfortable clothing, but it's entirely up to you.

If you're attending the clinic, there's parking directly outside. Aim to arrive about five minutes early so you can settle in without rushing.

For online sessions via Zoom, find a quiet room where you won't be disturbed for about 75 minutes. Have a comfortable chair ready and make sure your device is charged.

Arriving at the Practice

The practice is in a residential setting — quiet and discreet. You won't be sitting in a waiting room full of strangers. When you ring the doorbell, I'll meet you at the door and show you through to the treatment room.

The room itself is warm and comfortable. There's a reclining chair (similar to a first-class airline seat, though perhaps less glamorous), a regular chair, and a desk area. It's designed to feel calm and private.

The Consultation (About 30 Minutes)

The first part of your initial appointment is a conversation. We'll sit facing each other, and I'll ask you about:

• Your reason for coming — what you'd like help with, and how it's affecting your life
• Your history with the issue — when it started, whether anything triggered it, what you've tried before
• Your general health — any medical conditions, medications, or mental health history that might be relevant
• Your goals — what success would look like for you

This isn't an interrogation. It's a relaxed, open conversation. You can share as much or as little as you're comfortable with — there's no pressure to reveal anything you'd rather keep private at this stage.

I'll also explain how hypnotherapy works, what I think the treatment plan might look like (how many sessions, what approach), and answer any questions you have. If I don't think hypnotherapy is the right approach for your issue, I'll tell you honestly and suggest alternatives where I can.

The Hypnosis (About 30-40 Minutes)

Now the part you're probably most curious about. Here's exactly what happens:

Getting Comfortable

You'll settle into the reclining chair. I'll adjust it to a comfortable position. You can keep your eyes open at first if you prefer — there's no rush.

The Induction

I'll begin guiding you into a hypnotic state using my voice. This typically involves asking you to focus on something specific (your breathing, a spot on the ceiling, or simply my words) while suggesting progressive relaxation. Your eyes will naturally close. The whole process takes a few minutes.

What does it feel like? Most people describe it as deeply relaxing — similar to that pleasant, drowsy state just before sleep, or the feeling of being completely absorbed in something. You're not asleep. You can hear everything I'm saying. You could open your eyes and stand up at any point if you wanted to. You just won't want to, because it feels nice.

The Therapeutic Work

Once you're in a relaxed, focused state, I'll begin the therapeutic suggestions and techniques specific to your treatment. This varies depending on your issue. It might involve guided imagery, direct suggestions, cognitive restructuring, or other techniques. You don't need to "do" anything — just listen and let your mind respond naturally.

Some people worry they'll reveal embarrassing secrets or do something strange. You won't. Clinical hypnosis is nothing like stage hypnosis. You remain in control throughout, and you cannot be made to say or do anything you don't want to. Most people find the experience deeply pleasant.

Coming Back

At the end, I'll gradually bring you back to full alertness. This is gentle — a bit like being woken from a nice nap. You'll feel refreshed, alert and usually quite calm.

After the Session (5-10 Minutes)

We'll have a brief chat about how the session felt. I might give you some self-help techniques to practise between sessions, or a self-hypnosis exercise. Don't worry about remembering everything — I'll provide written notes or recordings as needed.

You're fine to drive immediately after the session. Some people feel slightly floaty for a few minutes, but this passes quickly. Most clients describe feeling notably more relaxed than when they arrived.

After You Leave

In the hours and days following your first session, you may notice some changes. These might be subtle — a slightly calmer response to a trigger, a little less urgency around a craving, sleeping a bit better. Sometimes changes are more noticeable. Some people don't notice much until after their second or third session. Everyone's experience is different, and there's no "right" way to respond.

If I've given you a self-hypnosis exercise or other homework, try to practise it regularly. The more you engage with the process between sessions, the better the outcomes tend to be.

Common Concerns Addressed

"What if I can't be hypnotised?"
Most people can be hypnotised to a useful therapeutic degree. It's a natural state. If you're willing and can follow simple instructions, you'll almost certainly be fine.

"Will I remember what happened?"
Yes, almost always. Hypnotherapy isn't about making you forget things. You'll remember the session much as you'd remember a conversation, though some details may be a bit fuzzy, like recalling a dream.

"What if it doesn't work for me?"
Not every therapy works for every person. If after two sessions you feel we're not making progress, I'll discuss this openly with you. I won't string out unnecessary sessions.

Ready to book? Get in touch for a free telephone consultation, or visit the fees page for pricing information. You might also find the myths about hypnosis guide helpful if you still have concerns.