ALAN DAVID KERSHAW

What is hypnosis? A state of relaxation and concentration induced by suggestion producing a state of heightened awareness. It is non-addictive and a natural manifestation of the mind at work. Will I be aware of what is happening? Yes. The predominant feeling for most people is: "It didn't work for me, I never went under" or "I didn't feel any different other than relaxed". Could I be influenced to do anything against my will or nature? No, in fact you would be shocked out of the hypnotic state immediately any such action was suggested to you. Is there any cause for concern? None whatsoever.

Hypnosis is a proven therapeutic aid. Hypnotherapy is a state of relaxation and concentration in which the depper parts of the mind (subconscious) become more accessible. Psychotherapy can help people understand and resolve their emotional problems, by enabling them to investigate and deal with the root causes (that usually stem from childhood or past experiences and caused some trauma). Psychotherapy looks at the whole person, it is a process of release, insight and change that can bring about healing and recovery on a physical, emotional and mental level. The difference between the symptoms and the cause Sigmund Freud (the father of psychoanalysis) always said that a person will lay their underlying anxiety at the door of their environment.

In other words people evaluate their problems or illness by the way they feel (i.e. the symptoms). For example, the symptoms of a headache may be caused by stress, the symptoms of indigestion may also be caused by stress of worry. In these situations, taking painkillers or something to settle the stomach would help alleviate the symptoms in the short term but do not treat the underlying cause. Therefore if the cause is not dealt with the symptoms will continue to reoccur, a bit like plastering over the cracks.