Dr Zack

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About Dr Zack
Frequently Asked Questions
  
Q: What happens in a typical session?
A: Every session is different, because even two people who appear to have the same problem, may require quite different approaches. Sessions are planned to last around 75 minutes, but are sometimes completed in 60 minutes or may  continue for 90 minutes (as long as there is not another client waiting). Fees are the same for shorter or longer sessions.
 
Usually we begin by checking the personal details and ensuring that there is nothing in the medical history that would make the person unsuitable for certain techniques (for example schizophrenia or untreated depression). Then we discuss the problem which the client wishes to work on, and agree on goals.
 
Depending on the individual's problem, personal preferences and personality, therapeutic techniques are chosen which I believe will be most suitable. Most sessions end with the person entering hypnosis for 20 to 40 minutes, but this is not necessary for everyone.

Q: What is hypnosis?

A: Hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness, similar to day-dreaming. Under hypnosis you are not unconscious, and will continue to hear everything around you, but may not feel like consciously listening or remembering.
Q: What is hypnotherapy?
A: Hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis to do therapy (i.e. make changes to achieve the clients goals). While you are in a hypnotic state, your mind is much more receptive to suggestions about how to solve your problems. Only those suggestions that have been agreed with you at the beginning of the session are used  in hypnosis.
Q: Do you just use hypnotherapy?
A: No, as an experienced clinician, I can use elements of counselling, cognitive behavioural work, NLP (neurolinguistic programming), and EFT (emotional freedom techniques). However, my main therapeutic tool is hypnosis.
 
My goal is to help you achieve your goals. I use whatever techniques I feel will safely help the most, but only with your full consent. 
Q: Is hypnotherapy safe?
A: Yes. Hypnosis is a natural state, which most people experience regularly, at least in mild form. Whenever you get engrossed in a TV programme or book, or find that you have driven somewhere but can't remember doing the driving, you have entered a hypnotic state.
 
Compared to other therapeutic techniques (like taking drugs to try to quit smoking), hypnotherapy is very safe.
Q: Can anyone be hypnotised?
A: Most people of normal intelligence, who want to be hypnotised, can be. There are some people for whom hypnosis is not recommended, for example people suffering from schizophrenia.
Q: Can a therapist really 'take over my mind'?
A: No. This is a common fallacy, based on stage or TV hypnotism acts - but remember these are acts, like a magician who appears to 'saw a woman in half'. Hypnosis does not enable anyone to force a person to do anything against their will.
 
To find out more, read this Telegraph article on Derren Brown.
Q: Can you guarantee that I'll stop smoking or pass my exam?
A: Sorry, no. The human mind is infinitely complex and unpredictable, and so it is just not possible to guarantee 'cures' or particular outcomes in individual cases.
 
However, I do guarantee that if at the end of your first exam nerves session, you do not feel that you have made significant improvements, I will arrange a second session free of charge.
 
For the stop smoking clinic, you can come back for up to three free booster sessions any time up to 6 months after your first appointment.
Q: What should I do if I have another question?
A: E-mail your question to me: p.zack@virgin.net