Clinical Hypnosis in Altona Meadows
Focused attention and suggestion, alongside evidence-based therapy
A therapeutic technique that uses focused attention and suggestion, usually alongside CBT. It may help some people with anxiety, pain and some habits; results vary.
Quick Overview
What is Clinical Hypnosis?
Clinical hypnosis is a therapeutic technique that uses focused attention, relaxation and suggestion. It is usually used alongside other evidence-based approaches, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), rather than on its own. In a hypnotic state, some people find it easier to focus on helpful suggestions and imagery.
Despite what you may have seen in movies or stage shows, clinical hypnosis is nothing like entertainment hypnosis. You remain fully aware and in control throughout the process. You cannot be made to do anything against your will or values.
Research suggests clinical hypnosis may help some people with anxiety, pain and some habits, particularly when combined with CBT. Results vary from person to person, and hypnosis isn't suitable for everyone. Your psychologist will talk with you about whether it's a good fit for your goals.
How Clinical Hypnosis Works
A clinical hypnosis session typically follows this structure:
Induction - Your therapist guides you into a deeply relaxed state using progressive relaxation, visualisation, or other techniques. This is similar to the feeling just before falling asleep—you're relaxed but still aware.
Deepening - Once relaxed, your therapist helps deepen the trance state using counting, imagery, or gentle suggestions.
Therapeutic Suggestions - In this receptive state, your therapist offers carefully crafted suggestions aligned with your therapeutic goals. These might address anxiety, confidence, habits, pain management, or other concerns.
Emerging - Your therapist gently guides you back to full waking consciousness, typically feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Hypnosis is used as one part of a broader treatment plan. You may also learn self-hypnosis and relaxation skills to practise between sessions.
Conditions Treated with Clinical Hypnosis
What to Expect
Your First Session
Your first session includes a detailed discussion of your goals and concerns, an explanation of what hypnosis is (and isn't), and often a first hypnosis experience to help you understand how it feels.
Ongoing Sessions
Subsequent sessions build on previous work, often deepening the trance experience and reinforcing therapeutic suggestions. You may also learn self-hypnosis techniques to use between sessions.
Evidence & Research
Research suggests clinical hypnosis may help some people with anxiety, pain and some habits, particularly when used alongside cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Evidence is more limited for other uses, such as weight management or performance enhancement, and results vary from person to person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Therapies
EMDR
A structured, evidence-based therapy that helps people process distressing memories so they may feel less intense over time.
VR Therapy
A therapy that uses immersive virtual reality to help you confront and overcome fears, phobias, and anxiety in a controlled, gradual setting.
ACT
A mindfulness-based therapy that helps you accept difficult experiences while committing to actions aligned with your values.
Fees & Payment Options
View session fees, Medicare rebates, and payment options for this therapy.
* Session estimates are indicative only. The number of sessions required varies depending on individual circumstances, severity of concerns, treatment goals, and progress in therapy. Learn more about therapy duration.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Take the first step toward positive change. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.