What is Hypnotherapy?…
Our experiences throughout life are stored within the subconscious mind. Each experience is recorded – rather like a filing cabinet – holding both positive and challenging memories.
From these experiences we form beliefs, habits, thoughts and emotional responses. Some serve us well. Others may become limiting or outdated over time.
Hypnotherapy works with these deeper patterns.
A Skilled Communication…
Hypnotherapy is a skilled form of therapeutic communication that works with focused attention and guided imagination.
It uses hypnosis to create a heightened state of awareness, allowing access to subconscious patterns and responses. In this calm and receptive state, a trained hypnotherapist can use carefully structured language and therapeutic techniques to help update perceptions, beliefs, habits, behaviours and emotional reactions.
This process supports meaningful and lasting change.
Many of the techniques used are influenced by the work of Milton H. Erickson, widely regarded as a pioneer of modern hypnotherapy. His conversational and client-centred approach continues to inform the personalised and responsive style of therapy offered at Harmony Life Balance.
I am also trained in the renowned Elman induction method, originally developed by Dave Elman and known for its depth and effectiveness. I recently completed advanced training with Larry Elman and Cheryl Elman, continuing this respected lineage. The Elman approach allows for a focused and efficient hypnotic state while always maintaining client comfort and control.
In addition, I am a Certified Hypno-Oncology Practitioner, having trained with Garry Coles. This specialist training enables me to safely support individuals navigating a cancer diagnosis or cancer journey, working alongside medical care to help manage anxiety, stress, treatment-related challenges and emotional wellbeing.
Hypnotherapy Sessions…
In a typical hypnotherapy session, we begin by discussing your goals and the changes you would like to make.
I will ask questions about your medical history, general health and lifestyle to ensure the approach is appropriate and tailored specifically to you.
Harmony Life Balance is a non-script hypnotherapy practice. Each session is personalised rather than following a fixed script, allowing flexibility, responsiveness and a deeper therapeutic connection.
Is Hypnotherapy Helpful?…
Hypnotherapy may be helpful for individuals seeking support with a range of concerns. It works alongside your own motivation and willingness to create change.
It is commonly used to support:
- Anxiety and stress
- Sleep difficulties
- Weight-related mindset and habits
- Smoking cessation
- Confidence and self-esteem
- Performance enhancement (sport, public speaking, music performance)
- Imposter Syndrome
- Stress-related skin conditions
- Coping with and managing perceived pain
Hypnotherapy supports the mind-body connection and encourages healthier responses to stress and challenge. It works alongside medical care and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare provider.
Both Adults and Children…
Hypnotherapy has been used with both adults and children.
There is evidence supporting its use for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and NICE guidelines state that gut-directed hypnotherapy may be considered for individuals whose symptoms persist despite standard medical treatment.
Harmony Life Balance has supported children and young people with examination nerves, anxiety, fears and driving test preparation – helping them build confidence and move forward with situations they once found difficult.
Choosing a Practitioner…
It is important to choose a qualified hypnotherapist who has completed appropriate training in both the theory and practice of hypnotherapy.
You can check whether a hypnotherapist is registered with the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) by searching their register. Registration indicates that the practitioner meets national standards of training, qualification and insurance. You can also choose a qualified Hypnotherapist registered with the International Hypnotherapy Association.
‘Harmony Life Balance‘ is registered with CNHC, International Hypnotherapy Association and is a Certified Hypno-Oncology Practitioner. For more information click on the logos below for links.
If you would like to explore specific areas hypnotherapy may help with, please visit the ‘What Can Hypnotherapy Help With?’ page for further information. You’ll find other links there that can answer more questions for you. I hope you find them helpful.
Personal Change Towards Excellence
“Thanks to Michelle’s expertise I was able to shift some old financial patterns that were holding me back. Through a number of techniques she helped me release the old patterns and installed new beliefs that I’d written down prior to our session. Michelle also helped prompt new ideas that I hadn’t considered which also made a huge difference.
After just one session my focus had shifted and I started ‘noticing’ that I was making excellent decisions in my business. Making ‘good decisions’ about money was one of the beliefs we installed during our sessions. I’d highly recommend Michelle to anyone wishing to create change in any area of their life, she is truly amazing”
MD Walsall