Frequently Asked Questions

Are sessions face-to-face or online?

You can choose whichever option feels most comfortable for you. Sessions are available face-to-face in my therapy room just outside Kilmarnock, or online via Zoom, so distance is no barrier.

How many sessions will I need?

For equestrian confidence issues, most riders achieve the results they want in just 2 sessions, usually spaced 7–14 days apart.

For other issues, the number of sessions can vary depending on the individual and what you would like help with, so please feel free to contact me to discuss your situation.

What happens in the first session?

The first session is all about getting to know each other. For hypnotherapy to be as effective as possible, it’s important that you feel comfortable, relaxed and able to trust the process.

I’ll ask you lots of questions about you, your experiences and what you would like to achieve. This helps me tailor future sessions specifically to you.

I’ll also fully explain how hypnotherapy and EMDR work, what you can expect during the sessions, and how it will feel. You’ll then have a gentle introduction to both EMDR and hypnosis so you can experience them for yourself and ensure you feel completely comfortable.

During hypnosis, I will also give you an “anchor” - a technique you can use after the session to recreate feelings of calmness, confidence and control whenever you need them.

Does it matter if I don’t know what has caused my issue?

Not at all. Many of my clients don’t fully know what has caused their issue or anxiety. Together, we can identify and address this during the therapeutic process, often whilst in hypnosis during the second session.

Are there any age restrictions?

I generally work with children aged 8 and above, although I have occasionally worked successfully with younger children too.

The most important thing is that the child is able to engage with me in some way and share how they are feeling. That said, I have also helped very shy children who initially found it difficult to communicate openly.

Will I lose control during hypnosis?

No. Hypnosis is not mind control and you cannot be made to do anything against your wishes. You are aware throughout the session and can speak, move or stop at any time.

What if I struggle to relax or switch off?

That’s absolutely fine and very common, especially for people who experience anxiety. You do not need to “do hypnosis perfectly” for it to work. I will guide you through the process gently at your own pace.

Can online sessions really work?

Yes — online hypnotherapy can be just as effective as face-to-face sessions. As long as you have a quiet, comfortable space and a stable internet connection, sessions work extremely well over Zoom.

What does hypnosis feel like?

Most people describe hypnosis as feeling deeply relaxed & calm (similar to just before you drop off to sleep). Some people feel very heavy and relaxed, whilst others simply feel peaceful and comfortable. Everyone experiences hypnosis slightly differently, but you remain aware throughout and are always fully in control.

Will I lose control during hypnosis?

No, absolutely not. Hypnosis is not mind control and you cannot be made to do anything against your wishes. You are aware throughout the session and can speak, move or stop at any time. Hypnotherapy simply helps you access a calmer, more focused state where positive change can happen more easily.

Can everyone be hypnotised?

Most people can be hypnotised if they are willing to engage with the process. You do not need to be “good” at hypnosis or have a certain type of personality. The most important thing is simply being open to the experience and wanting positive change.

What if I can’t relax or switch off?

That’s completely fine and actually very common, especially for people who struggle with anxiety or overthinking. You do not need to “try hard” or clear your mind for hypnotherapy to work. I will guide you through the process gently and naturally at your own pace.

Do I need to tell you everything?

No. You will never be pressured to share anything you do not feel comfortable talking about. You only need to share what feels relevant and manageable for you. Sessions are always supportive, respectful and non-judgemental.

Is hypnotherapy confidential?

Yes, completely. Everything discussed during sessions is treated in the strictest confidence.

What happens after the session?

Most people leave feeling calmer, lighter and more positive. Some clients notice changes immediately, whilst for others the changes happen more gradually over the following days and weeks as the mind continues processing the work we have done together.

How long does each session last?

Sessions usually last around 1 hour depending on the type of session and what we are working on.

Can hypnotherapy help if I’ve struggled for years?

Yes. Many of my clients come to me after struggling with an issue for a long time. Often people are surprised at how quickly things can begin to shift once we start working with the subconscious mind rather than just trying to “push through” consciously.

Can I still benefit if I’m sceptical?

Yes. You do not have to completely “believe” in hypnosis for it to work. It is very normal to feel unsure or curious beforehand. As long as you are open to the process and willing to engage with it, hypnotherapy can still be very effective.

Do you work with nervous riders before competitions?

Yes. I work with riders experiencing competition nerves, anxiety, overthinking, loss of confidence, pressure, fear of jumping, hacking worries and many other confidence-related issues both at home and in competition environments.

Can you help after a fall or confidence knock?

Yes. Many riders come to me after falls, accidents, near misses or situations that have shaken their confidence. Even when physically recovered, the mind can continue holding onto fear or anticipation of something going wrong. Hypnotherapy and EMDR can help process these experiences and rebuild confidence.

Can parents stay during children’s sessions?

Yes, absolutely. Depending on the child’s age, personality and comfort levels, parents are welcome to stay for all or part of the session if that helps the child feel more relaxed and secure. For children under 12, I would encourage a parent to be present for the first session where I explain the process.

What should I do before my session?

There is nothing special you need to do beforehand. Simply wear comfortable clothing, ensure you are well hydrated and try to arrive feeling as relaxed as possible. For online sessions, please make sure you have a quiet, comfortable space where you are unlikely to be disturbed.

Will I remember everything afterwards?

Most people remember most, if not all, of the session. Hypnosis is not the same as being asleep or unconscious. Many clients actually say they feel very aware throughout.

Is EMDR safe?

Yes. EMDR is a widely used therapeutic approach designed to help the brain process difficult memories, emotions and experiences in a safe and controlled way. Sessions are always guided gently and at a pace that feels manageable for you.

Can online hypnotherapy be as effective as face-to-face?

Yes. Online hypnotherapy can be just as effective as face-to-face sessions and many clients actually find it easier to relax in their own home environment.

What if I get emotional during a session?

That is absolutely okay and nothing to worry about. Sometimes emotions naturally surface during therapy sessions, particularly when working through anxiety, confidence issues or past experiences. Sessions are always supportive and you will be guided through the process safely and gently.