Hypnotherapy blog
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Lifestyle

Can Hypnotherapy help me with Anxiety?

July 21, 2022

A lot of people are experiencing anxiety throughout their lives. Sometimes easier and sometimes not so easy to manage. Anxiety is a coping mechanism of your brain to keep you alert. This can happen for many reasons, although many times anxiety just co-exists with us we do not like the feelings associated with anxiety because it can make us feel uncomfortable.

For millennia humans used to live in nature, surrounded by trees and flowers. Nowadays we have moved to more civilized societies but our brains have not evolved so fast with technology and the new lifestyle we now live our lives.

We now have to manage a working schedule with a lot of stress involved, finance, career, relationship, social media, etc.. our brains feel overwhelmed and sometimes they give us the signal of anxiety when we are in a similar (life-threatening) situation but without any predators. 

Why someone has anxiety is very personal and there is no one formula that can solve everyone’s anxiety.  Now I will introduce you to the idea of inner search, creativity, and let go. Hypnotherapy and hypnosis can actually help you tap into your unconscious mind and reprogram any negative thoughts, situations, or habits that contribute to your anxiety. Hypnotherapy can also enhance your creativity and discover new ideas and create new patterns that will increase the sense of relaxation in your life. 

With Hypnotherapy you can of course get rid of your anxiety and stress, allowing your parasympathetic system to start working again at its normal rhythm and increase your overall well-being. 

I have worked online and in person with different people and from my experience anxiety is easily curable and requires very few sessions.

Hypnotherapy is a drug-free – pain-free alternative method to get rid of your anxiety with very minimal effort from your side. If you would like to learn more about how I can help you overcome your anxiety with Hypnotherapy just contact me.

by Antonios Koletsas
Neuroplasticity Hypnotherapy
Lifestyle

Rewiring the Mind: How Neuroplasticity and Hypnotherapy Can Transform Your Life

July 17, 2025

At London Hypnotics, nestled in the heart of Islington at 364 City Road, I’ve had the privilege of helping people reclaim their health, happiness, and confidence using a powerful phenomenon known as neuroplasticity. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, chronic pain, IBS, or emotional trauma, the science behind how our brains change gives us real hope—and hypnotherapy is one of the most effective tools to harness this change.

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What Is Neuroplasticity?

Neuroplasticity is your brain’s incredible ability to rewire itself. For decades, scientists believed that the adult brain was fixed and unchangeable. But now we know that the brain remains plastic—flexible and adaptable—throughout your life.

Every thought you think, every habit you repeat, every emotion you experience, leaves a trace in the brain. Neurons that fire together wire together. Over time, those neural pathways become stronger—whether they’re helpful (like feeling calm before a public talk) or harmful (like the spiral of panic during IBS flare-ups). Neuroplasticity means that these patterns aren’t set in stone. They can be unlearned and relearned.

Where Hypnotherapy Comes In

Hypnotherapy creates the ideal internal environment for change. When you’re in hypnosis, your brain enters a state similar to deep meditation—deeply relaxed, yet highly focused and receptive. This isn’t sleep; it’s a natural, immersive state where your subconscious mind becomes more open to suggestion and learning.

In this state, we can bypass old limiting beliefs and install new, healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and responding. You’re not “zoned out.” You’re deeply tuned in—to yourself, to your inner resources, and to the healing you’re ready for.

The Neuroscience of Hypnosis and Change

Let’s dive deeper into what’s happening in the brain during hypnotherapy, and why it’s such a powerful catalyst for neuroplasticity:

🔹 1. Brainwave Shifts Enhance Suggestibility

During hypnosis, your brain shifts from fast beta waves to slower alpha and theta brainwaves. These are associated with relaxed alertness and increased receptivity, making it easier for the brain to encode new neural pathways.
(Gruzelier, 2002)

🔹 2. Reduced Default Mode Network (DMN) Activity

The DMN, responsible for self-referential thinking and mental chatter, quiets down in hypnosis. This reduction in overthinking makes space for deeper emotional and behavioural change.
(McGeown et al., 2009)

🔹 3. Strengthening of Executive Control Networks

fMRI studies show hypnosis enhances communication between the prefrontal cortex (decision-making) and the insula (bodily awareness), improving self-regulation, interoception, and emotional stability.
(Hoeft et al., 2012)

🔹 4. Sensory and Pain Modulation

Hypnosis changes how the brain processes pain and gut signals by reducing activity in the somatosensory cortex and anterior cingulate cortex, which handle discomfort and emotional pain.
(Rainville et al., 1997; Jensen et al., 2006)

Examples of Hypnotherapy and Neuroplasticity in Action

Chronic Pain and IBS

Pain is not always a measure of damage—it’s a product of how the brain interprets signals. Hypnotherapy helps retrain the brain to turn down the pain volume. For IBS clients, gut-directed hypnotherapy targets the gut-brain axis, often easing symptoms dramatically.
(Whorwell et al., 1984; Miller & Whorwell, 2008)

Anxiety and Stress

When you’re stuck in anxious loops, your brain is rehearsing fear. Hypnotherapy interrupts that rehearsal and replaces it with calm, control, and confidence—retraining your emotional response system.
(Hammond, 2010)

Depression

Depression carves deep grooves of negative thinking in the brain. Through guided imagery, cognitive suggestions, and future pacing, hypnotherapy rebuilds hope, motivation, and emotional resilience.
(Alladin & Alibhai, 2007)

A Collaborative Process

You’re not passive in this process. Hypnotherapy isn’t something “done to” you—it’s something we do together. Your brain learns and adapts with every session. And as you begin to feel better, you reinforce those new neural connections.

This isn’t about “positive thinking.” It’s about deep, sustainable change, rooted in how your mind and body work.

Your Brain Is Listening. What Are You Telling It?

Neuroplasticity means change is always possible. Your brain can learn to think differently, feel differently, and even heal differently. Whether you’re overwhelmed by anxiety, in chronic discomfort, or disconnected from your body—there is a pathway to healing.

If you’re ready to explore how hypnotherapy can help you rewire your mind and body, I invite you to book a consultation.
Let’s begin your transformation—together.

Antonios
Founder & Hypnotherapist, London Hypnotics
http://london-hypnotics.co.uk

References

Doidge, N. (2007). The Brain That Changes Itself. Penguin.

Montgomery, G. H., et al. (2000). “The effectiveness of hypnosis as an adjunct to cognitive-behavioral therapy for pain.” Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 68(1), 16–25. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-006X.68.1.16

Whorwell, P. J., Prior, A., & Faragher, E. B. (1984). “Controlled trial of hypnotherapy in the treatment of severe refractory irritable-bowel syndrome.” Gastroenterology, 86(6), 1662–1667. https://doi.org/10.1016/0016-5085(84)90013-9

Miller, V., & Whorwell, P. J. (2008). “Hypnotherapy for functional gastrointestinal disorders: A review.” International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 56(3), 279–292. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207140802070908

Hammond, D. C. (2010). “Hypnosis in the treatment of anxiety and stress-related disorders.” Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 14(2), 134–140. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2009.10.006

Jensen, M. P., et al. (2006). “Hypnosis for chronic pain management: A new hope.” Pain, 123(1-2), 195–196. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pain.2006.06.019

Alladin, A., & Alibhai, A. (2007). “Cognitive hypnotherapy for depression: An empirical investigation.” International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 55(2), 147–166. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207140601177939

by Antonios Koletsas
A tranquil hypnotherapy scene, person meditating with glowing mind, hypnotic spiral blending into London skyline, abstract subconscious symbols, soft blues and gold, professional digital art
Health, Lifestyle

What happens in a hypnotherapy session?

July 7, 2025

Hypnotherapy is a collaborative process where we work together to help you achieve your desired changes. While everyone progresses at their own pace, most clients notice meaningful improvements within 3 to 5 sessions.

Since it typically takes around 28 days to form a new habit, a block of 3 sessions (£350.00) is an ideal way to initiate and refine changes based on your response.

Key Things to Know About Hypnotherapy:

  • You remain in control—you can come out of trance anytime.
  • You cannot be forced to say, do, or reveal anything against your will.
  • You choose your level of trance, going only as deep as you’re comfortable with.
  • You’ll remember everything, just like in a normal conversation.

Before Your Session:

  • Avoid heavy meals, strong coffee, or alcohol beforehand.
  • Wear comfortable clothing.
  • If you wear contact lenses, be prepared to remove them.
  • Check out the FAQs to learn more about the trance experience.

It’s helpful to reflect on your goals beforehand. Consider:

  • What do you want to achieve?
  • What’s been holding you back?
  • How will you know when you’ve succeeded?
  • What steps are you willing to take?

During Your Session:

Your first session will last about 60 minutes, including an initial discussion about your needs, past experiences, and triggers. We’ll also outline a plan for your sessions.

I’ll explain hypnosis in detail and answer any questions before guiding you into a relaxed, focused state. Afterward, you should feel calm and positive, with growing confidence in the following days.

In follow-up sessions, we’ll track progress, address any new concerns, and continue reinforcing positive change.

To book an appointment or learn more, contact:
Antonios
📞 020 7101 3284
✉ info@london-hypnotics.co.uk

by Antonios Koletsas
gut-directed hypnotherapy
Health

Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy for IBS: Does It Really Work?

June 20, 2025

As a hypnotherapist specializing in gut-directed hypnotherapy, I often hear from people struggling with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and other digestive disorders. Many are curious—sometimes skeptical—about whether this therapy is legitimate, how it works, and most importantly: can it really help me feel better?

In this post, I’ll answer your most frequently asked questions about gut hypnotherapy, including cost, effectiveness, NHS options, and more.

1. How Much Does Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy Cost?

Private gut-directed hypnotherapy sessions typically cost between £100–£150 per session, depending on the therapist’s experience, location, and whether sessions are online or in-person. Most sessions are around 55 minutes.

While this may seem like a significant investment, many clients find it more cost-effective in the long run than relying on medication or frequent medical appointments.

✅ Tip: Some private health insurers may reimburse hypnotherapy if referred by a GP.

2. Does Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy Actually Work?

Yes—gut-directed hypnotherapy is clinically proven to work for IBS and other functional gastrointestinal disorders.

Multiple studies show it can:

  • Reduce abdominal pain and bloating
  • Improve bowel regularity
  • Lower anxiety and stress related to gut issues

Unlike medications that only suppress symptoms, gut hypnotherapy retrains your gut-brain axis—the communication highway between your brain and digestive system—so your body responds differently to stress and discomfort.

3. Is Gut Hypnotherapy Legitimate?

Absolutely. Gut-directed hypnotherapy is evidence-based and recommended by medical bodies such as:

  • The British Society of Gastroenterology
  • The American College of Gastroenterology

It’s not a quick-fix or a fringe therapy—it’s a structured, science-backed approach that’s been shown to help the majority of IBS patients manage their symptoms more effectively.

4. How Long Does Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy Take to Work?

Most people begin to notice improvements after 4–6 sessions, with full benefits often experienced around 8–12 sessions.

Factors that can influence your results:

  • Severity of symptoms
  • Stress levels
  • How regularly you practice techniques between sessions

Some people experience fast relief, while others need more time—but studies consistently show 70–80% of IBS sufferers see significant improvement.

5. What Is the Success Rate of Gut Hypnotherapy?

Clinical research reports success rates of 70–85% in relieving IBS symptoms through gut-directed hypnotherapy. Common outcomes include:

  • Long-term or even lasting symptom relief
  • Reduction or elimination of medication
  • Improved overall mental well-being

This therapy works because it helps normalize how your brain interprets gut sensations—providing natural, long-lasting relief.

6. Is Gut Hypnotherapy Available on the NHS?

Yes—but availability can be limited depending on your location. Some NHS gastroenterology departments do offer gut-directed hypnotherapy, but access often involves:

  • Long waiting lists
  • Strict referral criteria
  • Limited session numbers

If you’re seeking quicker or more personalized treatment, private hypnotherapy is a flexible and accessible alternative.

7. Can IBS Be Cured by Hypnotherapy?

While IBS is considered a chronic condition, gut-directed hypnotherapy can significantly reduce—or even eliminate—symptoms for many people.

Some clients go into full remission. Others manage flare-ups more effectively and regain control over their life.

By rewiring the brain-gut axis, hypnotherapy helps calm digestive hypersensitivity and restores balance—without relying on medication.

You Don’t Have to Stay Stuck

I’ve been in your shoes—trapped in the exhausting cycle of symptoms, appointments, and frustration. Today, I help clients break free using the same techniques that transformed my own life.

If you’re ready to explore gut-directed hypnotherapy, I invite you to:

👉 Book a free consultation
👉 Visit my website for client stories, FAQs.

Your gut is talking. It’s time to start listening—and healing.

by Antonios Koletsas
Insomnia Hypnotherapy
Health

Hypnotherapy for Insomnia: How it works and why it’s so successful.

June 6, 2025

Struggling with sleepless nights? You’re not alone. Insomnia affects millions of people, leaving them exhausted, irritable, and unable to function at their best. While medications and sleep hygiene tips can help, they often don’t address the root cause of the problem. That’s where hypnotherapy for insomnia comes in—a natural, drug-free solution that has helped countless individuals reclaim restful sleep.

At London Hypnotics, I specialize in using Ericksonian hypnotherapy to help clients overcome insomnia by rewiring the subconscious mind for deep, uninterrupted sleep. Here’s how it works and why it’s so effective.

Insomnia Hypnotherapy

Understanding Insomnia: More Than Just Sleeplessness

Insomnia isn’t just about missing a few hours of sleep—it’s often linked to stress, anxiety, racing thoughts, or even deep-seated subconscious beliefs that keep the mind overactive at night. Traditional approaches like sleeping pills may provide short-term relief, but they don’t tackle the underlying mental patterns that disrupt sleep.

Hypnotherapy goes beyond surface-level fixes by accessing the subconscious mind, where many of these sleep-disrupting thoughts and habits reside.

Does Hypnosis really work for insomnia?

Hypnotherapy induces a deeply relaxed, trance-like state where the mind becomes highly receptive to positive suggestions. In this state, we can:

  1. Reduce Nighttime Anxiety & Overthinking
    • Many people with insomnia struggle with a hyperactive mind at bedtime. Hypnotherapy helps calm mental chatter, allowing the brain to switch off naturally.
  2. Reprogram Negative Sleep Associations
    • If your subconscious has learned to associate bed with stress or wakefulness, hypnotherapy can replace those associations with feelings of relaxation and safety.
  3. Strengthen the Mind-Body Sleep Connection
    • Hypnotherapy reinforces the natural sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm), helping your body recognize when it’s time to wind down.
  4. Address Underlying Stress & Trauma
    • Sometimes, insomnia stems from unresolved stress or past experiences. Hypnotherapy can help release these emotional blocks, leading to more peaceful sleep.

Why Hypnotherapy is So Successful for Insomnia

Unlike medication, which only masks symptoms, hypnotherapy provides long-term results by changing the way your brain approaches sleep. Studies have shown that hypnotherapy can:

✅ Increase deep sleep by enhancing relaxation responses
✅ Reduce sleep latency (the time it takes to fall asleep)
✅ Decrease nighttime awakenings
✅ Improve overall sleep quality without side effects

Many of my clients at London Hypnotics report significant improvements after just a few sessions, often sleeping better than they have in years.

How Many Hypnotherapy sessions for Insomnia?

Most clients experience noticeable improvements in 3 to 6 sessions, though some may need fewer or more depending on their unique situation. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Mild to Moderate Insomnia (3-4 Sessions)

  • If your sleep troubles are recent or primarily stress-related (e.g., work anxiety, temporary life changes), you may see significant improvement in just 3 to 4 sessions.
  • These sessions focus on relaxation techniques, breaking negative sleep associations, and reinforcing healthy sleep patterns.

2. Chronic or Long-Term Insomnia (5-6+ Sessions)

  • If you’ve struggled with insomnia for years or have deep-rooted anxiety, trauma, or conditioned sleeplessness, you may benefit from 5 to 6 sessions (or more).
  • Deeper subconscious reprogramming is often needed to rewire automatic stress responses and establish lasting sleep habits.

3. Follow-Up & Maintenance (Optional)

  • Some clients choose occasional top-up sessions (e.g., once a month or as needed) to reinforce progress, especially during stressful periods.

What Affects the Number of Sessions Needed?

  • Your responsiveness to hypnosis – Some people enter a hypnotic state easily and see rapid results.
  • Underlying causes – Anxiety, PTSD, or medication side effects may require additional work.
  • Lifestyle & commitment – Practicing self-hypnosis and sleep hygiene between sessions speeds up progress.

Why Hypnotherapy Works Faster Than You Might Think

Unlike medications that only provide temporary relief, hypnotherapy rewires your subconscious mind, meaning the benefits continue improving even after sessions end. Many of my clients report:

  • Falling asleep faster within the first few sessions
  • Fewer nighttime awakenings after 3-4 sessions
  • Long-term improvements in sleep quality

Is Hypnotherapy Right for You?

If you’ve tried everything—melatonin, meditation, cutting out caffeine—but still find yourself staring at the ceiling at 3 AM, hypnotherapy could be the missing piece. It’s safe, non-invasive, and works in harmony with your mind’s natural ability to heal and restore.

Ready to Sleep Soundly Again?

If you’re in London and struggling with insomnia, I invite you to book a free consultation at London Hypnotics. Together, we can create a personalized plan to help you achieve the deep, restorative sleep you deserve.

📞 Contact me today and take the first step toward peaceful nights and energized days.

References

Morin, C. M., & Benca, R. (2012). Chronic insomnia. The Lancet, 379(9821), 1129–1141. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(11)60750-2

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.) (DSM-5).

Ohayon, M. M. (2002). Epidemiology of insomnia: what we know and what we still need to learn. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 6(2), 97–111. https://doi.org/10.1053/smrv.2002.0186

Elkins, G., Barabasz, A., Council, J., & Spiegel, D. (2015). Advancing research and practice: the revised APA Division 30 definition of hypnosis. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 57(4), 378–385. https://doi.org/10.1080/00029157.2015.1011465

Hammond, D. C. (2010). Hypnosis in the treatment of anxiety- and stress-related disorders. Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics, 10(2), 263–273. https://doi.org/10.1586/ern.09.140

Alladin, A., & Alibhai, A. (2007). Cognitive hypnotherapy for generalized anxiety disorder: A pilot study. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 55(2), 167–188. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207140601177897

Cordi, M. J., Schlarb, A. A., & Rasch, B. (2014). Deepening sleep by hypnotic suggestion. Sleep, 37(6), 1143–1152. https://doi.org/10.5665/sleep.3778

Bryant, R. A., Moulds, M. L., Guthrie, R. M., & Nixon, R. D. (2005). The additive benefit of hypnosis and cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating acute stress disorder. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 73(2), 334–340. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-006X.73.2.334

by Antonios Koletsas
Confidence
Health, Wellness

Unlock Unshakable Confidence: How Hypnotherapy Rewires Your Mind for Self-Belief

May 26, 2025

True confidence isn’t about arrogance or never feeling doubt—it’s about trusting yourself, embracing your worth, and facing challenges with resilience. Yet, for many people, deep-seated self-doubt, fear of judgment, and past experiences create a mental barrier that holds them back.

If you’ve ever:

  • Hesitated to speak up in meetings
  • Avoided opportunities because you felt “not good enough”
  • Struggled with impostor syndrome despite your achievements
  • Felt anxious in social situations

…you’re not alone. The root cause often lies in the subconscious mind, where negative beliefs shape our reality. The good news? Hypnotherapy offers a proven, natural way to reprogram these beliefs and build authentic, lasting confidence.

Understanding Low Self-Esteem: More Than Just “Feeling Insecure”

Low self-esteem isn’t just occasional self-doubt—it’s a persistent, subconscious belief that you are inadequate, unworthy, or incapable. Psychologists link it to:

  • Childhood experiences
  • Traumatic events
  • Negative self-talk

Research shows these beliefs often embed themselves in the subconscious mind, creating automatic thought patterns that reinforce low self-worth. Early trauma and negative conditioning in particular are strongly associated with long-term self-esteem issues.

Signs You’re Struggling With Low Self-Esteem:

✔️ Downplaying achievements
✔️ Over-apologizing or people-pleasing
✔️ Fear of failure leading to procrastination
✔️ Difficulty accepting compliments
✔️ Social anxiety or avoidance of new challenges

How Hypnotherapy Rewires Your Brain for Confidence

Hypnotherapy works by accessing the subconscious mind, where about 95% of our thoughts, habits, and beliefs reside. Unlike affirmations or willpower (which engage the conscious mind), hypnosis bypasses mental resistance to instill new, empowering beliefs. Stanford research shows that hypnosis changes brain activity in distinct and beneficial ways.

5 Ways Hypnotherapy Builds Natural Confidence:

1. Identifying & Releasing Limiting Beliefs
Hypnotherapy uncovers hidden blocks and replaces them with positive beliefs.

2. Rewiring Negative Self-Talk
The average person has 60,000 thoughts per day—80% of which are negative. Hypnotherapy helps break this cycle.

3. Anchoring Confidence Subconsciously
Through repetition and visualization, hypnosis can create subconscious anchors that boost confidence in real-world scenarios.

4. Overcoming Fear of Failure
Hypnotherapy helps reprogram your fear response, making new opportunities feel exciting instead of threatening.

5. Strengthening Self-Worth
You develop intrinsic confidence that doesn’t depend on external validation—because you believe in your core worth.

Why Hypnotherapy Works When Other Methods Fail

MethodLimitationsHypnotherapy Advantage
Positive AffirmationsOperates only at the conscious levelAccesses and reprograms the subconscious mind
CBTRequires sustained effort and conscious workWorks in a deeply relaxed, receptive state
MedicationPossible side effects100% natural and drug-free

(Source)

Final Thoughts: Confidence Is a Learned Skill

If you’re ready to:
✅ Silence your inner critic (try mindfulness exercises)
✅ Step into opportunities with self-assurance (watch a TED Talk on confidence)
✅ Feel comfortable in your own skin (explore body positivity research)

Book a discovery call with me to start your journey.

by Antonios Koletsas
Health, Lifestyle

Unlocking Your Potential: The Transformative Power of Hypnotherapy in London

May 20, 2025

Living in London, with its vibrant energy and relentless pace, can be exhilarating—yet it often comes with stress, anxiety, and burnout. Whether you’re battling sleepless nights, navigating career pressures, or struggling to break free from habits holding you back, hypnotherapy offers a proven path to reclaim control. At London Hypnotics, we specialize in guiding Londoners toward lasting positive change. In this post, we’ll explore how hypnotherapy in London can help you unlock your full potential.

Hypnotherapy

What is Hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic technique that uses guided relaxation and focused attention to access the subconscious mind. Unlike stage hypnosis, clinical hypnotherapy is a collaborative process where you remain in control. By tapping into the subconscious, we can reframe negative thought patterns, overcome fears, and cultivate healthier behaviors.

Why Choose Hypnotherapy in London?
London’s fast-paced lifestyle demands resilience. Here’s why hypnotherapy is uniquely suited to city dwellers:

  • Stress Relief: Combat the pressures of work, commuting, and urban living.
  • Convenience: Flexible sessions in Central London or online.
  • Expertise: Access to highly trained hypnotherapists attuned to urban challenges.

Common Issues Addressed by Hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy in London can help with:

  • Anxiety & Stress: Quiet the mental noise and regain calm.
  • Confidence & Performance: Excel in careers, public speaking, or creative pursuits.
  • Habit Control: Quit smoking, manage weight, or overcome insomnia.
  • Phobias & Fears: Conquer claustrophobia (hello, Tube rides!) or social anxiety.
  • Emotional Healing: Process grief, trauma, or relationship struggles.

What to Expect in a Hypnotherapy Session

  1. Consultation: We discuss your goals and tailor a plan.
  2. Relaxation: Guided into a tranquil, focused state.
  3. Positive Reinforcement: Suggestions aligned with your objectives.
  4. Empowerment: Leave feeling refreshed and equipped with tools for change.

Why Choose London Hypnotics?
As your local hypnotherapy experts, we stand out by:
✅ Personalized Care: Tailored sessions for your unique needs.
✅ Proven Techniques: Combining traditional hypnosis with modern CBT strategies.
✅ Central London Access: Easily reachable clinics in [insert specific areas].
✅ Client Success: Join countless Londoners who’ve transformed their lives.

Hypnotherapy in London isn’t just about solving problems—it’s about unlocking a life of confidence, calm, and fulfillment. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, habit change, or personal growth, London Hypnotics is here to guide you.

Ready to Transform?
Book your Hypnotherapy consultation today and discover how hypnotherapy can help you thrive in the heart of the city.

References:

1. General Hypnotherapy Effectiveness

2. Hypnotherapy for Anxiety & Stress

3. Hypnotherapy for Habit Change (Smoking, Weight, Insomnia)

  • British Psychological Society (BPS) – Hypnotherapy for smoking cessation:
    https://www.bps.org.uk/psychologist/hypnosis-quitting-smoking
  • Study on Hypnotherapy & Weight Management (International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis):
    Kirsch, I. (1996). Hypnotic enhancement of cognitive-behavioral weight loss treatments.

4. Hypnotherapy for Phobias & Performance

5. Hypnotherapy in Urban Settings (London-Specific Stressors)

by Antonios Koletsas
Losing weight
Health, Lifestyle, Uncategorized

Hypnotherapy for Weight Loss. How does it work, and why is it so successful?

May 13, 2025

By Antonios Koletsas, Hypnotherapist & Founder of London Hypnotics

As an Ericksonian hypnotherapist specializing in weight loss and gut health, I’ve seen firsthand how traditional dieting often fails—not because people lack willpower but because their subconscious mind is working against them. At London Hypnotics, my clients frequently come to me after years of yo-yo dieting, frustrated that they can’t break free from emotional eating, cravings, or self-sabotage.

The good news? Hypnotherapy offers a powerful solution—one that doesn’t rely on restrictive diets or sheer willpower. Instead, it works by rewiring the deep-seated beliefs and habits that keep people stuck in unhealthy patterns.

But how exactly does it work? And why is it so much more effective than willpower alone? Let me explain.

Why Diets Fail (And How Hypnotherapy Succeeds)

Most diets focus on what you eat, but they ignore why you eat.

  • Are you reaching for food when stressed, bored, or lonely?
  • Do you sabotage yourself after a small slip-up?
  • Do you know what to do, but struggle to stick with it?

These are subconscious behaviors, and no amount of calorie counting will change them. That’s where hypnotherapy comes in.

How Hypnotherapy Helps You Lose Weight Naturally

Hypnosis works by guiding you into a deeply relaxed state where your critical mind steps aside, allowing positive suggestions to take root. At London Hypnotics, my approach includes:

1. Breaking the Emotional Eating Cycle

Many of my clients don’t overeat because they’re hungry—they do it because food has become their comfort mechanism. Through hypnosis, we reprogram those triggers, so you no longer turn to food for emotional relief.

2. Eliminating Cravings at the Root

Ever felt like sugar or junk food has a magnetic pull on you? That’s not just willpower—it’s your subconscious programming. Hypnotherapy helps dissolve cravings by changing how your brain perceives unhealthy foods.

3. Building Unshakable Motivation

Willpower is exhausting. But when your subconscious mind is aligned with your goals, healthy choices become effortless. My clients often tell me, “I just stopped wanting junk food—it’s like my tastes changed overnight.”

4. Creating a Positive Self-Image

Self-sabotage often comes from deep-seated beliefs like “I’ll always be overweight” or “I don’t deserve to be healthy.” Hypnotherapy replaces these limiting thoughts with confidence and self-belief, making lasting change possible.

Why Hypnotherapy Works When Other Methods Don’t

It Gets to the Root Cause

Unlike diets that just treat symptoms (weight), hypnotherapy fixes the real problem: your mindset.

It’s Backed by Science

Studies show hypnosis doubles weight loss results compared to dieting alone (Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 1996). My clients often see changes in just 3-5 sessions because we’re working at the subconscious level.

It’s Natural & Sustainable

No pills, no extreme diets—just retraining your brain to support your health effortlessly.

What to Expect in a Session with Me

When you come to London Hypnotics, we’ll:

  1. Identify Your Triggers – What’s really driving your eating habits?
  2. Relax into Hypnosis – A calming, guided process (you’re always in control).
  3. Reprogram Your Mind – We’ll install new, healthier habits at a deep level.
  4. Lock in the Changes – So your progress lasts long-term.

Many clients leave their first session feeling lighter, more in control, and strangely indifferent to foods that used to tempt them.

Final Thought: Your Mind Is Your Most Powerful Tool

If you’ve tried diets before and failed, it’s not your fault—you just weren’t given the right tool. Hypnotherapy works because it doesn’t fight your mind; it works with it.

As I tell my clients:

“You don’t need more willpower. You need to change the programming that’s working against you.”

If you’re ready to lose weight without struggle, hypnotherapy might be the missing piece.

Ready to embark on your new journey? Book your Hypnotherapy consultation here.

References

  • Kirsch, I. (1996). Hypnotic enhancement of cognitive-behavioral weight loss treatments: Another meta-reanalysis. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 64(3), 517-519.
  • Allison, D. B., et al. (2008). Hypnosis as an adjunct to cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy for obesity: A meta-analytic reappraisal. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 56(2), 147-166.
by Antonios Koletsas
Health

Embracing a New Chapter: Navigating Empty Nest Syndrome with Positivity

May 8, 2025

Life moves swiftly. It feels like only yesterday you were staring at those two pink lines on a pregnancy test or hearing your baby’s heartbeat for the first time. From nurturing a completely dependent newborn to celebrating their first steps, words, and school days—time flies, and suddenly, they’re packing their bags for university or a new adventure. That’s when it hits you: your child isn’t a child anymore.

Empty nest syndrome

While movies might portray this stage as a liberating new beginning for parents, the reality is often different. Studies show that 47% of British parents experience empty nest syndrome, with 94% admitting they weren’t prepared for the sudden quiet at home.

This transition can bring loneliness, sadness, and even an identity crisis. But it’s also an opportunity—to rediscover yourself, reignite old passions, and embrace this next phase with optimism.

Understanding Empty Nest Syndrome

Empty nest syndrome isn’t a clinical diagnosis, but its emotional weight is very real. Whether your child is leaving for boarding school, university, marriage, or their own home, the shift from an active to a more passive parenting role can be challenging.

Common symptoms include:

  • Hopelessness – Without the daily routines of parenting, you may feel a loss of purpose.
  • Frustration – After years of involvement, stepping back can leave you feeling sidelined.
  • Emotional distress – Fear of aging, worries about your marriage, or sudden waves of grief are normal but should be managed.
  • Anxiety – It’s natural to worry, but excessive checking-in or sleeplessness may signal deeper stress.

4 Ways to Cope & Thrive

  1. Celebrate Their Independence
    This transition is a sign of your child’s growth. Encourage them, rather than making them feel guilty for leaving.
  2. Rediscover Yourself
    Have you put hobbies, travel, or personal goals on hold? Now’s the time to focus on your dreams.
  3. Reconnect with Loved Ones
    Strengthen your relationship with your partner, friends, or others in the same phase. Plan trips, date nights, or join a new community.
  4. Seek Support
    If emotions feel overwhelming, talking to a therapist or joining a support group can help.

How Hypnotherapy Can Help

Hypnotherapy is a powerful tool to reframe anxiety, process grief, and embrace change with confidence. By rewiring subconscious fears, you can shift from sadness to excitement for this new chapter.

I’m Antonios, supporting individuals overcome their issues. If you’re struggling with empty nest syndrome and want a positive, calm approach to moving forward, I’d love to help.

In our sessions, you’ll learn to:
✔️ Process emotions in a healthy way
✔️ Regain confidence and purpose
✔️ Build resilience for life’s transitions

Therapy is available in-person or online—whatever works best for you.

Ready to embrace this new phase with peace and excitement? Let’s talk.

Book a session with me with Hypnotherapy in London.

by Antonios Koletsas
Hypnosis in Action
Health

Is Hypnosis Real? How it Works and What Science says.

April 28, 2025

As a hypnotherapist in London, I often encounter scepticism about hypnosis. Many people wonder: Is hypnosis real, or just a stage trick? The short answer is yes, hypnosis is real, and scientific research backs its effectiveness for therapy, pain management, and behavioural change.

In this article, we’ll explore the science behind hypnosis, how it works, and its proven benefits—so you can make an informed decision about hypnotherapy in London or anywhere else.

What Is Hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a focused state of attention where individuals become more open to suggestion while remaining fully aware. Contrary to popular myths, you cannot be controlled against your will—instead, hypnosis helps bypass the critical mind to promote positive change.

According to Cleveland Clinic, hypnosis is a legitimate therapeutic tool used in clinical settings for:

  • Anxiety & stress relief
  • Smoking cessation
  • Weight loss
  • Pain management
  • Overcoming phobias

The Science Behind Hypnosis

Research shows that hypnosis isn’t just relaxation—it creates measurable changes in brain activity.

1. Hypnosis Alters Brain Function

A TIME article highlights studies using fMRI scans, revealing that hypnotised individuals show:

  • Reduced activity in the default mode network (linked to self-focused thoughts)
  • Increased connectivity between brain regions, enhancing focus and suggestibility

This explains why hypnosis helps people break negative thought patterns and adopt healthier habits.

2. Hypnosis for Pain Management

Healthline reports that hypnosis can reduce pain perception by up to 40%, making it a powerful alternative to medication. Studies show it’s effective for:

  • Chronic pain
  • Childbirth (hypnobirthing)
  • Dental procedures

3. Hypnosis & Behavioural Change

The UK Hypnosis Network explains that hypnosis works by accessing the subconscious mind, where habits and emotions reside. This is why it’s so effective for:

  • Quitting smoking
  • Overcoming insomnia
  • Boosting confidence

Debunking Hypnosis Myths

✅ Myth: Hypnosis is mind control.
Fact: You’re always in control—hypnosis simply helps you focus deeply on positive suggestions.

✅ Myth: Only weak-minded people can be hypnotised.
Fact: Research shows that people with higher imagination and focus respond best to hypnosis.

✅ Myth: Hypnosis is just relaxation.
Fact: While relaxation helps, hypnosis induces a unique trance state with proven neurological effects.

Final Verdict: Hypnosis Is Real & Effective

Science confirms that hypnosis is a legitimate therapeutic tool—not magic, but a powerful psychological technique. Whether you’re seeking hypnotherapy in London for anxiety, addiction, or performance enhancement, hypnosis offers a drug-free, evidence-based solution.

Ready to Try Hypnotherapy in London?

As a certified London hypnotherapist, I help clients overcome mental blocks, reduce stress, and achieve lasting change. Book a consultation today and experience the science-backed benefits of hypnosis!

References

  1. Healthline. (n.d.). Is Hypnosis Real? Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/is-hypnosis-real
  2. Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Hypnosis. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22676-hypnosis
  3. TIME. (2018). Is Hypnosis Real? Here’s What Science Says. Retrieved from https://time.com/5380312/is-hypnosis-real-science/
  4. UK Hypnosis. (2019). Is Hypnosis Real or Just Imaginings? Retrieved from https://www.ukhypnosis.com/2019/02/11/is-hypnosis-real-or-just-imaginings/
  5. Deeley, Q. et al. (2012).“Modulation of pain perception by hypnosis and fMRI.”
  6. Jiang, H. et al. (2017).“Brain Mechanisms of Hypnotic Responders.”
    • Findings: Highly hypnotizable individuals show stronger functional connectivity in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (suggestibility control).
    • Source: *NeuroImage, 152, 400-410.*
  7. Elkins, G. et al. (2007).“Hypnotherapy for Chronic Pain Management.”
  8. Patterson, D. R., & Jensen, M. P. (2003).“Hypnosis and Clinical Pain.”
  9. Schoenberger, N. E. (2000).“Hypnosis in the Treatment of Anxiety.”
  10. Green, J. P., & Lynn, S. J. (2000).“Hypnosis and Smoking Cessation: A Meta-Analytic Study.”
  11. Palsson, O. S. et al. (2002).“Hypnosis Treatment for Severe IBS.”Findings: 80% of IBS patients improved with hypnosis, with long-term benefits.
  12. Source: *Gastroenterology, 122(7), 1770-1777.*

by Antonios Koletsas
Panic Attacks Hypnotherapy
Health

Pain Management: How Hypnotherapy can help you feel good again.

April 24, 2025

Pain is a common complaint we get in our Hypnotherapy practice from our clients, as most of people at one point in their life will feel pain at some parts of their bodies. Painkillers is usually the first aid that comes to our mind and usually that does the trick. However, many people struggle with persistent pain that lingers even when medical tests show no clear cause. In other cases, pain medications lose effectiveness over time, leaving patients searching for alternative relief. This is where hypnotherapy can play a powerful role, addressing both the physical and psychological dimensions of pain.

Panic Attacks Hypnotherapy

What causes pain?

Pain is a complex experience caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. At its core, though, pain usually starts with the nervous system responding to actual or potential tissue damage. Here’s a quick breakdown of what causes pain:

1. Physical Causes (Nociceptive Pain)

This is pain from physical damage or inflammation:

  • Injury (cuts, burns, broken bones)
  • Surgery
  • Arthritis
  • Infections Your body detects damage through nerve endings called nociceptors, which send signals through the spinal cord to your brain. Your brain interprets those signals as pain.

2. Nerve Damage (Neuropathic Pain)

Sometimes pain is caused by damage or dysfunction in the nervous system itself:

  • Diabetic neuropathy
  • Shingles
  • Sciatica
  • Multiple sclerosis This kind of pain can feel sharp, shooting, burning, or like “pins and needles.”

3. Psychological Factors

Pain isn’t just physical. Emotions like stress, anxiety, or depression can amplify pain—or even cause it:

  • Tension headaches
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Somatic symptom disorders Your brain plays a huge role in how pain is perceived and how intense it feels.

4. Other Causes

  • Chronic inflammation
  • Cancer
  • Autoimmune diseases
  • Visceral pain (from internal organs, like stomach cramps or heart attacks)

Pain is your body’s way of saying “something’s not right.” But sometimes the system can go haywire and send pain signals even when there’s no real threat—especially in chronic pain conditions.

How Hypnotherapy can help with pain?

Hypnotherapy uses guided relaxation and focused attention to reach a trance-like state. In that state, you’re more open to suggestions that can help shift how you perceive pain.

It’s not like stage hypnosis or mind control—it’s more like deep, therapeutic meditation with a guide.

Here is how Hypnotherapy can help with pain:

1. Changing the Brain’s Pain Response

Pain isn’t just in the body—it’s processed in the brain. Hypnotherapy can retrain the brain’s pain pathways to reduce the intensity or emotional reaction to pain.

2. Reducing Muscle Tension & Stress

Pain often gets worse when you’re tense or anxious. Hypnosis can calm the nervous system, lower stress hormones like cortisol, and help relax muscles.

3. Altering Pain Perception

Under hypnosis, people can learn to reinterpret pain signals. For example:

  • Visualizing pain as a dial they can turn down
  • Imagining soothing sensations replacing the pain
  • Reframing the pain as “less threatening” so it feels more manageable

4. Improving Sleep and Coping

Chronic pain often disrupts sleep and mood. Hypnotherapy can improve sleep quality, reduce depression or anxiety related to pain, and help people feel more in control.

What does the research says?

1. Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses

  • A comprehensive meta-analysis of 85 controlled trials concluded that hypnosis significantly reduces pain intensity, especially in individuals with medium to high suggestibility. However, its effectiveness diminishes in those with low suggestibility.
  • Another meta-analysis found that hypnosis produced moderate to large reductions in pain across 18 studies, reinforcing its efficacy in pain management.

2. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs)

  • A University of Washington study demonstrated that clinical hypnosis reduced pain in nearly 90% of individuals with new spinal cord injuries. The study combined hypnosis with cognitive behavioral therapy to address automatic fear responses to pain.
  • In a randomized controlled trial, hypnosis was used as an adjunct to opioid treatment in patients undergoing major oncologic surgery. The results indicated that hypnosis effectively reduced pain and minimized opioid use.

3. Specific Applications

  • Hypnosis has been effective in reducing pain associated with various medical procedures, including burn-wound debridement, bone marrow aspirations, and childbirth.
  • It has also been utilized to manage pain in conditions like fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), cancer-related pain, and arthritis.

How many sessions do I need to feel better?

The number of hypnotherapy sessions needed for pain management can vary depending on several factors, including:

  1. Type and Severity of Pain – Chronic pain (e.g., fibromyalgia, neuropathy) may require more sessions than acute pain.
  2. Individual Responsiveness – Some people respond quickly to hypnotherapy, while others need more time.
  3. Underlying Causes – Pain with psychological or stress-related components (e.g., tension headaches, IBS) may improve faster.
  4. Your Goals – Short-term relief vs. long-term pain reprogramming.

General Guidelines for Hypnotherapy in Pain Management:

  • Mild to Moderate Pain: 3–6 sessions
  • Chronic or Severe Pain: 6–12+ sessions (sometimes with ongoing maintenance)
  • Supportive Care: Some people benefit from occasional “booster” sessions.

What to Expect:

  • First Session: Assessment, relaxation training, and initial pain-focused hypnosis.
  • Follow-ups: Deepening techniques, pain reprocessing, and self-hypnosis training.

To learn more about how Hypnotherapy in London can help you call 020 7101 3284 or send your email to info@london-hypnotics.co.uk

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pain_management

https://www.dovepress.com/a-randomized-controlled-trial-of-clinical-hypnosis-as-an-opioid-sparin-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-JPR

https://www.axios.com/local/seattle/2023/09/22/chronic-pain-relief-reduce-study-hypnosis

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00207140008410045

Chronic Pain & Hypnosis (Meta-Analysis)

  • Jensen, M. P., & Patterson, D. R. (2014). Hypnotic approaches for chronic pain management: Clinical implications of recent research findings. American Psychologist, 69(2), 167–177.

Hypnosis for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Pain

  • Palsson, O. S., & Whitehead, W. E. (2013). Hypnosis for treatment of IBS: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 74(4), 235–243.

Fibromyalgia & Hypnotherapy

  • Castel, A., et al. (2012). Efficacy of hypnotherapy in fibromyalgia syndrome treatment: A meta-analysis. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 60(2), 147–166.

Acute & Procedural Pain (Burns, Surgery, etc.)

  • Montgomery, G. H., et al. (2007). A randomized clinical trial of a brief hypnosis intervention to control side effects in breast surgery patients. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 99(17), 1304–1312.

Neuropathic Pain & Hypnosis

  • Abrahamsen, R., et al. (2018). Hypnosis versus cognitive behavioral therapy for neuropathic pain: A randomized controlled trial. Pain Reports, 3(6), e692.

Meta-Analysis on Hypnosis for Pain

  • Thompson, T., et al. (2019). *The effectiveness of hypnosis for pain relief: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 85 controlled experimental trials.* Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 99, 298–310.
by Antonios Koletsas
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