Frequently Asked Questions
What is psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is a form of therapy where psychological methods, particularly when based on regular personal interaction, are used to help a person change behaviour and overcome problems in desired ways. It aims to improve an individual's well-being and mental health, to resolve or mitigate troublesome behaviours, beliefs, compulsions, thoughts, or emotions, and to improve relationships and social skills.
How does psychotherapy differ from hypnotherapy?
Psychotherapy is a therapeutic intervention where talking and psychological techniques are used to help individuals understand and overcome personal and psychological challenges. It's often focused on long-term patterns, exploring deep-seated beliefs, and resolving complex emotional issues.
Hypnotherapy, on the other hand, utilises hypnosis to achieve a state of focused attention and increased suggestibility to facilitate change. This method can quickly address specific problems like smoking cessation or weight loss (and many more). While psychotherapy delves into emotional experiences and cognitive processes over time, hypnotherapy offers a direct approach to modifying behaviours or thoughts.
What's the difference between a counsellor, a psychotherapist, and a hypnotherapist?
While there is overlap in the techniques and issues these professionals can address, their approaches and areas of expertise differ. Counsellors and Psychotherapists typically focus on providing guidance and support for specific issues or periods of distress. Hypnotherapists use trance-like states to help improve mental and sometimes physical well-being. Our clinic offers a unique integration of these disciplines to provide a comprehensive treatment approach.
What issues can counselling, psychotherapy and hypnotherapy help with?
A combination of these therapies can address a range of issues including anxiety, depression, stress management, phobias, unhealthy habits and more. There is a long extensive list of specific issues that are also included for therapeutic treatment. Together, they offer a broad spectrum of treatment options. Counselling, psychotherapy and hypnotherapy are typically used in each session integrated together.
How Does Hypnotherapy Work?
Hypnotherapy uses guided relaxation, intense concentration, and focused attention to achieve a heightened state of awareness, often referred to as a trance. In this state, individuals can turn their attention completely inward to find and utilise the natural resources deep within themselves that can help them make changes or regain control in certain areas of their life.
Can hypnotherapy help me?
Hypnotherapy is effective for a wide range of conditions, including stress, anxiety, phobias, and unhealthy habits like smoking and overeating. It can also help with pain management, insomnia, digestive disorders, and certain chronic conditions. It’s important to have an open and honest discussion with your therapist about your specific needs and goals.
Can hypnotherapy make me do something against my will?
No, hypnotherapy is based on cooperation and consent. The ethical practice of hypnotherapy ensures that you remain in control and cannot be made to do anything against your will or ethical beliefs. Please note, hypnotherapy as a therapeutic practice is totally different to stage hypnosis which is used for entertainment purposes. See below for Myths on Hypnotherapy.
How do I know which type of therapy is right for me?
During your initial consultation /first session, we'll discuss your goals, challenges, and preferences. This conversation will help us determine the best therapeutic approach for you. Our clinic's integrated approach allows us to tailor your therapy experience to best suit your needs.
How is progress measured in counselling, psychotherapy and hypnotherapy?
Progress is evaluated through client feedback, observable changes in behaviour or thought patterns, and ongoing assessments. These therapies combined aim for tangible improvements in your quality of life, with goals adjusted as needed throughout the treatment process.
How long does each session last, and how many sessions will I need?
Sessions usually last about 50 minutes. Depending on your goals, the complexity of issues, and your progress, you may see improvements within a few sessions. Sometimes it’s more suitable to engage in longer-term therapy. This will be discussed.
What can I expect in my first session?
Your first session will typically involve an initial consultation to discuss your background, issues, and treatment goals. This is a chance to assess your needs and determine the most appropriate therapeutic approach. Expect open, respectful conversation and preliminary assessments to guide the therapy process. A good rapport is on the agenda from the very first session. Sometimes hypnotherapy is also included in the first session.
I have a diagnosis (health, mental or physical) will a therapist still see me?
Yes as long as the reason for therapy is to help with areas within our scope of expertise.
Someone diagnosed with ADHD may need assistant with focus and attention, someone with IBS may need assistance with anxiety and stress.
No matter what the diagnosis we treat ‘people’, not ‘diagnoses’.
We advice you always consult your GP or treating specialist doctor, psychologist or psychiatrist to get the ‘all clear’ and use our therapy safely and with confidence.
What will a session typically look like for a child?
Sessions with children and young persons are typically conducted without parents /guardians /responsible adults present, unless this is specifically requested.
For young children whether in person or in zoom one or both parents / responsible adults may commence the session for feedback and goal setting. Then the therapist is left to conduct the session to ensure the child /young person experiences the session independently. And then the parent(s) /responsible adult(s) may join in again toward the end of the session for feedback and tasking after the session.
We work holistically with the needs and child’s best interests.
For as long as parents or responsible adults are in the session it’s never the “child’s” or “young person’s” session. We also value privacy and confidentiality and abide by all laws when disclosing information.
We respect each young person and their privacy, and always ask permission for disclosure. The last thing we want to do is betray a young person as this may lead to a lack of trust in any other future adult that they interact with. We always explain the rules and reasons for discourse to our young clients.
If you would like more information please call our practice manager and she will be able to answer any questions.
Do I get hypnosis recordings?
We prefer to record your hypnosis session so that you can listen to it regularly, or as instructed by your therapist. If you prefer your hypnosis session not to be recorded please discuss this with your therapist. There is a great advantage in listening to personalised hypnosis sessions regularly. And this may be set as a task between sessions.
It has been documented that individuals who listen to their sessions as prescribed by their therapist, have better and faster outcomes.
Do you offer remote or online therapy sessions?
Yes. This option can make therapy more accessible to those with mobility issues or time constraints. It is also useful for clients interested in using our service if they live too far and are in other Australian States. You will be given information on how to access your link if you are doing online therapy.
Please note online therapy is often an option when you realise that last minute you cannot attend a face to face session. This will prevent compulsory payment from a last minute cancellation.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person sessions?
Yes, research shows that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many mental health issues. It offers the flexibility to access support from the comfort of your home, making it a great option for those with busy schedules or mobility issues.
How do I get in contact if I have a question?
You can email your therapist or the admin email.
You can call our practice manager.
Please choose any method that suits you best.
We aim to respond within 24 hours.
I am concerned about legalities and privacy. Where can I find more information?
Please visit our detailed section on legalities and ethics detailing our privacy policy and other related topics such as reportable conduct, storage of information, mandatory reporting and more.
We follow all governing rules and advice from our authority bodies. This helps us stay on track with rules, ethics and standards in a confident and compliant manner.
Please note we also use AI summary features to help summarise notes and record sessions. These notes are for each therapists’ private records.
We typically have online therapy notes summarised as part of the online AI therapy feature.
we have survellience cameras which do not record sound.
What if I am feeling nervous before my first session?
We understand this can be a nervous experience for you. Our therapists will do our best to ensure you settle into comfort and trust building. Please express your needs if there is anything that will help you feel comfortable and more at ease. You are welcome to let us know in advance of any concerns you have. We will do our best to assist.
What if I change my mind about my booking?
You can definitely change your mind.
You can cancel and you can reschedule.
We do not want you to feel the pressure of keeping appointments if they are no longer suitable for you. We understand that sometimes there are circumstances that lead you to make changes.
We only ask you do not make these changes within 24 hours of your booked appointment as this will lead to full fee. We will however be reasonable and compassionate when there are exceptional circumstances leading you to cancel within 24 hours.
We have several reminder systems in place so that you have plenty of notice and time to cancel and reschedule without falling within the 24 hour period.
You can call practice manager to help with this change.
You can also email us.
Please note “no-shows” attract full fee.
How will I know which therapist to choose?
If you are unsure about which therapist to choose after reading each therapist’s ‘bio’ and ‘about’ info, please contact our practice manager and she will help you make a decision.
Some individuals feel more comfortable with a male or female therapist and so this can help with your decision.
You can ask questions about experience and availability and this can help you make the right decision for you.
All therapists attract the same fee.
Should one of our therapists discover you may be more suited to the qualities and expertise of one of our co-therapists, this will be discussed with you and you can make that decision after careful consideration and reasons for recommendation.
Is everything I say confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy. Everything discussed is kept private, with a few legal exceptions related to imminent harm to self or others, or any reportable crime. If your records are summonsed by court, they must be handed over. You may discuss this further with your therapist.
We recognise that the data we gather is frequently of a very private and sensitive nature. Your personal file will encompass details acquired throughout your assessment, enabling us to tailor a suitable treatment plan specifically for you. It will further include observations from any follow-up sessions you participate in.
We adhere to the utmost standards of privacy to ensure the security and protection of all personal details recorded during sessions. Please read our privacy policy on legal and ethical considerations.
How can I maximise the benefits of therapy?
Be open and honest during your sessions, actively engage in the process, and practice any exercises or techniques suggested by your therapist between sessions. Remember, therapy is a collaborative process, and your active participation is key to making progress. Please do your own research about what hypnosis is so that you have a sound understanding and reasonable expectations.
What is your cancellation and reschedule policy?
All sessions are booked and paid in advance. You may cancel up to one day in advance without penalty. Cancellations within 24 hours require full payment and no-shows also require full payment. Our clinic is run at strategic capacity. Thus reliability and commitment from both clients and therapists is of high regard.
How can I provide feedback about my therapy experience?
Your feedback is invaluable in ensuring we provide the best care possible. You can provide feedback directly to your therapist during sessions, or via email. We are committed to continuously improving our services based on your input.
Do you accept medicare?
No. To use medicare you would need to seek treatment from a psychologist. You may however be eligible for private health insurance rebate. This all depends on your level of cover. Typically our fees are paid in full and then you take your paid invoice to your private health insurer to see what you are entitled to receive back.
Myth 1: Hypnotherapy is Mind Control
One of the most pervasive myths is that hypnotherapy involves the therapist controlling the mind of the individual. In reality, hypnotherapy is a cooperative process where the client remains in control throughout the session. The therapist guides the client into a state of focused attention, but it is the client who allows this process to happen. Hypnotherapy empowers individuals to access their inner resources to make positive changes.
Myth 2: You Can Get Stuck in Hypnosis
A fear that some people have is that they can become "stuck" in a state of hypnosis indefinitely. This is entirely unfounded. Hypnosis is a natural state of concentrated attention that individuals enter and exit regularly. Even if a hypnotherapist were to leave the room suddenly, a person in hypnosis would either fall asleep and then wake up naturally or simply return to their usual level of alertness.
Myth 3: Hypnotherapy Works Instantly or Not at All
Another common misconception is that hypnotherapy produces immediate and permanent results in just one session. While hypnotherapy can be highly effective for certain conditions in a relatively short amount of time, it often requires multiple sessions to achieve lasting change. The effectiveness of hypnotherapy depends on many factors, including the nature of the issue, the individual’s responsiveness to hypnosis, and their commitment to change.
Myth 4: Hypnosis Can Make You Perform Actions Against Your Will
This myth is largely propagated by stage hypnosis shows where participants seem to perform silly or unusual actions seemingly against their will. However, therapeutic hypnotherapy operates on a principle of consent and collaboration. Individuals cannot be hypnotised against their will, nor can they be forced to do things that are against their morals or ethics whilst in a hypnotic state.
Myth 5: Only Weak-minded People Can Be Hypnotised
The ability to enter into a hypnotic state has nothing to do with one's strength of mind. In fact, studies suggest that people with a greater capacity for concentration and mental imagery may be more responsive to hypnotherapy. Being open to the process and willing to engage actively with the therapist are key factors in the effectiveness of hypnotherapy.
Myth 6: Hypnotherapy is a "Magical" Cure
While hypnotherapy can be a powerful tool for change, it is not a magic wand. Success with hypnotherapy requires active participation from the client, including following through with the therapist’s suggestions and possibly making lifestyle changes. It is most effective when used as a complement to other therapeutic interventions.
Conclusion to the above myths…
Hypnotherapy is a legitimate and effective form of therapy that can help individuals make significant changes in their lives. By understanding what hypnotherapy truly is—and what it is not—individuals can better assess whether it might be a beneficial approach for their own personal development and healing journey. It’s always recommended to seek out a qualified and experienced hypnotherapist to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Contact Strategic Mindset Wellness Clinic
0458 850 850
Wellness Clinic
Retail 1, 7 Magdalene Terrace, Wolli Creek, Sydney, NSW 2205
Ground Level (Room 2)
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