Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy
What is hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a specialised communication process, between a hypnotist and a subject, that has the goal of guiding the subject into a natural, inward-focused state of attention — one you likely already experience daily - that’s often referred to as an ‘everyday trance.’ Think of those moments when you’re completely absorbed in a good book, or so deep in thought during a drive that you miss a turn. That’s a form of everyday trance. In a therapeutic setting, we use this focused state purposefully. Hypnotic trance becomes a tool — not a trick — to help the brain and body communicate in more helpful ways.
What is Hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy is the combination of hypnosis with therapeutic and coaching techniques.
What does hypnosis feel like?
Most people describe hypnosis as a state of calm focus and deep relaxation, not sleep, and definitely not mind control.
During a hypnosis session, you’re not unconscious or under anyone’s control. You’re alert and actively participating. You remain fully aware of where you are and what’s happening. In fact, around 90% of people report feeling present throughout the session, able to hear everything that’s said while feeling pleasantly detached from distractions.
The experience is personal, some people feel light and spacious, others grounded and still. What’s consistent is a quieting of the usual mental noise, making room for helpful suggestions and images to take root.
The more often you engage in this state, the more familiar and effortless it becomes. Over time, you may notice that suggestions feel more natural, and visual imagery becomes more vivid, signs your brain is becoming more responsive and flexible.
Hypnosis is not about zoning out, it’s about tuning in.
Is hypnotherapy safe?
Yes. When practiced professionally and ethically, hypnosis is extremely safe.
You’re never unconscious or out of control. In fact, hypnosis is simply a focused, absorbed state — like being deeply engaged in a good book or lost in thought during a drive. You can always choose to stop or open your eyes at any time.
That said, there are a few medical and psychological conditions where hypnosis may not be appropriate.
Out of care and caution, I don’t offer hypnotherapy to individuals who have been diagnosed with:
• Schizophrenia or dissociative identity disorder (DID)
• Severe depressive or psychotic disorders
• Uncontrolled epilepsy or narcolepsy
• Active substance-induced psychosis
• Dementia or major neurocognitive disorders
• Serious heart conditions
• First-trimester pregnancy
If you’re unsure whether hypnosis is a fit for your personal situation, we can talk it through together. Your safety, autonomy, and wellbeing always come first.
How do online hypnotherapy sessions work?
Online sessions work very much like in‑person sessions, just from the comfort of your own home or office. We meet via Zoom, and I guide you through the session exactly as I would if you were sitting in the room with me. Most people find online sessions surprisingly natural and even easier to relax into because they’re in a familiar environment.
Whether you’re sitting in your living room or a quiet corner of your office, all you need is:
• A stable internet connection
• A laptop or desktop computer. It's recommended you don't join the session via your mobile as I will need a clear view of your head and shoulders.
• A private space where you won’t be disturbed
How do I prepare for my on-line session?
Online hypnotherapy sessions have some real advantages — no commuting, more flexibility, and the comfort of your own space. But to get the most out of your session, a little preparation goes a long way.
Here are a few simple tips to help you set yourself up for success:
1. Check your connection
A stable internet connection is essential. If the audio or video drops out, it can interrupt your focus and the flow of the session. Before we begin, double-check your Wi-Fi or switch to a hotspot if needed.
2. Choose a calm, private space
Pick a location for your session where you won’t be disturbed that's quiet and comfortable.
3. Prop up your device
Ideally, use a laptop or desktop. If you’re on your phone, have it propped at eye level and make sure I can see you from the shoulders up. That way, you can stay hands-free and fully focused on the session.
4. Wear headphones
This isn’t essential, but using headphones can really help. They improve sound quality, block out distractions, and make the experience feel more immersive and private.
What if I can’t be hypnotised?
It’s a common worry, but the truth is, most people can enter a hypnotic trance state if they’re willing to engage with the process because hypnosis is a natural state your brain already knows how to access, like when you’re lost in a good film or absorbed in a task (everyday trance). In fact, research suggests that around 90–95% of people are capable of experiencing hypnosis if they choose to and engage fully in the process.
You don’t need to “go deep,” feel zoned out, or “switch off” to benefit. You just need to be:
• Willing to follow simple instructions
• Open to using your imagination
And like any skill, it gets easier with practice. If it feels unfamiliar at first, that’s okay, I guide you gently through the process at your pace.
Questions about Tony Yuile
What qualifications does Tony hold in hypnotherapy?
Master Practitioner Diploma in Indirect Hypnosis, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy and Hypnotic Language with Clients (with Distinction) - British Hypnosis Research and Training School
Diploma in Clinical and Advanced Hypnosis (DipCAH) - UK Academy of Therapeutic Arts & Sciences
Hypnotherapy Practicting Diploma (HPD) - the UK Northern Advisory Council for Further Education (NACFE)
What qualifications does Tony hold in coaching?
What other qualifications does Tony hold?
Advanced Integral Eye Movement Therapy Practitioner
Master Practitioner NeuroLingustic Programming
Practitioner Metaphors of Movement (Levels 1 and 2)
What professional organisations is Tony a member of?
The National Council for Hypnotherapy (UK)
Hypnosis New Zealand
The Association for IEMT Practitioners
Australia New Zealand Coaching Alliance (ANZCAL)
Other
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You can read my Privacy Policy here.
If you need additional information or have a question that isn’t answered on this page, then pop it into an email to tony@tycoaching.nz and I’ll respond within 24 hours.
Ready to take action now?
And if you're ready to take action now, simply book a 30-minute online call with Tony. You will be able to talk through what has been happening for you, ask questions, and get a clearer sense of whether the support Tony offers feels right for you. The fee for this call is NZ$49. If, after the call, you decide to join the Nervous System Coaching Program, this amount is deducted from the total fee.