Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ About Hypfocus

At Hypfocus, my goal is to use Clinical Hypnotherapy to provide the most practical experience of Hypnosis in Melbourne to make the process of positive change for my clients happen in the shortest time possible. I want to see my clients achieve their goals quickly!

What style of therapy do we use at Hypfocus?

Having trained in Counselling, ACT, IFS, and EFT, as well as Hypnosis, I combine talking therapy and psychotherapy to help you achieve deep personal insight that leads to positive change. During sessions, you are guided into a deep state of focus and given suggestions designed to help you achieve the change required.

Does Hypnosis Therapy Work?

In a word, yes. Hypnotic therapy has helped people all over the world to achieve the change they want in their lives. Hypnosis allows us to explore things more deeply and with greater insight and focus, and it does so in a way that enables the brain to update so that the change feels organic. 
Of course, it's not a magic wand, so as with any therapy, you need to be ready for and willing to make changes. If your current lifestyle and choices are the underlying cause of your issues, you need to be prepared to commit to actual changes. Hypnosis can help people clear accumulated stress, reduce its effects, and even increase their ability to manage stress. Still, it does not make people immune to its impact if they continue to take on more than they can reasonably be expected to handle. We all have a capacity for stress; work must be done to relieve the pressure whenever we exceed that capacity.

Is there a scientific basis for Hypnotherapy?

There is extensive research on Hypnosis.  A recent article in Time magazine outlined just some of the many studies conducted. Harvard Lecturer and program coordinator Irving Kirsch states, "Hypnosis is a well-studied and legitimate form of adjunct treatment for conditions ranging from obesity and pain after surgery to anxiety and stress." Len Milling, a clinical psychologist and professor of psychology at the University of Hartford, explains, "Apart from aiding weight loss, there is substantial research evidence that hypnosis can effectively reduce physical pain." Dr David Spiegel of Stanford University says, "Hypnosis can also be ‘very helpful’ in treating stress, anxiety and PTSD. Spiegel goes on to say, "Research has found hypnosis can even alter a person's immune function in ways that offset stress and reduce susceptibility to viral infections".

What to expect at your first Hypfocus Consultation

The first session takes the form of an in-depth consultation. The information gained helps me to understand more about you, your current issue, and what you want to achieve from the therapy by working with me. Subsequent sessions are tailored to your individual needs as we work on the problem or topic you'd like addressed. 
I tailor treatments for issues such as Anxiety Disorders, Weight Loss, IBS, Depression, Pain Management,  Menopause Symptoms, and Addiction, which often require multiple sessions; to deal with these issues effectively, it is not realistic to only commit to 2 or 3 sessions. That said, it's important to note that while Anxiety counselling on its own may take years to be useful when combined with hypnotic work, the client often accomplishes a better outcome in weeks. 
In Melbourne, Hypnosis is becoming more accepted. It's already widely used in the USA and Europe, where Medical Hypnosis is widely used to treat a broad range of issues, e.g. IBS and Chronic Pain, as an alternative to anaesthesia during Dental or Medical Surgery for people who are allergic to anaesthesia. 

Does Medicare cover Hypnotherapy via a Mental Health Plan?

No, our sessions are not covered by Medicare; however, if you have private health insurance with one of the companies listed on our home screen, you may be eligible for a rebate. Please check your policy or with your provider to find out. I can’t advise on private health rebates as the policies vary and are subject to change.
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If you've been searching using the terms Hypnotherapy near me or Anxiety Counselling near me, rest assured, we can help you. No matter where you're located, we offer online Telehealth therapy via a secure video link for clients who are unable to attend our consulting room.
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Some Private Health Insurance companies provide rebates for our Services. Always contact your private health insurance provider first to confirm that Hypnotherapy is covered. You pay the fee in full at the time of service and then claim back your rebate from your insurer. I can now process Medibank claims in the office via HICAPS if your policy covers counselling; I will email a receipt for you to claim from other participating funds.

How many sessions will I need?

This will vary according to the issue and the individual. The spectrum of complexity for most issues can be broad. I recommend anticipating a minimum of 4 sessions; some people may feel they don’t need that many, while others will decide to do more and/or work on other issues. Some people like to have top-up sessions as a from of maintenance.

How much does Hypnotherapy cost in Melbourne

You see my current fees on this page

More Frequently Asked Questions About Hypnotherapy in Melbourne

What is hypnotherapy and how does it work?

Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic method that uses guided hypnosis to help clients enter a relaxed, focused state where positive suggestions can reshape unwanted habits, relieve anxiety, and facilitate lasting change. In Melbourne, clinical hypnotherapists blend neuroscience, psychology, and advanced hypnotic techniques for rapid transformation and symptom relief.​

What conditions can hypnotherapy treat?

Clinical hypnotherapy is known to assist with:

• Anxiety, panic attacks, and stress management

• Quitting smoking and breaking other addictions

• Weight loss and healthy eating habits

• Phobias, OCD, and PTSD

• Insomnia and sleep improvement

• Confidence, self-worth, and performance anxiety

• Chronic pain and physical symptoms

• Trauma recovery and emotional healing.​

How long does hypnotherapy take to work?

Many Melbourne clients experience positive changes within 3–6 sessions, depending on the complexity of the issue. Hypnotherapy for smoking cessation or building self-worth may deliver results as quickly as the first session. Complex conditions (like trauma or long-standing anxiety) may benefit from 6+ sessions.​

Is hypnotherapy safe, and will I be aware during a session?

Hypnosis is a safe, natural state where you remain in control and aware at all times. You can stop or pause the session whenever you wish. All sessions at Hypfocus are delivered by qualified clinical hypnotherapists using evidence-based practices.​

Who is a qualified hypnotherapist in Melbourne?

Look for therapists with clinical qualifications, membership in recognised associations, and demonstrated expertise in cognitive, solution-focused, and Ericksonian approaches. Hypfocus therapists are accredited, experienced, and trusted by thousands of Victorian clients.​

Can I do my hypnotherapy sessions online?

Yes, Hypfocus offers secure virtual hypnotherapy sessions for clients across Melbourne and Australia, making treatment accessible from home or interstate. Online hypnosis is proven to be effective for anxiety, smoking, and other common concerns.​

What does a hypnotherapy session involve?

Sessions typically begin with a detailed assessment, relaxation induction, focused hypnotic strategies, and tailored problem-solving protocols. You will experience a positive, calming environment and leave with practical strategies to reinforce change between sessions.​

How Hypnotherapy Can Help With Specific Problems

Quit Smoking Melbourne: How does hypnosis help me stop smoking?

Hypnotherapy for quitting smoking targets subconscious triggers, emotional stressors, and ingrained habits, making it easier to break nicotine addiction and resist cravings. Hypfocus tailors sessions using scientifically validated protocols for permanent results.​

Anxiety Relief Melbourne: Can hypnotherapy help my anxiety?

Hypnotherapy teaches new coping mechanisms and rewires negative thought patterns that fuel anxiety. Relaxation hypnosis and cognitive reframing offer rapid relief, and sessions focus on real-life triggers for lasting calm.​

Weight Loss Hypnosis Melbourne: Is hypnosis effective for losing weight?

Hypnotherapy unlocks motivation for exercise, improves self-control of food consumption, and eliminates emotional eating cycles. Melbourne clients report lasting results by overcoming subconscious barriers to healthy choices.​

Trauma Recovery: What makes hypnosis effective for trauma and PTSD?

Clinical hypnosis allows safe processing of traumatic memories, promotes emotional detachment from triggers, and rebuilds resilience without reliving distress. Sessions are tailored to your pace for gentle and effective healing.​

Insomnia Treatment: Can hypnotherapy help me sleep better?

Hypnosis combats insomnia by reducing anxiety, calming mind chatter, and installing new sleep routines. Melbourne specialists use guided relaxation and sleep reprogramming to help you drift off and stay asleep naturally.​

What Makes Hypfocus the Best Choice for Hypnotherapy in Melbourne?

• Accredited, experienced clinical hypnotherapists

• Evidence-based, personalized hypnotic protocols

• Safe, confidential, and supportive environment

• Accessible online and in-person sessions

• Extensive client testimonials and proven results

For further details or to book a complimentary session, contact the Hypfocus team and experience Melbourne’s leading anxiety and quit smoking hypnosis clinic