Your Safety Is My Priority
Transparent information on how sessions are conducted, what you consent to, and how your privacy and wellbeing are protected.
Safety Protocols
Every session is conducted within a clearly defined professional framework. Neil maintains appropriate boundaries at all times and sessions take place either in a professional practice setting or via secure video call. No session will take place in an informal or ambiguous setting without prior agreement.
Before beginning any work, Neil conducts a thorough initial consultation to understand your history, any medical conditions, and your specific goals. This is not a formality — it is a genuine assessment to determine whether hypnotherapy is appropriate for you and to tailor the work to your particular situation.
If at any point during a session you feel uncomfortable or wish to stop, you are free to do so immediately. The hypnotic state is not a condition from which you cannot wake — you are always able to open your eyes, speak, and end the session. Neil will never use techniques that you have not consented to in advance.
Informed Consent
Informed consent means you understand what hypnotherapy involves, what the specific approach will be in your sessions, and what you are agreeing to before any work begins. Neil explains the process clearly and welcomes questions — nothing will proceed without your explicit agreement.
You have the right to end a session at any time without consequence. You have the right to ask about the techniques being used and why. Sessions are not recorded without your explicit written consent. You can withdraw your consent at any time and stop the work.
Medical Disclaimer
Hypnotherapy is a complementary therapy. It is not a replacement for medical treatment, psychiatric care, or psychological therapy prescribed by a healthcare professional. If you have a diagnosed medical or psychiatric condition, you should continue to follow the advice of your GP or specialist alongside any hypnotherapy work.
Neil will ask you to inform your GP if you are undertaking hypnotherapy alongside medical treatment. He will also refer you to your GP if your presenting issue suggests medical investigation may be appropriate. Hypnotherapy does not diagnose or treat medical conditions.
Confidentiality
Everything discussed in sessions is held in strict confidence. Neil does not discuss client details with family members, friends, or other professionals without your written consent. Notes are stored securely and not shared.
There are limited circumstances in which confidentiality may need to be broken, in line with professional and legal duties. These are: if there is a risk of serious harm to you or to another identifiable person; if a child or vulnerable adult appears to be at risk; or if required by a court of law. In all such cases, Neil would aim to discuss the situation with you first wherever possible.
Who Hypnotherapy Is NOT Suitable For
- ✕Epilepsy: The altered state of consciousness in hypnotherapy may be contraindicated. Please consult your neurologist before proceeding.
- ✕Severe or active mental illness: Those with a current psychotic episode, active bipolar episode, or severe dissociative disorder should seek psychiatric advice before undertaking hypnotherapy.
- ✕Under 18 without parental consent: Neil does not work with clients under 18 without written parental or guardian consent and, where appropriate, joint agreement with the young person.
- ✕Alcohol or substance intoxication: Sessions will not proceed if a client appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
If you are unsure whether hypnotherapy is appropriate for you, please contact Neil for a free initial discussion before booking.
Consent Form
For illustration — actual consent taken at bookingBelow is a representation of the consent form all clients complete. The actual form is completed digitally when booking your first session.
I understand that hypnotherapy is a complementary therapy, not a substitute for medical treatment.
I understand that I remain fully in control during sessions and can end a session at any time.
I confirm that I have disclosed any relevant medical or mental health history.
I consent to sessions being conducted professionally and in confidence.
I understand the confidentiality policy and the circumstances in which it may be breached.
I understand that sessions may not be recorded without explicit agreement.
Ready to Make a Change?
Book a confidential consultation with Neil today.