Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will find the most commonly asked questions. If you don't find what you are looking for, or would like to know more, you can call 07951 075 372 or send an email to info@ruidematos.co.uk.

What is hypnosis?

Hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness that involves focused attention and reduced peripheral consciousness, characterized by a greater responsiveness to suggestion. It is a pleasant state of relaxation similar to meditation but induced by the therapist.

What is hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis under a clinical standard setting, to treat mental, emotional disorders and some physical problems. Hypnotherapy has been discovered and used for many years and is approved by the British Medical Association and The American Psychological Association and is very popular in the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

How does the treatment work?

During the first part of the first session you are asked to report the problem. Once the problem is identified the best solution is defined. In the initial sessions of two hours we proceed to an introduction to the hypnotic state and the treatment. In some cases, such as phobias, a single session may be sufficient, in other cases further treatment begins in the second session when the person is already familiar with hypnosis and already has a concrete goal.

Can I be hypnotised?

Yes, everyone can be hypnotised. Hypnosis is a natural state of relaxation and also occurs when, for instance, we drive and cannot remember the road we have driven along, or when we are completely absorbed in a book or game. In the everyday life Hypnosis is a state that we all experience a few seconds before falling asleep and before waking up.

Is Hypnotherapy funded by NHS?

At the moment the NHS recognises some treatments but does not fund or part-fund any treatment, so hypnotherapy remains a private practice.

What if I have to cancel my appointment?

You will receive a text reminder days before your appointment. As long as you give a minimum of 48 hours - 2 working days' notice - no charge will be made. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the session you will be asked to pay 25% of the session.

Is hypnosis safe?

Hypnosis is 100% safe. It has been recognised and approved by the British Medical Association and the American Medical Association for more than 50 years. More and more people are using hypnosis as an alternative to medical drugs for a number of psychosomatic issues.

How many sessions do I need?

The number of sessions and the time of each session depend on the problem to be addressed. Usually the first session is two hours and the following sessions depend on the tratment. To get a clearer idea of how the treatment could be arranged in your case please contact, telephone consultations are free.

What if I am not motivated enough to start therapy?

Motivation plays an important role in helping you to achieve your goals. However it is not the most important factor. If you have decided to visit a therapist you probably already have enough motivation and the therapist can help you to boost it further.

Is everything I say confidential?

I am a member of the British Psychological Society and the General Hypnotherapy Registry and I comply with regulatory conduct of those two bodies that have a strict privacy policy. I have a great sense of respect for everyone regardless of race, colour or creed. In most circumstances information will not be disclosed. There are, however, two extreme and rare situations in which, by law, the therapist must disclose information: if the client discloses information which may place any person in real danger of injury or abuse, then the therapist may disclose such information to the public authorities to prevent that abuse or injury. If a legally constituted Judicial Court issues a subpoena, then the therapist has no alternative but to release the records of the sessions.

Will I reveal private issues under hypnosis?

It is just not possible to force someone under hypnosis to act against his or her own will. If there are issues that you don’t want to speak about you can just inform and I will not ask questions on those matters. Even if I do ask, under hypnosis you will have the ability to just not answer.

Are the effects permanent?

The success rate depends on several factors including the type and depth of conditions. It varies for each person but statistics and experience show that in most cases what is achieved through hypnotherapy has lasting and permanenet effects.

What are talking therapies?

Talking therapies are a type of treatment that involves talking to a therapist about your thoughts and feelings, manly used during counselling and clinical psychology treatments. Hypnotherapy involves less talking and more listening, suggestion and acceptance. .

What kind of treatments can I expect?

I use a combination of techniques, Hypnotherapy, Psychotherapy, CBT, Counselling and Psychology, together with meditation and relaxation techniques.


Our Therapists are well trained, fully qualified, insured, and accredited by professional bodies.

Rui de Matos is director of Self and Life and a fully qualified, insured, and accredited Clinical Hypnotherapist and holds a BSc (Hons) in Psychology.

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Contact Self and Life Hypnotherapy Clinic

Harley Street London W1G 9QD

07951 075 372

International Skype: selfandlife

Get in touch using the online form or request a call back


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