Ask Adrian, What is so special about hypnotherapy

Published on 24th July 2015

I am often asked what is so special about hypnotherapy compared with every other talking therapy and form of counselling.

The answer is very simple, all forms of therapy are developed to allow us to make changes to how we think, feel and act. With all other forms of therapy and counselling this is done on a conscious level, with hypnotherapy we are making changes on an unconscious level. We are working directly with the unconscious mind, the hard-drive of our computer which stores and sorts all of the information we are exposed to and is constantly running programs in the background.

We all have a conscious and unconscious mind, with a barrier filter protecting our unconscious mind called the Critical Factor. If I were to tell you that 2 + 2 = 7 you have instantly rejected that suggestion. That is your Critical Factor at work. In a light hypnotic state, where you are still consciously aware and alert the Critical Factor comes down to allow positive suggestions to be given to and accepted by your unconscious mind.
Suggestions such as “you are a non-smoker and will remain so for the rest of your life, you will never smoke” or ” you are feeling positive, calm and relaxed, you are feeling really good”. So this is the difference between hypnotherapy and every other talking therapy and form of counselling.

Stop Smoking with Hypnotherapy in Surrey and London

Why I Am Passionate About Smoking Cessation Hypnotherapy (Even
If Other Therapists Think It’s “Boring”)

When I tell fellow hypnotherapists that a large part of my practice is dedicated to helping people quit smoking, I often get a surprising reaction. Some are shocked.

They tell me it must be “boring” or “same old, same old.”

But to me, there is nothing boring about supporting and witnessing clients make life long changes in their lives .

Every time a client walks out of my clinic as a non-smoker, their health, well-being and future instantly change. Knowing that my work might give someone years of extra life with their loved ones makes this one of the most rewarding jobs in the world.

My Personal Journey: 30+ Years Smoke-Free

My passion for this work isn’t just professional—it’s deeply personal. Over 30 years ago, I sat in a hypnotherapist’s chair as a smoker. In just a single session, I stopped smoking completely.

That pivotal moment was my introduction to the incredible power of hypnotherapy, and it is the exact reason I eventually trained to become a qualified hypnotherapist myself back in September 2007. I know first-hand that it works because I lived it.

Hypnotherapy: What Actually Happens?

Many people are hesitant and scared to try hypnosis because of how it is portrayed on television. I always take the time to explain exactly how the process works to my clients so they feel completely safe and comfortable.

  • You remain in control: You are always awake, alert of your surroundings, and aware of my suggestions. You cannot be made to do anything against your will.
  • Accessing the unconscious mind: By guiding you into a light, relaxing hypnotic state, we can bypass the conscious critical mind.
  • Rewriting the habit: Once we access the sub-conscious mind, we can work to completely remove the smoking habit-behaviour.

During the session, your mind absorbs the powerful suggestions to “become a non-smoker now and forever, and to never smoke again.”

Real Results: From Heavy Smoker to Cravings-Free

If you are wondering if it can work for you, take comfort in the experiences of those who have been in your shoes. One of my recent clients shared this about their session:

“I have been smoke-free for over two months and haven’t experienced any cravings at all, despite having been a heavy smoker throughout my adult life. Adrian is highly competent and skilled… I felt completely comfortable discussing my triggers and always felt listened to, understood, and supported throughout the process.” A client that was seen 2026

Take Your First Step To Becoming a Non-Smoker

Quitting smoking is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your health, your family, and your wallet. If you are ready to break free from the habit for good, let’s work together to make it happen.

If you would like some more information about Stopping Smoking with Hypnotherapy, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Adrian Sonnex

Hypnotherapist since September 2007

Written by Adrian Sonnex

I own and run wellbeinghypnotherapy.org.uk. I am a Mindfulness-based Teacher / Therapist & Hypnotherapist covering London & Surrey.

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