Frequently asked questions

Everything you may want to know before we begin.

Clear answers about the consultation, hypnosis, online appointments and what happens during the programme.

What happens during the initial consultation?

We discuss what is happening, how it is affecting your life and what you want to be different. I will explain how I can help, answer your questions and advise you on the most appropriate programme.

Why is a deposit required?

The deposit secures the time reserved exclusively for your initial consultation. If you decide to book sessions afterwards, the deposit is deducted from those sessions.

How many sessions will I need?

The Focused Hypnotherapy Programme involves one to four structured sessions. Some clients find one or two sessions are all they need, while others benefit from the full four-session programme. Every client receives supporting audio and ongoing support from me. Further sessions can be arranged if required.

Is the programme only for anxiety?

No. The same focused programme can be used for anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, health anxiety, overthinking and other automatic patterns. Your sessions are tailored to the issue you want to address and the change you want to experience.

Can everyone be hypnotised?

Most people can experience hypnosis when they are willing to engage with the process. You do not have to feel deeply relaxed or believe you have gone into a particular state for the work to be effective.

What is the difference between a hypnotist and a clinical hypnotherapist?

Hypnotist is a broad term for someone who uses hypnosis. A clinical hypnotherapist is trained to use hypnosis within a therapeutic process to address specific emotional or behavioural patterns. Louise holds HPD and DSFH qualifications and is registered with professional hypnotherapy organisations.

Will I be asleep or lose control?

No. You remain aware and able to respond throughout. You can hear what is being said and cannot be made to do anything against your will.

What does hypnosis feel like?

People experience it differently. You may feel physically relaxed, very focused, lighter or simply aware that you are listening closely. There is no single feeling you need to achieve.

What happens during a session?

Each session is tailored to the issue you want to address and the change you want to experience. I will explain what you need to know before we begin and guide you throughout.

What support will I receive?

Every client receives supporting audio and ongoing support from me as part of the programme.

Are online sessions as effective as face-to-face sessions?

Yes. The process works in the same way online. You can choose online appointments or attend in person at Cavendish Square in London.

What do I need for an online appointment?

You need a reliable internet connection, a private place where you can speak freely and a device with a camera and sound. Headphones can help you feel more immersed, although they are not essential.

What if the internet connection drops?

I will explain what to do before hypnosis begins. If the connection drops, you will simply become fully alert, reconnect and continue when you are ready.

Where are in-person appointments held?

Appointments take place at Cavendish Square, London W1G 0PG.

What ages do you work with?

I work with children from the age of 12, teenagers and adults.

If you are enquiring for someone aged 12 to 17, please include their age and the issue they would like help with when arranging the initial consultation.

Private health insurance and health cash plans

Some clients may be able to claim back part or all of their session fees, depending on their private medical insurance or health cash plan.

I am Louise Squires, a Clinical Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist professionally registered with CNHC, NCH, AfSFH and APHP. I work online throughout the UK and in person at Cavendish Square, London.

Sessions are paid for directly, and I can provide an invoice or receipt for you to submit to your provider. As every policy is different, confirm your available benefit before booking if you intend to make a claim.

Can I use private health insurance to pay for hypnotherapy?

Possibly. Some private health insurance policies may contribute towards hypnotherapy or related therapeutic treatment.

Your provider can confirm whether your policy includes the treatment and whether it has particular practitioner, referral or approval requirements.

Can I claim back the cost of psychotherapy?

Some policies include outpatient psychotherapy or mental health treatment. The amount available and the practitioners covered will depend on your individual policy.

Give your provider my name and professional registrations before your first session so it can confirm whether you are eligible to claim.

Do health cash plans cover hypnotherapy?

Some do. A health cash plan generally allows you to pay for an eligible treatment and then claim back some of the cost, up to the limits of your plan.

CNHC’s published information states that Paycare recognises CNHC registration for hypnotherapy on its health cash plans. Westfield Health also lists hypnotherapy within its Wellbeing and Alternative Therapies benefit on some plans. Your provider can confirm what is included in your particular plan.

How do I claim back the cost of a session?

You pay me directly for your session. After an attended appointment, you can request an invoice or receipt to submit to your insurance provider or health cash plan.

It is helpful to ask your provider beforehand what information it needs to see on the document.

Can I claim for online hypnotherapy?

Some policies and cash plans may reimburse online appointments.

I offer the same focused therapeutic approach online throughout the UK as I do in person at Harley Street. Ask your provider specifically whether remote hypnotherapy or psychotherapy sessions are included in your cover.

What should I ask my insurer before I book?
  • Does my policy include hypnotherapy or psychotherapy?
  • Is Louise Squires eligible under my plan?
  • Do I need a referral or authorisation number?
  • Are online appointments included?
  • How much can I claim?
  • Should I claim for each attended session separately?
  • What information do you require on the invoice or receipt?

If you are considering a two-session or four-session programme, check how your provider handles package payments before purchasing.

What is the cancellation policy?

At least 48 hours’ notice is required if you need to cancel or reschedule. The full policy will be provided when you book.

Still deciding?

The initial consultation gives you the opportunity to ask questions and decide whether the approach feels right for you.

Book a consultation

The consultation deposit is deducted from any sessions you subsequently book.

Online initial consultation

Choose a time that suits you.

Book your private online consultation directly below. We will discuss what is happening, what you want to change and whether my focused approach is right for you.

If the calendar does not appear, open the booking calendar here.