Q: What kind of things may it help with?

🧘♀️ Stress & Anxiety Relief Quiet the overthinking, calm your nervous system, and restore balance. 💪 Confidence & Self-Esteem Step into your strength, trust yourself, and feel empowered. 🌙 Better Sleep & Relaxation Release tension, create calm evenings, and finally rest deeply. 🍏 Weight Management & Healthy Habits Break free from emotional eating, cravings, and self-sabotage. ❤️ Healing from Life Events Let go of the past, process emotions, and create space for new beginnings. 🧠 Clarity & Focus Shift old patterns, improve brain health, and move forward with clear intention. MIND • Anxiety and panic attacks • Stress and overwhelm • Fears and phobias, flying, lifts, etc • Insomnia • Concentration • Studies • Performance • Public speaking • Procrastination BODY • Weight loss • Fitness Goals • Unhealthy Habits • Fertility • Pain Management • Fertility • Overeating sugar/chocolate • Nail Biting, clenched jaw etc • Blushing SPIRIT • Relationships • Creativity • Reconnection to self • Confidence • Promotes calm and wellbeing • Direction in life • Motivation • Manifestation • Self-worth and self-esteem

Q: What is hypnotherapy, NLP and psychotherapy?"

What is hypnotherapy? Hypnosis is a natural, safe and effective form of therapy. It helps you to relax deeply and then helps to change your mindset so that you can manage behaviours or way you respond to things. Some of the behaviours we have are due to unconscious conditioning. We then help find other ways of thinking that serve you better. You are completely in control at all times. We are often in trance, sometimes when daydreaming, or even whilst zoning out watching Netflix. PLEASE READ THE 10 MYTHS about Hypnosis. What is NLP? NLP is the study of excellence and models successful thinking and behaviours. It looks at our patterns and the use of our language. For example, transforming: "I can't" into" I can!" What is psychotherapy? We look at the patterns that have kept you stuck. We check out where you are now and where you would prefer to be. Together we map out a step by step plan on how to get there.

Question 1

What kind of things may it help with?

Accepted Answer

🧘‍♀️ Stress & Anxiety Relief
 Quiet the overthinking, calm your nervous system, and restore balance.
💪 Confidence & Self-Esteem
 Step into your strength, trust yourself, and feel empowered.
🌙 Better Sleep & Relaxation
 Release tension, create calm evenings, and finally rest deeply.
🍏 Weight Management & Healthy Habits
 Break free from emotional eating, cravings, and self-sabotage.
❤️ Healing from Life Events
 Let go of the past, process emotions, and create space for new beginnings.
🧠 Clarity & Focus
 Shift old patterns, improve brain health, and move forward with clear intention.

MIND
 • Anxiety and panic attacks
 • Stress  and overwhelm
 • Fears  and   phobias, flying, lifts, etc
 • Insomnia
 • Concentration      
 • Studies
 • Performance
 • Public  speaking
 • Procrastination
BODY
 • Weight loss 
 • Fitness Goals 
 • Unhealthy Habits
 • Fertility
 • Pain Management
 • Fertility
 • Overeating sugar/chocolate
 • Nail Biting, clenched jaw etc
 • Blushing
SPIRIT
 • Relationships
 • Creativity
 • Reconnection to self
 • Confidence
 • Promotes calm and wellbeing
 • Direction in life
 • Motivation
 • Manifestation
 • Self-worth and self-esteem

Question 2

Do you work with children and do you have a WWCC (Working with children's check)?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I work with children usually from the age of ten but my youngest child was four years old.
Yes, I have a current WWCC (Working with children's check) in place.

Question 3

What is hypnotherapy, NLP and psychotherapy?"

Accepted Answer

What is hypnotherapy?
​Hypnosis is a natural, safe and effective form of therapy.  It helps you to relax deeply and then helps to change your mindset so that you can manage behaviours or way you respond to things.  Some of the behaviours we have are due to unconscious conditioning.  We then help find other ways of thinking that serve you better.
You are completely in control at all times.  We are often in trance, sometimes when daydreaming, or even whilst zoning out watching Netflix.  PLEASE READ THE 10 MYTHS about Hypnosis.  
​What is NLP?
NLP is the study of excellence and models successful thinking and behaviours.  It looks at our patterns and the use of our language.  For example, transforming:  "I can't" into" I can!"
What is  psychotherapy?
We look at the patterns that have kept you stuck.      
We check out where you are now and where you would prefer to be.  
Together we map out a step by step plan on how to get there.

Question 4

What is brain health coaching? What is the Amen Method?

Accepted Answer

As a brain health coach, I ask you questions to see how your brain may be supporting you. 
There are natural things that we can do to improve overall brain health.  It could be simply that you need more sleep to optimise your mind.  The brain is like the hardware and our thoughts are like the software. 
 
I look at your brain health as it enhances the effect of the hypnotherapy session.
 
The Amen Method was developed by Dr Daniel Amen.   As a leading psychiatrist he has looked at hundreds of thousands of brain scans.  He uses SPECT (Single proton emission computed tomography) which looks at the blood flow and overall health of the brain.
 
I do not use brain scans, but questions help to get an idea of how you may improve it's function naturally.

Question 5

What is Art Therapy?

Accepted Answer

Art therapy is a wonderful way of working when it is difficult to express thoughts and  feelings into words. 
Children, young people and adults benefit from it.
You do not need to have any art experience, it is about the process.

Question 6

What does being in trance feel like and will I still be in control?

Accepted Answer

What does being in a trance feel like?
It is different for everyone. Some people feel the deepest sense of relaxation that they have ever felt. Some people have described it as feeling light and weightless, others feel their body as heavy and very comfortable. Some people say it is similar to meditation.  Many people can hear and concentrate on every word, whereas others drift in and out knowing that the session is recorded so they can listen to whatever they think they have missed later on. Often, we take more in when we are open and deeply relaxed.

Will I still be in control?
Yes, you will remain in control.  This is not stage hypnotism. You will not be clucking like a chicken in the room. This is for professional and therapeutic use only. Just like in the waking state you are able to pick and choose what thoughts you listen to and take on-board. Even in a hypnotic state of mind you are still able to hear even if deeply relaxed what is said and make decisions and choices for yourself.

Question 7

What happens in a session?

Accepted Answer

What happens in a session?
The first session begins by talking to you about Hypnotherapy and answering your questions.

We will then discuss in some detail what has been happening for you and what you would like to gain from your session.  I may take a few confidential notes at this time.

A combination of Clinical Hypnotherapy, Strategic Psychotherapy and NLP may be used.

You will then be invited to relax by sitting on a very comfortable chair.   Then you will be guided to help quieten your mind and thoughts, by concentrating on your breath.

I do not read from a script as your session is unique to you and is tailored specifically for your needs. Knowing now some details about you beforehand the changes you would like to make, I will then begin to help construct new patterns and more helpful ways of processing your thoughts.

You will then be directed gently back from your pleasant experience into the room. Time may then be spent then talking about your experience if you are happy to do so.  You may be given tasks as homework to reinforce the session and a copy of the session for you to listen to at home. (Not whilst driving or operating machinery).  I record the hypnosis directly into your phone.

Question 8

How long is each session?

Accepted Answer

​How long is each session?
Please allow between an hour to an hour and a half for the first session.  This is to get a good understanding of the issues you are having and to ensure your desired outcomes are established.

Follow up sessions are an hour.

Question 9

Do I get a recording, is it tailored to me or read from a script?

Accepted Answer

Do I get an audio recording, is it tailored to me or read from a script?
Yes you do get a recording of the hypnosis. If you have a smart phone the recording can be made directly into your voice memo or else you can have an MP3 emailed to you.

I do not read out from a script. The recording is tailored to your unique situation and designed specifically for you.

When listening to the recording at home please make sure you listen with headphones. 
​Each time you listen to the recording it will help reinforce and deepen the message to enhance the results.

Question 10

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

​How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the person and issue.  For some individuals one session is all that is required.  Other times it may take three or so to reinforce the new pattern of behaving or thinking. It really depends on the individual and reasons for visit.

I would suggest having the first session to see how it feels and then you can decide whether to upgrade to a package of three sessions. 
I recommend three sessions so that you can take your time to thoroughly integrate the changes you wish you make.

Question 11

What are the top 10 myths?

Accepted Answer

THE TOP 10 MYTHS
​
1. A hypnotist might turn you into a chicken or make you do other embarrassing things.
​
FACT  A clinical hypnotherapist would not do this.  A stage hypnotist is very different and will do this because it is expected of them as an entertainer.  Participants would also have agreed to be involved in this way.  Clinical Hypnotherapy is only used to help fulfill therapeutic goals by enabling the subconscious to make positive changes.
 
​
2. I can't be hypnotized because my mind is too strong.  Only weak people can be hypnotized.
​
FACT  This has been proven to be untrue.  An open mind is actually a strong mind.  It depends on what people think the experience will be like.  It is not something that is “done” to you.  Many people are aware of everything that is being said and if they don’t agree with something they can reject that idea just as if they were wide awake.
 
​
3. Hypnotists swing a watch in order to hypnotise a subject.
​
FACT This is outdated these days and rarely used.  It is actually more like a deep-guided relaxation exercise.   
 
​
4. What if I fall asleep and have no memory of the session?
​
FACT Hypnosis is often found to be so relaxing and occasionally some people drift off to sleep. However most people are able to relax and also listen clearly to every single word. There are medical studies that show that even in deep hypnosis a person is still aware and are actually concentrating at some level. The hypnosis session is recorded so that it can be listened to as homework to reinforce the benefits, so if someone falls asleep it doesn’t matter.
 
5. Someone else will be in control of my mind?
​
FACT No, not at all.  You will remain in control.  Just like in every day life you are able to pick and choose what thoughts you listen to and take onboard and able to disregard things that you may not agree with.  Even if deeply relaxed you are able to make decisions and choices for yourself.  There is a saying that "all hypnosis is ultimately self-hypnosis" and that really you are always in control.
​
6. You can remain permanently stuck in hypnosis.
​
FACT You can’t get stuck.  Some people may relax so much that they don't want to open their eyes straight away as they are enjoying the feeling so much.  It is a bit like watching television and zoning out where you don’t notice things around you but you become aware as soon as you hear someone mention your name, your attention comes back instantly.
​
7. You’ve never been hypnotized.
​
FACT Many people think they’ve never been hypnotised but actually we often go into a type of trance almost daily.  When we are daydreaming for example, or driving long distance or even watching television.  Try asking a child a question when they are fixated to their favorite program or engrossed in a game.  Meditation is even similar to self-hypnosis.
​
8. If I can hear the therapists voice during the hypnosis then it hasn’t worked.
​
FACT No not at all.  That is a big misconception.  Even in hypnosis you are able to listen and follow the hypnotherapists voice, this is evident because as the therapist brings the session to a close the client listens and opens their eyes when asked.  Some people may feel like they have drifted off because they have been relaxing, but it depends on the person.  Even if they are lightly in trance the effects can still be as effective.
​
9. A hypnotist cured me in one session!
​
FACT Many people have heard this and this can lead to an unrealistic expectation.  It is not a magic pill.  In reality the person may have considered the changes they have wanted to make for some time and therefore ready to think differently.  Often a problem has been around for quite some time and therefore more than one session is suggested to help enable lasting significant change.
​
10. Hypnosis comes from the "Supernatural."
​
FACT Hypnosis is a very natural state that has been studied scientifically and proven to have significant benefits and successful outcomes. Hypnotherapy is based on many years of clinical research and helps people to focus their mind on the ways they would prefer to think rather than being stuck in old patterns and unhelpful behaviors.  When a person is calm they are more open to new ideas and have clarity.  For example it is known that some people listen to classical music whilst studying to help them relax and therefore concentrate better. Hypnotherapists are not magicians.  (Although the results can feel magical :)
 
copyright 2016 Melissa McLeod

Question 12

Are you a professional member of associations?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I am a professional clinical member of associations listed below and I abide by their code of ethics and guidelines.

GoAH - Guild of Australian Hypnotherapists
ATMS-Australian Traditional Medicine  Society
HCA-National Hypnotherapists Register
ANS - Australasian Neuroscience Society

Question 13

Can I use my health fund and is it covered by medibank?

Accepted Answer

Can I use my health fund?
Yes, but it continuously changes.  Please check with your health fund provider to see if you are covered.
 • BUPA
 • Medibank Private
 • Australian Unity
 • NRMA Health Insurances (East Coast/Tasmania)
 • CBHS Health Fund
 • Grand United Corporate aka GU Health
 • Health Care Insurance Ltd
 • MBF Alliances Pty Ltd trading as:
 • SGIO Health Insurance (WA)
 • SGIC Health Insurance (SA and NT) 
 • Medicare does not cover hypnotherapy as a stand-alone treatment option. However, there are certain circumstances in which Medicare may cover hypnotherapy as part of a broader treatment plan.

Question 14

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Please give as much notice as possible so that someone else who may need a session is able to be seen.

24 hour's notice is required for cancelling a session.

A fee of $50 will occur if less than 24 hours notice is given as the time could have been taken by someone else.

Melissa McLeod

HYPNOTHERAPY NORTHERN BEACHES

FAQs

GET IN TOUCH

+61 406 357 400
hello@melissajmcleod.com.au
Fisher Rd North, Cromer,
NSW, 2099, Australia

OUT OF HOURS

13 11 14 Lifeline
1300 22 4636 Beyond Blue

Areas covered
In-person in Cromer, NSW.
Sydney's beautiful Northern Beaches, Dee Why, Collaroy, Collaroy Plateau, Wheeler Heights, Newport, Balgowlah, Mona Vale, Avalon, Manly, Manly Vale, Seaforth, Balgowlah, Allambie Heights, Frenches Forest.

Interstate or worldwide via zoom

FAQs

GET IN TOUCH

+61 406 357 400 hello@melissajmcleod.com.au Fisher Rd North, Cromer, NSW, 2099, Australia

OUT OF HOURS

13 11 14 Lifeline 1300 22 4636 Beyond Blue

Areas covered In-person in Cromer, NSW. Sydney's beautiful Northern Beaches, Dee Why, Collaroy, Collaroy Plateau, Wheeler Heights, Newport, Balgowlah, Mona Vale, Avalon, Manly, Manly Vale, Seaforth, Balgowlah, Allambie Heights, Frenches Forest. Interstate or worldwide via zoom

+61 406 357 400
hello@melissajmcleod.com.au
Fisher Rd North, Cromer,
NSW, 2099, Australia

13 11 14 Lifeline
1300 22 4636 Beyond Blue

Areas covered
In-person in Cromer, NSW.
Sydney's beautiful Northern Beaches, Dee Why, Collaroy, Collaroy Plateau, Wheeler Heights, Newport, Balgowlah, Mona Vale, Avalon, Manly, Manly Vale, Seaforth, Balgowlah, Allambie Heights, Frenches Forest.

Interstate or worldwide via zoom