Much that goes on in our world can cause problems for children, just as it does for adults. 

Rapid physical growth over short periods of time, and concerns about changes in their bodies can cause stress and loss of self-esteem. Problems in school, with studies, bullying, teachers or peers, may be troubling a child or Teen. Phobias such as fear of the dark, fear of going to sleep, fear of doctors, dentists and needles, fear of birds and bugs to name a few, can have a huge negative impact on children and are very real and scary to them. Many children experience the embarrassment of habits they find hard to break, like bed-wetting, thumb sucking, stuttering and stammering. A new baby or a new step family can cause undue stress and worry. The experience of losing a parent, sibling, grandparent, friend or even a family pet, as well as divorce can cause children to experience high levels of anxiety and emotional distress. 

Hypnosis works well because there are less years of reinforcing imprints on one's mind and children are usually excellent at hypnosis, they spend much of their time in the similar state of day dreaming. They have the drive to discover and they hunger for new experiences, They are open to new learnings, willing to receive and respond to new ideas, as long as they are presented in an understandable way that the child feels comfortable with. Children are usually easily relaxed and focused. They have an ability to change and to be versatile, and before the age of twelve, to accept most ideas uncritically. They aren't as dominated by rational questioning and concerns that adults have formed through their life experiences. 

The benefits of hypnosis with children are the same as for adults, as long as their problems are treated as seriously as adults and in a way that they can understand. Hypnosis is a powerful tool in strengthening a child's confidence. It helps a child to feel empowered and in control of their concerns, where before, they have may have felt powerless or helpless (not much fun for children or adults!). It can release willingness to use their natural gifts and can elicit talent and creativity. It can provide a wonderful foundation in their education. With a good hypnotherapist, children can experience true success and calm in their lives in all areas. By learning new skills and making changes they can feel happier, and have a sense of real freedom. 

Just like with adults the 1st stage is consultation usually with the child and parent/carer. The content of the session itself will be dependant on the child’s age, stage of development and the reason they are requesting treatment with hypnosis. Most children from the age of around 5 or 6 can do well with hypnosis. For younger children lots of story telling is used and things that they know and like. For older children more formal techniques can be used but with things that they know and like to do added in, for example, characters from TV and film, favourite Footballer, pop star or band etc. It is often helpful for a parent of an older child to wait in the waiting area, in these circumstances sessions are audio recorded. 

Kaz Riley has a enhanced DBS certificate.