About Me

Dr Iain Lightfoot

Hi, I’m a hypnotherapist and coach based in Southampton. I specialise in helping people tackle challenging habits and behaviours like smoking, gambling, and vaping, while also addressing deeper issues such as anxiety, emotional well-being, and performance optimisation. My goal is to empower my clients to take back control and create the lives they truly want. Whether you’re seeking to overcome stress, improve focus, or achieve peak performance, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Learn more

What sets my practice apart is the unique fusion of hypnotherapy, coaching, NLP, and counselling that I bring to every session. This holistic approach allows me to address both the conscious and subconscious mind, tailoring each session to your individual needs and goals. It’s about more than just resolving issues; it’s about equipping you with the tools and mindset to thrive long after our work together is done.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless transformations, helping clients achieve breakthroughs that once felt impossible. My greatest joy comes from seeing someone take that first step toward positive change and watching as they build momentum toward a brighter future.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward change, whether it’s letting go of a habit, overcoming a fear, improving emotional health, or enhancing your performance, I’m here to help. Together, we’ll create a personalised plan that empowers you to achieve lasting success.

My qualifications and experience

DCM – Level 8 – Doctorate of coaching and mentoring – Exploring the events leading to insight within coaching sessions; identifying strictures through experiences.
MSc (Distinction) – Increasing training effectiveness through motivation.
NFCE/HPD Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy.
SICH Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy.
SICH Certificate in Clinical Hypnotherapy
Postgraduate – Level 7 – Executive Coaching.
Postgraduate – Level 7 – Management Coaching.
Postgraduate – Level 7 – Coaching Supervision.

(also accredited Hypnotherapy Supervisor of the NCH)

Postgraduate – Level 7 – Strategic Leadership.
Graduateship – Level 6 – Engineering and Management.
Graduateship – Level 6 – Human Resource Management.
NLP Practitioner Coach.
SICH NLP Practitioner Coach.
FHEA – Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy
CTLLS (Certificate of Teaching in the Life-long Learning Sector).

My published articles

Lightfoot, I. (2016). The Case for Hypnotherapy as an Aide to Stroke Rehabilitation. The Hypnotherapy Journal. 16(5), pp.8-11.
Lightfoot, I. (2018). An exploration of the events leading to insight in coaching sessions. Paper presented to 15th Annual Coaching and Mentoring Research Conference. Oxford Brookes University, 17 January 2019.
Lightfoot, I. (2019). Insight events in coaching sessions. International Journal of Evidence Based Coaching and Mentoring. (S13). pp.94-101. DOI: 10.24384/952t-7w52 (Accessed: 31 May 2019).
Lightfoot, I. (2020). Therapy and Business are Indissoluble. The Hypnotherapy Journal. 20(2). pp, 24-28.
Lightfoot, I. (2024). Habit (and Addiction) Formation, Mechanism, and Pre-Eradication. The Hypnotherapy Journal. 23(2). pp19-22

Rapid results, real change.

FAQ

Can anyone be hypnotised?

It is said that 99% of people can be hypnotised. Of the population, 10% are said to have low susceptibility, 80% have a medium (normal response), and the remaining 10% are extremely susceptible. Even if you are sceptical, you can be hypnotised; however, if you do not wish to be hypnotised, then you won’t be.

What is the difference between hypnosis and hypnotherapy?

Hypnosis is a state of altered consciousness, whereas hypnotherapy is the term given to therapy that uses hypnosis as a tool to enable positive change.

Is hypnotherapy or hypnosis safe?

Yes, hypnosis and hypnotherapy are completely natural and safe states to be in, occurring naturally at different times of the day. You will not say or do anything that you do not wish to. This is professional, clinical hypnotherapy and not stage hypnotism. Everything is controlled by you to get the results you seek from the session.

Will I remember what happens during the session?

It is extremely likely, and most people do, unless you have a very deep hypnotic experience or drift off dreaming about something else. There are many stages of hypnosis from light to deep trance; all levels have therapeutic benefit.

How do you hypnotise me?

I will talk to you and facilitate self-hypnosis. By following my words and allowing yourself to deeply relax, you can enter the hypnotic state. It is as easy as that.

Can I be controlled during hypnosis?

You choose what you do and what you don’t do. In therapeutic hypnotherapy, you will never have any suggestions to do anything against your will.

What does hypnosis feel like?

Hypnosis feels wonderfully relaxing, akin to a daydream state, providing a sense of peace and calm. If you meditate, it is similar to that feeling.

Is hypnosis real? Is it sleep?

Yes, hypnosis is real. It is not sleep; rather, it is an altered state of awareness, somewhere between being awake and asleep.

What happens if I fall asleep during hypnosis?

Occasionally, a client may become so relaxed that they fall asleep, especially if they are tired or not sleeping well. Do not worry; I can distinguish between deep hypnosis and sleep. If you do fall asleep, I will help you return to the correct state.

Are there any side effects to hypnotherapy?

There are no downsides to hypnosis. You may feel tired, relaxed, and quite often invigorated, along with experiencing the positive changes we have been working towards.

Can I get stuck in hypnosis?

No, you cannot get stuck in hypnosis. You will be able to return from the state of hypnosis without any issues. Sometimes you may be so relaxed you may not wish to, but there has never been anyone who couldn’t return to full awareness.

What is hypnotherapy used for?

Hypnotherapy can address various issues, including anxiety, panic, phobias, unwanted habits and addictions (e.g., smoking, overeating), disrupted sleep patterns, lack of confidence, low self-esteem, fear of examinations, and public speaking.

Can children be hypnotised?

Yes, hypnotherapy is often effective for children, especially in treating behavioural disorders, anxiety, phobias, night terrors, and sleep disturbances.

How many hypnotherapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on the issue being addressed. For example, anxiety-related conditions may require around 6-8 sessions, while smoking cessation might be achieved in one or two sessions. Please do see my blogs on this subject.

Will I reveal personal secrets during hypnosis?

No, hypnosis doesn’t compel you to reveal secrets or personal information. You are conscious of what you’re saying and remain in control throughout the session.

Is hypnosis effective for pain management?

Yes, hypnotherapy has been used effectively for pain management, including chronic pain conditions and during medical procedures.

Can hypnotherapy help with insomnia?

Yes, hypnotherapy can be beneficial in treating insomnia by promoting relaxation and addressing underlying psychological factors contributing to sleep disturbances.

Is hypnotherapy suitable for everyone?

While hypnotherapy can benefit many people, it may not be suitable for individuals with certain psychiatric conditions, such as severe psychosis or personality disorders. It’s important to consult with a qualified hypnotherapist to determine suitability.

How should I choose a qualified hypnotherapist?

Look for a hypnotherapist who is accredited by an organisation such as ‘The National Council of Hypnotherapy (NCH)’ and registered to the PSB via the ‘Complimentary and Natural Health Care Council (CNHC)’

Pricing

Southampton

Services

£95/Hour

Hypnotherapy, Coaching and Supervision Sessions
The first session is 2 hours and subsequent sessions are 1-1.5 hours.

Consultation

Initial Call

FREE

30-minute discovery call
No-obligation
(Telephone, Teams or Zoom)

Online