Launceston Counselling and Hypnotherapy Services

I have 18 years clinical experience and hold the following memberships:  Australian Association of Social Workers, Society of Australian Sexologists, Associate Member of the EMDR Association of Australia.

All client details are kept confidential in keeping with the strict rules of the professional associations that Luigi is a member.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is telehealth?

Telehealth is essentially conducting health services (like counselling or clinical hypnotherapy) via video conferencing online.

Is it effective?

Research indicates that receiving counselling services via telehealth is just as effective as face to face support.

How does it work?

It’s extremely simple! You’ll receive an e-mail with a link to our online platform; simply click on the link at the time of your scheduled appointment and Luigi will appear via video and conduct your session just like he would a face to face appointment.

What do I need for a telehealth appointment?

We encourage clients to use a private room at home (advise housemates/family not to disturb you for the duration of your appointment). You can use your smart phone, laptop or tablet (as long as they have a camera and mic function, which most do these days). I also suggest using headphones or airpods etc!

How much do online sessions cost?

Session fees are the same as our regular face to face prices, as you’re paying for our clinician’s time. However, if cost is a barrier for you to access telehealth sessions with me, then please let me know as I may be able to negotiate a different fee, depending on circumstances.

How many sessions do I need?

The number of sessions an individual requires varies. Some people only require a few sessions in order to meet their goals and outcomes, others come longer term to deal with more complex issues. I encourage people to commit to six sessions to give the process of treatment an opportunity to develop.

Is it secure?

YES! The platforms we use are encrypted and you can rest assured the contents of your session will remain confidential.

I feel weird/nervous about doing a video session?

Completely understandable, as it’s a platform many people haven’t tried before. If you’re a current client or a new client wanting to book in, we highly encourage you to give it a try, you’ll likely be surprised very early in the session how comfortable you’ll feel and how very similar it is to a face to face appointment.

What exactly is Hypnosis?

A working definition of clinical hypnotherapy is the use of naturally occurring hypnotic phenomena, which, for example, can occur just before someone drifts off to sleep, as a therapeutic technique to facilitate positive change in thoughts, behaviours, and emotions by accessing the subconscious mind. Through suggestions from the counsellor, in this induced state of deep relaxation and focused attention, a client can have access to their subconscious mind and make positive changes in thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. In hypnosis, a client can talk with their therapist and deal with issues and emotions that have caused them distress in a more relaxed manner.

Now there are certain misconceptions about clinical hypnosis and hypnotic phenomena that need to be addressed. Firstly, the idea that hypnosis is a form of mind control: it's important to clarify that hypnosis is not about controlling someone's thoughts or actions but rather about empowering the individual to tap into their own subconscious resources. Though B-grade Hollywood movies where a person becomes the victim of an unethical rouge who uses hypnosis for nefarious purposes may perpetuate this misconception, it is important to understand that hypnosis is a collaborative process between the counsellor and the individual being hypnotised.

Secondly, another common misconception is that hypnosis can make someone do things against their will. In reality, individuals in a hypnotic state still maintain their moral compass and will not engage in behaviours that go against their values or beliefs. Hypnosis simply helps individuals access their inner potential and make positive changes in their lives.

Thirdly, hypnosis is not "truth serum", as it does not force individuals to reveal information they do not wish to disclose. Instead, it can be used as a tool to help individuals explore their thoughts and emotions in a safe and controlled environment.

And finally, hypnotic phenomena such as amnesia and age regression can be explained by the power of suggestion and the individual's willingness to participate in the hypnotic process to generate these experiences. The power of suggestion, combined with the individual's openness to the process, allows them to enter a state of heightened suggestibility where they can access different aspects of their subconscious mind. This can be incredibly empowering for people seeking change, as they are able to confront past traumas, reframe negative beliefs, and ultimately make positive transformations in their lives.

In a nutshell, hypnosis is a valuable tool that can be used to facilitate personal growth and transformation when approached with the right intention and guidance.

What is Psychosexual Counselling/Sex Therapy?

Psychosexual Counselling or Sex Therapy is a professional and ethical treatment approach to issues of sexual function and expression.

Sexuality is of legitimate concern to professionals and that it is the right of individuals to expert assistance with their sexual difficulties.

Psychosexual counselling employs many of the same basic principles as the other therapeutic modalities, but is unique in that it is an approach developed specifically for the treatment of sexual issues. That is, psychosexual counselling is a specialised form of treatment used with one aspect of the wide range of human issues.

Psychosexual Counselling then, is the focusing of specialised clinical skills on helping people of all ages and backgrounds as individuals and/or as couples to deal more effectively with their sexual expression.

Psychosexual Counselling is the result of relatively recent scientific attention to human sexual function and dysfunction. Out of the increased knowledge of the physiology and psychology of human sexual behaviour has come a new professional appreciation for human sexual response.

At a time in our society when sexuality is being more openly discussed, we are beginning to realise how uninformed many people really are about this important personal topic.

All therapy depends upon trust and mutual respect, but this is particularly true when working with intimate issues of sexuality.

The importance of sexual function for individuals varies, of course, but for many it is closely tied in with their total concept of self-identity. For these, problems in sexual function may lead to devaluation of self - "When I cannot feel good about my sexuality, how can I feel good about myself?"

Regardless of the structure of the intimate relationship shared, sexuality serves a valuable function for most couples. It becomes an expression of caring, not only for the partner, but for oneself. It can become a powerful bonding element in a relationship, which, in today's society, must withstand considerable demands on time, energy and commitment.

Dissatisfaction with the sex and the loss of that shared intimacy, in many instances, may lead to negative feelings and attitudes which are destructive to the relationship. Many relationships end therefore, because of unresolved sexual differences and difficulties.

Psychosexual counselling is confidential and non-judgmental.

Embark on a transformative journey with Luigi. Experience the power of change as Luigi helps you navigate the complexities of your emotions, uncovering a path to inner peace and resilience. With Luigi's guidance, rediscover your strength and find harmony in life's challenges.

Begin your journey to well-being with Luigi. Your first step towards a brighter future is just a conversation away. Contact Luigi now for a complimentary phone call. It's your time to thrive. Don't wait, start your path to healing and fulfillment today. Phone 0417768294

@launcestoncounsellingandhypnotherapyservices

www.launcestoncounsellingandhypnotherapy.com