HYPNOSIS TO QUIT DRINKING

It’s always striking how many middle-aged clients — both men and women — come to me wanting to change their relationship with alcohol. Many have been drinking regularly since their teens. It starts with a glass or two, becomes a bottle, and sometimes more. They try to cut back: skip nights, limit drinking to weekends, or only drink socially — but none of these strategies stick.

Eventually, there's a dawning realisation: this isn’t just a habit anymore — it’s an addiction. A subtle, socially acceptable one, but addiction nonetheless. They find themselves negotiating with their own brain night after night — “just one,” “I deserve it,” “only tonight” — and losing the argument every time.

This is where hypnotherapy becomes a powerful intervention.

HYPNOSIS TO STOP DRINKING - WHY IT WORKS?

Most of my clients don’t resonate with traditional approaches like AA. They’re not ready to label themselves an “alcoholic,” but they do recognise that something has taken hold — and it’s no longer in their control. They want support that’s practical, non-judgmental, and effective.

I typically recommend a short period of complete abstinence — anywhere from two weeks to a year. Why? Because reducing alcohol is far harder than stopping altogether. When you're drinking “just a little,” your brain stays stuck in negotiation mode. Going alcohol-free gives your nervous system a break and silences the mental chatter. No more exhausting back-and-forth. Just peace.

And if even the thought of giving up alcohol triggers resistance? That’s a strong sign it’s time to pay attention.

What to Expect in Therapy

I usually suggest three hypnotherapy sessions to break the cycle. In each session, we use deep meditation to access the subconscious — the part of you that doesn’t want to stop. That’s the part we need to meet, understand, and work with. Once that inner part feels heard and supported, change becomes far easier. You're no longer in conflict with yourself.

We also explore your future — with and without alcohol. This isn’t about shame or scare tactics. It’s about alignment. What kind of life are you building? Who do you want to be?

The Payoff

The benefits of cutting back (or quitting) are real and immediate:

• Better mood and energy

• Sharper focus and better sleep

• Improved relationships

• More time, more money, more joy

Waking up with even a slight hangover isn’t just unpleasant — it subtly steals from your quality of life.

We’ll also reconnect just before your alcohol-free period ends to review your progress, recalibrate your goals, and help you stay on course. This work is about reclaiming autonomy — not following rules, but choosing from a place of clarity and strength.

Recommended Resource:📚 This Naked Mind by Annie Grace — a science-backed look at alcohol’s effects on the brain, and why it’s so hard to “just cut back.” The accompanying podcast is also a brilliant resource.