Why do I still smoke or vape even though I know it's bad for me?
Smoking or vaping is never really about willpower. It's a habit your mind picked up as a way of coping. But what's learned can be unlearned.
You were never attached to the cigarette or vape itself. You were attached to what it gave you.
The excuse for a quick break, the long, slow exhale after a stressful meeting, the thing to do with your hands when you're bored. It's funny, isn't it, that the cigarette or vape is always there in the same kinds of moments each day.
Quitting isn't where we start. First, we look at what the habit's been doing for you, what it soothes, marks, or interrupts, so your mind can find another way to meet that same need. We'll also help you interrogate the contract you've made with smoking, what it gets and what you get. Because once you realise that your side of the bargain isn't as good as you once thought, letting go feels natural and easy. So there's no 'quitting' involved.
What happens over our four sessions?
I work within a structured programme of four sessions (usually weekly, where possible) because meaningful change rarely happens in a single appointment. Each session builds on the last, giving your mind and body time to settle, learn and change.
Your first session starts with a conversation. We'll take time to understand what's been happening, what you'd like to be different, and answer any questions you have about the process. I'll then guide you into hypnosis, a calm, inward-focused state, rather like daydreaming, but with a purpose. You remain aware and in control throughout. Many people tell me it's one of the most relaxing experiences they've had in a long time.
Each session is tailored to you and builds on your progress, combining conversation, hypnosis and practical tools where appropriate. You'll also receive personalised audio recordings to listen to between sessions, helping to reinforce the work we're doing together.
What people often notice
Most people come here to quit a habit. What they walk away with is bigger than that: feeling a sense of pride in themselves again, and regaining their identity as a non-smoker.
“Melissa was fantastic and instantly made me feel comfortable, even though I was fairly nervous going in. I honestly wish I'd contacted her sooner. I'm now over a week vape-free and couldn't be prouder. I can't recommend her highly enough.”
Is this the right approach for you?
Stopping smoking or vaping works best when you're ready to make the change. Most people stop after the first session, though maintaining their new behaviour usually requires all four sessions, spread out over time.
Ready to get back in control?
Start with a free, friendly chatMelissa is an HPD Level 4 Clinical Hypnotherapist, registered with the NCH, BSCH and CNHC, working with adults, children and teens in Harpenden, Hertfordshire, and online.