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Tessa’s Tour

Hypnotherapy to ease the soul

By Simon CurtisPublished about a year ago 1 min read
Tessa’s Tour
Photo by DDP on Unsplash

There was only one rule: Don’t open the door. Dr. Bannister, Tessa’s hypnotherapist, had been unequivocal about this, but Tessa never understood why. Today, Dr. Peyton, a younger and more relaxed replacement, was filling in. He eased her into the session with casual chitchat about holidays and family, barely skimming through Dr. Bannister’s detailed notes.

“I’d like you to close your eyes and just relax,” said Dr. Peyton.

Tessa, familiar with the hypnosis process, quickly entered a calm state. There was little difference between the two therapists’ techniques. Soon, she was recounting memories in response to Dr. Peyton’s questions.

She began with her childhood home, describing the living room’s Christmas tree, presents, and family photos on the mantle. Her words were warm and vivid. She continued into the kitchen, where the smell of baking cake filled the air, and described the taste of a delicious rhubarb crumble she found on the table.

Next, she climbed the stairs and entered her childhood bedroom, where posters of a once-favourite band still adorned the walls. Turning back to the landing, she looked into the open bathroom, but her gaze stopped on the closed bedroom door ahead.

“Why don’t you open it?” Dr. Peyton suggested.

“I’m not sure I should,” Tessa replied.

“Go on.”

Tessa hesitated, then placed her hand on the handle. The door clicked open to reveal her parents’ mutilated, bloody bodies. Slowly, she raised her eyes to a full-length mirror and saw herself, drenched in blood, holding a kitchen knife.

Now, the door wouldn’t close.

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