Explaining Hypnotherapy
What is "Hypnosis"?
If you have already experienced hypnotherapy, you will know that undergoing hypnosis is, in fact, like enjoying a deeply relaxing, guided meditation. Or, you may have experienced a state of "flow", perhaps when deep in a tricky work problem, absorbed in a film, book or game, or safely travelled a familiar route without any memory of how you arrived. If so, you were in a state of focused attention, flow, or trance, which is very similar to hypnosis: you were fully conscious, but your mind was working without you noticing.
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During hypnosis, you will be safe and completely in control, although intensely relaxed. Hypnosis begins with a calming and soothing guided visualisation, enabling you to comfortably let go of the "noise" and distractions in your head. In this state, your conscious and subconscious mind can deeply focus, absorb and respond to suggestions. You will consolidate, subconsciously engage with and rehearse your intentions. These will be the intentions and strategies we discussed during the session's therapy element. The only suggestions you will be open to will be your own.
What Is My Approach?
My overall approach is "solution focused". We will find strategies, methods and resources for you to get to where you want to be and become the person you want to be. If that sounds a bit vague, some examples are: wanting to feel calm in exams; being at ease when socialising; living a full life despite grief or pain; being healthier; serenely looking at a spider; smashing that personal best; overcoming panic attacks; finding a balanced relationship with food or your body; or expressing yourself with confidence.
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These are just a handful of examples; every individual is unique, as are everyone's needs and situations. The critical point is that in our sessions we will look forwards, not back. At objectives, not causes. At "where do you want to be?" rather than "where did you come from?". We will not re-hash or pick over the past to delve deep into causes; you will not have to explain any uncomfortable history. Our start point is - where are you now? Our goal is - where do you want to get to? Our route map is - how you will get there.
Explaining "Therapy"
During our session we will address your goals and I will help you understand the resources you already have. We will find ways to utilise these and explore approaches and strategies that are meaningful, manageable and achievable for the unique person you are. I will explain the neuroscience behind anxiety, fear, depression, anger, addiction and reaching objectives. You will understand how all our brains can work to hi-jack or hinder us and direct our behaviours, and how to use this powerful and freeing knowledge to reconstruct your thoughts and behaviours to achieve your goals. This discussion and goal setting is the "therapy" bit. It is practical and applicable, and you can use this way of thinking and behaving in other areas of your life immediately and in the future.