Hypnosis is the deliberate induction of naturally occurring states of altered awareness, such as deep relaxation, inward focus and “flow” state. Hypnotherapy is the use of these states to elicit healthy change in thought patterns, emotional associations and behaviours.
What sorts of conditions can Hypnotherapy help with?
Hypnosis can be effective for the treatment of anxiety, low confidence and assist with habit changing for weight-loss or to quit smoking. Hypnotherapy can also be used to treat illnesses where there is a stress-related element, such as IBS* (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) or insomnia. *Please speak to your GP before seeking hypnotherapy for any physical illness.
How does hypnotherapy work?
Hypnotherapists use guided relaxation, imagery and other techniques to assist the client in sinking into a state where they are deeply relaxed but still conscious. The aim is to find the area of awareness between wakefulness and sleep. The client will then be using parts of their brain that are usually unavailable to them during the busy-ness of everyday life and normal conversation. The therapist will be able to assist the client in mentally rehearsing challenging situations while drawing on the greater, more creative and more flexible resources of the subconscious mind, which allows the client to break old and unhelpful patterns and to practice new ones. The relaxation state allows the client to explore physical sensations and relieve patterns of tension held in the body. The hypnotic suggestions will be discussed with the client, so it’s not a question of mind control, more assisting a natural neurological process.
Hypnotherapy for anxiety & insomnia
Hypnotherapy for anxiety is particularly effective since the induction of the hypnotic state is in itself relaxing, as well as the suggestions, but it can also be great for any kind of change to mental or behavioural patterns to aid in increased confidence, either in general, or for particular situations such as public speaking or job interviews. Hypnotherapy for insomnia can also be very effective.
What is hypno-psychotherapy?
Hypno-psychotherapy is an integrative model of psychotherapy, using theories drawn from any other psychotherapy school (such as psychoanalysis, Gestalt therapy, CBT, existential therapy and counselling) and adapted to each client, with the use of hypnosis where appropriate, to assist in growing into a healthier, happier, more rewarding life. This could mean moving forwards from trauma or unhelpful relationship patterns from childhood or finding a healthier sense of self, relationships or meaning in life.
Find a hypno-psychotherapist in London
Bethany Pike offers Hypnosis and Hypno-psychotherapy in her sessions and uses this process to assist in therapy. If you would like to find out more about Hypno-psychotherapy and if it is the right therapy for you then contact her by visiting her profile page.
© Brian Cotsen
