What is Solution Focused Hypnotherapy?
Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is an integrative therapeutic approach that emphasises identifying and working towards solutions rather than focusing extensively on problems. It combines elements of traditional psychotherapy, mainly Solution Focused Brief Therapy, with hypnosis to encourage positive changes. Unlike some other therapies, it doesn’t delve into deep analysis of past issues and instead concentrates on present and future solutions, making it a more goal-oriented approach.
The past century has seen huge leaps in our understanding of how the brain works and advancement in technology in the recent years, especially in the brain-scanning technologies, added few more pieces to the puzzle. Neuroscience research has revealed the brain’s remarkable ability to change and adapt throughout life, process known as neuroplasticity. This understanding has significant implications for therapy, as it suggests that the brain can be trained and rewired to overcome limitations and change it’s structure and function in response to learning and experience. Solution Focused Hypnotherapy incorporates neuroscience research into therapy and utilises elements and tools from other approaches, for example, Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to help clients achieve their desired change. In addition, hypnosis in therapy can help increase suggestibility and access subconscious mind. This allows therapist to address and modify ingrained patterns of thought or behaviour making it useful for managing various issues such as fears and phobias, negative habits, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), depression, anxiety, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), weight management, lack of confidence or low self-esteem, insomnia and more.
FAQs
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Hypnosis is a natural trance-like state of deep relaxation and heightened focus, where the subconscious mind becomes more receptive to suggestion, while hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis for therapeutic purposes. In essence, hypnotherapy utilises hypnosis as a tool within a therapeutic context.
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The duration of the treatment can vary from one person to another. As the sessions are tailored to your individual needs, the length of the treatment depends on your circumstances, the nature of your issue and your commitment to therapy. We’ll get to discuss this more in detail in the Initial consultation.
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Online hypnotherapy treatments can be as effective as in-person treatments. They certainly became very popular in the Covid-19 pandemic and seem to have retained their popularity. Many people find online sessions convenient as they can access therapy from the comfort of their own home or office, and from any location in the world.
To access online therapy, all you need is a private room in which you can relax uninterrupted, a charged device or an access to a charging point, and a good internet connection.
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It can be compared to a focused and absorbed mental state, similar to being engrossed in a captivating book, deeply immersed in a daydream, or when you are fully absorbed in a creative process. Entering hypnotic trance is also similar to falling asleep, just not losing conscious awareness. You are able to hear and sense things around you but, typically your eyes are closed and you are not moving. You're just resting comfortably. In therapy, in the hypnosis part of the session, therapist guides you into this state by using soothing voice and techniques that will make you feel deeply relaxed.
It’s important to note that hypnosis is a collaborative process and it can only work when you allow it to happen. During the process you always remain in control.
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Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is generally considered safe and effective for most individuals. However, there are few contraindications to be aware of. It is not suitable for individuals with certain mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or psychosis. It is also unsuitable for individuals with epilepsy or a history of seizures and individuals with drug and alcohol misuse.