What is Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy?
Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy (CBH) combines Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with evidence-based hypnotherapy.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is an evidence-based therapy which focuses on how our thoughts, feelings and behaviours are interlinked, and provides tools and techniques for making desired improvements in our lives. It is currently considered the gold standard in its field, predominantly because it is the most researched form of Psychotherapy. This means that we employ evidence-based techniques which have been developed as a result of clinical studies and empirical research.
In Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy we combine this style of therapy with evidence-based hypnotherapy. This integrated approach has been proven to lead to even greater results in many areas of people's lives.
Hypnosis has many prevailing myths and misconceptions, many of which have been exaggerated by stage and screen over the years. However, what contemporary research has come to demonstrate is that by using our focus, attention and imaginal absorption on a strategic set of ideas in a systematic way, we are able to build new implicit memories.
These new memories create associations in our brains which unconsciously inform our habitual thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Therefore, utilised as part of an integrative treatment plan, hypnosis can be extremely effective at boosting the effects of Cognitive Therapy, and increase the positive effects of many CBT techniques.
What does a Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy session involve?
In your first session I’ll explain the rationale behind the approach and answer any questions you have about the therapy. This is followed by an assessment and the development of your treatment goals. CBH is a solution focussed therapy so we always work to SMART therapeutic goals (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-based).
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We then employ a range of evidence-based CBT techniques including relaxation skills training, coping skills training and relapse prevention combined with hypnosis to set about achieving your therapeutic goals.
What does being in hypnosis feel like?
This can vary a little from person to person but generally hypnosis tends to feel like a pleasant state of relaxed concentration. Some people can drift off into a deeper state of relaxation and some people simply feel more calm and relaxed than usual.
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Unlike stage hypnosis or those depictions from film and TV, hypnotherapy does not induce hypnotic 'trance'. In clinical hypnosis you remain awake and aware throughout the process.
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The rationale for using hypno-therapeutic techniques is actually entirely evidence-based and there has now been extensive research conducted to support the efficacy of giving focussed concentration to a dominant idea whilst in a ‘highly suggestible’ state. This includes reports by the British Medical Association, American Medical Association, British Psychological Society and American Psychological Association. As well as ongoing research in dedicated labs at Harvard, Stanford and Berkeley.
How many sessions will I need?
Although many people report improvements after just one session, it is recommended you have a minimum of four sessions. Around then we review your treatment goals and you can decide whether you would like to take further sessions. On average it takes 6-8 sessions to make lasting change.
Do you offer online sessions?
Yes, I offer both in-person sessions in Reigate, Surrey and online sessions via zoom. In person-sessions are perfect if you struggle to find a quiet, private space at home. Equally though, online sessions work fantastically well for this form of therapy.