Is Hypnotherapy right for me?
What is CBH?
Learn more about CBH
Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy combines the power of hypnosis and suggestibility with the benefits of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
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Focusing on your thoughts, behaviours and feelings, together we can shift them into more positive and constructive thoughts to help you overcome whatever challenges you are facing right now. This may be overcoming longstanding issues that are engraining in your mindset or addressing new thoughts and behaviours that are holding you back.
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Download the UK College of Hypnotherapy & Hypnosis 'Hypnosis Fact or Fiction' Sheet.
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Hypnosis and its benefits have been recognised in reports by the British Medical Association (BMA), American Medical Association (AMA), American Psychological Association (APA), and British Psychological Society (BPS).
What is cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy?
Cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy (CBH) is a form of psychotherapy that combines elements of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) with hypnosis. CBT is a form of therapy that focuses on changing negative patterns of thought and behaviour, while hypnosis is a state of mind characterized by deep relaxation and heightened suggestibility. CBH aims to help people overcome psychological difficulties by changing their thought patterns and behaviours through hypnosis.
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How does cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy work?
CBH typically involves a therapist guiding a person into a state of deep relaxation through hypnosis, and then using techniques from CBT to help the person identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours. This may involve the therapist suggesting new, more positive ways of thinking and behaving, and helping the person to visualize themselves carrying out these new thoughts and behaviours. The goal is to replace negative patterns with positive ones, leading to improved mental health and well-being.
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Is cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy effective?
CBH has been shown to be effective in treating a number of psychological conditions, including anxiety, depression, and habit reversal. However, as with any form of therapy, its effectiveness can vary depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated.
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What are the benefits of cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy?
CBH has a number of potential benefits, including reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, improved sleep, increased confidence, and better relationships. In addition, because hypnosis is a relaxing and calming experience, it can also help people manage stress and feel more relaxed in general.
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What should I expect during a cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy session?
During a CBH session, the therapist will first guide you into a state of deep relaxation through hypnosis. They will then use techniques from CBT to help you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours. This may involve the therapist asking questions, making suggestions, or helping you visualize new, more positive thoughts and behaviours. The goal is to help you feel more relaxed, confident, and in control of your thoughts and emotions. We will agree and discuss this in our assessment session.
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Is cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy safe?
CBH is generally considered safe, and serious side effects are rare. However, as with any form of therapy, it's important to find a qualified therapist who has experience in CBH and is trained in the use of hypnosis. It's also important to let your therapist know about any medical conditions or medications you are taking, as these can affect your response to hypnosis.
FAQ's
Will I be able to remember it?
Yes. CBH is a collaborative approach and involves you to be an active participant and as such, you will be aware of everything going on at all times.
Will you be able to make me do anything silly?
Absolutely not. CBH is nothing like what you’ve seen on stage or on the TV. All hypnosis is self hypnosis and so you will be in control the whole time. Furthermore, you wont accept any suggestions that you don’t agree with or you don’t like. Although we will discuss this during our assessment session to agree your goals.
What does hypnosis feel like?
Hypnosis is a little like day dreaming, or getting engrossed in an amazing book. The rest of the world around you melts away and you are highly focused on one feeling, thought or behaviour. Hypnosis sis a natural state of heighted focus and heightened suggestibility whilst still being aware of the world around you.
How many sessions will I need?
Typically 4-6 sessions are recommended for longer term goals which we will discuss & agree in our assessment session. But it can depend on you and how you engage in hypnosis in between sessions. I will also be very clear if hypnosis is not right for you.
Could I get stuck in hypnosis?
Simply, no. You are fully aware and engage din the process and so can come out of hypnosis at any stage. We will spend time to understand hypnosis and how to access hypnosis but also how to leave if you wish. Hypnosis is just a state of increased focus and suggestibility, often accessed through relaxation, allowing you to become receptive t new positive ideas.
Is it effective?
Hypnosis has been recognised by a number of scientific and governing bodies as a great therapy for things such as pain management, habit reversal, self esteem, IBS, anxiety and many other issues.
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Can anyone be hypnotised?
Yes absolutely! Some may take longer to get into a state of hypnosis, but you will typically find it easier as our sessions go on.
Is there anyone who shouldn't have Hypnotherapy?
Yes. Hypnotherapy isn’t suitable for children under the age of 5 or people with conditions such as psychosis, schizophrenia or epilepsy. You will be asked to complete a medical history form ahead of our session and I will be fully transparent if hypnosis can help you.