About Hypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy is a combination of the best aspects of NLP, CBT and hypnosis

What is Hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is a form of complementary therapy that utilises the power of positive suggestion to bring about subconscious change to our thoughts, feelings and behaviour.

The process itself aims to alter our state of consciousness in a way that relaxes the conscious part of the mind while simultaneously stimulating and focusing the subconscious part. This heightened state of awareness – reached using skilled relaxation techniques, allows the therapist to then make appropriate suggestions.

Source: The Hypnotherapy Directory

What is Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP)?

NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) influences brain behaviour (the “neuro” part of the phrase) through the use of language (the “linguistic” part) to enable a person to “recode” the way the brain reacts to stimuli (that’s the “programming”) and manifest new and better behaviours.  An example of this is in cajoling a child. Look at the difference between these two sentences:

“You must have a bath now and don’t forget to brush your teeth.” This could invite refusal.

Or: “Are you going to brush your teeth before your bath or after?” This implies that both things will happen, while offering the child some choice.

You can learn a different type of self-talk which is more productive than negativity and reprimanding yourself (or others). It can also help you to de-fuse conflict.

What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?

CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) is described by NHS Choices as a talking therapy, based on the concept that your thoughts, feelings, physical sensations and actions are interconnected, and that negative thoughts and feelings can trap you in a vicious cycle.

CBT aims to help you deal with overwhelming problems in a positive way by breaking them down into smaller parts. You’re shown how to change these negative patterns to improve the way you feel.

Unlike some other talking treatments, CBT deals with your current situation, rather than focusing on issues from your past. It looks for practical ways to improve your state of mind on a daily basis.