The belief with Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is that we all have the inner resources and strengths to find the solutions to our own problems. It is not necessary in therapy to revisit painful and difficult memories of our past, we are more concerned with the present and creating you a bright, positive and happy future. However, there may be times when it is necessary to talk about the past to explore and discuss times when the problem was less of an issue for you. 

During sessions we talk about what it is you would like to achieve ( the solution) rather than focusing on what lead you to seek help ( the problem).We do this by using a structured approach and evidence based strategies to help you make significant positive changes in a relatively short period of time. 

There are many misconceptions about hypnotic trance and for some it still creates images of mind control. Far from it ! It is a very natural, relaxing state achieved by using guided relaxation and the use of visualisation. It is a state of focussed awareness, just like a daydream. We all go in and out of trance every day without even noticing we are doing it. Activities such as listening to music, driving your car or simply just scrolling on your phone are all examples of trance when we are focused on something we are doing and not really thinking about what is going on around us. It is often referred to as autopilot.

As therapists we use this focused state of awareness to quieten the mind and move you to an area of the brain where solution- based thinking can occur to help you achieve your desired goals and create new and healthy habits and behaviours. In the relaxed state you are also more open to ideas and suggestions presented to you by your therapist. These suggestions will encourage you to re-evaluate things and look at things in a different way to promote positive change. 

You are in the drivers seat throughout the trance experience and fully in control. It may suprise you that the brain does not like being told what to do and therefore you will not do anything that does not align with your internal belief systems. 

A typical session lasts around 60 minutes. 

Your first session (which we call the initial consultation) is entirely free with no obligation. The purpose is for us to get to know each other and gather the necessary information to tailor your therapy. 

Subsequent sessions involve around 25-30 minutes of talking therapy. This will include:

• Talking about what has been good in your week. 
• Scaling emotions such as happiness, confidence and motivation to evaluate your performance.
• Asking the miracle question to help you to imagine what your life would be like if the problem was no longer present.

The remaining time of the session you will experience the power of trance. We also use Metaphors which are rather like story telling and are a simplistic way of seeing something that has been obscured by your subconscious.

The number of sessions required will be largely dependent on what you feel you need and by the arrangement we have to evaluate when we have achieved your desired outcome. 

Generally, we use three flexible time frames:

Smoking / Vaping cessation therapy - 1 session lasting 90-120 minutes

Simple /  Specific fears and phobias - 3 sessions lasting 60 minutes each

Depression and / or anxiety - 8-12 sessions lasting 60 minutes each