WHAT CAN I HELP WITH?
The therapies I use can be fast yet effective solutions to many of life’s problems. They can be used to treat a variety of conditions, symptoms and emotional issues by resolving and removing the underlying thoughts, feelings and associated behaviour of your problems, whilst building your self-belief, confidence and self-esteem.
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Please note, I am not medically qualified. The therapies I offer are complementary.
Please seek advice from your healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment where necessary.
ANXIETY
More of my clients come to see me for anxiety-related conditions than for any other issue. Some have fears and phobias resulting in anxiety, others get anxious in certain situations where they’d like to have more confidence and some get more extreme responses and panic attacks. It can all affect people in different ways and for different reasons.
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Whatever anxiety disorder you’re suffering from, we’ll identify the trigger and patterns of anxiety and then spend some time using NLP techniques combined with hypnotherapy and psychotherapy to retrain your unconscious, adapt your thinking and change the way you experience the situation.
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If you experience quite a few strong physical sensations, for example a tightening in the chest or butterflies in your stomach, we can use EMDR. I have found this to be incredibly beneficial and effective when treating anxiety disorders, particularly for PTSD. Ultimately, you utilise the resources you already have within you to allow you to deal with those situations positively and confidently in the future.
As we go through life, it is not always possible, desirable or feasible to avoid those situations that cause us anxiety, so in order to remove these symptoms, we need to change our response to the situation. We need to break the connection between the thought and the response or behaviour that is currently produced. This is done by retraining the unconscious mind to respond in a different way to the current trigger.
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FEARS and PHOBIAS
It is said that we are born with just two fears – the fear of loud noises and the fear of falling. All others are learned. As we go through life we are continually learning unconsciously. We learn through experience and our responses to the different situations that present themselves. Fear is also learned in this way. A fear or phobia is learned very quickly. It is an automatic response that is often reinforced over time. Eventually someone can become fearful merely at the thought of their fear, or at the mention of a particular word.
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The mind is very powerful. From just one experience, the feeling of fear can become attached to anything that relates to that fear. However much we may try to logically, consciously control and rationalise that fear, the unconscious always wins through and the fear or phobia remains.
Our unconscious is there to protect us. Once the unconscious believes that there is something to be frightened of, it will do everything it can to ensure we avoid situations or the things that cause us to be fearful. Since the fears are programmed responses in our mind, we need to deal with these responses at an unconscious level. For that reason, hypnotherapy, EMDR and NLP are effectively used for removing fears and phobias, leaving you feeling calm and in control. Freedom from a phobia allows you to live a normal, happy and rewarding life with no unnecessary limitations.
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HABITS and ADDICTIONS
Whether you are affected by bad habits or an addiction or indeed both of these, through the use of hypnotherapy and other psychotherapy techniques, we can work together to change this. We can identify the triggers, alter the responses to those, so that it's positive, and investigate ways to reduce the occurrence of the trigger, change our self-beliefs, and learn how to relax, possibly by the use of self-hypnosis. We can also look to identify the root cause of the problem and in doing so deal with this effectively so that the problem is resolved permanently.
Habit: A recurrent, often unconscious pattern of behaviour that is acquired through frequent repetition and often difficult to give up.
Addiction: A persistent, compulsive dependence on a behaviour or substance.
Alcohol Alcohol can be addictive, both physically and psychologically. Many can enjoy the occasional drink here and there and it have no obvious impact on their life. However, for some, that glass of wine after work, becomes half a bottle, then a bottle or more and the impact on health, finance and other areas of life, starts to become noticeable. Some see it as a ‘slippery slope’ to further abuse or even dependence. For others, the abuse has an impact on their day-to-day life and they start to feel like they’re losing control. This gets more serious, when individuals become dependent on alcohol. At this point, further intervention is very definitely required. Alcohol Abuse: Those that abuse alcohol continue to drink, despite it having a detrimental social, interpersonal or legal impact. However, in general, they’re still able to continue with life. Alcohol Addiction/Dependence: Dependence has the same issues as abuse, however, the alcohol tends to take over and control the individual. Those that are alcohol dependent may have just one specific beverage they prefer; an increased tolerance of alcohol, so the amount they need to get the same effect increases; they may have withdrawal symptoms and drink further to alleviate these; and may allow their life to revolve around social contacts who drink or events that allow for that. The cause of alcohol addiction can depend on many factors including the environment in which the individual has been brought up in and whether alcohol played a part in daily life, parental attitude and the social environment to which they may have been exposed over the years. For some, alcohol has simply been a dominant feature in their social life. Others may use alcohol as a coping mechanism, in situations that are stressful or unhappy. For example, some resort to alcohol following trauma, divorce, an unhappy marriage, bereavement, stress at work or within the family. For those of you who have realised alcohol has become too much of a habit, but do not class themselves as ‘alcoholics’, hypnotherapy can be used to help change your thoughts and responses, in order that you develop a more healthy relationship with alcohol. Some choose to reduce the amount they drink or the days on which they drink and some wish to cut it our completely. we can use suggestion therapy and various other techniques to help you with this or work to resolve the underlying cause(s) of drink having become a coping mechanism. Alcohol dependency is also known as alcohol addiction or alcoholism. There are varying degrees of it, however, if you have any of the following signs, it’s worth seeking help: Unable to stop drinking, a lack of control; Drinking, or thinking about drinking in the morning; Worrying about when you can get your next drink; Planning your social, personal and work life around alcohol; Drinking as a repsonse to stress; or Experiencing withdrawl symptoms (shaking, sweating, nausea) when you abstain. For those who have a more serious issue with alcohol, hypnotherapy can be a useful adjunct to other support that may be being sought. We can work alongside other professionals. It is important that if you are alcohol dependant, you do not suddenly stop all alcohol as this can, in itself, be very dangerous. I have worked alongside various organisations, to support my clients on their road to recovery. Although trained and experienced in hypnotherapy for alcohol and drug dependency, I am not trained to assist in helping you in the process of recovery. This is something you need specialist help with and to which I can then help support you too.
Drugs Drug addiction is a chronic disease. Most people voluntarily take drugs initially, however, some drugs can alter the brain to such an extent that even if someone wishes to stop, they find it incredibly hard to and specialised help needs to be sought. People may become dependent upon drugs or addicted to them. They type of drugs range from recreational ones, such as cannabis, amphetamines, cocaine, heroin and hallucinogens, through to prescribed drugs and alcohol. Drug Addiction and Drug Dependence are two different things. Someone can be dependent on drugs but not necessarily addicted to them and vice versa. Drug Addiction: Addiction is characterized by drug seeking, despite the known consequences, which can include a detrimental impact on work and personal life, and an inability to stop using the drugs. Drug Dependence: Dependence on drugs can frequently happen to those on prescribed medication for long-term illnesses such as diabetes, depression and hypertension. As the body becomes more tolerant of the drug, more may be required to achieve the same effect. There may also be withdrawal symptoms if you attempt to stop the drug. First and foremost, I am not trained in Drug Addiction/Dependency, however, I have had training in helping with drug addiction/dependency using hypnotherapy. There is a difference. You may require specialist help to enable you to become drug free and that, I can help support you with. For those who use, for example cannabis, on a regular basis that has simply become a habit, and wish to stop or reduce, there are techniques we can use to help you achieve this. For those that have a debilitating heroin addiction, you will need specialist help, however, I can work in conjunction with your medical professionals, provided they are in agreement. Drug addiction and dependency is a complex subject. People may find that they have a compulsion to use drugs that is difficult to resist. Some may wean themselves off drugs but subsequently suffer a relapse. Most drugs tend to affect the ‘reward centre’ part of the brain, which creates a sense of euphoria. The following are the types of drugs most commonly used: Alcohol: a stimulant and depressant drug that affects the central nervous system, slowing down brain function and neural activity. Steroids: Performance and Image Enhancing Drugs (PIED’s), include steroids and may be used to increase muscle growth or to reduce fat. The most commonly used PIEDS are anabolic-androgenic steroids. They are known as Roids, Gear and Juice. Cannabis: a psychoactive drug know by many names including Marijuana, Pot, Dope, Hash, Weed and Spice. It is the most commonly used illegal drug in the world. It produces a ‘stoned’ feeling, changing thoughts and perception and heigtening senses. It may also have a depressant effect. Amphetamine: a stimulant drug also known as speed, meth, crystal meth, ice, whizz and shards, amongst other names. It speeds up the activity of some chemicals within the brain, resulting in less fatigue and increased alertness. Ecstasy: a stimulant and hallucinogenic drug, commonly known as MDMA. Ecstasy may also include caffeinie, aspirin and ketamine, in addition to the MDMA. It is has numerous other names, some of which are Es, Pills, Xtc, Molly, Mandy and Pingers. Hallucinogens: these produce hallucinations, or a ‘trip’ in which you may hear or see something that’s not there. They can alter mood and perception. Some names they’re known by are, LSD, Acid, Mushies and Tabs. Cocaine: a stimulant drug affecting the central nervous system, often known as Coke, Crack, C, Rock, Snow, Charlie and White Lady. It speeds up the activity of some chemicals within the brain, resulting in less fatigue and increased alertness. Heroin: a depressant drug affecting the central nervous system by reducing the activity of some chemicals within the brain. It slows down the body including breathing and heart rate. Known also as Smack, Gear, Dope, H, Hammer, Harry and Horse. New Psychoactive Substances (NPS): these are drugs that are manufactured to replicate illiegal drugs such a s cannabis, LSD, cocaine and ecstasy. The main risk of taking these, is not knowing what’s actually in them. They can be reffered to as synthetic drugs, Bath salts, Mephedrone, Flakka, Gravel, Plantfood, Monkey dust, MDPV, Alpha-PVP and NBOMes.
Gambling A gambling addiction, also known as compulsive gambling or pathological gambling, is a behavioural disorder characterised by an inability to control or resist the urge to gamble, despite negative consequences or a desire to stop. Like other forms of addiction, gambling addiction can have serious and detrimental effects on various aspects of an individual's life, including their relationships, finances, and mental well-being. Key features of gambling addiction include: Loss of Control: Individuals with a gambling addiction often find it difficult to control the amount of time and money they spend on gambling. They may make repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut back or quit. Preoccupation with Gambling: A person with a gambling addiction may constantly think about gambling, even when they are not actively participating. They may be preoccupied with planning the next gambling session or reflecting on past gambling experiences. Risk-Taking Behaviour: Gambling addicts may take increasing risks to experience the same level of excitement, "buzz" or "high" from gambling. This can lead to chasing losses, betting larger amounts, or engaging in more frequent gambling. Escape from Problems: Gambling may serve as a way for individuals to escape from problems or to cope with stress, anxiety, or other negative emotions. However, the temporary relief is often followed by guilt, remorse, or an exacerbation of existing problems. Negative Impact on Life: Gambling addiction can have severe consequences on various aspects of life, including relationships, employment, education, and financial stability. The person may lie to conceal the extent of their gambling activities and may resort to illegal means to obtain money for gambling. Tolerance: Over time, individuals with a gambling addiction may require larger amounts of money or more frequent gambling to achieve the desired level of excitement. Withdrawal: When unable to gamble, individuals with a gambling addiction may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability, restlessness, or mood swings. Gambling addiction is recognised as a mental health disorder, and as such, hypnotherapy and psychotherapeutic counselling (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy) can help. Support groups, medication, and financial counseling can also help address and manage the problem.
Nail Biting Both hypnotherapy and counselling can be beneficial in addressing and treating nail-biting behaviours, though they work in different ways. Hypnotherapy: Identifying Triggers: Hypnotherapy can help you identify the underlying triggers or reasons for nail-biting behaviour. This involves exploring the unconscious mind to understand the root causes. Changing Habits: Through hypnosis, alternative behaviours or coping mechanisms to replace nail-biting can be suggested. Positive suggestions can be given to the unconscious mind to encourage healthier habits. Stress Reduction: Hypnotherapy can be effective in reducing stress and anxiety, which are often linked to nail biting. By addressing the emotional or psychological factors contributing to the behaviour, hypnotherapy may help you find healthier ways to cope with stress. Building Confidence: Hypnotherapy can be used to enhance self-esteem and confidence. Increased confidence may lead to a decreased need for nail-biting as a coping mechanism. Counselling: Behavioural Strategies: Counselling, particularly cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), can help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with nail biting. This may involve developing alternative coping strategies and responses to triggers. Exploring Underlying Issues: As above, we can explore any underlying emotional or psychological issues that may contribute to nail biting. Understanding these issues can be crucial in developing effective coping mechanisms. Skill-Building: Counselling sessions may include skill-building exercises to help individuals develop healthier habits and responses to stress or anxiety. This may involve learning and practicing stress-reduction techniques. Goal Setting: Setting achievable goals and tracking progress can be part of counselling. Breaking the habit of nail biting into smaller, manageable steps can make it easier for you to see and celebrate your successes. Combining Approaches: Frequently, a combination of hypnotherapy and counselling may be effective, as they can complement each other by addressing both the unconscious and conscious aspects of the behaviour.
Sex/Porn Sex addiction, also known as hypersexuality or compulsive sexual behaviour disorder, is a term used to describe a pattern of sexual behaviour that is intense, repetitive, and often out of control. It is characterized by an individual's persistent and escalating engagement in sexual activities despite negative consequences and a desire to stop or control the behaviour. A porn addiction, also known as compulsive pornography use or problematic sexual behaviour related to pornography, is a term used to describe a pattern of excessive, uncontrollable, and often distressing consumption of pornography. It is characterised by a persistent and escalating need to view pornographic materials, leading to negative consequences in various aspects of an individual's life. Key features of sex addiction may include: Loss of Control: Individuals with sex/porn addiction may find it challenging to control their sexual impulses or behaviours. They may engage in sexual activities for longer periods or with greater frequency than intended. Preoccupation with Sex/Porn: There is a persistent and intrusive preoccupation with sexual thoughts, fantasies, or urges. These thoughts may interfere with daily functioning, work, and relationships. Neglect of Responsibilities: The preoccupation with sex/porn may lead to neglect of other important areas of life, such as work, family, and social obligations. Individuals may spend excessive time seeking out sexual experiences/spending time consuming pornographic material to the detriment of other responsibilities. Continued Behaviour Despite Consequences: Even when faced with negative consequences, such as damage to relationships, legal issues, or health risks, individuals with sex/porn addiction may continue their behaviour. Failed Attempts to Control or Reduce Behaviour: Individuals with sex/porn addiction often make repeated unsuccessful attempts to control or reduce their behaviour. They may express a desire to stop but find it difficult to do so.
Trichotillomania Trichotillomania is a mental health disorder characterised by the recurrent and irresistible urge to pull out one's own hair, resulting in noticeable hair loss. This condition falls under the category of obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. Key features of trichotillomania include: Hair Pulling: Individuals with trichotillomania engage in repetitive hair-pulling, which may involve the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other areas with hair. The act of pulling is often done intentionally and may be accompanied by a sense of tension or anxiety. Tension Relief: The act of pulling hair provides a temporary sense of relief or pleasure, but this is usually followed by feelings of guilt, shame, or regret. Despite negative consequences, the individual may find it difficult to stop the behaviour. Difficulty Controlling Urges: People with trichotillomania often struggle to control the urge to pull out their hair, even when they are aware of the negative consequences. Attempts to resist the urge may lead to increased tension and anxiety. Hair Loss and Bald Patches: The repetitive pulling can result in noticeable hair loss, leading to bald patches on the scalp or other affected areas. Some individuals may go to great lengths to hide the consequences of their hair-pulling. Associated Behaviours: Some individuals with trichotillomania may engage in additional behaviours related to the pulled-out hair, such as inspecting or playing with the hair, chewing on it, or eating it. Impact on Daily Functioning: Trichotillomania can have a significant impact on daily functioning, social interactions, and self-esteem. Individuals may feel embarrassed or distressed about their appearance and may avoid social situations. Trichotillomania often begins in adolescence but can occur at any age. It is considered a chronic condition, and its severity can vary from mild to severe. The exact cause of trichotillomania is not well understood, but a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors may contribute. Treatment for trichotillomania typically involves hypnotherapy or psychotherapy.
STOP SMOKING
I use the Rob Kelly Stop Smoking method, which has been proven to have a 92.5% success rate. Having trained in various methods, in my opinion, this is by far the best. Only one session is needed to get effective and permanent results. No audios to listen to, just one single session.
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During the session, we talk about the reasons why you may have found it so hard in the past to quit and your reasons for wanting to do so. Then we work on what you’re going to GAIN from stopping, how I can help you stop smoking but not just that, improve your life in other ways too. It’s all to do with changing your belief system.
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During hypnosis, we then retrain the mind utilising the information you’ve provided me with to allow you to kick the habit and become a non-smoker again. It is important that you become a ‘non-smoker’, in other words someone who does not smoke, as opposed to an ‘ex-smoker’ who still has all the connections with smoking lurking in their unconscious and likely to re-emerge again if times of stress or difficulty arise.
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We focus on all the benefits stopping smoking provides you with. We focus on how much you’re gaining, not what you’re losing. The session is very much tailor made to suit you and therefore I do not do joint or group sessions.
As with all my therapeutic interventions, I am unable to offer guarantees. I know that this method works better than any other that I have trained in over the years, probably better than any other Stop Smoking method out there, however, it is still not a magic cure. It will help you (hugely!), but you have to be prepared to put in some effort too. I believe that everyone who wants to be a non-smoker for themselves can achieve this. In order for this to work, you have to have the desire to be a non-smoker for yourself.
Unfortunately, it will not work if you’re not committed to stopping or if you’re trying to give up smoking because someone else wants you to. You have to stop for you. If you’re unsure or not committed, you’re simply wasting our time and your money. This is true for anyone and any hypnotherapist.
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MOTIVATION
We tend to be motivated by pain and pleasure. Our instincts drive us away from pain, whilst we are drawn towards pleasure; two different behaviours; a push and a pull. Of the two, pain is said to be the strongest motivator. It’s little wonder therefore that we resist anything that we believe may cause us pain, whether it be physical, emotional or psychological.
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Counselling techniques combined with hypnotherapy can help you reprogram your mind and enhance your motivational energy so that those tasks that might today seem difficult or pointless (or cause ‘pain’), become easy, do-able and meaningful.
Whether you’re experiencing procrastination or a lack of motivation, there is often a reason why not doing something now results in a pay-off that’s more powerful than the drive to do it.
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The combination of therapies I use can help you change in such a way that you become and stay focused, gaining control over your life and projects. We can work together to remove the resistance and hesitation so that you get things done on time and feel like you’re accomplishing something, whether it be getting back into work, paying off your bills on time or starting that project or hobby you’ve always fancied doing but never get round to.
Over time you have learned how to behave in this manner. Through the use of hypnosis, your unconscious mind can un-learn old patterns and attitudes and re-learn new positive, helpful ones. As a result, not only will you start to achieve those things you once thought were impossible, your level of self-esteem will increase and any fear of failure (or success) will disappear, leaving you motivated to get on with life!
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CONFIDENCE and SELF-ESTEEM
There are numerous situations where a lack of self-esteem or low confidence can affect us. For some this may be when we meet new people, at job interviews, suffering from exam nerves or anxiety related to public speaking. Others are maybe shy or fear rejection, criticism or commitment.
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Hypnotherapy is an effective tool to help boost self-confidence and regain your self-esteem. Combined with NLP techniques, attitudes, thoughts and behaviours can be changed to promote positive personal growth. Once confidence and self-esteem are improved, motivation can also be increased.
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I personally find this area one of the most rewarding to treat. Benefits and improvements are often seen relatively quickly and these can have knock-on effects elsewhere in the client’s life. Many of my clients have gone on to secure jobs, achieve promotion, meet partners and simply feel much happier with life.
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STRESS and RELAXATION
Stress affects us all at some point in our lives. These days, so many of us lead busy, hectic lives juggling jobs, children, finances, exercise, hobbies, relationships…trying to find the right balance and enough time to fit everything in.
Any form of relaxation will help to reduce the build up of stress; whether it be by socialising, meditation, a long hot bath or time out doing your favourite thing. Of course, it’s not always possible to find the time to do those things however, it’s important we make time, since everything else and everyone else in our life will benefit in the long term.
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Hypnosis is in itself a fantastic way to relax. One of my clients once said to me that a session of hypnotherapy with me was like having a 'mental massage', it was so good. What a great way to describe it! Just as many would go for a physical massage to ease away stress, so too we could treat ourselves with a 'mental massage'! Add to this the therapeutic work which can take place through the use of hypnotherapy, together with counselling and NLP techniques where necessary, and stress can become easier to manage, and to reduce or prevent in the future.
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Once the triggers have been determined, your thoughts and behaviours can be modified to respond to these in a different, more appropriate and beneficial manner. Self-hypnosis can be learnt. In doing so, we can continue to treat ourselves on a daily or weekly basis and reap the benefits of relaxation. We can also use counselling techniques such as CBT.
SLEEP DISTURBANCES and INSOMNIA
When we sleep, our conscious mind takes a rest. Our unconscious part of the mind though remains alert and is constantly ‘awake’. It is our unconscious that creates our dreams and other sleep disturbances. If there is a lot going on in our lives whether it be stressful, worrying or exciting, these issues can play on our minds and affect our sleep.
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Since hypnotherapy deals with the unconscious, it can be very effective in helping to resolve these issues and is also useful in the treatment of nightmares and terrors and other sleep disturbances.
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INSOMNIA
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Insomnia isn’t measured by the length of time it takes to fall asleep or by the number of hours you sleep for. It is a measure of satisfaction of sleep. As such, it varies between individuals; some require more sleep, some less.
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Acute insomnia is short term. It may come and go, lasting for just one night or several weeks. Chronic insomnia, however, affects sleep at least three nights a week for a month or more. Insomnia or sleeplessness affects 30-50% of us, with 10% of the population having chronic insomnia.
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Those who suffer from insomnia can have one or more of the following; difficulty falling asleep, waking in the night and having difficulty going back to sleep or waking too early in the morning.
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This sleep disorder can affect people in many ways, leading to fatigue and exhaustion, irritability, blurred vision, mood swings, poor concentration and memory. With continued disruption in sleep, health can be affected by more serious issues such as hypertension and heart disease.
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If someone with insomnia has an underlying medical condition contributing to their lack of sleep, this is known as primary insomnia. Secondary insomnia relates to those who have a known health issue affecting their sleep (i.e. depression, asthma, cancer, pain) or are taking medications or substances that interfere with sleep.
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So, what causes insomnia? Anything that interrupts your normal sleeping pattern can cause insomnia. Jet lag is a common culprit but this normally rectifies itself very quickly. Frequently I see clients who have trouble sleeping due to changing shift patterns at work or those working night shifts. Other causes can be stress or stressful situations looming, medication, environmental factors such as light, noise or temperature, poor diet or inadequate exercise and any emotional or physical discomfort. Depression, pain and chronic stress can lead to chronic insomnia.
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Acute insomnia or mild insomnia can often be treated by practising good sleep habits. However, for those for whom this does not work or who suffer from chronic insomnia, more help is needed. It is important to check with your GP to determine whether there are any underlying conditions.
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SLEEP DISTURBANCES
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Besides insomnia, there are several other sleep disturbances or disruptions.
Sleep Apnoea affects your breathing whilst asleep. Breathing is briefly interrupted for 10-20 seconds or becomes very shallow. This may happen hundreds of times whilst asleep. As a consequence, sleep is shallow leaving you feeling tired, unfocused and lethargic during the day. Prolonged sleep apnoea can lead to health issues such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and weight gain.
Parasomnia is a sleep disorder involving abnormal physical movements or activity. Some examples of parasomnia are somnambulism (sleep-walking), somniloquy (sleep-talking), night-terrors or nightmares, bruxism (teeth-grinding), bed-wetting and restless legs syndrome.
REM Sleep Disorders can also occur. Rapid Eye Movement (REM) is a normal stage of sleep which occurs four to five times during a night’s sleep, typically lasting for around 90-120 minutes. Each of these stages get progressively longer as the night goes by and are often followed by very light sleep or awakening. It is during REM that most of our vivid dreams occur.
Normally during REM sleep we experience something called atonia in which the muscles of our body temporarily don’t move. Those with REM sleep disorder do not experience atonia and therefore physically act out their dream. Some talk or shout during their sleep, whilst other can get more physical or violent, defending themselves or fighting which can obviously be dangerous for themselves or their bed partner.
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PREGNANCY, CHILDBIRTH and POST NATAL DEPRESSION
Hypnotherapy is renowned for its beneficial use in childbirth, also know as hypno birthing. It can, however, together with psychotherapy, also be very useful during pregnancy and for any issues that might arise after child birth.
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Having a relaxed, stress-free pregnancy and birth is advantageous to all involved; the mother, baby and those close to them. Self-hypnosis, breathing techniques, pain control and maintaining a positive outlook can all be acheived with a view to experiencing a comfortable and enjoyable childbirth.
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Fluctuating hormones during pregnancy and following the birth can on occasions, lead to emotional issues, affecting the mother, including post natal depression (PND).
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Pregnancy
Hypnotherapy can be used during pregnancy to reduce stress, create a sense of calm and positivity, and enhance pre-birthing communication.
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Childbirth
Take back control, manage your pain and enjoy the birthing process through the use of techniques and tools I teach you within my six session package.
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Post Natal Depression (PND)
If you’re expereincing PND, I can work alongside your medical practitioner to help you bond with your baby and change your thoughts and responses into positive, uplifting ones.
SPORTS PERFORMANCE
Over the years, I have successfully helped many young and not-so-young sporting enthusiasts and athletes become better at their game. Whether it be the focus you require to achieve your goal, the ability to run through your pain barrier, the confidence to start believing in your capabilities or the relaxation to stop over-thinking your golf swing, give me a call to see if I can help you.
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If you’ve ever felt that you could achieve more, despite the amount of practice and training you put in, then maybe there’s some form of psychological barrier preventing you from doing so. It could be a mental block, stress or a lack of focus and concentration. Maybe you start doubting your ability or over-think a move. All this can then affect your confidence and self-belief.
With the use of hypnosis and psychotherapy techniques, we can use visualisation, anchoring, positive suggestion and a whole realm of other techniques to enable you to focus fully on your goal; to relieve physical conditions such as stress, tension, butterflies or shortness of breath. We can work to overcome any mental blocks that may be inhibiting your performance, removing negative thoughts or beliefs and increasing your self-belief. Concentration, calm, confidence and motivation can be boosted and distractions overcome.
WEIGHT
Maybe you’ve tried a variety of diets, some of which work, some of which don’t, and some which may work but have so many negative side effects or are just so difficult to sustain that you gave up before you found out!
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The good news is that when using hypnotherapy to obtain a healthy, sensible weight, diet plans are not needed. That’s not to say that you can go out and eat anything you want, it just means that there are no forbidden foods or quirky rules you have to follow. The only thing you need to follow is your body. Listen to your body and it will tell you what it needs; plenty of fruit, vegetables, water and balanced, sensible eating. For those of you who aren’t keen on fruit and vegetables, no problem, we can address that within a session too!
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WEIGHT LOSS and MAINTENANCE
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Through the use of conscious learning about weight loss (much of which you no doubt already know) and unconscious learning (the bit we do using hypnotherapy), our aim is to alter the way in which you connect with food. We need to eat the right kind of food, the right amount and at the right times.
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Some people overeat, some comfort eat, some compulsively eat, some emotionally eat and some don’t even realise when they’re eating. We need to create a relationship with food where you’re in control. We’ll re-frame those destructive eating habits so that you can make sensible food choices that are right for you.
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If you have a lot of weight to lose or believe that your problems lie in portion control and/or snacking in-between meals, you may want to consider the Hypno Gastric Band. This is a very effective and powerful technique that can allow you to lose weight easily and safely.
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If you’re already at your ideal weight but would like help staying there, we would focus on your reasons for doing so and help eliminate any thoughts and behaviours that may have sabotaged your efforts in the past.
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Then we may need to motivate you to exercise, where safe and possible to do so. Even small changes have a profound effect on your health, self-esteem and overall image.
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I’ll help you set goals, determine what has stopped you in the past from getting to that goal and staying there. It could be an addiction to certain foods, low self-esteem, negative associations from the past…a myriad of reasons.
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I’ll help you change the way you think about food so you don’t spend the day obsessing over foods or, as you may have done in the past, obsessing over the foods you shouldn’t have! Most importantly, I’ll motivate you to change. Everyone is motivated for different reasons. We’ll establish what motivates you and increase that motivation further.
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We’ll focus on the benefits, the rewards and your success. Focusing on the positives, so in this case, on your goal is far more beneficial than focusing on how you are at present and what you want to change. Looking forward to your success and visualising yourself at goal is a prime motivator for the unconscious mind and this will be reinforced at each session.
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Believe in yourself and your ability to succeed and you will. Together we can help you get there and stay there for good.
HYPNO-GASTRIC BAND
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The Hypno-Gastric Band procedure utilizes hypnotherapy and NLP techniques to convince the client that they have had a gastric band fitted but without the negative side effects, risks and cost of actually undergoing the medical procedure.
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The Hypno-Gastric Band in its current form has been around for many years now and has gained in popularity due to the incredible results achieved.
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In order to ensure that the weight loss remains off, the underlying cause of your eating issues is investigated and hypnotherapy used to deal with those issues before the procedure is carried out.
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I offer a Hypno-Gastric Band package that is designed to be used over five sessions, with the band being put in at the fourth session. However, additional sessions can be carried out where significant underlying problems need to be dealt with further.
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The Hypno-Gastric Band procedure is very safe, using hypnotherapy and NLP to convince the mind that the client has undergone the surgery.
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EATING DISORDERS
Eating disorders can have a highly detrimental effect on health and some can be life-threatening. It is important to stress that although the therapeutic techniques I use have proven to be effective in helping these issues, they are complementary. Guidance and advice from a healthcare professional, such as your GP is essential. I am more than happy to work alongside other health professionals in order to get you back to full health.
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that often require a multidisciplinary approach involving medical, nutritional, and psychological interventions. The combination of hypnotherapy and/or counselling should be tailored to the individual's specific needs and integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan for the best outcomes.
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There are several types of eating disorders, each with its own set of symptoms and characteristics. The most common eating disorders include: Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder (BED), Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED).
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Hypnosis and psychotherapeutic counselling can be used to help eliminate any negative emotions the individual may have from their past, which may be contributing the their eating disorder. Once the underlying causes have been thoroughly dealt with, sessions tend to be predominantly focused on increasing confidence and self-esteem rather than specifically concentrating on eating and weight gain, although as in every case, the sessions are tailored towards the individual, so this may vary.
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Addressing Underlying Issues: Traditional counselling or psychotherapy helps you explore and understand the underlying emotional, psychological, or social factors contributing to your eating disorder. This can include issues such as low self-esteem, body image concerns, trauma, or stress. Hypnotherapy can be used to explore and address unconscious thoughts and beliefs that may be contributing to unhealthy eating patterns. It may help to gain insight into the root causes of your eating disorder and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
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Behavioural Modification: Cognitive Behavoural Therapy (CBT) is a common counselling approach for eating disorders. It helps to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours associated with eating habits. Hypnotherapy can assist in reinforcing positive behaviours and breaking negative patterns by accessing the unconscious mind. It may help you to adopt healthier eating habits and challenge distorted thoughts related to body image and food.
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Stress Reduction and Relaxation: Counseling techniques often include stress management strategies, helping individuals develop healthier ways of coping with life's challenges. Hypnosis can induce a state of deep relaxation, which may help reduce stress and anxiety. Learning to relax can be particularly valuable for you, if you use disordered eating as a way to cope with stress.
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Building Self-Esteem and Confidence: By addressing issues related to self-esteem and body image, I can help you develop a more positive self-perception. Hypnotherapy can work on building confidence and self-esteem by suggesting positive affirmations and beliefs during the hypnotic state.
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Promoting Mindful Eating: Counselling and hypnotherapy may incorporate mindfulness techniques to help you become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours related to food, by being present in the moment and making conscious, healthy choices regarding your eating habits.
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BEREAVEMENT and GRIEF
Dealing with bereavement and grief can be one of the most difficult challenges anyone can face. Counselling can be a valuable and supportive resource if you're experiencing this. I would look to use a combination of therapeutic modalities based on your needs and preferences. Seeking professional help during times of grief can be a crucial step toward healing and finding a new sense of normalcy.
Emotional Support: Grieving individuals often experience a range of intense emotions such as sadness, anger, guilt, and even numbness. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to express and process these emotions. Having someone who listens and understands can be incredibly validating and comforting.
Normalization of Grief: Grief is a natural response to loss, but you may feel isolated or that your reactions are abnormal. I can help normalize the grieving process by explaining common experiences and reactions. This validation can reduce feelings of loneliness and self-judgment.
Coping Strategies: Grief can be overwhelming, and you may be struggling to cope with the intensity of your emotions. I can teach you practical coping strategies to manage grief, such as mindfulness techniques, deep breathing exercises, or journaling. Learning effective coping mechanisms can help you navigate your grief more effectively.
Understanding the Grieving Process: Grief doesn't have a fixed timeline, and people may experience it in different ways. I can help you understand the stages of grief and recognize that healing is a gradual process. This understanding can reduce anxiety and impatience with yourself.
Exploration of Feelings: Grieving individuals may have complex feelings, including unresolved issues or conflicts with the deceased. By facilitating the exploration of these feelings, I can help you work through your emotions and find a sense of resolution.
Preventing Complicated Grief: In some cases, grief can become complicated and lead to more serious mental health issues. I can identify signs of complicated grief and provide timely intervention to prevent long-term emotional struggles.
Providing a Neutral Perspective: Friends and family may have their own emotions and biases related to the loss, making it challenging to provide a neutral perspective. As a neutral third party, I can offer unbiased support and guidance.
Encouraging Self-Care: Grieving individuals often neglect self-care as they navigate their emotions. I can help individuals identify activities that promote well-being during the grieving process.
Building Resilience: Through counseling, you can build emotional resilience and develop the skills needed to adapt to life without your loved one. This may involve setting new goals, redefining your identity, and finding meaning in the midst of loss.
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POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD)
PTSD stands for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. It is a mental health condition that can develop in some people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic or life-threatening event. PTSD can occur after events such as combat exposure, sexual assault, physical assault, natural disasters, accidents, or other shocking and distressing incidents.
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The symptoms of PTSD can be wide-ranging and may include:
Intrusive thoughts: Distressing memories, flashbacks, or nightmares related to the traumatic event.
Avoidance: Avoiding people, places, or activities that remind the individual of the traumatic experience.
Negative changes in thinking and mood: Persistent negative emotions, feelings of detachment, difficulty experiencing positive emotions, and distorted beliefs about oneself or others.
Changes in arousal and reactivity: Irritability, angry outbursts, difficulty concentrating, heightened startle response, and difficulty sleeping.
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For a diagnosis of PTSD, these symptoms must persist for at least a month and significantly interfere with the individual's daily life.
Treatment for PTSD often involves psychotherapy, however, I also offer EMDR often combined with hypnotherapy, which is very effective in many cases for this issue.
OBSESSIONS and COMPULSIONS
Obsessions and compulsions are not the same thing.
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Obsession: An idea or thought that continually preoccupies or intrudes on a person’s mind.
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Compulsion: An irresistible urge to behave in a certain way, especially against one’s conscious wishes.
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With an obsession, you may constantly be thinking about doing something or worrying about something. For example, someone who is obsessed with cleanliness and germs may have an all-consuming desire to wash their hands. However, once they have done this, the worry doesn’t disappear but continues to play on their mind and all they can think about doing is going to wash their hands again. There is no relief for someone with obsessive behaviour or thoughts. It dominates their life. It can affect both men and women and generally those who are perfectionists.
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Someone with a compulsion does at least get some relief once they have carried out the compulsive behaviour; however, they often tend to feel guilty afterwards about their behaviour. An example of compulsive behaviour may be someone who compulsively over-eats. They binge on food, feeling an immediate satisfaction as they do so but then feel guilty afterwards and promise to themselves they won’t do it tomorrow. Unfortunately the pattern continues day after day.
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There are numerous obsessions and compulsions and associated behavious that clients have come to see me for help with. Here are just some examples:
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Hair Pulling (Trichotillomania)
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Constantly Washing Hands
Checking Things
Over-Eating
Carrying out Rituals
Obsession over Cleanliness/Tidiness
Exercising Excessively
PHYSIOLOGICAL ISSUES
Physiological issues refer to problems or disorders related to the normal functioning of the body and its systems. These issues can involve various physiological processes, organs, and systems, and they may have an impact on overall health.
Hypnotherapy is primarily known for its application in addressing psychological and behavioural issues, however, it may also help improve certain aspects of well-being and for some physiological conditions, such as helping individuals cope with chronic pain, manage anxiety related to a medical condition, or improve sleep quality. The mind-body connection is recognized in various therapeutic approaches, however, it is important to stress that the therapy I offer is not considered a substitute for medical treatment.
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The issues mentioned above, are addressed on separate pages. Below are some additional physiological conditions that I have successfully treated on numerous occasions.
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IBS Hypnotherapy has been recognized as an effective intervention for managing symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), particularly when stress and psychological factors contribute to the condition. There are various ways in which we can help address this, with one of the most important aspects, in my opinion, is to find the underlying cause. Stress is a known trigger for IBS symptoms, and reducing stress levels through hypnotherapy may lead to a decrease in symptom severity. We can also consider gut-directed hypnotherapy, a specific approach that focuses on the gut-brain connection. This involves using guided imagery and suggestions to positively influence the functioning of the gastrointestinal system. For those experiencing pain, we can help to manage this. By altering perceptions of pain and promoting relaxation, hypnotherapy may contribute to a reduction in pain intensity. In addition, hypnotherapy may help you to modify your perception of gut sensations. This can be particularly beneficial for those with heightened sensitivity to sensations in the gastrointestinal tract. Strategies for coping with IBS symptoms, empowering you to better manage your condition on a day-to-day basis, can be facilitated, together with enabling you to connect with your body and become more attuned to internal processes. This increased awareness can lead to a better understanding of triggers and responses related to IBS.
Fertility Counselling and hypnotherapy can play supportive roles in addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of fertility issues. While these approaches are not substitutes for medical interventions, they can be valuable in helping individuals and couples navigate the emotional challenges associated with fertility struggles, which in turn can allow individuals to relax, become less preoccupied with the circumstances, and frequently lead to pregnancy. Utilising a combination of psychotherapy and hypnotherapy, we can address any psychological barriers, reduce stress, enhance the mind-body connection, explore your feelings and provide emotional support and coping strategies.
Tinnitus Tinnitus is a complex condition with various potential causes, and its management often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Hypnotherapy is one of the complementary approaches that you could explore to help manage the symptoms. The effectiveness of hypnotherapy to support tinnitus can vary from person to person. Tinnitus is often associated with underlying factors such as hearing loss, stress, or other health conditions. Hypnotherapy may be used to explore and address these underlying issues, contributing to a comprehensive approach to tinnitus management. Tinnitus symptoms can be exacerbated by stress and anxiety, so we would lok to reduce stress levels, and promote a calmer mental state. By reframing thoughts and associations with the sound, you may experience a shift in how you perceive and respond to tinnitus, potentially reducing its impact. If tinnitus is interfering with your sleep, this can obviously lead to increased fatigue and stress. Hypnotherapy may help you manage these sleep difficulties by promoting relaxation and addressing any anxiety or negative thought patterns related to sleep. We can also consider other relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and mental exercises to redirect attention away from the sound. By connecting with your body and developing a positive mind-body relationship, this can help to contribute to an overall sense of well-being. It is important to say that individuals with tinnitus should consult with their healthcare provider, preferably one who specializes in audiology or otolaryngology, to rule out any underlying medical conditions and explore other treatment options.
LOW MOOD and NEGATIVE EMOTIONS
We all experience fluctuating emotions; some good, some bad. Some are beneficial to us in terms of health, relationships, happiness and others create problems within our lives, such as being too quick to anger or having an over-jealous response. Most emotions are temporary. We all have our ups and downs. The problem comes when there are too many downs and not enough ups; when the negative emotions happen too frequently or you feel you have no control over them.
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If you suspect you may be suffering from depression, or you might be a danger to yourself or somebody else, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible. The therapy I offer is complementary to any treatment or advice recommended by your GP.
Emotion: A state of mind, mood or feeling that involves thoughts, physiological changes and an outward expression or behaviour e.g. joy, sorrow, love, hate, grief, anger and jealousy.
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Numerous clients come and see me who feel that life isn’t good. Some believe bad things happen to them, they have no luck, people talk about them or annoy them, relationships never last, their job is going nowhere and they have nothing to look forward to.
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In reality, all of us have times when we might feel this way, but often it’s a temporary feeling and we move on. Many people have financial concerns, particularly in the current economic climate, some have relationship breakdowns or may have suffered the loss of someone close to them. They may have health worries or have just lost their job.
What differs then, between someone who deals with the issue and carries on in life, and someone who becomes depressed or angry, frustrated or jealous, guilty or ashamed? The answer lies in their thought patterns. Negative thoughts lead to negative emotions. Your thoughts create your moods. Often these thoughts can become distorted, for example we can over-generalise, jump to conclusions, blame ourselves or others and become expert fortune-tellers!
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Someone who doesn’t experience so many negative emotions, will be able to rationalise the situation and think positive thoughts. That’s not to say they’re happy or pleased to be in an upsetting or distressing situation, but their thoughts allow them to deal with things in a much more positive way.
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Negative emotions can serve a purpose though. They tell us something is wrong. Being angry is a signal that all is not well, grieving allows us to recognise the importance and significance of life and all it brings. None of these emotions are bad in themselves, they only become an issue when we can’t lift ourselves out of that emotion or if we are frequently experiencing the emotion and can’t control it. Sometimes individuals respond to external stimuli and become angry or jealous and sometimes the emotion can be triggered by merely visualising something happening, by memories or our thoughts. Whether it’s internal or external, the key to resolving our emotional issues lies within us.
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Through the use of counselling, hypnotherapy, NLP and EMDR, we can learn to respond to triggers in a different way, to alter our thinking patterns and access positive resourceful states we already have that just need awakening.
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RELATIONSHIPS and SEXUAL ISSUES
RELATIONSHIPS
Counselling for relationship problems, often referred to as couples therapy or marriage counselling, is a form of psychotherapy that aims to help individuals in a relationship work through difficulties, improve communication, and strengthen their connection.
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This type of counselling can be beneficial for couples who are facing various challenges, including but not limited to:
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Communication issues: Improving communication skills includes learning how to express feelings, listen actively, and communicate effectively.
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Conflict resolution: Couples may seek counseling to address ongoing conflicts or to develop healthier ways of resolving disagreements. Learning constructive conflict resolution techniques can contribute to a more harmonious relationship.
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Separation/Divorce: For those considering or going through a separation, counselling can help support an individual or couple, with the emotional rollercoaster that often goes with this.
Intimacy and connection: Relationship counselling can help couples explore and enhance emotional and physical intimacy. This may involve addressing issues related to trust, vulnerability, and understanding each other's needs.
Infidelity: Recovering from infidelity can be a complex process. Relationship counselling can provide a supportive environment for both partners to express their feelings, rebuild trust, and work towards healing.
Life transitions: Major life changes such as parenthood, career changes, or relocation can impact a relationship. Counselling can assist couples in navigating these transitions and adapting to new circumstances.
Pre-marital counseling: Some couples seek counselling before marriage to explore and address potential challenges, learn effective communication skills, and strengthen their foundation for a healthy marriage.
Individual issues affecting the relationship: Sometimes, individual issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, or personal trauma can affect a relationship. Relationship counselling may address these issues and their impact on the partnership.
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Counselling sessions involve open and honest communication. The goal is to create a safe space where both partners can express their thoughts and feelings.
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It's important to note that seeking counseling does not indicate weakness; rather, it reflects a commitment to working through challenges and fostering a healthier relationship.
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SEXUAL ISSUES
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Counselling and hypnotherapy can be valuable approaches for addressing sexual problems, either individually or as part of a couple's therapy.
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Working with individuals we can explore the psychological and emotional aspects of sexual difficulties. This might involve discussing past experiences, attitudes towards sex, body image issues, or any underlying concerns contributing to the sexual problem.
Hypnotherapy can involve the use of guided relaxation and focused attention to help you access your unconscious mind in order to address any psychological barriers and promote a more positive attitude towards sexual experiences. We can address any factors that may be contributing to sexual problems, such as performance anxiety, past trauma, or negative beliefs about sex. By accessing the unconscious mind, we can work to reframe and change your perceptions and responses.
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Sexual issues can often impact a relationship. If you prefer, working with both yourself and your partner, we can explore intimacy issues, improve emotional connection, and learn effective communication strategies.
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Issues that may be addressed:
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Physical issues affecting both sexes: Insufficient Stimulation, Over-sensitivity, Anorgasmia, Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), Secondary Sexual Dysfunction
Physical Issues Affecting Men: Erectile Dysfunction, Premature Ejaculation, Priapism, Sexual Anhedonia
Physical Issues Affecting Women: Inadequate Lubriaction, Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD), Dyspareunia, Vaginismus, Menopause
Emotional Issues: Intimacy and Trust, Infidelity
Cognitive Issues: Sexual Aversion Disorder, Sexual Knowledge, Expectations, Performance Anxiety, Fears, Beliefs, Memories, Arousal & Fantasies, Myths, Confidence/Self-Esteem, Shame/Embarrassment
Behavioural Issues: Inadequate Sexual Skills, Sex Addictions, Kinks and Fetishes
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PAIN
Pain is a complex and subjective experience, in which the brain receives and interprets signals, giving rise to the conscious experience of pain. It involves sensory, psychological and emotional components and is typically described as an unpleasant sensation or discomfort associated with actual or potential tissue damage. Pain serves as a crucial protective mechanism, alerting the body to potential harm or injury and prompting appropriate responses to prevent further damage.
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Acute Pain: Typically arises suddenly in response to a specific injury or illness. It serves a protective function and usually resolves as the underlying cause heals.
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Chronic Pain: Persists over an extended period, often beyond the expected time for healing. Chronic pain may result from conditions such as arthritis, nerve damage, or long-term illnesses. It can be associated with significant emotional and psychological impact.
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OldPain2Go
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I am trained in a technique call OldPain2Go, which I have used effectively with many of my clients. It is a therapeutic approach developed by Steven Blake, a British therapist, designed to address and potentially alleviate chronic pain by engaging with the unconscious mind. OldPain2Go is considered a complementary therapy and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment.
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Key features of OldPain2Go include:
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Understanding Chronic Pain: OldPain2Go is based on the premise that chronic pain signals persist even when the original cause of the pain has been addressed or resolved. The method seeks to communicate with the unconscious mind to update or change these persistent pain signals.
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Unconscious Mind Communication: The therapy involves engaging in a conversation and visualization techniques to communicate with your unconscious mind. The goal is to explore the purpose of the pain and challenge its necessity.
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Updating Pain Signals: OldPain2Go aims to convince the unconscious mind that the pain is no longer needed for protection, by working with you to update or eliminate the pain signal, with the goal of relieving, significantly reducing or eliminating chronic pain.
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Non-Invasive Approach: it is considered a non-invasive and drug-free approach to managing chronic pain. It does not involve physical manipulation, medications, or invasive procedures.
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Individualized Approach: The therapy is tailored to you, the individual, taking into consideration your unique experiences and the nature of your chronic pain. It involves guided visualization, questioning, and reframing of thoughts.
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For more information, please visit: https://oldpain2go.com/