“We cannot solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.” Albert Einstein
Cognitive Hypnotherapy… Creating New Connections.
Cognitive hypnotherapy is a modern form of therapy, based on the latest scientific research into how the brain works. It incorporates ideas from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Positive Psychology, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and cutting edge techniques such as Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) binding them together with hypnotic language to create a powerful therapeutic approach.
Cognitive Hypnotherapy is a natural, safe, client-based approach that uses the natural trance states that we all experience every day, like when you have been so absorbed in your own thoughts that you didn’t see a friend when you passed them in the street, or when you are driving and get to your destination but have no recollection of the journey. Research suggests that we spend much of our day in such a state so I don’t have to do anything special to you to get you into a trance, you are already very good at doing it for yourself!
In Cognitive hypnotherapy we use this natural trance state to help uncover the unconscious feelings, thoughts and memory patterns that lead to your problem and which continue to maintain it.
Many people believe that under hypnosis you are asleep and are unaware of what is going on around you. In fact, the light trance state we use in therapy is actually one of heightened awareness where it is possible for your mind to be aware of many more things than when you are in a conscious state.
Whilst in this light trance state you are in total control of your actions at all times and cannot be made to do anything you don’t want to. Throughout the process you will be able to talk to me and can stop whenever you wish to.
Cognitive Hypnotherapy differs from traditional or Clinical Hypnotherapy in that we do not use set scripts for a particular problem. Instead we use Wordweaving™, devised by the acclaimed author and director of the Quest Institute Trevor Silvester. Wordweaving™ aims suggestions specifically at the key points of your problem, using the language you use and taking into account the unique way in which you perceive the world.
To see how Cognitive Hypnotherapy works, please watch the short video below by Trevor Silvester.
Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)
NLP is the practice of understanding how people organise their thoughts, feelings, language and behaviour to produce the results they do. It’s a bit like an owner’s manual of your brain!
NLP was developed by Richard Bandler and John Grinder in the 1970s and started as a study of excellence. They studied the thinking styles and behaviour of people who were particularly successful in a certain field and analysed what they did that less successful people didn’t.
The fundamental idea behind NLP is that we form unique internal mental maps of the world as a result of the way we filter and perceive information received through our five senses.
NLP has provided the tools to help us understand an individual’s thought processes and how to develop their ability to adapt whatever they do that does not bring them the results they want, into processes that do.
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)
EFT is a tool used to clear emotional conflicts in our minds and in our bodies. It is a stress-relief technique that combines modern psychology with some of the practices and principles of Chinese acupuncture, but which does not involve any needles.
Instead, during an EFT sequence, we tap with our fingertips on acupuncture points on our face and body while tuning in to the problem that is bothering us. Tapping works exceptionally well for emotional stress of any kind, anxiety, fears, guilt, phobias, etc.
Some of the theories around why tapping works on releasing emotional issues concentrate on the energy systems in our bodies and the belief that emotional issues cause disturbances in these energy fields. Tapping clears these disturbances allowing the body to return to a state of balance.
There is a large amount of research being conducted to try and figure out exactly why tapping works so well. Recent scientific research has suggested that tapping may influence the expression pattern of some genes, by suppressing genes that are associated with stress and activating those associated with tissue repair in the body2.
Regardless of the research outcomes, tapping has produced many exceptional results and often works when nothing else will.
To discuss any of the techniques outlined here and to find out how they might help you contact me on 07952 569 851 or email annette@annetteself.co.uk.
2Review of General Psychology, Vol 14(4), Dec 2010, 283-295