Hypnosis can be misunderstood
Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy CBH, is a modern and scientifically based form of hypnosis. CBT is the most recommended form of therapy by the NHS, combined with hypnosis it is a powerful technique to make changes in your attitudes and behaviours. It is evidence based and is designed with making positive changes in the future.
CBH is a practical combination of CBT and hypnosis. CBT helps you understand and challenge the thinking patterns that are driving the problem. Hypnosis helps you actually change how those patterns feel and respond in real time. It’s not about analysing the past or “being put under.” It’s a structured, forward-focused way of changing how your mind operates day to day.
Is CBHypnosis right for me?
If you’re aware something isn’t working, but thinking harder hasn’t fixed it, then yes, it’s likely a good fit. It works best for people who are used to being in control, but can see that some of their thinking patterns have become automatic and unhelpful. You don’t need to believe in it yet, just be open to approaching the problem differently.
How is this different to talking therapy?
Talking can help you understand the problem. This is about changing it. Whilst there will be elements of talking therapy to understand the issue, the focus is less on analysing the past and more on how your mind is working now. Then how to shift it so things actually feel different day to day.
What kind of things can this help with and how quickly?
Anything driven by habitual thinking patterns, such as anxieties, stress, overthinking, internal pressure, sleep issues, confidence, performance, or feeling stuck in a way of operating that isn’t working anymore. Our brains are prediction machines, currently it is predicting negativity, through relaxation, focus and visualisation we can change what happens next.
You should start to notice shifts early on, often within the first couple of sessions. This isn’t open-ended. We’re working towards specific changes, not just having ongoing conversations. Changes can be subtle but powerful.
What does hypnosis feel like?
It is not like stage hypnosis or what you have seen on the TV or in films. You remain in control, aware and conscious at all times. If you are open to the concept of deep relaxation and focused attention then hypnosis can work for you. Hypnosis at it's best feels deeply relaxing, similar to the state we are in just before falling asleep, still awake but in a dream like state.
I've tried things like meditation, mindfulness, breathwork and other self help, how is this different?
These approaches are powerful in their own right and are helpful in moments. This goes a level deeper by bringing those ideas together into something structured, so you’re not just managing symptoms, you’re changing the pattern underneath.
