Our Approach
Understanding patterns. Creating possibilities.
Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy brings together practical, evidence-informed methods to help you understand how patterns work — and to develop new ways of responding.
The Method
Four elements, one coherent process.
Cognitive techniques
We look at the thoughts, assumptions and beliefs that shape how you interpret situations — and explore whether more balanced, helpful perspectives are available.
Behavioural techniques
Change is practised, not only understood. Small, manageable steps help you try out new responses in real situations and learn from the experience.
Therapeutic hypnosis
Where appropriate, hypnosis is used as a state of focused, relaxed attention. It can support imagery, rehearsal and new ways of responding — always with your awareness and consent.
Working together
Sessions are collaborative. Goals are agreed together, progress is reviewed openly and the process is adapted to your needs.
Therapeutic, not theatrical
What hypnosis is — and what it isn't.
Therapeutic hypnosis has little in common with the stage shows and films that shape popular ideas about it. It is not mind control, and it is not a way of "reprogramming" the subconscious.
Used carefully, it is a focused state that can make it easier to rehearse new responses and engage with change. Results depend on many factors, and realistic expectations are part of good practice.
The Beyond Habit Approach
Understand → Reframe → Practise → Move Forward
01
Understand
We begin by exploring the patterns of thinking, feeling and behaviour that matter to you: when they occur, what sustains them and what they may once have protected.
02
Reframe
With that understanding, we examine unhelpful interpretations and develop alternative perspectives that feel credible and realistic to you.
03
Practise
New responses are rehearsed in sessions — sometimes with hypnosis — and applied between sessions through agreed exercises and everyday experiments.
04
Move Forward
As skills become familiar, you rely increasingly on your own resources. Sessions focus on consolidation and on preparing you to continue independently.
Skills for Everyday Life
Tools that stay with you.
The aim is to support greater self-management and confidence — so that what you learn continues to help between and after sessions.
- Recognising and questioning unhelpful thoughts
- Behavioural strategies for everyday situations
- Self-hypnosis and relaxation techniques for independent use
- Simple exercises to practise between sessions
- Ways to notice progress and respond to setbacks
- Every person's path is different; complete independence from professional support or a fixed number of sessions cannot be guaranteed.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
What is Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy?+
It is an integrative approach that combines evidence-informed cognitive and behavioural methods with therapeutic hypnosis, where appropriate. The focus is on understanding patterns and developing practical skills for change.
How is it different from traditional hypnotherapy?+
Rather than relying on hypnosis alone or on suggestion, it places hypnosis within a structured cognitive and behavioural framework. Understanding, practice and your active participation are central.
What happens during hypnosis?+
Hypnosis is typically experienced as a calm, focused state, similar to being absorbed in a book or a piece of music. It has nothing to do with stage or entertainment hypnosis.
Will I remain aware and in control?+
Yes. You remain aware, can speak, and can end the process at any time. Hypnosis is not mind control and cannot make you act against your values.
Can I learn techniques to practise at home?+
Yes. Learning practical techniques — including self-hypnosis where suitable — is a core part of the approach, so that you can continue to use them independently.
How is the work tailored to me?+
Your goals, circumstances and preferences guide the process. Techniques are selected and adapted individually rather than following a fixed script.
How long might the process take?+
This varies from person to person. Expectations are discussed openly and reviewed regularly; no specific number of sessions can be guaranteed.
How is suitability assessed?+
In the introductory conversation we discuss your goals and situation. If this approach is not the right fit, you will be told honestly, and other forms of support may be suggested.
A different way forward starts here.
An introductory conversation helps us understand your goals and whether this approach is right for you.
Arrange an Introductory Conversation