The power of hypnosis in combination with therapeutic modalities

As an integrative hypnotherapist, I have seen first-hand how hypnotherapy aids and deepens the impact of other modalities. Being trained in a wide range of modalities, including SFBT (solution-focused based therapy), CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy), IFS (internal family systems), parts, Gestalt, TA (transactional analysis), NLP (neuro-linguistic programming) and so on, I often find that by tapping into the unconscious, we get somewhere faster and deeper.

The greatest benefit of hypnotherapy is to bypass the conscious mind and, for instance in regression therapy, tap into what the subconscious mind might come up with (and why). Hypnotherapy deepens the connection between mind and body. It helps the client regulate their nervous system, release stored tension, and cultivate a greater sense of inner peace and self-compassion.

Before becoming a hypnotherapist, I was trained in NLP and used it to overcome limiting beliefs and change behaviour. Combining NLP with hypnotherapy, which is something that comes naturally to those familiar with the work of Bandler and Grinder (the founders of NLP), can reinforce positive affirmations and behaviour change at a subconscious level. The subtle difference between affirming something and embedding it into one's identity. That's where hypnosis comes into play.

The gentle yet effective approach of hypnotherapy makes it very powerful. The way we tailor-make hypnosis scripts that reflect people's need for therapy, working on both the conscious and unconscious mind, is what drives sustainable change. Healing isn't just about understanding the problem, it's about experiencing the transformation on every level.

When we look at Gestalt for instance, which to a certain extent is similar to parts work, we can be quite effective in a personal setting and chair work. However, whilst we can still work with Gestalt online, there is also the imaginary way of 'being in a person's seat' which then can be examined under hypnosis. I often use hypnosis to give clients a perspective on their challenges, before we move further towards healing. Regression or time line therapy is similar, where one goes back in time, finding a perspective on what might have happened.

Yet, there is much to be said for that most journeys in therapy start with talking therapy before you 'jump into hypnosis'. The exploratory phase of a few sessions is essential, and sometimes you don't even 'need' hypnosis at all. But it can aid the process.

Lastly, let me mention ego strengthening. It's a tool to gain greater self-confidence, emotional resilience and inner stability. The ego presents our self, our inner strengths and the ability to move forward with confidence and clarity. So if a client might have imposter syndrome, or feels a lack of self-worth, this type of hypnosis can really help to guide the subconscious through positive affirmations and visualisations to build a stronger, more resilient, mindset.

With a strong ego, one trusts their decisions, feeling more secure in who we are and what we do. It's often the first hypnosis I do with clients, as we can all do with a bit more confidence in this ever-changing world.