Caroline Parsons

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BScPsych (Hons), DSFH,HPD, AfSFH - Specialist in anxiety
Available for new clients
Available for new clients

This professional is available for new clients.

Plymouth PL9
Available for new clients
Available for new clients

This professional is available for new clients.

About me

I am a fully qualified Solution Focused Hypnotherapist, Solution Focused Brief Therapist and an Anxiety UK Approved Therapist. Co-author of the book "The Art of Solution Focused Hypnotherapy"

I am fully trained to help clients with a wide range of issues and specialise in anxiety and stress management.

I am committed to helping clients make the changes they want in their lives and offer a one-to-one, professional, empathetic, non-judgemental and completely confidential service.

I would like to help you to be calm, relaxed, confident and in control - the best version of you that you can be.

What is Solution Focused Hypnotherapy?

Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is a modern form of hypnotherapy that uses practical, modern and well researched strategies to help people make significant, positive changes in their lives in a relatively short period of time. It is based on current neuro-scientific research of how the brain works.

What happens during a session?

Therapy sessions last for 60 minutes and use a combination of psychotherapy (talking therapies) and hypnosis (trance). The first half of the session is spent helping you to focus on what you want to achieve, helping you to utilise your existing strengths and resources in order to help you to achieve your best hopes from therapy. Using specially designed questioning techniques, each session we will talk about the progress you have already made, and discuss the changes you wish to make next. I’ll be encouraging you to express yourself positively, focusing on solutions and changing unhelpful thinking patterns. This lays the foundation for the second half of the session where we use trance to consolidate those changes, and allow the subconscious mind to accept them.

During the trance part of the session you will typically lie on the couch, covered with a blanket, with some gentle music playing in the background. I will then guide you through some relaxation and visualisation techniques that will guide you gently into a trance. During trance your subconscious mind will begin to work on finding the solutions you need to move your life forward. It is important to note that during trance you remain completely in control and no-one can make you do anything that you would not be happy to do out of trance.


I aim to make this a fun process and I do not spend time going over painful past memories, focusing instead on the present and the future.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me:

Telephone: 07850444516

E mail here

Website: www.carolineparsonshypnotherapy.com

I aim to reply to e mails within 24 hours. Please check your Junk/Spam folder just in case my reply has been sent there. Thank you.

Training, qualifications & experience

Why choose me?

One of the most important factors that affects the success of therapy is the relationship between the client and the therapist.
Below are some comments made by previous clients about me:

"From my very first session Caroline made me feel at ease, she has a very calming voice and nature and I always felt totally relaxed during her sessions. Caroline has changed my life"

"Caroline is so supportive and understanding and really helped me."

"Not only that she is a lovely lady that is very easy to talk to and she creates a warm and calm atmosphere each session." 

"Caroline, has a lovely manner, and really listens to what is happening with her clients"​

"Caroline made me feel at ease and more relaxed with every session, thank you so much!"

I completed my training and was awarded my Diploma in Solution Focused Hypnotherapy and my Hypnotherapy Practitioner Diploma at the renowned Clifton Practice Hypnotherapy Training Centre in Plymouth in 2015.

I went on to further my knowledge and skills by completing the following:

  • Diploma in Medical Hypnotherapy at The Clinical Hypnotherapy School
  • Certificate in Solution Focused Brief Therapy at BRIEF International
  • Rewind Trauma Therapy with Dr David Muss at The International Association For Rewind Trauma Therapy (IARTT)
  • Gut Directed Hypnotherapy for IBS at The Clinical Hypnotherapy School
  • Anxiety UK Approved Therapist Training with Anxiety UK

Before my hypnotherapy training I worked for 28 years as a community pharmacist counselling patients and helping them with their health problems.

I also have a First Class Honours Degree in Psychology.

This gives me an in-depth understanding of how the brain works, why we suffer in the way we do and how we can work to change that.

I am a member of the National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH). The NCH is the UK’s leading not-for-profit Hypnotherapy Professional Association. Members are fully insured and trained to the highest standards, so you can choose a hypnotherapist with confidence. 

I am a member of The Association of Solution Focused Hypnotherapists, The Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC), the Plymouth Mental Health Network and Anxiety UK.

The Association for Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (AfSFH) ensures that it retains the highest level of professional standards from its members by adherence to its strict ethical code and structure.

The Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) register was set up with Government support and has been approved as an accredited register of practitioners by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care. General Medical Council guidance to doctors confirms they are able to refer patients to practitioners on the CNHC register.

I ensure that my knowledge is kept up-to-date by attending regular continuing professional development (CPD) courses run by accredited organisations and I attend regular supervision with a qualified and experienced supervisor.

When looking for a private hypnotherapist the NHS recommends that you
"choose someone with a healthcare background" and to "check they're registered with an organisation that's accredited by the Professional Standards Authority"

With my experience of 28 years as a community pharmacist, my First Class Honours Psychology degree and membership of The Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (an organisation accredited by the Professional Standards Authority) I fulfil these criteria. You can therefore have confidence that you have chosen a qualified hypnotherapist when choosing me to help you.

Why I chose to practice Solution Focused Hypnotherapy

As a pharmacist I saw countless prescriptions for medication to treat anxiety, depression, insomnia and stress-related conditions (such as migraine, IBS etc…). Whilst medication has its place in treating these conditions, I felt that I would also like to help people with non-drug interventions. This led me to studying psychology with the Open University. During my studies I developed an interest in counselling as a career. Having explored the many different types of counselling interventions available, I discovered Solution Focused Hypnotherapy and realised that this was the path for me.

So why Solution Focused Hypnotherapy?

Solution Focused Hypnotherapy focuses on:

  • the solution and not analysing problems of the past, going over painful past memories
  • what you want in life, not what you don’t want
  • helping you to make positive changes to the way you think, feel and behave
  • fostering a positive, happy attitude towards life


I use a variety of different techniques, using the best of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Mindfulness and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) in my therapeutic practice. I aim to make this a fun process and I do not spend time going over painful past memories, focusing instead on the present and the future. I feel that this is the best way for me to help people to be the best version of themselves.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me:

Telephone: 07850444516

E mail: caroline_parsons@hotmail.co.uk

Website: www.carolineparsonshypnotherapy.com

I aim to reply to e mails within 24 hours. Please check your Junk/Spam folder just in case my reply has been sent there. Thank you.

Member organisations

CNHC
Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC)

The CNHC encompasses many types of alternative therapy, including hypnotherapy.

In order to be admitted to the register a practitioner must have studied to the National Occupational Standards for that profession/discipline, or have reached the equivalent of the National Occupational Standards through other relevant training or at least three years of experience and been assessed by their peers.

A practitioner must also have professional insurance and agree to abide by the CNHC Code of Conduct, Performance and Ethics.

NCH
National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH)

The National Council for Hypnotherapy holds one of the largest registers of independent Hypnotherapists in the United Kingdom and strives to maintain the highest standards among its members.

There is an agreed Code of Conduct, an established Complaints & Disciplinary Procedure and all members are obliged to maintain comprehensive Public Liability & Professional Indemnity Insurance, maintain regular CPD (continuing professional development) hours, and attend Supervision when needed.

AfSFH
Association for Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (AfSFH)

The Association for Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (AfSFH) was set up to provide information about a modern form of Hypnotherapy and its associated benefits to members of the public. The main aim of the AfSFH is to spread awareness of the benefits of Solution Focused Hypnotherapy. Its secondary aim is to support Hypnotherapists in their businesses by encouraging good practice and self-care.

Accredited register membership

Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council
Accredited Register Scheme

The Accredited Register Scheme was set up in 2013 by the Department of Health (DoH) as a way to recognise organisations that hold voluntary registers which meet certain standards. These standards are set by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).

This therapist has indicated that they belong to an Accredited Register.

Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council

Areas of hypnotherapy I deal with

Information about health conditions (*)

Hypnotherapy can enhance the well-being of individuals diagnosed with serious medical conditions, but should not take the place of medical treatment and advice. If you have been diagnosed with - or suspect you may have - any of these conditions, please speak to your doctor before starting hypnotherapy.

Other areas of hypnotherapy I deal with

I am an Anxiety UK Approved Therapist.

In addition to my hypnotherapy training, I have also been trained in

  • Dr Muss Rewind Trauma Therapy
  • Gut Directed Hypnotherapy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
  • Solution Focused Brief Therapy

Photos & videos

Fees

£70.00 per session

Additional information

What is the cost of hypnotherapy sessions?

I am always more than happy to offer you a FREE 15 minute telephone consultation for you to ask any questions you may have, to help you decide if I am the right therapist for you.

I charge £70 for a 60 minute session. 

The initial consultation (with absolutely no obligation to book further sessions), is an opportunity for you to gain an understanding of the process of Solution Focused Hypnotherapy and how our brains create a wide range of unwanted symptoms and behaviours. You will have the chance to explore how you would like your life to be, how we can work together to achieve your preferred future and you can also ask any further questions you may have.

Formal hypnosis is often not done until subsequent sessions, however if there is time we will explore how a trance may feel like for you, and begin to teach you this beneficial skill.

A FREE hypnotherapy relaxation download is provided at your initial consultation. 

The exception to this is the stop smoking session where the cost is £180 for a two hour session.  There is no initial consultation for the stop smoking session.

Payment is made by bank transfer, card or cash on the day of your session.  

How many sessions will I need?

This is a question I am frequently asked. I aim to work with you as quickly as possible and tailor your treatment to your individual needs. Everybody is different and moves at their own pace.  There is never any pressure for you to move quicker or slower than you need to, and you are always in control.  You decide when you have achieved what you want to achieve and need no further sessions.

My philosophy is as many sessions as you find helpful and not one more. As a rough guide, the average number of sessions is usually 4 - 8 sessions with some clients requiring less and some requiring more.

Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is not something I do to you but an active therapy where we both do our very best. Results vary from person to person. Your full commitment is important.

I do guarantee, however, that I will do my best to help you achieve your goals.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me:

Telephone: 07850444516 

E mail: caroline_parsons@hotmail.co.uk

Website: www.carolineparsonshypnotherapy.com



Please see my reviews below to see how I have helped previous clients.

When I work

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
Morning
Afternoon
Evening
Night

Monday to Thursday 9am - 5pm

Further information

Reviews

“Caroline has been an absolute blessing to my life and has helped me through some really difficult times when I didn't know what else to do. She's helped me overcome my anxiety and keep it in check, and rebuilt my self confidence so that I have the strength within to face the challenges life throws at me. I've even found my love for exercise again. I'd recommend her in a heartbeat to anyone and I'll forever be grateful of the help she gave me in my darkest moments.” RP (Plymouth)

“Caroline is amazing, pain management, loss management, sleep management. She has helped me through some really tough places, cannot say how my life has been turned around by her sessions.” AP (Plymouth)

“Caroline is so supportive and understanding and really helped me improve issues I have had with food. I have been able to try a lot of foods and incorporate them into my daily life with the help and support of Caroline and her relaxing hypnotherapy sessions. Can't believe the difference in a few months and it has helped improve my life. Couldn't recommend enough!” AL (Leeds) 

"Caroline has a lovely, welcoming manner and is clearly very skilled at what she does - I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her." SC (Plymouth) 


​"I would recommend anyone who feels they need support to Caroline 
I had sessions with her and feel a significant improvement in my confidence, mood, and ability to regulate my emotions. Loved ones have made multiple comments about the improvement they've seen in me. 
 Not only that she is a lovely lady that is very easy to talk to and she creates a warm and calm atmosphere each session." EM (Torquay)

"Having suffered for a while from anxiety related to my upcoming driving test, I decided to try hypnotherapy. Caroline took the time to call me and explain what it was, how it worked, and the benefits of it. Because I got such a good feeling from this initial consultation, I decided to go ahead and give it a try. Unlike any other therapy I have ever experienced, Caroline focused on the positives, making me feel uplifted and happy after each session. Instead of labelling me as "suffering from low self-esteem" or "depressed", she made me feel like a normal person who needed help overcoming one of life's stresses. She helped me gain confidence in my own abilities, and to overcome the overwhelming nervousness I felt when thinking about my test. I ended up passing first time with only two minors. In the past, I feel as though therapists didn't really seem to care about my situation. I have been put on waiting lists for months or been told that my full-time job would be a problem because they only work school hours. Caroline was extremely accommodating and managed to work around my busy schedule, which was so helpful. I could not recommend her more!" MH (Plymouth)

"After trying ,unsuccessfully for quite a while, to overcome my negative issues, I found Caroline’s help of great benefit. She is very encouraging and open to looking at problems and their causes with a positive and fresh approach. Each step is explained and discussed clearly. I now feel a much stronger and more positive person, able to deal with my issues ,using the techniques she has given me. Its been a very beneficial experience and I’ve learnt to take control and relax again." DT (Plymouth)


“I worked with Caroline over a number of sessions to help with chronic insomnia. Due to the distance I live from Caroline’s office, we decided to conduct the sessions using teleconferencing.  From my perspective this worked really well, as I was able to be in a very relaxed and familiar environment, aiding with the effectiveness of the hypnosis. Solution based hypnotherapy offers a very pragmatic approach to dealing with life’s challenges. Although I was wary of feeling that I would be out of control (an image not helped by what is depicted on television and so on) I did not need to be concerned. Caroline, has a lovely manner, and really listens to what is happening with her clients.  At the start of each session we would have a discussion about what practical steps can be taken to help with the sleep issues I was having and then the hypnosis would support these steps.   There is no magic wand, but it puts the emphasis on the solution and not the problem.    I always felt very relaxed and calm after one of Caroline’s sessions – an added bonus that I had not anticipated!” HF (Tavistock)


"I definitely recommend Caroline. She helped me with my anxiety, issues with my appearance as well as my phobia for needles. I now know how to cope with my anxiety, feel more confident in situations I previously struggled with and have also had 6 travel injections without crying or panic attacks!! Caroline made me feel at ease and more relaxed with every session, thank you so much!" SF (Plymouth)

"It took courage to seek help but I’m so glad I did. To have the benefit of Caroline’s physiological and psychological knowledge of our brain’s responses , clearly explained, I quickly knew I was in safe hands. What was offered in the sessions was non-judgemental and positive encouragement, with proven strategies to still myself and think logically and reflect, in order to break unhealthy habits and thought patterns. I gained confidence, by using these tools, to control how I respond to life’s challenges. I cannot rate her help highly enough" CB (Plymouth)

“I went to Caroline with an issue with sleep and anxiety. I found her positive approach suited me perfectly and that her sessions helped me invaluably. She is knowledgeable and understands the complex issues clients have. I would recommend her to anyone with issues with self esteem, anxiety, sleep problems or depression” KH (Plymouth)

"For many years I had a phobia of driving on certain types of roads which I realised was completely irrational. I managed the phobia for quite a while but realised that it was gradually getting worse and when it reached the stage where I felt totally unable to drive in these situations I realised I required help and contacted Caroline.
Caroline was able to explain in simple terms how my brain and body were reacting and assured me I was not alone in having such problems. The sessions with Caroline were inspiring and very successful and I now have no problems driving in the same situations. Within weeks I went from feeling anxious and embarrassed by my fears to being confident and enjoying driving again" MR (Plymouth)

"Thank you, Caroline, for creating the real Paul, everyone loves him now...Even me." PS (Plymouth)

"Practical, professional and caring ! Caroline helped me bring about real positive change in my life. I no longer fear the future but have the tools to enjoy every moment of every day" NB (Plymouth)

"I cannot recommend Caroline enough. I had been thinking about trying hypnotherapy for a while for my fear of dogs and decided to book an appointment. From my very first session Caroline made me feel at ease, she has a very calming voice and nature and I always felt totally relaxed during her sessions. Caroline has changed my life, I can now be around dogs, be in the same room as dogs and can even see myself having my own dog in the future. Thank you so much!" GH (Plymouth)

“I was at a low ebb and feeling less than able to move forward with my proposed business. I had little confidence and although my business ideas were of great importance to me, I felt stuck and unable to move forward. Over the weeks I could feel my confidence growing, and I actually began to put plans into action. I am now closer than ever to launching my business and have Caroline to thank for guiding me gently and encouragingly. It is my belief that the treatment I received will continue to enhance my confidence over time. I would heartily recommend Caroline and solution focused hypnotherapy for any aspect of your life you may wish to have help with.” LJ (Plymouth)

"I would thoroughly recommend going to Caroline.  She has a real understanding of how to help people and her calm and soothing voice taking me into deep relaxation has helped me cope with one of the most difficult times in my life.  I now have an inner strength that I never knew I had!" JS (Devon)

"As a healthcare professional I was a bit uncertain about whether hypnotherapy could help me.  However, I found Caroline's sessions really useful and they helped me gain a great deal of confidence which I had lost following significant setbacks in my work environment.  I am now a lot more confident and a better person and am soon starting a new job. Thanks for your help Caroline." GP (Plymouth)

"Caroline has a soft, gentle, kind and caring character and she gets results! As well as the actual hypnotherapy sessions that were extremely relaxing and full of positive messages she also has many 'coping with life' strategies that I now have in place that have improved my life considerably." SC (Plymouth)


There is plenty of FREE on-street parking available.

The Elburton Hypnotherapy Suite, Plymouth, Devon, PL9

Plymouth, Devon, PL9

Type of session

In person
Online

Types of client

Adults (25-64)

Key details

DBS check

In England and Wales, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS, formerly known as CRB) carry out criminal records checks for individuals working with vulnerable groups, such as children. To find out more, visit gov.uk , or contact this professional directly

Online sessions are available on request. Please contact me for further details.

Online platforms

Zoom