What is Hypno-CBT?

 In the realms of therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) has fast become the gold standard for treating various mental health issues in the UK, with the NHS advocating it’s benefits far & wide. However, a newer and increasingly popular approach known as Hypno-Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (H-CBT or Hypno-CBT) is emerging, offering a unique blend of traditional CBT techniques with the added benefits of Hypnotherapy. 

Hypno-CBT integrates the principles of both Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Hypnotherapy to create a holistic approach to mental health treatment. While traditional CBT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviours, Hypno-CBT adds a hypnotic component to deepen the therapeutic process. According to Dr. Michael D. Yapko, a renowned clinical psychologist and expert in hypnosis, "H-CBT combines the strengths of both CBT and hypnotherapy, leveraging the power of suggestion and imagery to facilitate cognitive restructuring and behaviour change."

Donald Meichenbaum, one of the founders of modern day CBT, has also contributed valuable insights into the integration of hypnosis with CBT. His recognition of the importance of building a strong therapeutic alliance and the value of imagery and visualisation in cognitive restructuring further supports the benefits of integrating hypnosis with CBT. 

What sets Hypno-CBT apart from conventional CBT is its use of hypnosis as a tool to enhance treatment outcomes. Hypnosis induces a state of focused attention and heightened suggestibility, which allows therapists to access the subconscious mind more effectively. Dr. Alladin, a leading figure in the field of hypnotherapy, explains, "H-CBT enables therapists to bypass conscious resistance and work directly with the client's subconscious beliefs and emotions, leading to deeper insights and faster therapeutic progress."

The strengths of Hypno-CBT as a therapeutic modality are:

1. Enhanced access to the subconscious mind: by incorporating hypnosis into the therapeutic process, Hypno-CBT enables therapists to access the subconscious mind, where deeply ingrained beliefs and emotions reside. This facilitates profound insights and promotes lasting behavioural change.

2. Targeted symptom relief: Hypno-CBT offers targeted symptom relief by addressing underlying issues at their root in the subconscious mind. Dr. David Spiegel highlights, "Hypnosis enhances the effectiveness of CBT by targeting specific symptoms and accelerating the pace of recovery."

3. Versatility and adaptability: Hypno-CBT is a versatile approach that can be tailored to suit individual needs and preferences. Whether treating phobias, habit reversal, sports performance, anxiety, depression, trauma or addiction, Hypno-CBT provides a flexible framework for addressing a wide range of mental health concerns. Depending on the presenting issues, immediate results can be seen from the just the first session, although for more significant issues a minimum of 4 sessions are recommended. 

However, it is important to note that hypnosis is not an instant or quick fix. Whilst it can begin to effect change across a number of presenting issues quicker than other approaches , it is a collaborative approach between the client and therapist which requires effort and commitment from the client. Moreover, hypnosis is subjective with one clients' experience differing from another. Several factors such as suggestibility, willingness to participate and whether the client believes in hypnosis can influence the overall effectiveness of it.

Hypno-CBT Q&A: 

What is Hypno-CBT?

Hypno-CBT is an integrated approach that combines hypnotherapy and cognitive behavioural therapy. It adopts the most beneficial parts of hypnosis and CBT to allow individuals to explore and reframe negative thought patterns. 

Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic technique that uses hypnosis to help individuals with various concern, such as overcoming fears and phobias,  PTSD, addressing addiction or habits and managing anxiety and stress. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is an approach that focuses on the connection between thoughts feelings and behaviours. A core principle of CBT is that changing negative thoughts can lead to changes in emotional well-being and more positive behaviour.

What happens during hypnosis?

During hypnosis a therapist will guide a client into a relaxed and focused state. This relaxed state allows suggestions, made by the therapist, to be well received into the client's mind and allows the therapist to address the subconscious directly. By making these suggestions, which is agreed with a client, it promotes positive change and helps a client to achieve their goals. 

How do I prepare?

There is nothing you need to do to prepare for hypnosis. The only requirements are that you have a positive mindset and a willingness to engage with hypnosis completely. Research shows that the more positive the client’s expectations are, the more beneficial and effective the treatment will be. Once the hypnosis segment of the session begins, all you need to do is clear your mind and relax. The therapist may carry out a small induction to help you relax - there is nothing more you need to do. 

For your own relaxation, peace of mind and to make the most of the session, ensure your are in a quiet environment where you will not be disturbed. It's also ideal to have a good internet connection so your session is not interrupted at any stage. 

If you are worried or unsure about hypnosis, please speak to me about this and we can work through any worries that you have together.