Neil Saunders

I practice Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy which is a recent integration of the well-researched, evidence-based techniques of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), hypnotherapy, and mindfulness. 

CBT is based on the idea that our responses to events involve an interrelated web of emotions, thoughts, and behaviours which can become habitual and ingrained, often causing us distress. CBT uses evidence-based techniques to discuss and explore these patterns, leading to greater well-being. 

Modern evidence-based hypnotherapy has a solid foundation based on thousands of clinical research studies. Its effectiveness has long been acknowledged by the British Medical Association and has been the subject of two extensive reports in 1892 and 1955. A report by the British Psychological Society in 2001 stated that "enough studies have now accumulated to suggest that the inclusion of hypnotic procedures may be beneficial in the management and treatment of a wide range of conditions and problems encountered in the practice of medicine, psychiatry and psychotherapy." The report also states that "hypnosis and the practice of self-hypnosis may significantly reduce general anxiety, tension and stress". 

The modern evidence-based understanding of hypnosis is entirely compatible with current theories of psychology and tends to reject the idea of a hypnotic trance as somewhat outdated. Instead, hypnosis is defined as the phenomenon of focusing on a single idea whilst allowing oneself to be suggestible. This is very similar to other everyday behaviours such as being engrossed in an idea, a daydream, a novel, or a film. 

When used therapeutically, hypnosis allows us to rehearse alternative responses to situations and to change unhelpful patterns of behaviour. The techniques of CBH are highly adaptable so I can offer a client-focused approach and can work with issues such as:

general anxiety, stress, phobias, self-confidence, chronic pain, insomnia, performance anxiety, behaviour change, ingrained habits, perfectionism, irritable bowel syndrome, panic attacks.

At the initial session, we would discuss and agree to specific and appropriate therapeutic goals towards which you want to work. Progress towards these goals can then be regularly assessed and discussed using this collaborative approach. I believe in promoting self-efficacy, so I always try to provide a strong component of skills training. Between sessions, I may give you 'homework' tasks such as keeping a record of thoughts and feelings, recordings to listen to or some other activities to help consolidate the principles and skills covered in the sessions.

Online appointments are also available.