Category: Addiction Therapy

Overcome addiction with hypnotherapy – Break free from addiction using our expert hypnotherapy services and techniques.

  • Hypnotherapy to stop smoking

    Hypnotherapy to stop smoking

    Are you tired of the endless cycle of trying to stop smoking, only to find yourself back where you started? Whether you’re smoking traditional cigarettes or roll-ups, you’ve probably tried nicotine patches, gum, or relied on willpower alone, but nothing seems to make a lasting difference. If that sounds familiar, solution-focused hypnotherapy could be the answer you’ve been looking for. My approach is all about understanding you as an individual and tailoring the process to suit your needs, so you can break free from smoking, regardless of whether you smoke cigarettes or roll-ups.

    What is Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy?

    Solution-focused hypnotherapy is a modern, dynamic approach to overcoming smoking addiction. Unlike traditional hypnotherapy, which might focus on past experiences or the problems you’re facing, solution-focused hypnotherapy is all about finding practical, forward-looking solutions. The idea is that by making changes to your thoughts and beliefs, you can change your behaviours and habits—such as smoking.

    In my sessions, I don’t dwell on the past or focus on any negative experiences. Instead, we’ll look at the future and work together to visualise your life without cigarettes or roll-ups. By doing this, I help you build the confidence, motivation, and clarity you need to become a non-smoker, once and for all.

    How Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy Helps You Quit Smoking

    What makes solution-focused hypnotherapy particularly effective is that it addresses the root causes of smoking, not just the symptoms. Many smoking cessation methods only help manage cravings or withdrawal, but they don’t explore why you smoke in the first place. Through my process, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the emotional and psychological triggers behind your smoking habit, whether you’re using traditional cigarettes or roll-ups.

    During our sessions, I’ll help you uncover these triggers—whether it’s stress, boredom, or emotional comfort—and teach you strategies to cope with them in healthier, more effective ways. Smoking, whether it’s cigarettes or roll-ups, is often an automatic behaviour, something that’s deeply embedded in your subconscious. By working with your subconscious mind, I can help you reprogramme these automatic habits and replace them with new, healthier choices.

    What to Expect from My Process

    When you work with me to quit smoking, whether it’s cigarettes or roll-ups, you’ll undergo a two-step process that ensures we set you up for long-term success. It’s not just about quitting in the short term; we’ll be working together to ensure you stay smoke-free for life.

    Step 1: Initial Consultation

    Our journey begins with an initial consultation, which usually lasts around 75 minutes. During this session, I’ll take the time to gather key information about your smoking habits, the reasons you smoke, and the triggers that lead to your cravings. We’ll explore when and why you tend to reach for a cigarette or roll-up, so we can begin to understand the patterns that keep you stuck.

    This session is not only about gathering information but also about giving you clarity. Many clients are surprised to realise how their emotional or psychological state connects with their smoking habit. By understanding the ‘why’ behind your addiction, you’ll be empowered to make lasting changes. This consultation is also a chance for us to build rapport and trust, which is essential for the success of the treatment.

    Step 2: The Stop Smoking Session

    After our consultation, I’ll give you some time—usually about a week—to reflect on the insights we’ve gained and prepare for the next session. This gap allows you to begin the process of change and also gives me time to create a personalised plan specifically for you.

    When we meet for the actual stop-smoking session, I’ll guide you into a relaxed state of hypnosis. This is not what you might see in movies; it’s a calm, focused state where your mind is open to positive suggestions. In this state, we’ll work together to visualise a future where you’re completely free from smoking—whether it’s cigarettes, roll-ups, or both. These visualisations are incredibly powerful, as they allow your mind to see you as a non-smoker, reinforcing the belief that quitting is not only possible but entirely within your reach.

    During this session, I’ll help you reprogramme the triggers and automatic responses that lead to smoking. Together, we’ll replace those patterns with healthier alternatives. By working on your subconscious mind, we aim to break the cycle of addiction and create lasting change.

    Why Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy is Different

    Many smoking cessation methods focus only on quitting in the short term. Nicotine replacement therapies (NRT), medications, or even e-cigarettes might provide some temporary relief, but they don’t address the deeper, emotional roots of smoking. That’s where solution-focused hypnotherapy is different.

    Through this method, I focus on addressing the psychological triggers behind smoking, regardless of whether you smoke cigarettes or roll-ups. It’s not just about coping with cravings; it’s about changing your mindset and your automatic behaviours. Once we’ve made these changes at the subconscious level, you’re much more likely to stay smoke-free for the long term.

    I don’t rely on medications or artificial substitutes. Instead, I use the power of your own mind to create lasting change. It’s a natural, holistic approach that can provide you with permanent freedom from smoking.

    The benefits of solution-focused hypnotherapy to stop smoking

    Solution-focused hypnotherapy has a number of benefits that set it apart from other smoking cessation methods:

    • No Side Effects: Unlike nicotine replacement therapies or medications, solution-focused hypnotherapy is a natural method with no harmful side effects. It works with your mind, not chemicals.
    • Long-Term Success: This approach targets the root causes of smoking addiction, whether you’re using cigarettes or roll-ups, which makes it more likely you’ll stay smoke-free for good. We’re not just aiming for temporary cessation; we’re aiming for permanent change.
    • Personalised Treatment: I tailor each session to your specific needs. I take into account your triggers, emotional patterns, and personal goals, so the treatment is completely suited to you.
    • Reprogramming Your Subconscious Mind: Smoking is often an ingrained, automatic habit. Hypnotherapy allows me to work with your subconscious mind to break that cycle and replace unhealthy habits with healthier choices.
    • Increased Confidence and Motivation: Through visualisation and positive suggestions, I help you build the motivation and confidence you need to stay smoke-free, even when faced with challenges.

    Additional Tips for Quitting Smoking

    While solution-focused hypnotherapy provides the tools to quit smoking for good, there are a few other strategies you can incorporate into your journey to make it easier:

    1. Identify and Avoid Triggers: Be mindful of the situations that prompt you to smoke. Whether it’s stress, social situations, or specific routines, identifying and avoiding these triggers will help reduce cravings.
    2. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity is a great way to manage stress and distract yourself from cravings. It also releases endorphins, which can boost your mood and help you stay focused on your goal.
    3. Eat Well and Stay Hydrated: Eating nutritious foods and drinking plenty of water can help curb cravings and support your body as it adjusts to life without nicotine.
    4. Get Support: Quitting smoking can be challenging, so it’s important to have a strong support system. Share your goal with friends and family, or join a group where others are also working towards quitting.
    5. Celebrate Your Progress: Every day you go without smoking is a victory. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and keep rewarding yourself for staying smoke-free.

    The E-Cigarette and Vaping Dilemma

    While some people turn to e-cigarettes or vaping as an alternative to traditional smoking, I do not recommend these methods. Although they may help reduce nicotine intake, they don’t address the root cause of smoking and can lead to continued dependence. The goal is to quit smoking altogether, and for this reason, I don’t believe that vaping is a viable long-term solution. To find out more about why I don’t recommend vaping, please watch my informative video on the subject.

    NHS Smokefree Support: Helping You Achieve a Smoke-Free Life

    If you’re ready to quit smoking for good, NHS Smokefree is a fantastic resource offering expert support and advice. Whether you need guidance or motivation, their free services can help you stay on track with your goal.

    NHS Smokefree stop smoking Cornwall

    Ready to Start Your Journey?

    If you’re ready to quit smoking for good and reclaim your health, I’m here to help. With my solution-focused hypnotherapy approach, we’ll work together to address the underlying causes of your addiction, reprogramme your subconscious mind, and set you on the path to a smoke-free life.

    Don’t wait any longer. Book your initial consultation today and start your journey to a healthier, smoke-free future.

    Book Your Appointment Now and Take the First Step Towards a Smoke-Free Life!

  • Alcohol Addiction

    Alcohol Addiction

    Breaking Free from Alcohol Addiction: The Power of Solution Focused Hypnotherapy

    Alcohol addiction, a serious and prevalent issue, affects millions across the UK. It can wreak havoc on physical and mental health, relationships, and careers. While overcoming alcohol dependence can be a formidable challenge, effective treatment options exist, including Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (SFH).

    Alcohol addiction, also known as alcoholism, is a chronic and relapsing brain disease characterised by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over drinking, and negative emotional and behavioural consequences.

    Several factors can contribute to the development of alcohol addiction. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role, with a family history of alcoholism increasing the risk. Environmental factors, such as exposure to alcohol during adolescence, peer pressure, easy access to alcohol, and stressful life events, can also contribute. Moreover, co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), often complicate the picture.

    Chronic alcohol use alters brain chemistry, impacting reward pathways and leading to cravings and dependence. This neurobiological impact further reinforces the addictive cycle.

    The consequences of alcohol addiction can be severe and far-reaching. Physical health problems, such as liver disease (cirrhosis), heart disease, pancreatitis, a weakened immune system, and an increased risk of certain cancers, are common.

    Mental health is also significantly impacted, with depression, anxiety, an increased risk of suicide, and cognitive impairment being prevalent among individuals with alcohol addiction.

    Social and relationship problems are inevitable, with family conflict, job loss, financial difficulties, and legal problems often arising.

    Furthermore, alcohol addiction significantly increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and violence, including drunk driving.

    Breaking free from the grip of alcohol requires a multi-faceted approach. Solution Focused Hypnotherapy offers a unique and promising avenue for recovery.

    Unlike traditional therapies that may delve into the past or analyse underlying causes, SFH focuses on identifying and achieving desired outcomes. This client-centred approach empowers individuals to take control of their recovery journey.

    SFH therapists work collaboratively with clients to set specific, achievable goals related to alcohol use. These goals might include reducing consumption, achieving abstinence, and improving overall well-being.

    Hypnosis plays a crucial role in the SFH process. By guiding clients into a relaxed state of focused attention, hypnosis allows them to access their subconscious mind.

    This access is invaluable, as deeply ingrained beliefs and behaviours related to alcohol use often reside within the subconscious.

    Through carefully crafted suggestions and guided imagery, SFH helps clients to:

    • Identify and break free from negative thought patterns, cravings, and behaviours associated with alcohol addiction.
    • Build self-efficacy and develop the confidence to make lasting positive changes.
    • Develop effective coping strategies for stress, anxiety, and other triggers that may lead to relapse.
    • Enhance motivation and commitment to recovery by helping clients visualise a future free from alcohol addiction and experience the positive emotions associated with achieving their goals.

    The SFH process typically involves an initial assessment to understand the client’s alcohol use patterns, identify their goals, and discuss treatment expectations.

    Hypnosis sessions are then conducted, during which the therapist provides personalised suggestions to help clients reduce cravings, build self-confidence, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

    Between sessions, clients are encouraged to practise relaxation techniques, mindfulness exercises, and other self-care strategies to reinforce the therapeutic effects.

    The treatment plan is regularly reviewed and adjusted as needed to ensure ongoing progress and address any challenges that may arise.

    The benefits of SFH for alcohol addiction are numerous.

    It can significantly reduce alcohol cravings, making it easier for clients to resist temptation and maintain abstinence.

    SFH helps clients develop greater self-control over their alcohol use and resist the urge to relapse.

    Furthermore, it enhances emotional regulation, enabling clients to develop healthier ways to cope with stress, anxiety, and other emotions that may trigger alcohol use.

    By boosting self-esteem and confidence, SFH empowers clients to make lasting positive changes and take control of their lives.

    Improved relationships are another significant benefit, as reducing the negative impact of alcohol addiction on relationships allows clients to rebuild stronger, healthier connections with loved ones.

    While SFH is a valuable tool in the treatment of alcohol addiction, it is often most effective when used in conjunction with other therapies, such as counselling, medication-assisted treatment, and support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous.

    Breaking free from alcohol addiction can be a challenging journey, but with the right support and treatment options, it is undoubtedly possible.

    If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, seeking professional help is crucial.

    Finding a qualified and experienced hypnotherapist who specialises in treating alcohol addiction is essential.

    Consider factors such as the hypnotherapist’s credentials and experience, their therapeutic approach, and your personal comfort level when making your decision.

    Remember, you are not alone. With the right support and a commitment to recovery, you can break free from the grip of alcohol addiction and build a healthier, happier future.

  • Relocating to Hayle and offering in-person therapy

    Relocating to Hayle and offering in-person therapy

    I am excited to announce that I will be relocating my hypnotherapy practice to Hayle and offering face-to-face sessions in addition to my online therapy services when I’m settled in.

    They weren’t wrong when they said house moving can be one of the most stressful periods of your life!

    ✴︎ new digs

    —08.2023

    I have been in business in Cornwall for almost 10 years, and I have had the pleasure of helping many people overcome a variety of challenges, including anxiety, stress, weight loss, and smoking cessation. I am confident that the move to Hayle will allow me to reach more people and help them achieve their goals.

    Hayle is a growing town with a lot to offer, both in terms of business opportunities and quality of life. I am particularly drawn to the town’s beauty and charm, and I am looking forward to becoming a part of the community.

    I believe that for some people face-to-face therapy can be more effective than online therapy. For example, people who are struggling with social anxiety may find it easier to open up in a face-to-face setting. Additionally, face-to-face sessions can help to build rapport between the therapist and the client, which is important for the success of therapy.

    I am excited about this new chapter in my business, and I look forward to helping more people in Hayle and beyond.

    Why I am relocating to Hayle

    There are a few reasons why I am relocating my business to Hayle. First, I believe that Hayle is a great place to do business. The town is growing, and there is a lot of support for businesses in the area. Second, I am drawn to Hayle’s beauty and charm. The town is located on the coast, and there are many beautiful beaches and natural areas nearby. I am looking forward to being a part of the Hayle community and enjoying all that the town has to offer.

    Room for change

    Finding the right chair has been quite a quest! But now you have the option of a recliner chair or the traditional therapy bench/couch. Both have their own advantages, and I know which one I’d prefer 🙂

    recliner therapy chair

    New therapy room chair

    chair hypnotherapy

    View from your chair

    The benefits of offering face-to-face sessions

    I believe that face-to-face therapy can be even more effective than online therapy for some people. Here are a few of the benefits of offering face-to-face sessions:

    Build rapport: Face-to-face sessions can help to build rapport between the therapist and the client. This is important for the success of therapy, as the client needs to feel comfortable and trusting with the therapist.

    Provide a sense of community: Face-to-face sessions can provide the client with a sense of community. This can be especially helpful for people who are struggling with isolation or loneliness.

    Address specific challenges: Face-to-face sessions can be more effective for addressing specific challenges, such as social anxiety or phobias.

  • How to Overcome Curious Habits

    How to Overcome Curious Habits

    Introduction

    As humans, we all have habits, some of which are positive and some that are not so good for us. A habit is a repetitive behaviour that we engage in without even thinking about it. These habits can have a significant impact on our lives, and some can be challenging to break. For example, habits like procrastination, overeating, or biting nails can be a source of stress, anxiety, and shame.

    In this article, we will explore how solution-focused hypnotherapy can help us overcome curious habits. Solution-focused hypnotherapy is a non-invasive and drug-free approach to behavior change that can help identify the underlying causes of a habit and create new neural pathways in the brain to replace old ones associated with the habit.

    Understanding Habits

    To change a habit, it is important to understand why it’s there in the first place. Habits are formed through repetition, and they can be influenced by our environment, emotions, and thoughts. For example, if you tend to overeat when you feel stressed, then stress could be the trigger for your overeating habit.

    Solution-focused hypnotherapy can help you identify the triggers and underlying causes of your habits. A therapist can guide you through a series of questions to help you understand why you engage in the behaviour and how it makes you feel. This understanding can help create a plan to change the habit.

    Changing Habits

    Once you understand the underlying causes of your habit, it’s time to change the behaviour. This can be challenging, as habits are deeply ingrained in our brains and can be difficult to break. However, solution-focused hypnotherapy can help create new neural pathways in the brain to replace the old ones associated with the habit.

    During a hypnotherapy session, a therapist will guide you into a state of relaxation and suggest positive affirmations related to the new behaviour you want to adopt. These affirmations can help reinforce the new behaviour and create new neural pathways in the brain.

    The Benefits of Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy for Habits

    Solution-focused hypnotherapy can be a powerful tool in breaking curious habits. It is a non-invasive and drug-free approach to behavior change that can help you understand why you engage in the behaviour and create new neural pathways in the brain.

    Solution-focused hypnotherapy can also help reduce stress and anxiety associated with habit change. When we try to change a habit, it can be a stressful and anxiety-provoking experience. However, hypnotherapy can help reduce these negative emotions and create a more positive and relaxed state of mind.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, curious habits can be challenging to break, but with the help of solution-focused hypnotherapy, it is possible to understand and change them. By identifying the underlying causes and creating new neural pathways in the brain, it’s possible to create lasting change.

    If you are struggling with a habit that you want to break, consider seeking the help of a qualified solution-focused hypnotherapist. They can guide you through the process of understanding your habit, creating a plan for change, and reinforcing positive affirmations. With their help, you can overcome your curious habits and live a more fulfilling life.

  • Have Your Cake and Eat It Too

    Have Your Cake and Eat It Too

    The Power of Hypnosis in Weight Management and Stress Reduction

    For many people, weight management is a constant battle. Despite trying various diets, exercise regimes, and lifestyle changes, it can be challenging to achieve sustainable results. However, recent evidence suggests that the power of our minds, when directed appropriately, can significantly improve our weight management. Moreover, it can have a major impact on our psychological wellbeing and general quality of life. Hypnosis has been demonstrated to be effective in working with managing weight issues and sustaining its effects over time.

    It is no secret that stress and anxiety can significantly affect our eating habits and food choices. Many people resort to high-calorie, sugary foods to deal with stress, leading to weight gain and other health problems. The primary stress hormone is known as cortisol and acts as a steroid. Produced by the adrenal glands, it regulates the way we use fuel and is essential for recouping energy following stress. However, with excess levels of cortisol, the appetite for sugary/high-calorie foods increases, including the irresistible desire for cake.

    By reducing the negative aspects of living a stressful/anxious lifestyle, we naturally reduce cortisol levels within the body. One of the most effective ways of achieving this is through hypnosis. Hypnotherapy sessions involve deep relaxation, positive suggestions, and various imagery techniques, enabling individuals to manage their weight better and reduce their stress levels. The therapist provides a CD/mp3 to take away to help ensure the most effective results.

    The benefits of hypnosis in weight management and stress reduction are well-documented. Evidence shows that six sessions of treatment can work well, with the opportunity to top these up in the longer term. Sometimes, hypnotherapy can work in a few sessions, or just one. However, the crucial element is attitude. Without determination to overcome your problems, hypnotherapy is not likely to be successful. Your motivation to change is the key to a successful outcome. Motivation means more than just wanting to eat more healthily; it means being determined to overcome the symptoms. The attitude required to succeed is, “I will achieve my aims.”

    Moreover, hypnosis can improve overall psychological wellbeing. It can help individuals overcome anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems that can lead to overeating and weight gain. Hypnosis can also increase confidence and self-esteem, enabling individuals to lead happier, healthier lives.

    It is important to note that consultation and therapy are undertaken with the utmost sensitivity and respect. The therapist works within sessions to address associated symptoms of stress and anxiety, providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their issues. Moreover, the therapist monitors progress on a session-by-session basis and makes recommendations from there, ensuring that individuals receive the most appropriate treatment for their needs.

    In conclusion, hypnosis is a powerful tool for weight management and stress reduction. By reducing cortisol levels and addressing associated symptoms of stress and anxiety, individuals can manage their weight better and lead happier, healthier lives. However, success depends on attitude and motivation. If you are determined to overcome your problems, hypnosis can provide the support and guidance you need to achieve your aims. Contact a qualified hypnotherapist today to learn more about how hypnosis can help you have your cake and eat it too.

  • Obsessive Cream Disorder

    Obsessive Cream Disorder

    A short excerpt from a local paper who ran a short article about me recently…

    Obsessive Cream Disorder (OCD)

    A local hypnotherapist explains about a new phenomenon that has been causing some distress.

    What has quickly become known as Obsessive Cream Disorder, is sending people to seek help from local hypnotherapists. One such person is Neil Cox, situated in Bude just a stones throw away from the Devon / Cornwall border, he sees many clients from Devon. Their obsession with putting cream first on their cream teas leads them to seek his help.

    It only got worse.

    Devon resident Dennis explains “It all started about this time last year, I was happily sat down at a cafe in Newquay. I saw them serving a Cornish cream tea and I yelled over to the waitress “noooooo” you can’t do that! It’s cream…cream always goes on first” 

    However the waitress, 23yr old April Summers insisted. “I don’t know what came over him to be honest, I’ve never seen this happen before, and it only got worse. It got to the point where we had to ask him to leave

    Dennis said, “I could barely go out for fear of seeing an illegal cream tea being served. My wife said stop being so over dramatic, but it’s totally changed my life.

    Neil explains, “my clients come from over the border in Devon. Their symptoms can be quite life-changing. In fact some even develop a complication that’s quickly becoming known as Kernowphobius, a fear of all things done the Cornish way. What starts as a somewhat harmless issue can rapidly become a downward spiral of despair.”  

    However there is hope, Neil explains. “I use a combination of hypnotic tools to help people overcome their aversion to jam going on first. Most clients see results after just one session. 

    “It’s amazing” says one satisfied Devonian. “I can now happily eat as many cream teas as I like without fear of upsetting the local Cornish. Jam first will never be a problem for me again”  

    Harmful to wellbeing.

    Neil has met resistance from the other side of the border however. Some staunch cream first campaigners say its harmful to our wellbeing. “Putting the jam first is always going to cause problems. What’s next? They’ll be saying we have to pay to cross the Tamar bridge or something.” 

    However, local campaigners from the jam first camp welcome this new initiative.  “Hopefully with the support of therapy, we can help stamp out this somewhat debilitating condition.”  A local cream manufacturer who wished to remain anonymous added “we had no idea how much of a problem this had become. We’ll be supporting people as much as we can, and flying the flag for the Cornish way”

    For more information about Cornish cream teas please refer to creamteahour.co.uk