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How many sessions of hypnotherapy will it take to treat my anxiety?
Conversation started by ellen_hs
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Im constantly on edge whether it be work-related, social situations or just little things in life in general!! Dont like the idea of taking meds so was looking for counselling or anything else that might help. A friend suggested I see a hypnotherapist.. how long would this take and what should I expect? -
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Lucy Appadoo
Counsellor
I am a Registered Counsellor and Wellness Coach who specialises in grief and loss, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger management, and stress management. I have … View Profile
Hypnosis can be very effective for anxiety disorders. The normal counsellor or psychologist would treat the anxiety first with the use of therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy for example. Hypnosis can be a great reinforcer for strategies or tools you have gained whilst undergoing other forms of therapy. Hypnotists will utilize hypnosis as an adjunct to therapy but this differs when there are no mental health concerns present in a client. For example, some people may only require hypnosis for habits such as smoking or nail biting. There may be no underlying presenting issues, so therefore hypnosis would be the only form of therapy used.
In terms of how many sessions it would take to treat your anxiety, this depends on many factors. It depends on your hypnotic capacity; it depends on whether you have some belief in hypnosis. It also depends on your ability to become relaxed, and on the severity of your anxiety. The proven response to hypnosis is that some people are more hypnotizable then others. Therefore it is difficult to determine how many sessions you would need. As a general rule perhaps 4 - 6 sessions would do the trick, and the hypnotic experience may need to be modified to better suit a persons' personal and therapeutic needs. Once you've had your sessions, the hypnotist can record the script for you so that you're able to utilize the recording at home and in your own time. It then becomes a form of self hypnosis. I do practice hypnosis for a range of conditions and issues.Report this post
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Jill Brewin
Counselling Psychologist, Psychologist
I like to work in collaboration with my clients. They have individual needs, but often have strengths and strategies, of which they are unaware. I … View Profile
Anxiety is a very common and debilitating problem. The good news is that it's very treatable. Once a person learns how to manage the horrible feeling that's associated with anxiety, they're never quite so vulnerable again. Hypnotherapy and mindful meditation are both very useful in inducing a calmer, more relaxed state, and also in reducing the anxiety symptoms. A more in-depth therapy, such as evidence based, emotion focused therapy, helps clients work through their issues, so they can reach a more realistic and helpful belief about these fears, and the root of their anxiety.
It's impossible to prescribe a distinct number of sessions. The needs differ for each individual. However, research shows that about 15 sessions are required to bring about lasting change. Some people can be helped with less, and some people might require a deal more. The government, through Medicare, currently funds 10 sessions through the Medicare rebate, and the next six sessions are available in exceptional circumstances. Unfortunately, however, next year there will only be 10 sessions available on the Medicare rebate.
What you can expect if you seek the help of a psychologist is to be listened to carefully, to be treated with respect. You'll have both of the options explained, and your permission should be sought. You should receive empathy, feel valued, and you should never feel judged. It's very important for you to feel comfortable and supported.
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