How much do sessions cost?

Individual sessions are £70 for evening appointments and £65 for daytime sessions (10am-4pm). I also offer various package deals including a 6-session pre-pay for £390, 8-session block for £500, and specialized plans for phobias (£325) and trauma (£390). The initial discovery consultation is £50.

What therapeutic approaches do you use?

I use evidence-based approaches including CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), neuroscience principles, solution-focused hypnotherapy, EMDR, and EFT techniques.

How many sessions will I need?

This varies depending on your individual needs and goals. Some issues like phobias can be addressed in as few as 5 sessions, while more complex issues may require 8-12 sessions or more. We'll discuss this during your discovery consultation.

Can you treat phobias without exposure therapy?

Yes, I can reduce phobias and fears without the need for exposure. We work together to desensitize the feelings around the phobia and build confidence using specialized techniques.

Do you offer both face-to-face and online sessions?

Yes, I provide therapy sessions both in-person at my Swindon office and online to accommodate different preferences and circumstances.

What is trauma therapy?

Trauma therapy is a specialized form of treatment that helps individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. Using neurolinguistic programming, we identify the root cause of trauma and help the brain process information differently to reduce emotional responses.

What symptoms can trauma therapy help with?

Trauma therapy can help with phobias, mood swings, anxiety, sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, distorted self-image, interrupted emotional functioning, increased sensitivity to threat perception, flashbacks, and depression.

How does trauma therapy work?

We use neurolinguistic programming to identify the root cause of trauma and allow the brain to process information in a different way to reduce emotional responses. We also utilize guided relaxation in sessions to reduce anxiety, which drastically speeds up the healing process.

Where are trauma therapy sessions held?

Sessions are held at our office in Swindon, Wiltshire at Northbourne Road, St Andrews Ridge, SN25 4YE. We are open Monday to Thursday 8:30am - 8pm and Friday 8:30am - 6pm.

Emetophobia is an intense, irrational fear of vomiting or seeing others vomit. It can significantly impact daily life through psychological symptoms like intense anxiety, physical symptoms like nausea and sweating, and behavioral avoidance of certain foods, places, or situations.

What are the symptoms of emetophobia?

Symptoms include intense anxiety at the thought of vomiting, persistent intrusive thoughts, catastrophic thinking, physical symptoms like nausea and sweating, and avoidance behaviors such as not eating certain foods, avoiding restaurants or social events, and constantly checking food safety.

How do you treat emetophobia without exposure?

We reduce the effects and triggers of emetophobia using the NLP rewind technique and hypnosis, mental rehearsal and desensitisation. This approach allows you to overcome the fear without being exposed to triggering situations, enabling you to lead a life without constant fear.

Where can I get emetophobia therapy?

Sessions are held at our office in Swindon, Wiltshire or online. Our office is located at Northbourne Road, St Andrews Ridge, Swindon, SN25 4YE. We're open Monday to Thursday 8:30am - 8pm. Contact us at 07359 071210 to book a consultation.

How much does therapy cost?

Discovery Consultation costs £50, Daytime sessions are £65, and Evening sessions are £70. We offer various pre-pay packages with discounts for NHS, blue light workers, and teachers.

Do you offer face-to-face and online sessions?

Yes, we offer both face-to-face sessions at our Swindon location and online sessions via secure video conferencing platforms.

What is your cancellation policy?

We require 24 hours notice for cancellations. Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice may be charged at the full session rate.

How long are therapy sessions?

Standard therapy sessions are typically 50-60 minutes long, allowing sufficient time for effective therapeutic work.

What therapeutic approaches do you use?

We use Solution Focused Hypnotherapy, combining elements of psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, and neuroscience to help clients achieve their goals.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on individual needs and goals. Many clients see improvements within 6-12 sessions, though this can vary.

Do you treat phobias?

Yes, we specialize in phobia treatment using proven hypnotherapy techniques. We offer a specific Phobia Reduction Plan for £325.

What is a Discovery Consultation?

A Discovery Consultation is an initial 50-minute session where we discuss your needs, explain our approach, and determine if our services are right for you. It costs £50.

Do you offer discounts?

Yes, we offer discounts for NHS workers, blue light workers (police, fire, ambulance), and teachers. We also have pre-pay packages that offer savings.

What are your opening hours?

We're open Monday to Thursday 8:30am-8:00pm, and Friday 8:30am-6:00pm. Weekend appointments may be available by arrangement.

Discovering Solution-Focused Therapy Benefits for Depression

Gary Smith
3 days ago
4 min read

When it comes to managing depression, finding the right approach can feel overwhelming. I’ve explored many therapeutic methods, and one that truly stands out is solution-focused therapy. This approach is refreshing because it shifts the focus from dwelling on problems to building solutions. It’s practical, empowering, and often quicker than traditional therapies. Today, I want to share with you the many solution-focused therapy benefits and how it can be a game-changer for those struggling with depression.

What Is Solution-Focused Therapy?

Solution-focused therapy (SFT) is a goal-oriented, future-focused approach to counselling. Instead of digging deep into the causes of depression, it encourages clients to envision their preferred future and identify the steps to get there. The therapist acts as a guide, helping you recognise your strengths and resources to overcome challenges.

This therapy is built on the idea that you already have the tools to improve your life. The role of the therapist is to help you discover and use these tools effectively. It’s a collaborative process that focuses on what works rather than what’s wrong.

How Does It Work?

Setting clear goals: You decide what you want to achieve.
Identifying exceptions: Times when the problem was less severe or absent.
Building on strengths: Using your past successes as a foundation.
Small, manageable steps: Creating practical actions to move forward.

This method is especially helpful for depression because it can restore hope and motivation, which are often diminished in depressive states.

Eye-level view of a therapist’s office with a comfortable chair and soft lighting — Therapist's office setting for solution-focused therapy

Exploring Solution-Focused Therapy Benefits

One of the most exciting things about solution-focused therapy is how it empowers you to take control of your mental health journey. Here are some key benefits I’ve noticed:

1. Quick and Efficient

Unlike some therapies that can take months or years, solution-focused therapy often produces noticeable results in fewer sessions. This is because it zeroes in on actionable solutions rather than extensive analysis.

2. Positive and Empowering

By focusing on your strengths and past successes, this therapy helps rebuild confidence. It encourages a mindset shift from helplessness to empowerment.

3. Customised to You

Every session is tailored to your unique goals and circumstances. This personalised approach means you’re not stuck with a one-size-fits-all plan.

4. Practical and Action-Oriented

You leave each session with clear, doable steps. This practical focus helps maintain momentum and keeps you engaged in your recovery.

5. Builds Resilience

By learning to identify and use your resources, you develop skills that help you handle future challenges more effectively.

6. Supports Hope and Optimism

Depression often clouds hope. Solution-focused therapy helps you see possibilities and envision a brighter future, which is crucial for healing.

If you’re curious about how this therapy might fit your needs, consider that it’s often combined with other treatments like hypnotherapy or counselling for a holistic approach.

Close-up view of a notebook with a pen and a list of goals — Notebook with goals written during solution-focused therapy session

What Are Some Criticisms of EFT?

While solution-focused therapy has many benefits, it’s important to acknowledge some criticisms, especially when compared to other therapies like Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).

May overlook deeper issues: Critics argue that focusing only on solutions might ignore underlying emotional problems that need addressing.
Not suitable for everyone: Some individuals may require more in-depth exploration of their past to heal effectively.
Risk of oversimplification: Complex mental health issues like depression sometimes need a more nuanced approach than quick fixes.
Dependence on client motivation: The therapy relies heavily on the client’s willingness to engage and take action, which can be challenging during severe depressive episodes.

Despite these points, many find solution-focused therapy a valuable part of their mental health toolkit, especially when combined with other supportive therapies.

Practical Tips for Getting the Most Out of Solution-Focused Therapy

If you decide to try solution-focused therapy, here are some tips to maximise its benefits:

Be open and honest: Share your goals and challenges clearly with your therapist.
Focus on your strengths: Reflect on times when you’ve coped well or felt better.
Set realistic goals: Break down your goals into small, achievable steps.
Celebrate progress: Acknowledge even minor improvements to build motivation.
Practice outside sessions: Apply the strategies and actions discussed in therapy to your daily life.
Stay patient: Change takes time, but consistent effort pays off.

Remember, therapy is a partnership. Your active participation is key to success.

How to Find the Right Therapist for You

Finding a therapist who specialises in solution-focused therapy can make a big difference. Here are some pointers:

Check qualifications: Look for therapists trained in solution-focused techniques.
Ask about experience: Ensure they have experience working with depression.
Consider accessibility: Many therapists offer online sessions, which can be convenient.
Trust your instincts: Choose someone you feel comfortable with and supported by.

If you’re in or near Swindon, Wiltshire, Cirencester, or Gloucestershire, you might find local therapists who offer this approach. Online options also provide flexibility if you prefer remote sessions.

For more information, you can explore solution focused therapy for depression to see if it resonates with you.

Embracing a Brighter Tomorrow

Depression can feel like a heavy weight, but it’s important to remember that help is available. Solution-focused therapy offers a hopeful, practical path forward. By focusing on your strengths and future possibilities, it can help you regain control and build a life you want to live.

If you’re ready to take the first step, consider exploring this therapy style. It might just be the supportive boost you need on your journey to wellness.

Thank you for joining me in this exploration of solution-focused therapy benefits. Remember, every small step counts, and with the right support, brighter days are ahead.