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.

Understanding Trauma and PTSD: A Guide to Healing in Swindon and Cirencester

Gary Smith
Oct 15
4 min read

Updated: Nov 3

Trauma and PTSD can deeply impact a person's everyday life. They affect relationships, work performance, and overall happiness. In Swindon and Cirencester, specialized therapy services exist to support individuals dealing with these issues. This blog post offers insights into therapy options available, the significance of seeking help, and guidance on finding appropriate support in your community.

Understanding Trauma and PTSD

Trauma can arise from various situations, including accidents, abuse, bereavement, or witnessing distressing events. When someone experiences trauma that is too overwhelming, they might develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Common symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and persistent thoughts about the traumatic event.

Recognizing trauma and PTSD is essential for recovery. Many people may feel alone or ashamed, but it's crucial to know that asking for help is a sign of courage. Engaging in therapy allows individuals to process emotions, learn coping strategies, and start the path to recovery.

The Importance of Therapy for Trauma and PTSD

Therapy is vital for individuals affected by trauma and PTSD. It provides a safe space for exploring emotions without judgment. Here are some benefits that therapy can offer:

Safe Space for Expression: Individuals can share their thoughts and feelings in a confidential environment.
Coping Strategies: Therapists equip clients with practical tools to handle anxiety and other PTSD symptoms. For example, utilizing cognitive techniques can significantly reduce flashbacks by about 50%, based on many studies.
Understanding Triggers: Therapy helps people identify their unique triggers, enabling healthier responses. Studies often find that individuals can manage 75% of their triggers with specialized support.
Building Resilience: Therapy allows clients to develop resilience, which can empower and boost self-confidence.
Improved Relationships: Healing from trauma leads to improved communication with loved ones. Research shows that 60% of individuals report better relationships after completing therapy.

Types of Therapy Available in Swindon and Cirencester

Swindon and Cirencester offer various therapeutic approaches for trauma and PTSD. Some common types of therapy include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT focuses on identifying negative thought patterns and behaviors. It is effective for PTSD as it helps individuals shift their perspective on traumatic events, leading to healthier coping mechanisms.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is designed to alleviate distress from traumatic memories. It uses guided eye movements to help individuals process their experiences, often leading to significant symptom relief.

NLP Rewind

This therapy can neutralise the emotions attached to the trauma, reducing triggers permanently.

Finding the Right Therapist in Swindon and Cirencester

Finding the right therapist is essential for effective treatment. Here are practical tips for your search:

Research Credentials: Look for licensed therapists experienced in trauma and PTSD treatments. Verify their qualifications and specific areas of expertise.
Read Reviews: Checking online reviews can offer insight into the therapist's effectiveness and style.
Consider Specializations: Different therapists may focus on various types of trauma or treatment methods. Find one that aligns with your specific needs.
Schedule a Consultation: Many therapists provide initial consultations. Use this opportunity to ask questions and determine comfort levels with their approach.
Trust Your Instincts: It's important to feel safe with your therapist. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to look for someone else who better suits your needs.

The Role of Support Systems

Beyond therapy, a solid support system can greatly enhance recovery. Friends, family, and peer support groups are vital for emotional backing. Here are some strategies to create a supportive network:

Open Communication: Discuss your feelings with trusted friends or family members. This helps them understand your experiences and provide more effective support.
Join Support Groups: Many local communities have support groups for those dealing with trauma. These settings can offer a sense of belonging and shared understanding.
Educate Loved Ones: Sharing information about trauma and PTSD can help your support network understand better and respond appropriately to your needs.

Self-Care Strategies for Managing Trauma and PTSD

Self-care is essential in combination with therapy and support. Here are a few self-care practices to incorporate:

Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness helps keep you present and can lower anxiety levels. Try dedicating 10 minutes a day to meditation or deep-breathing exercises.
Physical Activity: Exercise is proven to lift mood and lower stress. Find a physical activity that you enjoy—walking, yoga, or even dancing can make a difference.
Creative Outlets: Activities such as drawing, journaling, or playing music can serve as effective outlets for expressing emotions.
Establish a Routine: Maintaining a daily routine can provide structure and a sense of stability, which is especially helpful during recovery.
Limit Exposure to Triggers: Identify and reduce time spent in situations or consuming media that evoke distressing memories or emotions.

A Path to Recovery

Recovering from trauma and PTSD is not a quick process; it requires time, patience, and support from both professionals and loved ones. In Swindon and Cirencester, dedicated therapy services are available to assist individuals on their recovery journey. By recognizing the importance of therapy, exploring various treatment approaches, and building a solid support system, individuals can make meaningful strides toward healing.

If you or someone you know is facing challenges with trauma or PTSD, reach out for support. Remember, you are not alone, and help is available to guide you through your healing journey.

For more information on trauma and PTSD, click here to book a consultation and click here to go to our Trauma page.