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.

Signs to Recognize If You Might Be Experiencing Depression

Gary Smith
Jun 18
4 min read

Depression is a silent struggle for many people. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Recognizing the signs of depression is vital because many individuals may not even realize they are experiencing it. This blog post will explore the common signs that can indicate you're dealing with depression.

Common Depression Signs

Understanding the signs of depression is crucial for early recognition and intervention. Often, people may dismiss their feelings or think they are merely going through a rough patch. However, acknowledging these signs is the first step to getting help.

Persistent Sadness: One of the most notable signs of depression is a lingering feeling of sadness. This is more than just being upset over a bad day. It involves feeling hopeless or empty for an extended period, often without any apparent reason.
Loss of Interest: If you suddenly find that activities you once enjoyed no longer bring you pleasure, this could be a significant warning sign. Whether it's a hobby, sports, or social gatherings, a general disinterest can be a telltale indication of deeper issues.
Changes in Sleep Patterns: Depressed individuals often experience drastic changes in their sleep patterns. Some may sleep excessively, while others may struggle with insomnia. Both scenarios can contribute to feelings of exhaustion and irritability.

High angle view of a cozy bedroom with dim lighting — A cozy space that may signify solace from depression.

Fatigue and Low Energy: A constant feeling of fatigue, even after a full night's sleep, can signal depression. This overwhelming tiredness can affect your productivity, making even simple tasks feel monumental.
Changes in Appetite: Significant changes in weight, whether due to overeating or loss of appetite, can be a key indicator of depression. Some individuals may turn to food for comfort, while others may find it hard to eat at all.

Cognitive Symptoms

Depression not only affects your mood but also your thought processes. Recognizing cognitive symptoms can be just as important as identifying emotional ones.

Difficulty Concentrating: If you find it hard to focus on tasks at work or at home, you might be experiencing cognitive effects of depression. This could manifest in frequently forgetting things, struggling with decisions, or feeling mentally foggy.
Negative Thoughts: Persistent negative thoughts about yourself or your life can serve as a clear indicator of depression. This may involve feelings of worthlessness or guilt that can be overwhelming.
Indecisiveness: Frequently second-guessing yourself or having trouble making decisions, big or small, can be a sign of depression. This indecisiveness might stem from negative self-perceptions.

Close-up view of an empty wooden desk with a chair — An empty workspace that may reflect depressive feelings.

Physical Symptoms

Recognizing physical symptoms can also play a crucial role in identifying depression. Sometimes these symptoms can overshadow emotional experiences.

Chronic Pain: Many individuals with depression experience unexplained physical aches and pains. These can include headaches, back pain, or joint pain that doesn’t seem to have a clear cause.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Digestive problems like bloating, constipation, or stomachaches are common among those with depression. These physical manifestations can often be overlooked.
Reduced Immune Function: Depression can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses. Frequent colds or infections can be a red flag.

Social Withdrawal

Social isolation is another major sign of depression. When someone feels down, they may start to withdraw from friends and family. This can occur for various reasons:

Avoidance of Social Activities: You may find yourself declining invitations or avoiding gatherings. Social situations can feel overwhelming or unappealing.
Feelings of Loneliness: Even when surrounded by others, individuals may feel intensely lonely. The disconnect between perceived social support and emotional experience can be jarring.
Strained Relationships: Depression can create a rift between you and your loved ones. The lack of communication or interest can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts.

Eye-level view of a serene park bench under a tree — A tranquil spot for contemplation about mental health.

Seeking Help

Recognizing the signs of depression is pivotal. The next step is seeking help. If you suspect you’re experiencing depression, it is essential to talk to a therapist, counselor, or doctor. Treatment options may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Self-care is also important. Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga into your routine. Staying physically active is beneficial as well. Exercise releases endorphins, which can improve mood.

Moreover, maintaining a healthy diet can significantly impact your emotional well-being. Consuming nutrient-rich foods can fuel your body and help regulate your mood.

Lastly, connecting with supportive friends or family members can be beneficial. Sharing your feelings can alleviate stress and help combat feelings of isolation.

Understanding Common Symptoms of Depression

It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the common depression symptoms experienced by many individuals. This knowledge will not only assist you in understanding your own mental health but also enable you to help those around you. If you notice persistent symptoms in yourself or a loved one, please do not hesitate to reach out for help.

Being aware of these signs is the first step in combatting depression. Acknowledgment leads to understanding, and understanding can pave the way toward emotional healing.

It’s essential to remember that feeling depressed is not a sign of weakness; it is a medical condition that requires attention and care. Taking the first step by recognizing these signs can lead to healthier outcomes and a more fulfilling life.