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Solution Focused Therapy

Tara Tuen-Matthews | FEB 28, 2024

anxiety management
depression
exam stress
grief and loss
substance abuse
anger management
trauma
chronic illness adjustment
smoking cessation
sport performance
relationship challenges
family conflict
workplace stress
depression support
solution focused therapy
self-esteem building
communication issues
parenting struggles
life transitions
coping with trauma
financial stress
time management
conflict resolution
goal setting
career transition
identity exploration

What is Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT)?
Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) is a therapeutic approach that focuses on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
It emphasizes identifying and amplifying clients' strengths and resources to achieve their desired goals. SFT therapists collaboratively work
with clients to explore positive changes, set realistic objectives, and build on existing strengths. This approach can be beneficial by fostering a forward-looking mindset, promoting self-efficacy, and enabling clients to envision and work towards a preferred future, ultimately leading to more constructive and sustainable outcomes in their lives.

What exactly is hypnosis?
Hypnosis, also known as trance, is a profoundly relaxed state frequently occurring in our daily lives without us consciously realizing it. Have you ever reached your destination after driving without recalling parts of the journey? Or perhaps you've "zoned out" while watching TV or listening to the radio, not remembering the past few minutes?

These are instances of hypnosis, a crucial process the brain undergoes to maintain calmness and control over thoughts and feelings.
The primary distinction between everyday hypnosis experiences and hypnotherapy lies in the depth of relaxation and the incorporation of positive visualization, stories, and metaphors. These elements enable the subconscious mind to process desired positive changes. During a hypnotherapy session, you'll be invited to get comfortable, either close your eyes or focus on an object in the room, allowing your eyes to relax. Importantly, you remain conscious, aware, and in complete control throughout the process.

Will I experience a loss of control?
No, you will not. Hypnosis is a state of 100% consent, and you always retain control. It is impossible to be hypnotized against your will, and no one can compel you to do anything against your wishes while in hypnosis. The misconception of "loss of control" often arises from entertainment and stage hypnosis. It's important to distinguish between stage hypnosis, which involves volunteers willing to engage in entertaining acts for an audience, and clinical hypnosis. Registered Clinical Hypnotherapists adhere to a stringent code of conduct, ensuring a professional and ethical approach to the therapeutic process.

Will I be asleep during hypnosis?
No, you won't be asleep when undergoing hypnosis. Although hypnosis induces a deep state of relaxation, it does not involve actual sleep.
After a hypnosis session, some individuals may not perceive that they were hypnotized due to misconceptions about the nature of a 'trance.'

Is belief necessary for the effectiveness of the process?
To ensure the success of the therapeutic process, having intent is crucial. This involves understanding how the process will benefit you and being motivated to fully engage in it. Without this intent, your subconscious mind may erect barriers to the positive changes you seek, making the process more challenging. Solution-focused hypnotherapy is grounded in current neuroscientific knowledge about how our brains process and respond to information. It is an evidence-based approach, allowing us to use statistical data to track your progress and the improvements you are making.

What can you anticipate during your session?
Each one-hour session typically follows a consistent structure, with the exception of sessions focused on phobias or smoking cessation.

What’s Been Good?
Initially, we reflect on the positive aspects of your week and delve into the neuroscience behind thought patterns and behaviours.

Goal Setting
Next, we collaboratively identify a small, achievable goal to propel you forward.

Hypnosis
The final 30 minutes involve hypnotherapy, utilizing positive visualization, metaphors, and suggestions to facilitate change.

Upon concluding the session, you can expect to feel calm, relaxed, and positive about the positive changes you're making in your life.

How many sessions will be necessary for my situation?

The number of sessions required varies based on your specific concern or objective, as well as your circumstances.
Typically, individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, or related conditions may undergo 8-12 sessions, though some find relief in as few as 4 sessions, while others may require more. Smoking cessation is typically accomplished in two sessions, and addressing phobias generally involves four sessions.

What occurs between sessions?

During the interim, you will be encouraged to listen to a relaxation audio each night before bedtime. This serves the dual purpose of calming your mind for a restful sleep and reinforcing the progress made during our sessions. Additionally, you'll be prompted to maintain a journal, recording 3-5 positive aspects of your day before bedtime. This practice not only contributes to a tranquil mindset conducive to restful sleep but also strengthens the collaborative efforts in our sessions. Depending on your circumstances, other small tasks might be assigned between sessions to support your progress.

Tara Tuen-Matthews | FEB 28, 2024

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