In this blog, I’m going to explore four popular support options available to you: therapy, counselling, solution-focused hypnotherapy and coaching, highlighting the benefits of each to help you make an informed decision.
Firstly, let’s highlight the two traditional modalities that people turn towards, therapy and counselling. They have been widely recognized and practiced for many decades and are often viewed as the standard approaches for mental health support. This reputation gives them a sense of credibility and reliability. As well as this, they are frequently depicted in media, whether that be films, TV shows, books, or magazine articles, making them more familiar to people looking for support.
Pros of Therapy:
Depth of Understanding: Therapy, particularly psychotherapy, delves deeply into your past experiences and unconscious patterns. This can help you gain a profound understanding of the root causes of your issues.
Diverse Approaches: There are various therapeutic approaches available, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Humanistic Therapy, each offering unique benefits. This diversity means you can find a therapeutic style that resonates with you.
Long-term Benefits: Therapy often provides long-term benefits by addressing the underlying issues, not just the symptoms, leading to lasting personal growth and change.
Pros of Counselling:
Emotional Support: Counselling offers a safe space to talk about your feelings and experiences with a trained professional, which can be incredibly validating and comforting.
Short-term Focus: Unlike some forms of therapy, counselling often focuses on current issues and is usually shorter-term, making it suitable for those looking to address specific problems or transitions.
Accessibility: Counsellors are often more widely available and may be more affordable than some types of therapy, making it a more accessible option for many people.
So why do people come to someone like me?
Exploring alternatives to traditional therapy and counselling is beneficial for a whole host of reasons. While therapy and counselling are effective and widely respected, alternative approaches like solution-focused hypnotherapy and coaching offer unique advantages that might better suit individual needs and preferences. Everyone’s mental health journey is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. Alternatives to therapy and counselling can offer personalized approaches that align more closely with an individual’s specific needs and goals.
I’ve been in practice for just shy of four years, and I’ve found many people simply aren’t aware of solution-focused hypnotherapy and coaching as a viable option. Therapy and counselling are well-known terms, but solution focused hypnotherapy can be less understood and more associated with stage hypnosis or alternative practices. I’ve found there are still misconceptions about hypnotherapy, with some viewing it as less scientific or effective compared to traditional therapy. The idea of hypnosis can also carry a certain stigma or be seen as unconventional. However, there is a gradual acceptance of new methods, with people beginning to explore newer or less conventional options.
Pros of Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy:
Combines Approaches: This approach combines elements of psychotherapy with hypnosis (deep relaxation), offering a unique method that addresses both conscious and subconscious mindsets. It’s totally based in science with a heavy emphasis on calming the parasympathetic nervous system – your fight or flight!
Rapid Results: Many of my clients have found that solution-focused hypnotherapy brings rapid results, especially in dealing with issues like anxiety, stress, and phobias. Typically, I work with people for between 6 and 10 sessions, so essentially, you’d work with me for up to 3 months. However, it’s worth pointing out the frequency of the sessions doesn’t have to be weekly.
Positive Reinforcement: By focusing on your strengths and future goals, solution-focused hypnotherapy reinforces positive thinking and helps you build a more optimistic outlook. We don’t talk about the past, it’s gone and can’t be changed!
Pros of Coaching:
Goal-oriented: Coaching is highly goal-oriented and focuses on helping you achieve specific personal or professional objectives. This can be particularly beneficial if you’re looking to make tangible changes in your life.
Actionable Strategies: Coaches provide practical strategies and actionable steps to help you move forward, which can be very motivating and empowering.
Future-focused: Unlike therapy, which often looks to the past, coaching is primarily focused on the future and how you can achieve your goals, making it ideal for those looking to make positive changes and progress.
As a Hypnotherapist, Performance Psychologist and Coach I’m in an advantageous position. I’ve created a hybrid model of solution-focused hypnotherapy and coaching which combines the deep, subconscious work of hypnotherapy with the practical, goal-oriented strategies of coaching, providing a comprehensive approach to support your journey. This integration helps my clients achieve rapid and lasting change by addressing underlying issues while simultaneously working towards concrete future goals.
Choosing the Right Option
Deciding which type of support is right for you depends on various factors, including the nature of the issues you’re facing, your personal preferences, and your goals for seeking support. It’s important to consider what you hope to achieve and to feel comfortable with the professional you choose. I, like many practitioners, offer initial consultations, which is a great opportunity to discuss your needs and see if their approach aligns with your expectations.
Final Thoughts
Mental health is a vital aspect of our overall well-being, and seeking support is a courageous and positive step. Whether you opt for therapy, counselling, or anything else, the most important thing is to find an approach that feels right for you. Each option offers unique benefits, and the right fit can make a significant difference in your journey towards better mental health.
Remember, it’s okay to try different approaches to find what works best for you, and reaching out for support is a powerful and empowering decision. If you’ve got this far and are interested in finding out a bit more about how I can help, then get in touch. I offer a free 30-minute consultation where you can quiz me about my methods and how it can support you in your journey.
Thanks for reading!
