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ADDICTION / Red background concept (Click for more)

<h3>Addiction is a powerful and complex condition that affects millions worldwide.</h3>Whether it’s alcohol, nicotine, opioids, or stimulants, addiction changes the brain in ways that make quitting feel impossible—despite the often devastating consequences.Thankfully, advances in neuroscience are helping us understand addiction not as a moral failing, but as a chronic, relapsing brain disorder involving changes at the molecular, cellular, and neurocircuitry levels. This scientific understanding is now informing therapies that work with the brain, not against it—including the empowering and future-focused approach of Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (SFH).In this article, we’ll explore how addiction affects the brain, and how SFH can support recovery by promoting neuroplasticity, restoring control, and helping people reconnect with their strengths, resources, and preferred future.<h3>&nbsp; Addiction and the Brain: A Neuroscience Overview</h3><figure id="figure-8is3akkwh9mamk1d9q"><img id="8is3akkwh9mamk1d9q" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/830705438/photo/addiction-red-board-concept.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=zVXVnpok6GZeRmkXnU1kbTd7UJfYFUmoPh1YpyRUQNg=" alt="ADDICTION / Red Board Concept (Click for more)" title="ADDICTION / Red Board Concept (Click for more)" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 80% 0%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="80%" data-positiony="0%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/830705438/photo/addiction-red-board-concept.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=zVXVnpok6GZeRmkXnU1kbTd7UJfYFUmoPh1YpyRUQNg=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 80% 0%;"></figure> Hijacking the Reward System At the heart of addiction lies the mesolimbic dopamine system—a circuit that evolved to reinforce life-sustaining behaviors like eating and social connection. Drugs of abuse hijack this system, triggering massive dopamine surges that the brain learns to repeat.Over time, the brain adapts:Tolerance builds as dopamine receptors become less responsive. Withdrawal symptoms emerge when the drug is absent. DeltaFosB and CREB, transcription factors in the brain, begin to alter gene expression, embedding the addictive cycle at a cellular level. These changes mean that people eventually don’t use drugs to feel good—they use them to stop feeling bad.The Path to Compulsion Addiction also impairs the brain’s prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and long-term thinking. Meanwhile, the amygdala, hippocampus, and insula—regions involved in emotion and memory—become hypersensitive to stress and drug-related cues.Eventually, the drive to seek the drug becomes compulsive. Natural rewards lose their appeal. Rational thought is overpowered by conditioned responses and emotional triggers. This is the devastating shift from voluntary use to addiction.&nbsp; How Solution Focused Hypnotherapy Supports Recovery Understanding addiction as a brain-based condition helps us tailor approaches that engage the brain’s natural ability to change—also known as neuroplasticity. This is where Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (SFH) offers unique and effective tools.SFH blends neuroscience, solution-focused conversation, and clinical hypnosis to help clients move from surviving to thriving.<figure id="figure-jsp5p9mowmamjz7u3"><img id="jsp5p9mowmamjz7u3" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1449387309/photo/the-man-with-mental-illness-sleep-with-a-relaxed-posture-consult-and-listen-to-the-guidelines.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Z0Pau71v6TGR6o5FOnX4eyMWoId6BJB_h07QTbtF8YM=" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1449387309/photo/the-man-with-mental-illness-sleep-with-a-relaxed-posture-consult-and-listen-to-the-guidelines.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Z0Pau71v6TGR6o5FOnX4eyMWoId6BJB_h07QTbtF8YM=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Let’s explore how. 1. Rebuilding the Prefrontal Cortex: Focus on What’s Working In addiction, the prefrontal cortex—the brain’s “CEO”—becomes less active. People find it hard to make rational decisions, regulate emotions, or resist urges.SFH actively engages the prefrontal cortex through solution-focused questioning. By asking:“What’s been better?” “How did you cope?” “What will be the first sign things are improving?” ...clients are gently encouraged to reflect, imagine, and plan. This builds cognitive flexibility and future orientation, both associated with increased prefrontal activity.The process helps individuals reconnect with a sense of agency—reminding them that they can make choices and move forward, one small step at a time.&nbsp; 2. Calming the Limbic System: Hypnosis Reduces Stress and Craving The brain’s limbic system, particularly the amygdala and extended stress circuits, become hyper-reactive in addiction. This fuels anxiety, emotional distress, and the urge to use substances as a form of escape.The deep relaxation and focused attention of the hypnotic state help reduce the arousal of these stress systems. In hypnosis, brain waves slow, the default mode network becomes less active, and the client can access a calm, imaginative state.Over time, this state of calm becomes neurologically reinforced—so that the client learns to regulate stress without reaching for their substance of choice.&nbsp; 3. Promoting Neuroplasticity: Imagining a Preferred Future One of the most powerful techniques in SFH is the Miracle Question:“If a miracle happened overnight and your life was how you want it to be, what would be different?” This is more than a hopeful question—it’s a neurological intervention.Imagining positive change activates the same neural pathways as actually experiencing it. Visualization, especially in hypnosis, strengthens new patterns of thought and behavior. Repeated focus on goals and successes leads to “use-dependent” brain change—rewiring the brain away from old triggers and toward new habits.&nbsp; 4. Reconnecting to Strengths: Identity Beyond Addiction Addiction can consume a person’s identity. SFH offers a strengths-based, non-pathologizing alternative. Instead of focusing on what’s wrong, we ask:“When were you at your best?” “How have you overcome challenges before?” “What do you value most about yourself?” This restores a sense of self beyond the addiction. The client begins to build a story not of illness, but of resilience, courage, and growth.This narrative shift has profound neurological effects, influencing memory, motivation, and the likelihood of sustained recovery.&nbsp; 5. Working With the Brain’s Natural Systems Unlike traditional “problem-focused” models, SFH works with the brain's solution-seeking tendencies. Every session strengthens:Hope circuits in the brain. The capacity for delayed gratification. Internal reward systems based on real achievement and self-care. Crucially, it avoids reinforcing the trauma, guilt, or shame circuits so often activated in people with a history of addiction.<figure id="figure-808d689wobmamk0cw5"><img id="808d689wobmamk0cw5" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2204500122/photo/mental-health-concept.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=QlZ94Cfayx9wnjAvtGYar3Du-rZ30R9jT3mIgKAc0ag=" alt="Mental Health Concept" title="Mental Health Concept" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 0% 45%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="0%" data-positionY="45%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>&nbsp; Conclusion: Science Meets Compassion Addiction is not a choice—it’s a disease of the brain. But it’s also a condition that can heal, especially when therapeutic approaches align with what neuroscience teaches us.Solution Focused Hypnotherapy offers a hopeful, evidence-informed way forward. By calming the stress response, re-engaging the rational brain, and building a future-oriented mindset, SFH supports recovery not just as abstinence—but as the rediscovery of agency, purpose, and identity.In a world where so many feel stuck in the grip of addiction, SFH reminds us that change is always possible—and the brain is always capable of healing.

Inside the Addicted Brain: How Addiction Hijacks the Mind—And How Solution Focused Hypnotherapy Can Help

Change arrow, with smaller but many obstacles

<h3>Why Confusion as the Catalyst for Change A reflection for Solution Focused Hypnotherapists</h3>As solution focused hypnotherapists, we're used to helping clients move toward clarity, confidence, and positive change. But in both our own learning and our client work, there’s an often-overlooked state that deserves celebration: confusion.Rather than something to avoid, confusion can be a powerful part of the therapeutic and learning process. It’s not a sign of failure—it’s a signal that something new and important is trying to emerge.Confusion as a Catalyst for Change From a neuroscience perspective, confusion is a signal that our current mental models no longer fit the situation. This triggers prediction error, a process that activates the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC)—which monitors conflict—and the prefrontal cortex, which helps us problem-solve and adapt.This cognitive friction is what drives neuroplasticity. It forces the brain to build new neural pathways and adapt—essentially making confusion the ignition point for learning.In fact, research in educational psychology has shown that students who engage with initially confusing material retain it better long-term compared to those who are given clear, step-by-step instructions without struggle (D’Mello &amp; Graesser, 2012).<figure id="figure-bewz2mef269m9vp0d9u"><img id="bewz2mef269m9vp0d9u" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2148145721/photo/portrait-of-young-businesswoman-with-curly-hairstyle-wear-trendy-smart-casual-outfit-isolated.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=lXJtTMOzsNhf4eYEuWPCcmqsJ3LKWdPDVCtLFYUuL10=" alt="Portrait of young businesswoman with curly hairstyle wear trendy smart casual outfit isolated on white background stock photo" title="Portrait of young businesswoman with curly hairstyle wear trendy smart casual outfit isolated on white background stock photo" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 20%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="20%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2148145721/photo/portrait-of-young-businesswoman-with-curly-hairstyle-wear-trendy-smart-casual-outfit-isolated.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=lXJtTMOzsNhf4eYEuWPCcmqsJ3LKWdPDVCtLFYUuL10=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 20%;"></figure>But What If They’re Wrong? Some training schools still insist on rigid repetition—same questions, same language patterns, same structure—session after session. The idea is that repetition reinforces learning.And while repetition does have its place in reinforcing patterns and calming the nervous system, an over-reliance on it may inhibit deeper therapeutic work. The brain, when repeatedly exposed to the same input, begins to tune out. Learning plateaus.Novelty, on the other hand, activates the hippocampus and dopaminergic reward pathways—regions strongly associated with learning, attention, and motivation. When something surprises the brain, it pays closer attention and encodes the experience more deeply.So yes, repetition might create familiarity, but novelty and confusion are what create learning and transformation.And if you think hypnosis is all about brainwave lengths, you’ve still got a lot to learn about hypnosis.Yes, EEG studies show changes in alpha and theta wave activity during hypnosis. But those are correlates, not causes. Hypnosis is far more about focused attention, expectation, and the therapeutic relationship than it is about electrical frequencies in the brain.As leading hypnosis researcher Irving Kirsch found, hypnotic responsiveness is largely mediated by suggestion, context, and belief—not by brainwave manipulation (Kirsch, 1997).Confusion Breaks the Cycle When things feel too familiar, the brain slips into cognitive autopilot. Confusion breaks this. It signals the need for real-time adaptation, increasing alertness and engagement.This shift is crucial in hypnotherapy. In fact, Milton Erickson often used confusion deliberately as a therapeutic tool—to interrupt rigid patterns and open the client to new possibilities. Confusion, for Erickson, wasn’t a problem—it was a portal.<figure id="figure-ez91t15ebm9vp3y17"><img id="ez91t15ebm9vp3y17" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2085922079/photo/artificial-intelligence-circuit-board-brain-symbol-on-hand.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=8gdKJLDqBlCZmX-6Hj-fuy2XeNDbDfd70_PY8zEgi1Y=" alt="Artificial intelligence circuit board brain symbol on hand" title="Artificial intelligence circuit board brain symbol on hand" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 0% 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="0%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2085922079/photo/artificial-intelligence-circuit-board-brain-symbol-on-hand.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=8gdKJLDqBlCZmX-6Hj-fuy2XeNDbDfd70_PY8zEgi1Y=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 0% 50%;"></figure>Creativity in the Unknown The solution focused approach invites us to explore what’s possible, not just what’s probable. This openness often requires us—and our clients—to sit with uncertainty.Creativity blooms when we’re not locked into fixed expectations. Studies in divergent thinking show that people are more creative when they are free from rigid mental frameworks and allowed to play with ambiguity.In a hypnotic context, this means stepping beyond scripts and embracing the unique, unfolding moment of the session.From Uncertainty to Empowerment When clients work through confusion, they’re not just learning something new—they’re rewiring their brain to become more adaptable. They develop confidence in their ability to make sense of life’s challenges. They grow resilience. And so do we.As therapists, staying curious and reflective—especially when things don’t go to plan—helps us evolve. The best work often happens when we’re not quite sure where the session is going… and trust the process anyway.Celebrate the Discomfort So next time you—or your client—feel confused, lean in.Don’t rush to fill the gap. Don’t silence the questions too soon. Because confusion isn’t the opposite of clarity—it’s the start of it.And maybe, just maybe, it’s time we let go of the idea that change comes from reading scripts and routines alone. Because research, neuroscience, and lived therapeutic experience all say the same thing: <strong style="border-color: #e5e7eb; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgba(62,172,255,.5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-transform: translateX(0) translateY(0) rotate(0) skewX(0) skewY(0) scaleX(1) scaleY(1); --tw-border-opacity: 1;" data-mce-style="border-color: #e5e7eb; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgba(62,172,255,.5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-transform: translateX(0) translateY(0) rotate(0) skewX(0) skewY(0) scaleX(1) scaleY(1); --tw-border-opacity: 1;">Confusion is where transformation begins. References D’Mello, S., &amp; Graesser, A. (2012). Dynamics of affective states during complex learning. Learning and Instruction, 22(2), 145–157.Kirsch, I. (1997). Suggestibility or hypnosis: What do our scales really measure? International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 45(3), 212–225.Oakley, D.A., &amp; Halligan, P.W. (2013). Hypnotic suggestion: Opportunities for cognitive neuroscience. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 14(8), 565–576.

The Power of Confusion

Missing piece in the brain shaped jigsaw puzzle fits into place.

<h3>Working with ADHD Clients as a Solution-Focused Hypnotherapist: Skills, Challenges, and Supervision</h3> ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) presents unique challenges for both clients and therapists. Whether working with children or adults, solution-focused hypnotherapy (SFH) offers a strengths-based approach that empowers individuals to harness their abilities rather than focus solely on difficulties. However, working with ADHD clients requires specific skills, patience, and adaptability. It can also bring frustrations for both the therapist and client, making professional supervision an invaluable resource for reflection and support.<figure id="figure-opfriltfmum86au2fo"><img id="opfriltfmum86au2fo" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2162368353/photo/synapse.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=rzu5r3oYHlF57Rt63nA2jaizZ1fe30QBlJcvo0-X9Pw=" alt="Synapse" title="Synapse" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2162368353/photo/synapse.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=rzu5r3oYHlF57Rt63nA2jaizZ1fe30QBlJcvo0-X9Pw=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Understanding ADHD from a Solution-Focused Perspective</h3> ADHD is often framed as a deficit, but many individuals with ADHD possess remarkable strengths, including creativity, resilience, and problem-solving skills. A solution-focused approach shifts the narrative from "fixing what’s wrong" to "building on what works". By helping clients recognise their successes and develop strategies that suit their unique thinking patterns, hypnotherapy can be an empowering tool.However, the process isn’t always smooth. ADHD affects attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation, meaning clients may struggle with engagement, consistency, or belief in their ability to change. This can lead to frustrations for both parties.<h3>&nbsp; The Skills Needed to Work Effectively with ADHD Clients</h3> 1. Flexibility and Adaptability ADHD clients—both adults and children—may struggle with focus, fidgeting, or impulsivity. A rigid, traditional therapy structure may not work, so the therapist needs to be adaptable. Sessions may require movement breaks, interactive elements, or shorter, more dynamic trance work.2. Clear and Engaging Communication Keeping instructions and discussions simple and engaging is crucial. Using metaphors, stories, or visualisations can help ADHD clients process information more effectively. Asking clear, direct questions also helps them stay on track.3. Patience and Non-Judgement Clients with ADHD often feel like they have "failed" in various aspects of life due to forgetfulness, impulsivity, or difficulties with organisation. A non-judgemental approach that acknowledges their efforts rather than their struggles is key to building trust.4. Strength-Based Focus Instead of emphasising the challenges ADHD brings, solution-focused hypnotherapy encourages clients to recognise their strengths. This might include their ability to think outside the box, hyperfocus on topics they love, or their energy and enthusiasm when engaged in the right task.5. Helping with Routine and Structure One of the biggest challenges for ADHD clients is creating structure and sticking to routines. Hypnotherapy can help clients visualise their ideal day and establish small, achievable habits that work for them. This might include using reminders, alarms, or breaking tasks into manageable steps.6. Managing Frustrations – For Both Client and Therapist ADHD clients may struggle with completing tasks, following through on agreed-upon strategies, or even attending sessions consistently. This can be frustrating for the therapist, who may feel like progress is slow or inconsistent.From the client’s perspective, they may feel frustrated that their brain doesn’t work the way they want it to. They may struggle with feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or self-critical. Solution-focused hypnotherapy helps reframe these frustrations by focusing on small wins and reinforcing positive change rather than perceived failures.<h3>Working with Children vs. Adults with ADHD</h3> Children with ADHD May struggle to sit still or follow session structure. Need interactive elements—games, storytelling, or movement. Parents play a crucial role in reinforcing positive changes at home. Hypnotherapy can help with emotional regulation, anxiety, and confidence-building. Adults with ADHD Often have years of frustration from feeling misunderstood or struggling with traditional work and school environments. May benefit from hypnosis for stress reduction, focus, and self-belief. Need practical strategies for structuring their day and managing distractions.<h3>&nbsp; The Importance of Supervision in ADHD Hypnotherapy</h3>Because working with ADHD clients can be unpredictable, therapists benefit greatly from supervision with an experienced professional. Supervision provides:<ul><li>A space to reflect on challenging cases without frustration affecting the therapeutic relationship. </li><li>Practical strategies for managing session flow when a client is highly distracted.</li><li>Support in managing therapist frustration, ensuring sessions remain productive and positive.</li><li>Fresh insights from a more experienced perspective to fine-tune approaches. A good supervisor helps solution focused hypnotherapists stay grounded, maintain their own well-being, and continue growing in their work.</li></ul><figure id="figure-045htxb49m86autlf"><img id="045htxb49m86autlf" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/491349692/photo/adhd-is-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=-g0NUjSR5DesLRWZuAgJVYxwAN16LNklNsQVcx7F_K0=" alt="ADHD is Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder." title="ADHD is Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 35% 35%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="35%" data-positionY="35%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h3>Final Thoughts</h3>Working with ADHD clients in solution focused hypnotherapy is rewarding but requires patience, flexibility, and a strengths-based mindset. By focusing on what works, helping clients build structure in a way that suits their unique brains, and managing frustrations with empathy, hypnotherapists can create a positive impact. Regular supervision ensures therapists remain supported and equipped to handle the unique challenges ADHD presents.

Working with ADHD Clients as a Solution Focused Hypnotherapist

Master the Art of Weight Loss Hypnotherapy with the Solution Focused Hypnotic Gastric Band CPD written and hosted by the Halifax Hypnotherapy Clinic.&nbsp;Helping clients achieve lasting weight loss can be one of the most challenging yet rewarding areas of hypnotherapy. Many new and experienced solution-focused hypnotherapists find weight management cases difficult, often feeling frustrated when clients struggle to maintain their progress. The Solution Focused Hypnotic Gastric Band (SFHGB) CPD is designed to change that.This full day training workshop provides you with a structured 9-week program that blends solution-focused techniques with the proven power of the hypnotic gastric band, ensuring both short-term motivation and long-term habit change.Why the Solution Focused Hypnotic Gastric Band? Traditional weight loss methods often focus on diet restrictions and willpower, which can lead to frustration and unsustainable results. The SFHGB approach offers an effective, structured alternative. By combining solution-focused strategies with the hypnotic gastric band, clients can transform their mindset, develop healthier eating habits, and achieve sustainable weight loss.This program helps hypnotherapists:<ul style="list-style-type: circle;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: circle;"><li>Follow a clear, structured framework over nine sessions</li><li>Boost confidence when working with weight loss clients</li><li>Enhance motivation and mindset shifts for long-term success</li><li>Provide a ready-to-use program that integrates seamlessly into practice What You Will Learn During this CPD workshop, you will gain: ✅ A full breakdown of the 9-week program, with a session-by-session structure ✅ Practical hypnotic gastric band techniques and scripts ✅ Solution-focused questioning skills to enhance motivation and remove barriers to success ✅ Strategies to help clients stay committed and overcome setbacks ✅ Tools to tailor the program to individual client needs</li></ul>By the end of the workshop, you will feel confident and fully equipped to offer this transformational approach to your weight loss clients.Workshop Details &amp; Booking 📅 Upcoming CPD Dates:Wednesday, May 14th (10 AM Start) Wednesday, August 27th (10 AM Start) Wednesday, December 17th (10 AM Start) 💷 Investment: £180 (discount available for members of affiliated professional associations&nbsp;Join us for this comprehensive training and take your weight loss hypnotherapy practice to the next level. Empower your clients with a structured, effective, and solution-focused approach to lasting weight loss.Secure Your Place Today!&nbsp;<a data-mce-href="http://www.hypnotherapy-supervision-cpd.uk" href="http://www.hypnotherapy-supervision-cpd.uk" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Halifax Hypnotherapy Clinic Ltd, 12 Wade House Road, Shelf, Halifax HX3 7PB</a>&nbsp;

Solution Focused Hypnotic Gastric Band CPD & Training

As hypnotherapists, we may encounter clients who seek our services while managing complex mental health conditions, including psychosis. However, there are critical considerations regarding duty of care and safeguarding when working with individuals in such states.Why We Wouldn’t See a Client in a Florid State of Psychosis A client in a florid state of psychosis is experiencing an acute phase of symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, disorganised thoughts, and possibly erratic behaviour. This can impair their ability to differentiate between reality and imagination, potentially heightening their vulnerability and reducing their capacity to engage safely and effectively in hypnotherapy.Example of Identifying Florid Psychosis If a client arrives visibly distressed, speaking about seeing or hearing things that aren’t present (e.g., describing a "voice in the room" or a person others cannot see), this may indicate they are in a florid psychotic state. Other signs might include confused speech, paranoia, or a lack of coherent thought. Observing any of these symptoms is a cue to refrain from providing hypnosis&nbsp; and to direct the client to appropriate mental health services immediately.Importance of Knowing a Client’s Antipsychotic Medication As hypnotherapists, we are not trained in pharmacology, but understanding whether a client is taking antipsychotic medication is essential for safeguarding and tailoring appropriate support. Antipsychotic medications, such as chlorpromazine or risperidone, are prescribed to manage symptoms of psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.<figure id="figure-4psl5lqilsm3es4sod"><img id="4psl5lqilsm3es4sod" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2159368897/photo/safeguard-word-on-a-torn-brown-piece-of-paper-with-a-clothespin-on-a-green-background.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=jpwrVUFZVqu1Xoay-l8uZ3yjCTRV_h3akPOV5Xqi4kw=" alt="SAFEGUARD - word on a torn brown piece of paper with a clothespin on a green background" title="SAFEGUARD - word on a torn brown piece of paper with a clothespin on a green background" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2159368897/photo/safeguard-word-on-a-torn-brown-piece-of-paper-with-a-clothespin-on-a-green-background.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=jpwrVUFZVqu1Xoay-l8uZ3yjCTRV_h3akPOV5Xqi4kw=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Knowing a client’s medication regimen enables us to i<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">dentify any contraindications:Hypnosis may interact with medications by potentially amplifying or mitigating effects such as sedation, anxiety, or emotional response. Recognising this can help avoid practices that could unintentionally exacerbate a client’s symptoms. Assess psychological stability: Antipsychotic medications often indicate a more severe mental health condition that requires careful, stable management. For clients on these medications, our awareness helps us remain vigilant to changes in mental health and better prepared to pause sessions if signs of deterioration emerge. Support appropriate referrals: If a client presents symptoms beyond our scope, knowing they are on antipsychotics supports a more informed and prompt referral to mental health services or emergency care. Our Duty of Care and Role Limits It is crucial to remember that we are not trained or qualified to assess or advise on medication. We should make it clear to clients that while we can ask about medication for safeguarding purposes, we will always refer them to medical professionals for guidance about their prescriptions.If you have any concerns or questions about a client’s presentation or their suitability for hypnotherapy, it is essential to consult your supervisor. Your supervisor can help you navigate these situations responsibly and in alignment with best practices for safeguarding. Here is Antipsychotics Identification Sheet to assist with safeguarding your clients:&nbsp;Generic Name: Chlorpromazine Brand Name: Largactil Type: First-generation Common Uses: Psychosis, Schizophrenia Notes: Known for sedation; may cause extrapyramidal side effects.Generic Name: Flupentixol Brand Name: Depixol Type: First-generation Common Uses: Schizophrenia, Depression (low doses) Notes: Also used as a long-acting injection for chronic management.Generic Name: Haloperidol Brand Name: Haldol Type: First-generation Common Uses: Schizophrenia, Acute Psychosis Notes: High risk of extrapyramidal side effects; effective for agitation and severe psychosis.Generic Name: Levomepromazine Brand Name: Nozinan Type: First-generation Common Uses: Psychosis, Severe Agitation Notes: Often used for sedation; side effects include drowsiness.Generic Name: Pericyazine Brand Name: - Type: First-generation Common Uses: Anxiety, Schizophrenia Notes: Primarily used for anxiety with psychosis; sedative properties.Generic Name: Perphenazine Brand Name: Fentazin Type: First-generation Common Uses: Schizophrenia, Nausea Notes: Combines antipsychotic and anti-nausea properties.Generic Name: Pimozide Brand Name: Orap Type: First-generation Common Uses: Tourette's Syndrome, Psychosis Notes: Used especially for chronic tic disorders; risk of QT prolongation.Generic Name: Prochlorperazine Brand Name: - Type: First-generation Common Uses: Nausea, Vertigo, Psychosis Notes: More commonly used for nausea and vertigo than psychosis.Generic Name: Promazine Brand Name: - Type: First-generation Common Uses: Anxiety, Agitation Notes: Low-potency antipsychotic; generally mild sedation effects.Generic Name: Sulpiride Brand Name: Dolmatil, Sulpor Type: First-generation Common Uses: Schizophrenia, Depression (low doses) Notes: Can also be effective for depressive symptoms.Generic Name: Trifluperazine Brand Name: Stelazine Type: First-generation Common Uses: Schizophrenia, Anxiety Notes: Primarily for anxiety with psychosis; may have strong calming effects.Generic Name: Zuclopenthixol Brand Name: Clopixol Type: First-generation Common Uses: Schizophrenia, Mania Notes: Often used in long-acting depot form for chronic psychosis.Generic Name: Amisulpride Brand Name: Solian Type: Second-generation Common Uses: Schizophrenia, Dysthymia Notes: Primarily for negative symptoms of schizophrenia; fewer side effects than first-generation types.Generic Name: Aripiprazole Brand Name: Abilify, Abilify Maintena Type: Second-generation Common Uses: Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder Notes: Partial dopamine agonist; often used as an adjunct for depression.Generic Name: Clozapine Brand Name: Clozaril, Denzapine, Zaponex Type: Second-generation Common Uses: Treatment-resistant Schizophrenia Notes: Risk of agranulocytosis; requires regular blood monitoring.Generic Name: Lurasidone Brand Name: Latuda Type: Second-generation Common Uses: Schizophrenia, Bipolar Depression Notes: Often preferred for low metabolic impact; fewer sedation effects.Generic Name: Risperidone Brand Name: Risperdal, Risperdal Consta, Okedi13 Type: Second-generation Common Uses: Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder Notes: Available in long-acting injection form; can cause weight gain and metabolic effects.Generic Name: Olanzapine Brand Name: Zypadhera, Zyprexa Type: Second-generation Common Uses: Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder Notes: High risk of weight gain and metabolic side effects.Generic Name: Quetiapine Brand Name: Seroquel, Seroquel XL Type: Second-generation Common Uses: Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, MDD Notes: Sedative properties; often used for insomnia in low doses.Generic Name: Paliperidone Brand Name: Invega, Xeplion, Trevicta, Byannli Type: Second-generation Common Uses: Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder Notes: Long-acting injectable options available; similar to risperidone. Remember if any doubt contact your supervisior.&nbsp;

Clients and Antipsychotic Medications

Diet and Healthy life loss weight Concept. Green apple and Weight scale measure tap with fresh vegetable and sport equipment for women diet slimming.

<h3>A Solution Focused Hypnotherapist’s Perspective</h3>When clients come to me for help with weight management, I understand that it’s never just about the weight. It’s about the whole person their habits, mindset, emotions, stress levels, and often, their sleep quality. Weight can sometimes be a symptom of deeper issues, and that’s where solution-focused hypnotherapy can offer a truly holistic approach. Understanding Habits and the Brain’s Role One of the key areas I focus on when working with clients is the way habits are formed and stored in the brain. Often, people develop eating habits that go beyond the physical need for food. Emotional triggers, such as stress or anxiety, can lead someone to seek comfort in food. This pattern of behaviour can become so automatic that it feels impossible to change. This is where the hippocampus comes in. The hippocampus, which is responsible for memory and habit formation, stores these eating habits over time. For example, if a client has always reached for sugary snacks when they feel stressed, this behaviour becomes ingrained and stored as a response pattern in the brain. However, it’s important to remember that while these habits are stored, they aren’t fixed. The brain has the ability to change through neuroplasticity, meaning that with the right approach, new, healthier habits can be formed. In our sessions, I work with clients to address these patterns, helping them recognise when they’re acting out of habit rather than hunger. By using solution focused hypnotherapy techniques, we can access the subconscious mind, where many of these automatic behaviours are stored, and begin to create new, healthier responses.<figure id="figure-9ifnr9ooam2n12fvn"><img id="9ifnr9ooam2n12fvn" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1448517508/photo/human-brain-damage-and-treatment-concept-3d-illustration.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=IY1luSt_UGS2Q7I7lKbPPJiwCWy3OFJ6nurPTowXomk=" alt="Human brain eating habits" title="Human brain eating habits" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Habits are formed and stored in the brain" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1448517508/photo/human-brain-damage-and-treatment-concept-3d-illustration.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=IY1luSt_UGS2Q7I7lKbPPJiwCWy3OFJ6nurPTowXomk=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Habits are formed and stored in the brain</figcaption></figure>It’s Not Just About the Weight One of the first things I discuss with my clients is that weight management is about much more than just the numbers on the scale. Many clients come in feeling frustrated, having tried various diets and exercise programs without lasting success. Often, that’s because these approaches focus on the symptoms (the weight itself) rather than the underlying causes, such as: • &nbsp; &nbsp;Stress: Stress plays a significant role in weight gain for many people. When we’re stressed, our bodies produce more cortisol, which can lead to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen. Not only that, but stress often triggers emotional eating. Hypnotherapy helps clients manage their stress in a healthy way, reducing the likelihood of turning to food for comfort. • &nbsp; &nbsp;Sleep Issues: Poor sleep is another common issue that can affect weight management. When we don’t get enough sleep, our bodies produce more ghrelin (a hormone that increases hunger) and less leptin (which signals fullness). As part of our work together, I often focus on helping clients improve their sleep patterns, which can have a significant impact on their overall health and well-being. • &nbsp; &nbsp;Self-Esteem and Body Image: Weight issues can also be tied to negative self-image or low self-esteem. Many clients have spent years feeling uncomfortable in their bodies, which can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, or frustration. In our sessions, I help clients reframe how they see themselves, building a more positive relationship with their body and fostering a sense of self-compassion. The Miracle Question: Keeping It Realistic A key part of my solution-focused approach is using the Miracle Question (MQ). This technique helps clients visualise what their future could look like if they achieved their goals. When it comes to weight management, it’s important that this vision is both realistic and meaningful for the client.Rather than focusing on an ideal weight, I might ask: “If a miracle happened overnight and you woke up feeling healthier and more in control of your lifestyle, what’s the first thing you’d notice?” This shifts the focus from a specific number on the scale to the broader benefits of living a healthy life. It could be that the client feels more energetic, more confident, or sleeps better. By keeping the MQ focused on the client’s overall wellbeing, we can work toward practical and achievable goals, rather than setting unrealistic expectations that could lead to disappointment.<figure id="figure-zcz05848flm2n14xup"><img id="zcz05848flm2n14xup" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1142301533/photo/high-way-sign-with-motivation-warning-or-advice-message-about-miracles.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=0-qX-oO-bG63pQtDMBvzXpD_-hE2gjYsmCML9ZTqsa4=" alt="high way sign with motivation, warning or advice message about miracles" title="high way sign with motivation, warning or advice message about miracles" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="MQ to be realistic and meaningful for the client" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1142301533/photo/high-way-sign-with-motivation-warning-or-advice-message-about-miracles.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=0-qX-oO-bG63pQtDMBvzXpD_-hE2gjYsmCML9ZTqsa4=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">MQ to be realistic and meaningful for the client</figcaption></figure>Defining a Healthy Lifestyle: What Does It Mean for You? One of the most important things to remember is that every client’s idea of a healthy lifestyle is different. As the expert in their own life, the client knows best what changes they want to make and how they want to measure their progress. For some clients, a healthy lifestyle might mean becoming more physically active, choosing nutritious foods, or reducing portion sizes. For others, it might involve addressing emotional eating, reducing stress, or improving sleep. My role is not to dictate what “healthy” should look like for them, but to guide them in defining it for themselves. I often ask questions like: • &nbsp; &nbsp;“When you imagine yourself feeling your best, what kinds of habits do you see yourself having?” • &nbsp; &nbsp;“What small changes would make the biggest difference for you?” • &nbsp; &nbsp;“How would your life look different if you felt more in control of your health?” These kinds of questions allow the client to visualise their version of success. They help me tailor my approach to each individual, ensuring that the changes we work on together are both meaningful and sustainable. The Client is Always the Expert. In solution-focused hypnotherapy, the client is always the expert in their own life. When it comes to weight management, this principle is especially important. No two clients will approach their journey in the same way, and it’s crucial that I respect each person’s individual preferences and pace. I like to explore the client’s previous experiences with weight management. By asking “What’s worked for you in the past?”, I encourage them to reflect on their strengths and build on those. It’s also important to ask “What do you feel ready to start with?”, which helps the client take ownership of their journey and feel empowered to make changes that feel achievable. Another essential aspect of this work is understanding that success isn’t always about the numbers on the scale. While some clients may use weight as a marker of progress, others may focus on how their clothes fit, their energy levels, or how they feel mentally and emotionally. I help clients identify these alternative measures of success, so they can celebrate the small victories along the way. It is key to remember here too that the human body is only designed to lose 2lbs of excess weight a week, so it is imperative that all goals are small and manageable. Even a 1lb loss weekly, leads to a Stone overall loss in 3 months.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-fbixg9f86em2n1719m"><img id="fbixg9f86em2n1719m" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1426612500/photo/on-the-hand-of-a-women-with-icon-a-light-bulb-and-there-is-a-gear-icon-on-it-bright-light.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=cRDBRrzrU91IDfjCPdtRfyon45pkkiRauJuIEWFdkbg=" alt="On the hand of a women with icon a light bulb And there is a gear icon on it. bright light bulb is idea innovation creativity inspiration brainstorming and imagination. technology education intellectual symbol future invention strategy energy light brain." title="On the hand of a women with icon a light bulb And there is a gear icon on it. bright light bulb is idea innovation creativity inspiration brainstorming and imagination. technology education intellectual symbol future invention strategy energy light brain." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption=" The client is always the expert in their own life" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1426612500/photo/on-the-hand-of-a-women-with-icon-a-light-bulb-and-there-is-a-gear-icon-on-it-bright-light.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=cRDBRrzrU91IDfjCPdtRfyon45pkkiRauJuIEWFdkbg=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">The client is always the expert in their own life</figcaption></figure>Conclusion Working with clients on weight management requires a holistic approach that looks beyond the surface-level issue of weight. By addressing the deeper factors at play, such as stress, sleep, and self-esteem, we can create lasting change that goes far beyond the scale. Using solution focused hypnotherapy, I empower clients to take control of their health in a way that feels right for them. Together, we work to uncover their unique vision of a healthy lifestyle, helping them achieve their goals in a realistic and sustainable way. &nbsp;John Lowson (J Lowson Hypnotherapy) has worked for many years with clients for weight loss and weight gain and created long term changes for many clients.&nbsp; John Lowson is a clinical hypnotherapist and psychotherapist, hypnotherapy lecturer and clinical hypnotherapy supervisor based at the Halifax Hypnotherapy Clinic Ltd 12 Wade House Road, Halifax HX3 7PB Tel - 01422 861989

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