Why should you consider Online Hypnosis Sessions? My specialism is relieving anxiety and stress related conditions. In these difficult and unpredictable times, it is good to know that you can get the help you need from the safety of your own home.

Special low cost sessions available online at an affordable price.

Online Hypnosis Sessions – Private 1-1 sessions can be experienced live through a platform such as Zoom or WhatsApp and this means that apart from making a large cost saving, you can receive all the benefits without the stress in having to worry about travelling.

About Private and Group Online Session  

In private sessions, you will receive the same service, personalized to your needs. With group sessions, you will be guided towards proven techniques and practical help, however, personal issues are not discussed in a group as this would breach your confidentiality.

There is no difference in an online hypnosis session to a face-to-face session, other than that you will be communicating with me through a computer screen or other chosen device.

However, please note that it is important to have a reliable internet connection. I live in a village and am very pleased that guaranteed faster fibre has now become available and needless to say, I signed up fast!

I am an Experienced Presenter and Trainer

Hypnosis Programs available are from my Healthy Lifestyle Management series, as developed for major companies. So please contact me if you are interested. Group sessions are low cost compared to individual.

My Courses in Healthy Lifestyle Management Include: –

• Manage Weight and Enjoy Your Relationship with Food
• Stop Anxiety and Manage Stress Effectively
• Build Confidence and Achieve Better Presentation Skills
• Build Confidence and Increase Sports Performance
• Better Sleep Management

MY EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

Ericksonian Advanced Hypno-Psychotherapist
Senior Practitioner GHR, SQHP, GHSC, Registered Supervisor
Professional member of the International Stress Management Association  Full  member of the Association for Coaching

I have been extensively referenced and have designed and delivered large scale training to multi-national companies.

Sports Performance – I am a qualified rider, instructor, coach (British Horse Society).

Video Hypnosis Sessions – please contact me on 07827 505389

Preparing for your first hypnotherapy session is an exciting opportunity towards beneficial change.   For many people, their presenting symptoms may have been long term and sometimes a new event has served as the catalyst for change (for example, new career, partner, marriage).  It is your own motivation and desire that plays an important part in enabling the success of the hypnotherapeutic suggestion process.

Most practitioners offer prospective clients a free consultation session to determine suitability for hypnotherapy and also to help to prepare a new client with an understanding of what they can expect from the process.  In preparing for their first hypnotherapy session, I offer my prospective clients 20 minutes in which they can discuss their symptoms and related history and importantly, the desired beneficial outcome.   The practitioner may then indicate to the client a procedural plan which will become more defined after the initial session.  For example, two sessions of suggestion therapy will often be sufficient for habit cessation, however, where a habit is linked to other issues or past traumatic events, hypnotherapy may take longer.

The object is for the client to gain the most from the first hypnotherapy session and subsequent appointments. During my many years in practice I have been asked a variety of questions and here are a few brief points to consider further of which are often contained in a pre-consultation letter.

Preparing for Your First Hypnotherapy Session –

1. Make brief details about your symptoms and any related events.
2. Bring any GP or Consultant’s letter of referral containing clinical details.
3. Full disclosure will be necessary for certain clinical conditions – ask your hypnotherapist.
4. Eat something suitable prior to your session to prevent being distracted by hunger pangs.
5. Avoid caffeine during the hours prior to your session to avoid hyperactivity.
6. Location – allow time to familiarise yourself with the clinic’s location you are travelling to.
7. Parking – unless parking is offered on-site, request details of local parking space.
8. Payment facilities – ask the therapist before your appointment. Most offer paypal facility online or the use of electronic banking transfer.
9. Cancellation policy – be aware of the therapist’s cancellation policy agreement so that goodwill is maintained. Many therapists make no charges for illness or unforeseen events.
10. Your participation – the importance that you fully participate in the therapeutic process.
11. Choose a time for your appointment that suits your body clock and allows you to relax.

When you arrive for hypnotherapy with me,  a simple contract letter will be undertaken. This contains your details, the therapist’s details, any medical disclosure notes/current medication, past therapy undertaken, and importantly what you are attending for (ie. smoking cessation, weight management, stress management)  and what you hope to achieve.  This protects both you and the therapist.

Enjoy your hypnotherapy.  Remember – The object is your desired beneficial change.

Preparing for your first Hypnotherapy Session – Contact Sara, Tel 07827 505389

Online Zoom sessions for Hypnotherapy have become popular. During these changing times, many more people have become familiar with the different communication platforms available today, such as Skype, Zoom and WhatsApp on mobiles.

Online Skype Sessions for Hypnotherapy

With high speed internet connections now being used by many people, Skype and Zoom on larger screens become closely similar to a face to face session. Once, frequent time lapses could occur with connections but these are rarer now and the internet is compatible not only with our lifestyle but also with government requests to,  ‘avoid groups, to stay alert and avoid unnecessary travel.’

Skype and Zoom Hypnotherapy Sessions

Connections such as Skype and Zoom can help may people who couldn’t otherwise see a therapist.  Perhaps you’re one of these people? Many of my busy clients have long confirmed that Skype allows them to have therapy and coaching in the comfortable surroundings of their choice.  It is important to have a quiet room and a place where you can feel safe, comfortable and not in fear of interruptions.  Of course, those who have young children at home need to plan more carefully, such as after bedtimes.

Skype Sessions for Hypnotherapy – An Initial Free Consultation Session

An initial free consultation session of 20 minutes is offered by phone or Skype. The purpose of this free session is for you, the client, to be able to discuss your situation and to gain from me, the therapist, information about the process of hypnotherapy and coaching. You can then determine whether or not you think this is the right process for you and whether you want to work with me.  You are under no pressure whatsoever to continue and this free session allows the chance to reflect and to decide.

An Explanation of the Benefits of Hypnosis During a Free Skype Consultation

During a free Skype session, I am happy to discuss the relaxing state of progressive relaxation and how to enter into a trance state. As a registered Supervisor, Senior Practitioner and Professional Trainer, I do not expect my clients to learn hypnotherapy techniques until I have explained them in full, along with the knowledge that hypnosis is a safe procedure with many health benefits. (During actual  sessions with my clients I personally demonstrate techniques so that my clients may feel  confident in my personal ability).

Your Hypnotherapy Choice – Skype or Telephone

Whatever your goal, the object of hypnosis and therapy is to help you towards your desired beneficial change and Skype is a valuable option to consider.

Online Blogs – About the Hypnotherapy Process

Please take the time to view my various articles under Blogs on my website as you will find various descriptions including about preparing for your first hypnotherapy session.

Skype Sessions for Hypnotherapy – contact Sara Howard. Tel -07827 505389

My Advanced Qualifications and Full Membership Registrations
With my vast experience and training I can work towards the best results for my clients using an integrative skill set and a solution focused approach. I also draw upon my other training and popular therapies such as RECBT (rational emotive Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), perspectives from positive psychology and NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) of which I am a registered practitioner.

It is important for clients to feel confident in their choice of therapist or coach. I have the highest level qualifications gained over several years training.

AdvDip THP – Advanced Diploma in Therapeutic Hypnosis and Psychotherapy
GHR SQHP Senior Qualification in Hypnotherapy Practice
GHR GHSC Registered and Acknowledged 1-1 Supervisor Status
ISMA – International Stress Management Association Registered Consultant
MAC – Association for Coaching, Registered Executive Coach
CRSST – Central Register of Stop Smoking Therapists – Registered Consultant
INLPTA – Registered Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming
Academic postgraduate in Law and Psychology

What does Clinical Hypnotherapy mean? The object of this brief article is to explain in simple terms.  Often, people enquire whether I am a Clinical Hypnotherapist or ‘the other kind,’ by which I discover they mean a ‘stage hypnotist.’  Having spent many years in supervision for Advanced level training and qualifications in both hypnotherapy and psychotherapy, I am probably equipped to explain. So here goes.

Clinical Hypnotherapy – Hypnosis is a natural state of being, and one that most people experience naturally in their day-to-day lives – imagine the  day dream state, one where you are travelling as a passenger in the car or on a train, and you’re gazing out of the window -whilst still awake, but not mentally thinking any more.

About Clinical Hypnotherapy and Therapeutic Suggestion – since many people are concerned they will lose control, let me explain that the object of clinical hypnotherapy is to use suggestion as a means to assist you, the client, towards your desired goal and beneficial outcome. The client doesn’t lose control and is not placed out of their comfort zone or into a state of deep sleep.  Suggestion, is often undertaken during the general course of conversation, when a person is fully conscious in discussion with their therapist, or suggestion may occur during a more relaxed state of trance, (like the day-dream state previously  discussed) when consciousness is resting at which point ‘suggestion’ can be made to our unconscious.

The Benefits of Clinical Hypnotherapy

Clinical Hypnotherapy has many advantages and when it is used with progressive relaxation techniques it is a powerful tool in reducing anxiety and stress.  Ancient cultures, particularly the Greeks, understood the importance of the balance of mind, body and spirit to our wellbeing.  Modern day thinking has returned to this understanding and to valuing the connection between our mental and physical health and how this both influences our attitudes and behaviours – and ultimately, how we feel when we interact with the people in our lives.

Your Contract for Clinical Hypnotherapy

We have discussed that the difference between Clinical Hypnotherapy and stage hypnosis is that the former has therapeutic goals and outcomes.  Indeed, the goals of Clinical Hypnosis are quite clearly defined for my clients by me through means of a brief contract at the commencement of therapy. My clients can therefore be assured of clarity, trust and confidentiality.

Clinical Hypnotherapy and My Personal Demonstration of a Trance –
As a registered Senior Level Practitioner, Supervisor and Trainer, I always demonstrate the trance state and how to achieve this. I do this so that my clients may feel perfectly safe and comfortable and they can join in the process when they are ready. When my clients watch and see how easy trance actually is, and the calming benefits it produces they want this too!

If you would like to learn more information, or a free phone consultation please contact me.

With my vast experience and training I can work towards the best results for my clients using an integrative skill set and a solution focused approach. I also draw upon my other training and popular therapies such as RECBT (rational emotive Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), perspectives from positive psychology and NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) of which I am a registered practitioner.

It is important for clients to feel confident in their choice of therapist or coach. I have the highest level qualifications gained over several years training.

My Advanced Qualifications and Full Membership Registrations

• AdvDip THP – Advanced Diploma in Therapeutic Hypnosis and Psychotherapy
• GHR SQHP Senior Qualification in Hypnotherapy Practice
• GHR GHSC Registered and Acknowledged 1-1 Supervisor Status
• ISMA – International Stress Management Association Registered Consultant
• MAC – Association for Coaching, Registered Executive Coach
• CRSST – Central Register of Stop Smoking Therapists – Registered Consultant
• INLPTA – Registered Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming

  Clinical Hypnotherapy – For more information contact Sara on 07827 505389

Let’s Ease the Menopause Transition!

For many women, the menopause marks that time in our lives when we can positively reflect on what we want for ourselves and make small changes to ease and to optimise that transition. Many women find themselves becoming empty nesters with time to make suitable changes in career or lifestyle.  Menopause brings the space to reflect towards new possibilities. This can be an inspiring thing!

About Menopause Transition

When I’m training groups or engaged in 1-1 private sessions, I always begin by explaining the natural chemical changes that occur from the start of the perimenopausal stage and therefore the natural feelings that will accompany these changes. Perimenopause can bring hormonal changes that happen several years before the start of menopause, that can have an effect on the routine and rhythm of our daily lives particularly due to the changes in our oestrogen levels.

Even after the actual menopause, the symptom of hot flashes can continue for several years, along with the anxiety. Many women report to me that they worry about work presentations and meetings with important clients; others worry about not letting friends down socially.  Women also worry about feeling, ‘why am I so tired?’  Much is written about adrenal fatigue and this is where anxiety and stress come in, bringing worry, feeling overwhelmed, and as some of my clients describe it, ‘washed out.’

I have successfully steered my own course through the menopause without the need of any HRT and therefore will happily share my secrets of success with you – along with my in depth training.

Menopause Transition coaching and wellbeing programme includes :

• An understanding of the natural chemical changes that are occurring
• Making lifestyle changes to assist your transition (diet, exercise, positive thinking)
• Positive anxiety and stress management – visualisation, meditations, self-hypnosis
• Evaluating any emotional changes and unresolved issues to reduce stress
• Deciding future goals and plans, e.g. career changes, lifestyle changes

It is so important to give space to our ‘inner voice’ to acknowledge the often varied and changing emotions that arise during this time of change. In doing so, we can address any unresolved issues and plan a path that will facilitate changes – and even new goals of what we want to achieve.

Sara Howard, registered Advanced Hypno-psychotherapist (Senior status GHR), Stress Management Consultant (ISMA), Executive Coach (Association for Coaching) and Trainer. Over 20 years experience working with private individuals and companies. Post-grad psychology education; special interest in anxiety/stress related conditions. Registered Clinical Supervisor (GHSC).

Menopause Transition Programme – contact Sara on 07827 505389

Does unwanted workplace related stress have a negative impact in your life?  If you are reading this then the likely answer is, yes, it does. This article is to help you to recognise what may be happening in your life.

Stress is defined by ISMA UK as, “the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressure or other types of demand placed upon them.”

Workplace Related Stress – Whilst many companies are aware and vigilant to the signs of stress in their employees and even have procedures in place to help cope with and prevent stress – it has to be said that some companies do not.  A further problem is that many employees deliberately hide the signs of rising anxiety levels due to fears that their stress may be negatively interpreted as an inability to manage their workload. This includes hiding the truth from loved ones and friends.

Do you know someone suffering stress? The Health & Safety Executive’s 2016 Statistics conclude that work related stress accounts for 37% of work related ill health and 45% of days lost in the period of 2015/16.

Some of the main issues people report regarding workplace stress include: –

• The perceived pressures linked to workload, deadlines and expectations
• A belief in insufficient support from line management and colleagues
• Fears of change, pending mergers and acquisitions and new leadership styles
• Conflicts between personal beliefs and corporate culture demands

The physical symptoms of stress may vary from person to person (and are discussed in my earlier article); they can include – raised heart rate, palpitations, perspiration, feeling a rush of adrenaline, irritability with colleagues, poor sleep patterns and tiredness, stomach upsets, headaches and migraines.

When excessive pressure goes ignored or unnoticed over an extended period it can have a serious impact on a person’s health and wellbeing. For some it can lead to depression and more serious physical conditions.  Stress can also affect us psychologically and in our changing behaviours.  The behavioural aspects that increase pressure include lack of assertiveness,  procrastination and absolutism – perhaps these sound familiar?

The anxiety of constant worry about past or future events can lead to unwanted habits and addictions, sometimes in a misguided belief that they help us to cope, for example, the use of alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, chocolate etc.  Some people engage (often unconsciously)  in habits such as nail biting, skin picking, mouth chewing, teeth grinding, hair pulling without realising the link to their anxiety levels.

Managing Workplace Related Stress – In managing your workplace stress – A stress audit will help you to develop a plan to enable you  to recognise and identify problems and to make suitable behavioural changes to help you regain a sense of control in your daily routine.  It is also about how we believe we interface with ‘our world’  the ideal of course being in a satisfactory and productive way in which we are supported and can complete our tasks and achieve our goals… and find time for the importance of  work/life balance.  

Effective stress management – increases our self belief in our ability to cope and to develop ‘resilience.’ In simple language, resilience can best be achieved and built on sound foundations, when we have recognised and moderated our emotional self demands to a new understanding in harmony with our values and a position of control.

Sara Howard has designed and delivered large scale training programmes in stress management and resilience to leading multinational companies.  She also works with private individuals as an executive and lifestyle coach and hypno-psychotherapist.

Sara is available to see private clients in Wheatley Oxford, Kings Langley Herts. and Aston Clinton Bucks.

Workplace Related Stress – Please call to discuss how Sara may help you with your stress management plan.  Tel – 07827 505389.

Emotional resilience means having the ability to manage pressure and to recover quickly and effectively from setbacks. This article explains how you can learn the tools of resilience and improve your wellbeing.

Would  you like to Improve your Sports Performance?

Hypnotherapy for beneficial change has helped many people.  You may be considering whether to try hypnotherapy to help improve an aspect such as confidence and public speaking or maybe you want to gain control of unwanted stress or old habits like smoking or comfort eating. Are you wondering what to expect from the hypnotherapy experience?  Sometimes people have preconceived ideas such as, “will I fall asleep …will I remember anything … will I lose control”. Let’s demystify the process a little. The object here is both to discuss and to clarify a few points.

With Hypnotherapy for Beneficial  Change, the object of hypnotherapy is to use suggestion as a means to assist the client towards their desired goal and to a beneficial outcome.  The client doesn’t lose control and is not placed out of their comfort zone or into a state of sleep.  Suggestion is often undertaken during the general course of conversation when a person is fully conscious, or during a more relaxed state of trance when our consciousness is resting and suggestion can be made to our unconscious.

In turning to why people seek hypnotherapy, it is fair to say that when people are presenting with pain or severe levels of anxiety and stress, they are actually more focused towards accepting suggestion; their desire is to reduce unwanted symptoms to enable them to enjoy freedom and gain control over their daily life. Many of my clients present with anxiety symptoms sometimes related to an unwanted habit like smoking or comfort eating. These clients will also learn stress management techniques such as progressive relaxation and mindfulness; such techniques enable them to experience a peaceful relaxed state in the knowledge that they can replicate this daily for themselves. Therefore, the hypnotherapy and coaching process is an enabling one.

Hypnotherapy for Beneficial Change. Most people enjoy this pleasant natural state of trance relaxation. I find the best way to enable someone is to allow them to watch the process for themselves. I will always demonstrate the techniques – allowing my clients to watch and to feel personally enabled and in a position of choice and control.

Therefore, to recap now, hypnotherapy can be directed from therapist to client during general conversation – through forms of language pattern during an open dialogue exchange. It can also be effective through trance which we’ve just discussed, (facilitated through progressive relaxation and induction). From this calm and peaceful state of being, certain key words may be used like triggers to deepen the relaxation process;  I often use language patterns within a form of pleasant imagery (rather like a walk in a beautiful park or by the sea) with sights, sounds and feel along your journey. During this journey there are various integrated approaches which may be used to benefit the therapeutic process – all of which just seem to the client as part of one enjoyable calm and peaceful journey towards their goal of desired and beneficial change.

I hope you have found this information helpful and if you would like any further information about Hypnotherapy for Beneficial Change, please contact me at www.inspiredforchange.co.uk.  If you would like to engage in hypnotherapy I can offer a free telephone consultation of up to 20 minutes.

Warm regards, Sara

Tel – 07827 505389

Hypnotherapy Consultations – Aston Clinton, Kings Langley and London