Phone:013398 87184
Email: enquiries@vickirebecca.com

Home
Diary
Therapies
Egypt
Newsletter
Profile
Appointments
Shoppy
Other Websites of Interest
Hypnotherapy
Psychotherapy
Sekhem
Reiki
Indian Head Massage
Meditation
Callanish
Brodgar
Workshops

 

 

 

 

Hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy is a gentle but powerful tool for transformation. When there is a genuine need for change, hypnotherapy provides a way to break harmful habits and helps achieve the balance and success to which we aspire.

Hypnotherapy  Weight Loss Programme
FAQs Stress management
Hypnotherapy Training Depression
Psychotherapy Anxiety
Testimonials  Smoking cessation
   

FAQs

What is Hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis as a form of treatment of a number of emotional and nervous disorders. In other words it is a form of psychotherapy that uses hypnosis as an aid. Experientially it is a deeply relaxing state of mind. In hypnotherapy you will enter a state akin to daydreaming where your subconscious can be accessed. It is in the subconscious where habits are formed and from where they can be changed.

What can be treated?

Deep seated habitual patterns of behaviour can be changed quickly and permanently, goals can be reached and dreams become reality. You can stop smoking, excessive drinking and eating, gain confidence, be free of phobias and tackle other personal and emotional problems that stop you living the life you desire.

Suitable for Depression;  Anxiety;  Phobias;  Emotional and Behavioural issues;  Confidence/Assertiveness;  Self-esteem;  Stress management, Weight management, Smoking cessation.

 

What happens during the initial session?

On the first appointment I like to allow up to 2 hours during which I'll take your case history, in other words you tell your story including what you would like to achieve from therapy. Then I'll explain in more detail my particular way of working and make suggestions of what might work best for you and how many sessions it might take (interventions are normally short term 1-20 sessions) If we both feel we can work together we'll decide the way forward, clear up any last minute anxieties and begin the therapy.

 

What is the Holistic Approach?

The holistic approach means that all aspects of being - mind body and spirit - are addressed. Symptoms are not treated but the root cause. Therefore the modalities used are transformational and empowering, promoting personal growth and increasing intuitive processes at the clients pace. The therapist simply facilitates the change of consciousness required in the client in order to meet their desired outcomes.

 

What is Vicki Rebecca's approach?
My approach is holistic, and I view myself as a psychotherapist using hypnotherapy, Neuro Linguistic Programming and Sekhem as tools for transformation. For weight loss clients that includes fitness consultation and training if requested. Theoretically I integrate cognitive behavioural psychotherapy, Mnemodynamic psychotherapy and the many other modalities I've come across during my journey as a therapist and trainer - my concern is getting results  for the client in front of me whatever that may take and my goal is YOUR empowerment as an individual.

 

What is Hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a state of altered awareness in which the  imagination rather than the intellect is active. Contrary to a widespread belief, it does not involve becoming unconscious and it has nothing to do with sleep. It cannot be forced upon people, but it is a state which therapist facilitate and clients allow themselves to enter. In this sense, all hypnosis is self-hypnosis. In the form of daydreaming, vivid remembering anticipating the future, or fantasising, hypnotic states occur in everyday life.

 

Within the clinical setting it is accompanied by a very pleasant state of physical relaxation, which in itself is very beneficial, especially in the treatment of symptoms induced or aggravated by stress. In such cases it is not a substitute for medical treatment but a very useful supplement to it.

 

Hypnosis cannot perform miracles, but it is a state of awareness, which can be used for self-help. Psychological problems, from unwanted habits to irrational anxiety states, can usually be traced to distorted, one-sided, or unbalanced attitudes, deeply imbedded in the mind, often at an unconscious level. By the time they come for help, clients have usually exhausted the resources of their logical, critical, conscious minds. In the hypnotic state, they can draw upon their inner imaginative and experimental resources, and be open to suggestions, which encourage more sensible, balanced, or helpful attitudes to reality.

 

For some conditions regression techniques (Mnemodynamic psychotherapy) are used. This means re-experiencing imaginatively significant events in one's life. Sometimes this is used to discover within oneself qualities and resources which, made available in the problem situation, will solve it. Traumatic experiences which have had a distorting effect on the mind, can sometimes be re-assessed, and their harmful effects eliminated or subdued.

 

It is not possible to get "stuck" permanently in hypnosis. As with sleep or any other state of mind, people emerge naturally from hypnosis, especially when there is a need to do so. Nor are you under the power of the hypnotist, where your mind can be read and your deepest feelings exposed. This is false.  A hypnotherapist cannot make you do anything that is against your will or expose feelings that you do not want to share. Although you are in a state of deep relaxation where powerful suggestions can be made, beautiful and magic insights can be found, YOU are in control of your inner journey.

Myth & Magic
There seems to be a popular misconception that in hypnosis you are under the power of the hypnotist, that your mind can be read and your deepest feelings exposed. This is false. A hypnotherapist cannot make you do anything that is against your will or expose feelings that you do not want to share. Although you are in a state of deep relaxation where powerful suggestions can be made, beautiful and magic insights can be found, YOU are in control of your inner journey. While in a hypnotic state you will be able to tap the power of your unconscious mind and unlock the way for change.

What is Psychology?

Psychology is the study of human behaviour. It seeks to understand the motivational forces within each individual, which explains his or her responses to the environment, especially to other people.

 

What is Psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is the application of psychological knowledge to the treatment of those suffering from disorders of a psychological origin.

 

Who can enter the state of Hypnosis?

Nearly everyone, once it is understood that the hypnotist cannot hypnotise an unwilling subject. Experienced hypnotherapist will tell you that it is intelligent and imaginative clients with a strong motivation for change who achieve the best results, even when only comparatively light states of hypnosis are attained.

 

Who can practice Psychotherapy or Hypnotherapy?

At present, any person, whether trained or not, can enter private practice. There are a few "National" bodies attempting to bring these professions into recognised parameters. Vicki Rebecca is a member of National  Hypnopsychotherapy Council (NHC) working towards accreditation with UKCP. NHC practitioners must adhere to a strict code of ethics and practice, and are fully covered by professional indemnity insurance. The NHC is the associated professional body of the Centre Training International School of Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy, whose training course is validated by the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP).

 

Weight Loss Programme
A weight loss programme can follow the tried and tested 5 session programme below particularly if the reasons are to to obvious lifestyle changes, alternatively the sessions can follow the holistic path (described below) particularly if the problem has been long term and there are several underlying issues. Most programmes contain a mixture of both and because weight problems nearly always involve issues of self esteem the programme tackles that area too. Exactly what might work for each individual will be worked out at the initial consultation.
 
5 Sessions Weight Loss Programme
Session 1.
bullet Commitment to the program including listening to the hypnosis recordings twice per day - no contract agreed to unless this is accepted at the outset.
bullet Contract set up.
bulletLife web - your story
bullet Introduction of the Reflective thought process.
bullet Introduction to lifestyle changes.
bullet Hypnosis.
Session 2
bullet Feedback of the last session
bulletLife skills, Good enough, looking after yourself.
bulletLife Web.
bulletModel of the mind description.
bullet Introduction of SMART goal setting.
bulletFollow up to lifestyle changes.
bullet Hypnosis.
Session 3
bullet Feedback of the last two sessions.
bulletLife planning.
bulletRevisit Life Web.
bullet Uncovering beliefs both supportive and non supportive, bring them into full awareness.
bullet Mnemodynamic therapy?
bulletFollow up to lifestyle changes.
bullet Hypnosis.
Session 4
bullet Feedback of the last three sessions. Successes and concerns.
bullet Changing unhelpful beliefs, reinforcing helpful beliefs.
bulletFollow up to lifestyle changes.
bullet Hypnosis.
Session 5
bullet Feedback over the program, where are they heading?
bulletLife Web, Compare week by week. Evaluate progress.
bulletBring all the elements together, Good enough, looking after yourself, SMART
bullet Hypnosis with emphasis on future pacing, positive motivation and confidence
bulletFollow up to lifestyle changes.
bullet Mnemodynamic therapy?
bullet Hypnosis.
bullet Evaluation of progress. Are more sessions needed? Separate therapy wanted for uncovered issues?

 

Weight Loss Groups

Are run on the same basis as the 5 Sessions Weight Loss Programme (meetings may be slightly longer to allow feedback from the whole group) however there is no initial individual consultation or therapy in a group situation. If you feel you would benefit from an individual session or wish to discuss things in a private forum you must contact me out with the group.

 

So for bullet point 3 in Session 1 insert:

  • Life web - group introductions and a discussion of the parameters of group participation and confidentiality issues
     

    Stress management
    Stress is a natural component of our everyday lives. In this increasingly hectic and complex world, it can affect our general well being, health and work performance. It is therefore essential to be in possession of effective techniques to prevent or alleviate the potentially debilitating symptoms. Self hypnosis and meditation are both wonderful techniques to use, the underlying tenet and method is different but physiologically they have the same outcome with lots of research to back up the positive results. Self hypnosis tends to have a more specific outcome and contains embedded commands whereas meditation is more about detachment.
    Article on How the body reacts to stress
    Article on
    Pro-Active Health - benefits of exercise
    Self hypnosis and meditation are available to individuals and in an evening class format.

    Stress Management is available to individuals usually as part of broader therapy and also available in a workshop format:
    Holistic Stress Awareness and Management

    How the Body Reacts to Stress

    Release into the bloodstream of adrenaline/noradrenalin, thyroid hormones and cholesterol. These act as powerful stimulants, speeding up reflexes, increasing heart rate, raising blood sugar levels and metabolism. The results are: increased short-term capacity and performance, boost energy supplies and sharpened responses.
    If all this isn’t translated into instant action, long-term consequences can include disorders such as: heart disease, strokes and kidney damage. A disturbance of blood sugar levels can aggravate diabetes. Racing metabolism can lead to exhaustion and eventual physical collapse.

    Shut down of digestive system – allows blood to be diverted from the stomach so that it can be put to use in the lungs and muscles.
    Prolonged shut-down can lead to stomach and digestive problems, particularly when food is forced into an unwilling system.

    Air passages in lungs dilate – allows blood to take up more oxygen, a process assisted by an increased breathing rate.
    Super-oxygenated blood can lead to blackouts and upset heart rhythms.

    Release into the bloodstream of endorphins acting as natural painkillers and reducing sensitivity to injuries.
    When endorphins are depleted this leaves us more sensitive to routine aches and pains.

    Release into the bloodstream of cortisone from the adrenal glands – shutting down allergic reactions which could interfere with breathing.
    Lowers the body’s immune reactions to all kinds of infection and once immediate effects wear off, all allergic reactions can return with increased force.

    Senses become more acute and mental performance improves, enhancing short-term functioning.
    Above a certain limit or if prolonged, these effects go into reverse

    Pro-Active Health - Regular Exercise

    If you are physically fit, you can react better to stress and depression. A regular exercise program offers the following benefits:

     ·        Reduces the risk of premature death by 40%

    ·        Activates the parasympathetic nervous system

    ·        Improves cardiovascular functioning and muscle tone thus preventing wear and tear

    ·        Increases intake of oxygen – the fuel of metabolism

    ·        Lower blood pressure

    ·        Improved lung capacity

    ·        Improved blood flow to and through the brain

    STAMINA:                  eg. Swimming, cycling, running, jogging, and brisk walking

    STRENGTH:               eg. Weight lifting, circuit training

    SUPPLENESS:            eg. Stretching, tone-up exercises, yoga. Stretching exercises

                                               Reduce tension in muscles, can be done in a few minutes and

                                               Have an immediate effect on our sense of well-being.

    Although each of the three S’s are important, Stamina is the element which will stand you in best stead when it comes to facing pressure.

    Finding the Time to Exercise

    You need a minimum of two 20 minute exercise sessions per week (three 30 minute workouts are better).

    ·        Choose an aerobic exercise (from the Stamina list) that you enjoy

    ·        Non-competitive exercise is best.

    ·        Pick a set time to exercise.

    ·        Gradually increase exercise intensity and duration.

    ·        Even a little exercise is better than none.

    ·        Find an exercise partner.

    Stress management can simply mean taking some time out for YOU - stress busters

     

    Depression
    Holistic therapy particularly cognitive behavioural therapy using hypnotherapy can not only relieve the symptoms of depression but greatly reduce the chances of remission because of the educational component.

    Anxiety
    Takes a holistic approach which usually includes cognitive behavioural therapy and management skills including abdominal breathing

    Smoking cessation
    Hypnotherapy has a proven success rate for smoking cessation and usually smoking stops after one session.
    A typical smoking cessation consists of some pre-work, usually one meeting which is recorded - up to 2 hours.

    Testimonials 

    “…. I am doing really well the majority of the time. I have most definitely moved on and up from the place I was at the beginning of our sessions. I feel very relaxed, open and content with myself. It has taken a long time to realize that my disorder is not in control of me but I am the one who makes the choices as an adult and not as a vulnerable, emotional child. This has been my latest light bulb moment that ‘I am writing my own book’ I do not have to take on the beliefs and emotions of those who were around me as a child, I can strive to be the best person I can be without any reference to the past.

    You have definitely opened up a new door for me in my world. I see things very differently from before. I never believed in angels before I met you, now I most definitely do. I feel my angel with me, when I lose my way I ask for help and strength and I always get it. If I feel I am reverting back to my old habits, which has happened on a couple of occasions, I ask for guidance or a new piece of learning and it always works. I suddenly feel better, turned on again to what I am achieving and some positive message will come into my thoughts, then I move on

    It has not all been easy, I have to keep working on myself everyday to move onwards and strengthen my spirit, if I let it go for a few days the old habits and self criticism and old beliefs creep back in. Although I now know how to deal with it. My vision and self belief has changed so much sometimes I cry, but it is tears of joy not sadness anymore and I have you to thank for that (and myself of course).

    I am entering the 10K this year to fulfil a dream I’ve always had. Before it would have been to stop my eating disorder now it is to see myself at the starting line of the run with everything behind me and hopefully to finish! Using food to fuel my body not to eat away my feelings, knowing that my angel is with me every step of the way. The only way I can describe the way I feel inside is a solid column of light and energy with no cracks that leak away losing energy. If here is a leak at any time it s quickly healed and the balance is restored.

    Thanks again Vicki for your help in making me believe in myself and showing me a new way in this world. I certainly wouldn’t be at such great place in my life without your help”. T 2001 (Age 25)

    Presenting problem – bulimia

    Treatment Mnemodynamic psychotherapy 6 sessions

     

    “Thank you for helping me. I have been dry for 18 nights, I am trying for 28. I have only had 8 wet nights since I saw you 8 weeks ago (3 in the first week). Thank you.” M 2002 (age 8) – who continued to improve and stay dry.

    Presenting problem – bed wetting

    Treatment – hypnotherapy, 1 session and a personalized audio tape.

     

    “….the midwives all commented on how calm she (the baby) was during the labour, especially considering the length of it. ….because I was so calm and had no pain killers. I have to admit I had a great support team but am still proud of myself….I am still using the hypnosis to help myself sleep but also just to relax when she is up all night…Thank you for all your help. I am sure it would have been a lot harder to endure without it”. R March 2002

    Childbirth where chemical pain management not an option.

    Treatment  - Self hypnosis and pain management with husband present- 4 sessions

     

    “Just a quick note to say thank you so much for your help. I had my talk on Tuesday (3.12.02) and it went very well. My teacher couldn’t believe I ever had a problem. He thought I was a very confident speaker and it gave me no bother, even though I had potential for lecturing! NO CHANCE! Although I do feel a lot more comfortable than before and it’s all thanks to you! Will be sure to recommend you to others”. H – student.

    Presenting problem – anxiety on public speaking

    Treatment – hypnotherapy 2 sessions.

     

    “I want to thank you very much for the part you played in helping me to achieve a successful outcome to my course.  You gave me one of your meditation tapes and it did just what I needed at the time I needed it. I had the final exam at the weekend and I passed it and was told then that I had also passed the written papers I had sat the previous month.  A wonderful end to what has been quite a tough year's course”. M. March 2003

    Presenting problem – exam nerves.

    Treatment - audio tape for relaxation.

     

    “I'm now a happily married lady. It's all thanks to you remember. You were the one who taught me that I had to start living for me. Thank you”. F. 2003

    Presenting problem – general difficulties and unhappiness

    Treatment Mnemodynamic psychotherapy 8 sessions over extended period.

     

    Good afternoon - I hope you are well. I feel great at the moment and have done for the past couple of weeks  - a large part of this I believe is down to you and the meditation tapes I've been listening to, so huge thanks to you from me ! It has been a great help to me at a very difficult time indeed, you are streets ahead of the Albyn hospital. Thank-you very much for all your help again, it was great! J 2005 (48)
    Presenting problem – stress

    Treatment - audio tape for relaxation and active listening 2 sessions
     

    Vicki, I would like to tell you how much you helped me, from the first phone call I could sense you were a caring person and someone I could relate to. As you are now aware I am a private person and find it difficult to share my feelings, after our first meeting I realised I could trust you implicitly and felt at ease telling you how I felt. since then I began to look forward to our meetings and usually went home tired but in my heart knew that one day I was going to feel better than I had done for years. That happened and was able to do things I had not dreamt possible. I have recently returned from five weeks at the other side of the world, I achieved that only because of the help I received from you and the caring support of my husband and close friends. I now feel better than I have done for years and I cannot thank you enough for what you did to help me through what was the most awful part of my life. my husband and friends see me as a changed person with a different attitude to life since my meetings with you. thank you from the bottom of my heart. regards, C 2003
    Presenting problem – depression - feeling so low that life was not worth living, desperate for understanding, anxiety, fear of driving

    Treatment – Extended counselling including hypnotherapy and Mnemodynamic psychotherapy 6 sessions

     

  •  

    Last modified 19/06/2007