CBT involves identifying styles of thinking contributing to emotional difficulties and unhelpful behaviour patterns. The aim of using CBT is to assist a client to identify, challenge and then alter unhelpful styles of thinking and/or behaving and to develop specific self-help strategies to help address these problems. CBT can be particularly useful in treating depression and anxiety.

IPT is based on the understanding that a person can be affected by events in life and in particular, the nature of interpersonal relationships can negatively impact on mood and well-being and vice versa. This approach is focused on solving personal problems and can be effective in treating mild to moderate depression.

Mindfulness refers to bringing attention to one’s thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations in the present moment with acceptance and non-judgement by simply allowing thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations to be and to pass by. Mindfulness fosters acceptance and self-compassion. By developing mindful awareness, habitual reactions to stressful situations, difficult thoughts, images or unpleasant feelings can be altered for the better.

EMDR is an evidence-based approach which was developed to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and a range of trauma-related psychological conditions. EMDR helps in a reduction or elimination of disturbing emotions, associated symptoms, and presenting problems associated with the memories of traumatic events whether they be experienced recently or in years past.

Hypnosis is a useful adjunct in the treatment of many conditions albeit not for all conditions or issues. Hypnosis can have benefits with regard to managing symptoms, increasing motivation, in changing beliefs about self and reinforcing outcomes. Hypnosis is a process by which individuals can access deeper levels of consciousness. Hypnosis can be particularly useful in treating: anxiety, anxiety associated with examinations or interviews, panic attacks, stress, phobias, pain management, obesity and weight management, smoking cessation. Hypnosis can also be useful in enhancing performance such as in sporting performance, performing arts, public speaking or in improving low self-confidence and self-esteem. Hypnosis is not undertaken in the initial consultation as a history needs to be undertaken and an assessment made regarding the appropriateness of hypnosis in the particular instance.

Visualisation techniques can be useful in motivating clients to pursue their goals or reduce negative emotions associated with former attachments. ‘Cutting the Ties that Bind’ is a visualisation/meditation type process facilitated within therapy sessions. This process is particularly empowering for those wishing to gain emotional release from past relationships and negative attachments. In this way, clients can be assisted to let go of the past and move on in their lives.