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Pet Therapy and Clinical Hypnotherapy with Rebecca Jones M.A. Dip(PCH)
Pet-assisted therapy - how animals help patients combat mental illness.
Patients at the Priory’s Hospitals are benefiting from the company of a 'therapy dog' to help with their treatment for stress, anxiety, and depression.
Lara, a rescue dog from Battersea Dogs Home, is introduced into some therapy sessions by her owner Daniel Fryer, a senior qualified psychotherapist.
Where appropriate and where patients are keen, they are able to interact with the dog, and some choose to pat and stroke, or groom and hug, Lara as they participate in therapy. This helps provide comfort in moments of distress, and helps to rebuild self-esteem.
Daniel said: "Lara works as a great ice breaker in one-to-one and group therapy sessions. She lifts the spirits of patients on ward visits. Petting or stroking a dog does wonders for your blood pressure and stress levels."
Daniel believes the reason that Lara is such a success with his patients is because "they don't feel judged by a dog, who is able to display unconditional acceptance, and they feel more confident to confront their issues".
How can pet-assisted therapy help patients?
Pet-assisted activities encourage patients to have conversations with their therapist, as well as with their fellow patients. This can be helpful in promoting social interaction and breaking down barriers, emotionally and in a social context.
Animals can trigger the release of endorphins, a feel-good neurotransmitter which gives a calming effect and boosts the level of serotonin, a chemical linked with happiness and well-being.
By directing one's attention towards another living thing, a patient's focus is drawn away from his or her own difficulties and, for a while, they can distance themselves from their distress and then begin talking about their own issues and consider ways forward.
In this way, pet-assisted therapy enables a patient to work with a professional towards attaining clinical goals.
Universities worldwide are turning to therapy dogs to relieve their students' pre-exam nerves and first-term homesickness.
And studies have found that just the presence of a dog can help lower levels of stress and anxiety. A recent Dogs Trust survey found that 95% of dog owners in Britain believe that interacting with their dog made them happier, with 89% saying they talk to their dog when no one else is around1.
Some experts say the presence of an animal in a hospital environment helps patients feel more at home.
Living Well with Dementia: Pet Therapy
It is scientifically proven that interaction with animals can bring manifold benefits for those living with dementia. While it might feel good to be giving a pet a good scratch behind the ear, it’s also doing physical good. Endorphin levels, the ‘feel-good’ hormones your brain releases, rise; the release of serotonin, nicknamed the ‘happy chemical’, also increases, lessening depression and anxiety; and cortisol, a hormone correlated with stress, and blood pressure both decrease.
Further, animal therapy brings significant psychological advantages for those with dementia symptoms: emotional connection, flowing of affection, relief of boredom, renewal of energy – the list goes on and on. It comes down to a very simple truth: pets just make us feel happier.
Pet Therapy for People Living with Dementia
Ownership therapy
People in the early stages of dementia – those still living at home with a family member – can benefit as they always have from the love of the family pet. The responsibility (which should be overseen by a caregiver, of course) of taking care of the animal – walking, feeding, grooming and so on – offsets the sense of helplessness too often found in people with dementia symptoms.
Families can go a step further when it comes to ownership therapy: specially trained dementia assistance dogs, in addition to their value simply as loveable pets, can actually help with the tasks of caring for your loved ones with dementia. They can wake Mum and remind her when it’s time to eat or take medications. If Dad likes to go for a walk in the neighbourhood but it’s possible he’ll lose his bearings, at the simple command ‘Home’, the therapy dog will bring him back safely.
Visitation therapy
But of course, there comes a time when it is no longer safe for a person living with dementia symptoms to remain at home. When private pet ownership is no longer possible and someone with dementia has moved into a care home, they can still reap the benefits of animal companions through visitation therapy.
As carers, we understand the benefits of visitation therapy for our residents. You can bring Mollie the dog to visit Dad in his care home… it’s hard to know who will appreciate this more!
Our care homes have hosted all kinds of animals in the past, before COVID-19 lockdown, including dogs, rabbits, owls and reptiles. Riverdale Care Home, for example, previously brought in Pets as Therapy (PAT) dogs on a regular basis.
Animal therapy, also called pet therapy or animal assisted therapy, refers to various services using animals to help people with specific physical or mental health conditions.
Animals may be able to provide comfort, alert others if someone is in danger, or even perform direct actions to help a person’s condition when they are in need. It is a type of complementary or alternative therapy. It should enhance but not replace other treatments.
On the whole, the goal of animal assisted therapy is to alleviate or help people cope with some symptoms of various conditions where possible.
The exact type of animal therapy can vary greatly depending on what condition the person has, the type of animal, and what kind of therapy they provide.
Animal therapy builds on a concept called the human-animal bond, which describes people’s desire to interact with and relate to animals. For many people, by interacting with a friendly animal, they can form a bond with them. This bond can produce a calming state in the person.
This bond itself may help the person in several ways, such as:
reducing boredom
increasing movement and activity through walks and play
providing companionship and decreasing loneliness
increasing social interactions
improving mood and general well-being
The positive interactions with an animal may lead to benefits in the mind and body, such as reduced stress and an overall more balanced mental and emotional state.
Animal therapy partially uses this bond in a directed way to achieve the goals of the therapy.
How does it work?
Animal therapy can have several goals, and these will determine how it works. The type of therapy and target for this therapy may change depending on the condition and the type of aid that a person needs. Some examples include:
providing comfort and reducing levels of pain
improving movement or motor skills
developing social or behavioural skills
increasing motivation toward activities such as exercise or interacting with others
The process of animal therapy itself typically involves the animal’s handler, who is often the owner, bringing the animal to each session. The handler will work under a doctor’s guidance to help the person achieve the goals of their therapy.
A number of organisations train handlers and connect them to healthcare providers. Many handlers work as volunteers. Before getting approval for therapy use, both the animal and the handler will have to go through various certifications with these groups and organizations.
The handler must generally pass an instructional course on how to interact with people and perform the types of therapies that they may provide.
The animal also has to go through certain checks. These will include checking immunization records and performing physical exams to ensure that the animal is generally healthy and free of disease. They will also have to undergo temperament testing to make sure that they behave properly with both the handler and other people.
Additionally, the pair will go through obedience training. This rigorous testing and certification ensures the safety and professionalism of everyone involved and helps give the person access to the best therapy sessions possible.
It is important to note that a therapy dog is not the same as a service dog and does not have all of the same rights. For example, a therapy dog cannot accompany a handler into a business establishment.
The Benefits of Pet Therapy – a different way of looking at it!
How does one put feelings into words? Describe a frame of mind, especially as it is changing? Tell someone else how and why pet therapy makes you feel …better?
We’ll try to list and explain the benefits of pet therapy – with single words rather than get caught up in the tangle of sentences and clauses. Hopefully, these words capture the magic that can happen.
Better….Lighter.
Accepted just because you exist.
Calmer than a few minutes ago, happier than before the dog arrived.
The presence of a dog, just the very presence can give you the
Encouragement to work harder Motivation to get up and move A reason to talk to someone Hope that things will get better
There is no judgment coming from that dog
No expectations except maybe for a scratch and a treat. Because that dog needs you for who you are, you can be just that – who you are.
When the dog is with you, you can read more confidently
Walk farther Tell him your secrets – because he promises not to tell anyone, ever.
The good oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin increase in your body while the bad cortisol decreases – so you feel better even without the emotional aspects of being with the pet.
You may get distracted by the antics of the pet, make contact with a warm, living breathing being with lots of textures to reach out and touch, brush, cuddle. You might just end up playing a little and smiling a lot. And that dog becomes your companion, your friend, and your reason to smile.
Pet therapy touches humans psychologically, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. These pets provide healing for any and every part of you that is hurting.
What is pet therapy?
Pet therapy is a guided interaction between a person and a trained animal. It also involves the animal’s handler. The purpose of pet therapy is to help someone recover from or cope with a health problem or mental disorder.
Dogs and cats are most commonly used in pet therapy. However, fish, guinea pigs, horses, and other animals that meet screening criteria can also be used. The type of animal chosen depends on the therapeutic goals of a person’s treatment plan.
Pet therapy is also referred to as animal-assisted therapy (AAT). AAT is sometimes confused with animal-assisted activities (AAA). AAT is a formal, structured set of sessions that helps people reach specific goals in their treatment. AAA involves more casual meetings in which an animal and its handler interact with one or more people for comfort or recreation.
What are the benefits of pet therapy?
Pet therapy builds on the pre-existing human-animal bond. Interacting with a friendly pet can help many physical and mental issues. It can help reduce blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health. It can also release endorphins that produce a calming effect. This can help alleviate pain, reduce stress, and improve your overall psychological state.
Pet therapy can be used in many different ways. Defined objectives are an important part of therapy, and your progress will be recorded and tracked at structured sessions.
The goals of a pet therapy program can include:
improving motor skills and joint movement
improving assisted or independent movement
increasing self-esteem
increasing verbal communication
developing social skills
increasing willingness to join in activities
improving interactions with others
motivating willingness to exercise
Other benefits of pet therapy include:
making you happier, lessening depression, and improving your outlook on life
decreasing loneliness and isolation by giving you a companion
reducing boredom
reducing anxiety because of its calming effects
helping children learn empathic and nurturing skills
improving the relationship between you and your healthcare provider
Who should consider pet therapy?
Pet therapy can be useful for:
people undergoing chemotherapy
residents in long-term care facilities
people hospitalized with chronic heart failure
veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder
children having physical or dental procedures
stroke victims and people undergoing physical therapy to regain motor skills
people with mental health disorders
During a medical procedure, people may have less anxiety if a pet is present. In rehabilitation, people may be more motivated to recover and practice their therapy when working with a pet. People who have sensory disabilities can sometimes communicate more easily with an animal. This encourages more interaction with healthcare providers and other people.
What are the risks of pet therapy?
Some of the biggest risks of pet therapy involve safety and sanitation. People who are allergic to animal dander may have reactions during pet therapy. Animals in pet therapy programs are typically screened for behaviour and health. An animal’s owner and handler must also undergo training and an evaluation to help ensure a positive experience.
While uncommon, human injury can occur when unsuitable animals are used. Animals may also suffer injury or abuse when handled inappropriately. In some cases, people may become possessive of the animals helping them and be reluctant to give them up after a session. This can result in low self-esteem and depression.
How is pet therapy administered?
Your doctor or therapist managing your treatment will administer pet therapy. A trained handler, often the pet’s owner, will take the animal to every meeting and work under your doctor or therapist’s direction to help you reach your goals. In most cases, the handlers work as volunteers. Discussion of proper pet handling is needed to ensure the safety of both the person receiving treatment and the pet.
The first step in pet therapy is the selection of a suitable animal. Many groups and organizations train and connect volunteer owners and pets with healthcare providers.
Before an animal and its handler can participate in pet therapy, the team has to fulfil certain requirements. This process typically includes:
a physical examination of the animal to confirm that it’s immunized and free of diseases
an obedience training course to ensure proper animal control
an instructional course to teach the trainer about interaction with other people
an evaluation of the animal’s temperament and behaviour with the handler
a certification from the sponsoring organization
Once a team of an animal and a handler is approved, animals are assigned for therapy based on a specific person’s needs. The animal’s type, breed, size, age, and natural behaviour will determine where it will be most helpful.
The success of pet therapy depends on establishing realistic goals and expectations and meeting those goals. You and your doctor or therapist will establish these goals at the beginning of your treatment. You’ll also discuss how to reach those goals and how long it will take.
Your doctor or therapist will monitor your progress and help you stay on track to meet your goals. If your progress is slower or faster than expected, they may alter your treatment plan.
Pet therapy can help both children and adults with a variety of physical and mental issues. It can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and increase positivity and socialization. Talk to your doctor about more information on pet therapy and whether it’s suitable for you.
Pets As Therapy (PAT) is a national charity that trains, qualifies, and registers pets to work as therapy animals. This enhances the health and wellbeing of thousands of people in communities across the UK.
PAT strives to ensure that everyone, no matter their circumstances, has access to the companionship of an animal.
Members and their temperament-assessed pets visit establishments such as care homes, hospitals, hospices, schools and prisons, and bring smiles to many faces. People of all ages get the chance to chat to someone — and stroke and cuddle a friendly dog or cat.
Rebecca Jones M.A. Dip (PCH) is currently working with her Cocker Spaniel puppy, Florrie, to become a Therapy Dog in her Harley Street practice. Together they will work, continuing to help clients, young and old, at home and overseas, to get well, to keep well, and to build better lives.
Rebecca Jones M.A. DipPCH | Consultant | Hypnotherapist founded her international company 'Paris St. Cloud' when living between Cairo and Paris. After expanding and relocating her business to the sunny beaches of St. Malo in France, Rebecca's business boasted international clients from all around the world, and as far a field as Japan, China, the USA, & Asia.
Rebecca was then contacted by Paul McKenna's staff to go and be part of his team! So off she went! During this time Rebecca would commute between London and Paris to join Paul McKenna and his team in London, running seminars and events for VIPs and clients from all around the world.
Initially from England, Rebecca then decided to move back to the UK to set up Harley Street Therapy Clinic in London. She now also has a clinic on Fifth Avenue, Manhattan, NYC, USA, and a clinic on Deansgate in Manchester, UK.
She has also recently founded the Long Covid Therapy Institute in London, UK, treating Long Covid sufferers and patients, and running professional training courses, training therapists and medical professionals on the treatment of Long Covid.
Following her flagship research and clinical trials worldwide at the forefront of and into the treatment of Long Covid she now trains other healthcare professionals using her uniquely designed therapeutic techniques, and her brand new training programme.
Find out more here:
www.paris-st-cloud.com
info@paris-st-cloud.com
rebecca@theempirestateofmind.com
rebecca@harleystreettherapyclinic.com
rebecca@fifthavenuetherapyclinic.com
rebecca@longcovidtherapyinstitute.com
Thank you.
Rebecca Jones
Art Therapy Interventions & Clinical Hypnotherapy
Recently I worked with and completed a project with world renowned Art Therapist Pamela Hayes. Based in Los Angeles, California, like me Pamela is also a trained Hypnotherapist and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT).
With her background in Hypnotherapy I was eager to work together and complete this project in Art Therapy. I wanted to see how together we could incorporate and marry these two therapeutic disciplines together, without taking away any of the strengths of either therapy, whilst at the same time creating a Superpower technique that incorporates the very best of both.
Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art media as its primary mode of expression and communication. Within this context, art is not used as diagnostic tool but as a medium to address emotional issues which may be confusing and distressing.
Art therapists work with children, young people, adults and the elderly. Clients may have a wide range of difficulties, disabilities or diagnoses. These include emotional, behavioural or mental health problems, learning or physical disabilities, life-limiting conditions, neurological conditions and physical illnesses.
Art therapy is a technique rooted in the idea that creative expression can foster healing and mental well-being.
People have been relying on the arts for communication, self-expression, and healing for thousands of years. But art therapy didn't start to become a formal program until the 1940s.
Different people will have different experiences of arts and creative therapies, but in general they aim to:
*allow you to communicate thoughts and feelings that you find difficult to put into words
*help you make sense of things and understand yourself better
*give you a safe time and place with someone who won't judge you
*help you find new ways to look at problems or difficult situations
*help you to talk about complicated feelings or difficult experiences
*give you a chance to connect with other people.
For thousands of years, cultures and religions around the world have incorporated the use of carved idols and charms, as well as sacred paintings and symbols, in the healing process. The establishment of art therapy as a unique and publicly accepted therapeutic approach only took place recently, in the mid-20th century. The emergence of art therapy as a profession arose independently and simultaneously in the United States and Europe.
The term “art therapy” was coined in 1942 by British artist Adrian Hill, who discovered the healthful benefits of painting and drawing while recovering from tuberculosis.
Margaret Naumburg, Hanna Kwaitkowska, Florence Cane, Edith Kramer, and Elinor Ulman were five influential writers of the 1940s who made significant contributions towards the development of art therapy as a recognised field.
Margaret Naumberg (May 14, 1890 – February 26, 1983) was an American psychologist, educator, artist, author and among the first major theoreticians of art therapy. Prior to working in art therapy, she founded the Walden School of New York City.
Hanna Kwaitkowska was a Polish ceramics sculptress, art therapist, and child and family psychiatrist. She was the first person to document and conduct research in family art therapy practices.
Florence Cane (September 28, 1882 – 1952) was a notable American art educator whose ideas influenced the field of art therapy.
Edith Kramer (1916–2014) was an Austrian social realist painter, a follower of psychoanalytic theory and an art therapy pioneer.
Elinor Ulman taught in the Art Therapy Program from 1971 to 1988 and was an honorary life member of the American Art Therapy Association. She was founder, editor and publisher of The Bulletin of Art Therapy (now The American Journal of Art Therapy).
Art therapy involves the use of creative techniques such as drawing, painting, collage, colouring, or sculpting to help people express themselves artistically and examine the psychological and emotional undertones in their art. Clients can "decode" the nonverbal messages, symbols, and metaphors often found in these art forms, which should lead to a better understanding of their feelings and behaviour so they can move on to resolve deeper issues.
Clinical Hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis for the treatment and alleviation of a variety of physical and psychological symptoms. Hypnosis allows the subject to experience deep levels of relaxation and altered states. And so helps to reduce levels of stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, eating disorders, addiction, chronic pain, self-harm and suicidal tendencies.
Combining the two therapies is an exciting new project that I am working on, using Art Therapy Interventions within Clinical Hypnotherapy sessions.
Working with Pamela, what soon became apparent was that both therapies; art therapy and clinical hypnotherapy, have intricate and delicate nuances and niches within them, separate to the other. And yet these differences lend themselves to spark and completely enhance the other.
For example, very often at the start of a hypnotherapy session the client is taken to a safe place using hypnosis. They are guided by the Hypnotherapist, under hypnosis, to their safe place. And then the client can return to this safe place at any moment during the session when they may feel the need to feel more secure, protected, and safe.
And in Art Therapy the client is asked to draw their safe place.
A perfect way to start a session using the best of both therapies is as follows;
The client draws a safe Place
Guided visualisation of the Safe Place, based on the client’s drawing
With the help of the hypnotherapist the client visits their Safe Place during Hypnosis
The client can then use all of these three techniques themselves, after the session, at home.
Many of the techniques can only be used with the help of and under the guidance of a well-qualified and experienced art therapist and / or Clinical Hypnotherapist.
However, some of the techniques used in therapy sessions can be used safely and simply by the client once they return home.
The Art Therapy & Clinical Hypnotherapy project is ongoing and I will be excited to share more with you at a later date...
In the meantime get your crayons, paints, and colouring pencils at the ready!!
Have a go at drawing:
Your safe place
Your happy place
Your adventurous place
Thank you,
Rebecca Jones (M.A. Dip PCH)
Clinical Hypnotherapist | Consultant | Author
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Top Tips To Beat Depression & Anxiety What is depression? Depression is classified as a mood disorder. Depression is much more than feeling unhappy, sad or down for a couple of days. Many people experience periods of feeling down. However, when you are depressed you feel constantly sad for weeks or months, rather than just a couple of days. Depression is a low mood that can last for a long time, even years, and affects your everyday life. In its mildest form, depression can mean being in low spirits. It does not stop you leading your normal life but makes everything so much harder to do. Life can seem less worthwhile. At its most severe, depression can be life-threatening because it can make you feel suicidal. A major difficulty and obstacle for people suffering from depression is the fact that some people think that depression is trivial and not a genuine health condition. Therefore, it is important to remember that depression is not a sign of weakness and not imaginary or made up. It is real. The good news is that with the right treatment and support, most people with depression can make a full recovery. Depression can affect all aspects of our lives including relationships, work and careers, family, leisure time, home life, and more. It can also affect pre-existing health conditions. Conditions that can get worse due to depression include: arthritis, asthma, cardio vascular disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, and so on. However, feeling sad at times is a normal part of life. Upsetting events happen to everyone. But, if you’re feeling down or hopeless on a regular basis, you could be suffering with depression. Depression is considered a serious medical condition that can get worse without proper treatment. Depression & Anxiety: Many people with depression also have symptoms of anxiety. Please see my related articles on Anxiety and PTSD. There can also be physical symptoms too, such as feeling constantly tired, sleeping badly, having no appetite or sex drive, and various aches and pains. There are also some specific types of depression: Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) – depression that occurs at a particular time of year, or during a particular season, e.g. when it is dark in Winter. Prenatal depression – depression that occurs during pregnancy. This is sometimes also called antenatal depression. Postnatal depression (PND) – depression that occurs in the weeks and months after becoming a parent. Postnatal depression is usually diagnosed in women, but it can also affect men. And the symptoms of depression can be experienced differently among men, women, and children. What causes depression? Sometimes there is a trigger for depression. Life-changing events, such as bereavement, losing your job or giving birth, can bring it on. People with a family history of depression are more likely to experience it themselves. But you can also become depressed for no obvious reason. Treating depression: Treatment for depression can involve a combination of lifestyle changes, therapies, and medicine. Your recommended treatment will be based on whether you have mild, moderate or severe depression. Clinical Hypnotherapy is a powerful form of therapy which is used for treating depression with extremely successful results. It allows clients to fully overcome their depression and anxiety, and make a full and rapid recovery enabling them to live happy, positive, and fulfilled lives once more. Beating depression; As well as Clinical Hypnotherapy, many people with depression also benefit by making lifestyle changes, such as getting more exercise, cutting down on alcohol, giving up smoking / drugs, and eating healthily. Joining a support group or attending group therapy sessions can also be very worthwhile. They can help you gain a better understanding about what causes you to feel depressed. Sharing your experiences with others in a similar situation to you can be very supportive. The importance of social connections and support can never be underestimated. Lifestyle changes can also be an effective way of becoming more positive in your daily activities. Here are some lifestyle changes that you can make today to beat depression and anxiety: 1. Exercise: Even a half-hour daily walk can make a big difference. But for maximum results, aim for 30 - 60 minutes of aerobic activity on most days. 2. Social support: Strong social networks reduce isolation. Isolation is a key risk factor which can cause depression. Keep in regular contact with friends and family, join an evening class, take up a new hobby, or volunteering which is a great way to get social support and help others too! 3. Nutrition: Eat well. Eat small, well-balanced meals throughout the day. Keep your energy up and minimise the sugar crash and mood swings. 4. Sleep: Sleep has an extreme and very strong effect on mood. Sleep deprivation can cause and increase irritability, moodiness, sadness, and fatigue. Get enough sleep each night, (7 to 9 hours is preferable). 5. Reduce Stress: Make changes in your life to reduce stress. Too much stress can cause and increase depression. Spend some time to look at the aspects of your life that cause you stress, e.g. work overload, poor relationships, finances, poor health, etc, and then find solutions to reduce their impact. A coach or mentor can help you with this. 6. Therapeutic Techniques: Some types of therapy, such as Clinical Hypnotherapy, also teach you practical techniques on how to reframe negative thinking and employ behavioural techniques to beat depression. Therapy can also help you work through the root cause of your depression, helping you understand why you feel a certain way, what your triggers are for depression, and what you can do to stay healthy. Finding the right therapist for you: A key factor to consider when choosing a hypnotherapist or coach is your connection with this person. The right therapist will be caring and a supportive partner in your treatment and recovery. How to choose a therapist: Word of mouth is one of the best ways to find a good therapist. Your friends and family may have some good ideas, and always ask to see reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Your G.P. doctor may also be able to provide an initial referral. Depression medication may be the most advertised treatment for depression, but that does not mean it is the most effective. Depression is not just about a chemical imbalance in the brain. Although the 'Happy Chemicals' inside our brains can and should always be used and improved! This can be done using Clinical Hypnotherapy, without medication. (see my previous article on Happy Chemicals). Serotonin, Endorphins, Dopamine and Oxytocin are the 4 main Happy Chemicals in our brain that we can learn to develop, increase and use throughout our daily lives to enhance and improve our mental well-being. Learn how to do this using Clinical Hypnotherapy! Medication may help relieve some of the symptoms of moderate and severe depression, but it does not cure the underlying problem, and therefore it is not a long-term solution. Antidepressant medications also come with side effects, and withdrawal can be very difficult. Always seek the help and advice of your G.P. if you are feeling unwell. If you are wanting a safe and successful treatment for beating depression and anxiety, then Clinical Hypnotherapy may be something that you choose... And please remember that help and support is always available for you. Please do not suffer in silence... Thank you, Rebecca Jones
The Happy Chemicals Inside Your Brain, & How to Find them!
Many of us are fortunate in that we have always been naturally happy and positive. However, many people are not. So why is it that some people are always a glass half full person, when others around them are not? Instead, why are some people always a glass half empty person, negative, and sad? When others always seem to be so very happy with their lot in life? And on a more serious level, why are some people suicidal, or suffer from anxiety, PTSD, trauma, or depression?
Clinical Hypnotherapy allows us to look at this in greater detail and to make the necessary changes if we want to be happier in life.
Neuroscience and neurochemistry show us how we can train our brain, learn how to reprogramme our brains easily, and to train our brains to make us happier, and to be happier every day, day in day out.
We can do this on a scientific level, using biochemistry, our brain chemistry, with our very own chemistry set which already exists inside our heads! We don’t need anything outside of us to do this. We can simply tap into the inside of our own heads to do it.
Read on to find out more...
Neuroscience is the scientific study of the nervous system.
Neurochemistry is the study of chemicals that control and influence the physiology of the nervous system.
We have 2 brain systems; the limbic system, and the cortex;
The two brain systems;
The limbic system is a network of structures located below the cerebral cortex. It is associated with motivation, emotion, learning and memory. The limbic system is composed of 4 main parts; the hypothalamus, the amygdala, the thalamus, and the hippocampus. Stimulation of the limbic system can also trigger emotional behaviour such as aggression.
The cortex is the outer layer of the neural tissue of the cerebrum of the brain. The cerebral cortex is made of up highly packed neurons and is responsible for higher thought processes, including thinking, perceiving, sensation, memory, speech and decision-making. It is the most important part of the brain because it is what makes us human.
Your brain releases ‘Happy Chemicals’ which reward you with good feelings when you do something which your brain recognises or associates an action as something good for your survival.
There are 4 main ‘Happy Chemicals’. These are;
Endorphins; The pain-masking chemical linked to pain perception. Endorphins are Opioid Neuropeptides and peptide hormones. There are at least 20 types of endorphins in the body. Such neurotransmitters transmit electrical signals across synapses within the nervous system. They are linked to euphoria and determination. It promotes well-being and evolved for our survival. Laughing, crying, exercising (the runner’s high), and stretching all release this chemical. As does eating chilli peppers, chocolate, having a massage, and having sex. Endorphins are similar to opiate drugs such as morphine, but are in fact much stronger. The hypnothalamus requests the release of these hormones which have an analgesic effect in the body. Endorphins relieve pain, stress, and boost happiness.
Dopamine; The goal-achieving chemical. A neurotransmitter. Dopamine releases energy to help us achieve what we want in life. It is based on motivation. It is what motivates us. It is not only for the high-achievers in the world though. We all have it!! It is linked to the anticipation of happiness, rather than the actual feeling of happiness per se. It is linked to reward-motivated behaviour. Thus it is heavily linked to addictions. The dopamine released during a kiss has the same effect on the brain as taking heroin or cocaine. Moreover, Parkinson’s disease is one illness associated with a deficit in dopamine.
Serotonin; The Leadership chemical. A neurotransmitter. Serotonin is released when you feel safe and have a good level of self-respect. Ways to increase your levels of serotonin include enjoying being in the moment and where you are, as well as taking pride in your achievements and successes, no matter how big or small they are. Moreover, by learning to surrender control (as we can actually control very little in our lives – Life is unpredictable), and learning to react and respond appropriately to life’s events. Low levels of serotonin can lead to depression and anxiety, amongst other symptoms. Levels of serotonin can be increased by a healthy diet (including eggs, cheese, salmon, nuts & seeds), good sleep, Vitamin D and plenty of sunshine.
Oxytocin; The chemical of Love. It is responsible for feelings of affection and attachment. It is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland. It is released when people snuggle up or bond socially, as well as being released during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is associated with trust and belonging. If your trust has been betrayed, you will hold back which can leave you feeling like you don’t belong. One can build up more trust by being trustworthy oneself, having a pet and building rapport and connection, building trust with strangers, or even having a massage. These all stimulate the release of oxytocin.
However, oxytocin can also strengthen negative, painful or stressful social memories. This is one reason why childhood trauma and painful memories can live long into the future, well after the event itself.
By being more aware of our ‘Happy Chemicals’, and how to access them, we are able to increase and elevate them at will, and on demand, as and when we need them.
Using Clinical Hypnotherapy, we can reprogramme our unconscious minds to trigger and release these good feelings and chemicals naturally, thus avoiding the need to rely on external triggers such as drugs, medication, or other harmful substances and addictions in order to feel good and happy.
Clinical Hypnotherapy allows us to tap into our brains, and to discover and learn how to use these ‘happy chemicals’ more easily and readily in our everyday lives...
The theme this year is suicide prevention. I have worked with many clients who have experienced & suffered from suicidal thoughts. Help and support is available.
Check out the resources below including WAIT and Tea & Talk.
Harley Street Therapy Clinic | Harley Street | London W1
Mansion House | Queen Vic St. | London EC4
Milton Hall | Deansgate | Manchester M3
Fifth Ave Therapy Clinic | 347 Fifth Avenue | New York City | USA
Please read my latest 5* Reviews and Testimonials here;
Follow the link below;
Paris | London | Manchester | New York
Harley Street Therapy Clinic | Harley Street | London W1
Mansion House | Queen Vic St. | London EC4
Milton Hall | Deansgate | Manchester M3
Fifth Ave Therapy Clinic | 347 Fifth Avenue | New York City | USA
Please read my latest 5* Reviews and Testimonials here;
Follow the link below;
Paris | London | Manchester | New York
Harley Street Therapy Clinic | Harley Street | London W1
Mansion House | Queen Vic St. | London EC4
Milton Hall | Deansgate | Manchester M3
Fifth Ave Therapy Clinic | 347 Fifth Avenue | New York City | USA
Harley Street London & Deansgate Manchester UK | Hypnotherapy Therapy | Paul McKenna Dr. Richard Bandler Rebecca Jones | Paris London Manchester New York | Worldwide Clinical Hypnotherapy | International Hypnosis | Harley Street Therapy Clinic London & Deansgate Manchester UK | Addiction Trauma Anxiety | Eating Disorders Acute Anxiety Depression OCD Anorexia Bulimia Binge Eating Disorders Trauma PTSD Addiction Social Anxiety Disorders Panic Attacks Stress Fear Phobia Mental Health Drugs Alcohol Cocaine Addiction | 2019 | 2020 | Fifth Avenue Therapy Clinic | Manhattan | New York | USA | Mansion House | The City | London | Worldwide
Harley Street Therapy Clinic | Harley Street | London W1
Mansion House | Queen Vic St. | London EC4
Milton Hall | Deansgate | Manchester M3
Fifth Ave Therapy Clinic | 347 Fifth Avenue | New York City | USA
Work in The City? No time for yourself? Check out the 5* Reviews;
Living in Manchester? Have your therapy with me in the heart of the city centre on Deansgate.
Working in the City of London? Instead of seeing me on Harley Street you can choose to have your therapy with me at Mansion House, right next door to Bloomberg, & in between Bank & St. Paul's.
I work with high-profile clients, both in New York, in Manchester, in London, & around the world.
Whoever you are, and whichever continent you live in, we are all only human, and we will all suffer from stress and strain at some point in our lives - some more than others.
Look after your mind and your mental health - It's the only one you will get!!
Please read my latest 5* Reviews and Testimonials here;
Follow the link below;
Paris | London | Manchester | New York
Work in The City? No time for yourself? Have your therapy with me at Mansion House, right next door to Bloomberg, & in between Bank & St. Paul's.
Harley Street Therapy Clinic | Harley Street | London W1
Mansion House | Queen Vic St. | London EC4
Milton Hall | Deansgate | Manchester M3
Fifth Ave Therapy Clinic | 347 Fifth Avenue | New York City | USA
I work with high-profile clients, both in New York, in London, & around the world.
Whoever you are, and whichever continent you live in, we are all only human, and we will all suffer from stress and strain at some point in our lives - some more than others.
Look after your mind and your mental health - It's the only one you will get!!
Please read my latest 5* Reviews and Testimonials here;
Follow the link below;
Paris | London | Manchester | New York
I work with high-profile clients, both in New York, in London, & around the world.
Whoever you are, and whichever continent you live in, we are all only human, and we will all suffer from stress and strain at some point in our lives - some more than others.
Look after your mind and your mental health - It's the only one you will get!!
Please read my latest 5* Reviews and Testimonials here;
Follow the link below;
Paris | London | Manchester | New York
Harley Street Therapy Clinic | Harley Street | London W1
Mansion House | Queen Vic St. | London EC4
Milton Hall | Deansgate | Manchester M3
Fifth Ave Therapy Clinic | 347 Fifth Avenue | New York City | USA
I work with high-profile clients, both in New York, in London, & around the world.
Whoever you are, and whichever continent you live in, we are all only human, and we will all suffer from stress and strain at some point in our lives - some more than others.
Look after your mind and your mental health - It's the only one you will get!!
Please read my latest 5* Reviews and Testimonials here;
Follow the link below;
Paris | London | New York
I work with high-profile clients, both in New York, in London, & around the world.
Whoever you are, and whichever continent you live in, we are all only human, and we will all suffer from stress and strain at some point in our lives - some more than others.
Look after your mind and your mental health - It's the only one you will get!!
Please read my latest 5* Reviews and Testimonials here;
Follow the link below;
Paris | London | New York
I work with high-profile clients, both in New York, in London, & around the world.
Whoever you are, and whichever continent you live in, we are all only human, and we will all suffer from stress and strain at some point in our lives - some more than others.
Look after your mind and your mental health - It's the only one you will get!!
Please read my latest 5* Reviews and Testimonials here;
Follow the link below;
Paris | London | New York
Addiction | Trauma | Anxiety | Specialist
Depression | PTSD | OCD | Drug & Alcohol Addiction | Trauma | Stress | Insomnia | Anxiety | Panic Attacks | Social Phobias | Eating disorders | Fears & Phobias | Addiction | Trauma | Anxiety | Social Anxiety Disorder |
If you feel you need urgent assistance please don't hesitate to get in touch.
I am here to help.
Ring; 07487524996
Email; info@paris-st-cloud.com
Please be assured that all my clients are treated with the utmost respect and discretion.
There is discreet access to my clinic and rooms.
Upon arrival you will be welcomed into the main hallway, and greeted by our reception staff. You will then be directed to the waiting room, where refreshments are available.
If preferred, I will personally come and meet you in the foyer to bring you to my rooms.
Hotel and chauffeur services are also available to ensure your appointment day runs with complete ease.
Please ask for more information when booking your appointment.
