Cognitive Hypnotic Psychotherapy (CHP) is a powerful therapy method that combines ideas and techniques from many different therapies. This makes CHP a flexible and comprehensive approach to addressing mental health issues. Below, we look at the main therapies and approaches that make up Cognitive Hypnotic Psychotherapy.
Techniques included in CHP
Hypnosis
Hypnosis is a state of focused attention and heightened suggestibility. In CHP, it serves as a foundational tool for integrating different approaches to psychotherapy. This state enhances receptivity at both conscious and unconscious levels, facilitating the acceptance and implementation of therapeutic changes.
Hypnosis induction techniques in CHP utilizes a combination of:
- Mindfulness
- Information Overload
- Guided imagination
- Deep Relaxation
- Pacing and Leading
- Connecting with emotional experiences
- Metaphors
Additional Techniques include:
- Regression
- InnerChild
- Hypnodrama
- EET and
- many more
Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)
NLP involves the study of how language and neurological processes affect behaviour. CHP incorporates NLP techniques for to help clients reframe negative thoughts and behaviours, develop new patterns of thinking, and improve communication skills. This approach aids in breaking down complex problems into manageable components, developing strong rapport, collecting specific information and a lot more.
All techniques from the NLP Practitioner and Master Practitioner curriculum are included with the CHP Framework.
Metaphors
Metaphors are powerful tools in therapy that help clients understand and process their experiences in a symbolic way. In CHP, metaphors are used to facilitate insight and transformation by allowing clients to view their problems from a different perspective, often leading to profound shifts in understanding and behaviour.
Techniques include:
- Storytelling
- Analogies
- Symbolic imagery
- Therapeutic Metaphors
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
SFBT emphasizes solutions rather than problems. It helps clients identify their goals and the steps needed to achieve them. CHP uses the principles of SFBT to empower clients, encouraging them to focus on their strengths and resources to find practical solutions to their challenges.
Techniques include:
- Miracle Question
- Scaling Questions
- Exception Seeking
- Goal Setting
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
MI is a client-centered, directive method for enhancing intrinsic motivation to change. CHP integrates MI techniques such as open-ended questions, reflective listening, and affirmations to resolve ambivalence and empower clients to make positive changes.
Techniques include:
- Open-Ended Questions
- Reflective Listening
- Affirmations
- Summarizing
- Change Talk
Cognitive Therapy
Cognitive Therapy focuses on identifying and changing dysfunctional thinking patterns. CHP integrates cognitive techniques to help clients recognize and alter negative thought patterns, thereby improving their emotional responses and behaviours.
Techniques include:
- Cognitive Restructuring
- Thought Records
- Behavioural Experiments
Behavioural Therapy
Behavioural Therapy aims to modify harmful behaviours through conditioning techniques. In CHP, behavioural strategies are employed to reinforce positive behaviours and reduce negative ones, promoting healthier behaviour patterns.
Techniques include:
- Systematic desensitization
- Reinforcement (positive, negative, extinction)
- Behaviour chaining
- Behavioural Activation
Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT)
REBT helps clients identify irrational beliefs and replace them with rational ones. CHP incorporates REBT to challenge and change self-defeating thoughts and beliefs, leading to healthier emotional and behavioural outcomes.
Techniques include:
- ABC model (Activating event, Beliefs, Consequences)
- Disputing irrational beliefs
- Rational-emotive imagery
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
IFS posits that individuals have multiple sub-personalities or “parts” that can influence behaviour. CHP utilizes IFS to help clients understand and integrate these parts, fostering internal harmony and healing.
Techniques include:
- Parts work
- Self-leadership
- Unburdening
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT focuses on accepting difficult emotions and committing to values-driven actions. CHP integrates ACT principles to help clients embrace their feelings without avoidance and take meaningful actions aligned with their values.
Techniques include:
- Mindfulness exercises
- Values clarification
- Defusion techniques
- Committed action planning
Mindfulness
Mindfulness involves being present and fully engaged in the moment. In CHP, mindfulness techniques are used to help clients develop greater awareness of their thoughts and feelings, promoting emotional regulation and reducing stress.
Techniques include:
- Breath awareness
- Body scan
- Loving-kindness meditation
- Observing thoughts and emotions non-judgmentally
Transactional Analysis
Transactional Analysis examines social transactions to understand and improve communication. CHP applies Transactional Analysis to help clients recognize and modify unhelpful interaction patterns, enhancing their relationships and social functioning.
Techniques include:
- Ego states
- Transaction analysis
- Script analysis
Psychodynamic Approach
The Psychodynamic Approach explores unconscious processes and past experiences. CHP draws on psychodynamic concepts to help clients uncover and address unconscious conflicts that influence their current behaviour and emotions.
Techniques include:
- Free association
- Dream analysis
- Interpretation of unconscious conflicts
- Exploration of Past Experiences
Humanistic Approach and Person Centric Therapy
The Humanistic Approach emphasizes individual potential and self-actualization. Person-centered therapy emphasizes the client’s subjective experience and self-directed growth.
CHP incorporates humanistic principles to support clients in realizing their full potential and achieving personal growth. Person-centered principles guide the therapeutic process, empowering clients to explore their own solutions and insights.
Techniques include:
- Unconditional Positive Regard
- Empathy
- Authenticity
- Client-Centered Dialogue
Spiritual Healing
Spiritual Healing in CHP involves integrating spiritual concepts such as forgiveness, acceptance, surrender, purpose, and the inner advisor into therapeutic processes. This approach helps clients achieve a sense of peace and fulfillment by aligning their therapy with their spiritual beliefs and practices.
Conclusion
Cognitive Hypnotic Psychotherapy stands out as a holistic and integrative approach, drawing from a diverse array of therapeutic disciplines. CHP provides a versatile and effective framework for addressing a wide range of psychological issues. This integration allows therapists to tailor their interventions to the unique needs of each client, promoting comprehensive and enduring mental health outcomes.