The Keys to Successful Therapy
In the extensive research about what makes therapy work, two factors stand out as being really important. The first is who you choose as a therapist and the second is your motivation to change. You can read about each of these below.
Who you chose as a therapist
It has long been recognised that some therapists consistently achieve better outcomes than others. In recent years, there has been a lot of research into the qualities and activities of highly effective therapists, and this research suggests that certain therapist characteristics are key to successful treatment.
Effective therapists show you warmth, acceptance and empathy. They help you to feel safe and understood and are able to build an effective working relationship quickly. They have the knowledge, skills and fluency to provide you with a clear explanation of how your difficulties have occurred and they do this in a way that makes it clear that there are things you can do to get better. Effective therapists build self-belief and confidence in you and inspire your belief that successful change is possible. Clients trust effective therapists, both in the sense of trusting their knowledge, experience and abilities, and trusting them to safely hold difficult material or emotions. Effective therapists work collaboratively with you to set achievable goals, monitor progress and flexibly adjust their approach to your specific needs as a unique individual. The most effective therapists also show high levels of self-awareness, are up-to-date with the latest developments in their field and are committed to on-going self-improvement and training. (If you are interested in the details, I have written a much more in-depth article on what makes an effective therapist here).
Interestingly, your belief that hypnosis will work is not required. Many clients that are new to hypnotherapy will have some degree of scepticism to begin with and yet they can make excellent progress. What matters is the effectiveness of your therapist and your motivation to change.
Your Motivation to Change
Sometimes people think that hypnotherapy is a passive process – something that is done to you – but this is absolutely not the case. Effective hypnotherapy is an active collaboration between us and it works best when you are motivated, committed and ready to change. It doesn’t matter whether your motivation comes from a negative place (for example, being in pain, distress, lost or stuck) or from a positive place (for example, wanting to improve, grow or be your best). What does matter is that it is your motivation, that you want to make the change for yourself. But, of course, no one is ever 100% motivated to change. Some internal conflict, resistance or reluctance to change is completely normal. My role is to use my expertise and experience to help you realise that the power to make change is within you and then support and guide you on your journey from where you are now to where you want to be.
If you have any questions, or if you would like to book an initial consultation, please get in touch and we can discuss how I can help you.
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Mark Witter
Mark Witter MA DHP PhD
A highly qualified and experienced hypno-psychotherapist, creating a safe, compassionate and professional environment to confidentially support your healing and personal development.
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