At HeadFirst Hypnotherapy, I specialise in Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy near Bicester in Oxfordshire, as well as online sessions across the UK and internationally. This is a proactive, forward-focused approach that supports you to feel more within your control and move towards a more confident and settled future.
What is Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy?
Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy is a modern therapeutic approach that combines solution-focused talking therapy (SFBT) with hypnosis (trance).
The talking therapy part focuses on the present and the future rather than analysing past difficulties. We explore what you would like to be different, how you want to feel, and the strengths and resources that can support change. This forward-looking approach helps shift attention away from unhelpful thought patterns and towards practical, achievable steps.
The hypnosis part involves guided relaxation, allowing you to enter a calm, focused state of awareness. This is a natural state — similar to daydreaming or becoming absorbed in a book- where the mind can be less distracted by stress or self-criticism. In this state, it may feel easier to absorb positive, solution-focused suggestions that support the goals we have been working on together.t your own pace, in a way that feels achievable and supportive.
How is the approach informed?
Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy is informed by research in neuroscience and draws on well-established therapeutic models, including Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and Clinical Hypnotherapy.
This understanding of how stress, attention, and habit patterns affect the brain helps shape a calm, structured way of working. By supporting the nervous system to settle and repeatedly focusing on helpful thoughts and preferred ways of responding, the brain can begin to develop more supportive patterns over time.
Together, these influences provide a practical, forward-focused framework that supports awareness of thoughts, emotional responses, and behaviour patterns, while helping clarify the steps that move you towards your preferred future.
Sessions are collaborative and adapted to your individual circumstances. Progress is reviewed as we go, and the number of sessions varies depending on your goals and what feels right for you, allowing flexibility in how support is offered.
Ready to get out of your own way and let the good stuff happen? Let’s work together!
What people often notice?
Over time, some people notice feeling calmer, more focused, or more connected to what matters to them. Rather than reacting automatically to stress, they may begin to respond in more considered and helpful ways.
Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy is not about instant change. It is a gradual, supportive process, with each session building gently on the last and contributing to a stronger sense of direction.
The focus throughout is on the future you want to move towards and the small, practical steps that support you in getting there. Everyone’s experience is individual, but for some this includes greater clarity, increased confidence, and a sense of personal growth as they move forward.
What to expect in a Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy Session:
The talking therapy part
Each session begins with a non-invasive talking therapy component, where we focus on what you want to be different and how you would like to feel moving forward. Rather than analysing problems in depth, this part of the session is future-focused and solution-oriented.
We explore your goals, best hopes, and the direction you want your life to move in. This might include identifying moments when things already feel a little easier, recognising personal strengths, or clarifying what “better” would look like for you in everyday life. The emphasis is on small, achievable steps that feel realistic and within reach.
Although we may briefly acknowledge past experiences where relevant, the main aim is to reduce time spent dwelling on difficulties and instead support your mind in orienting towards preferred outcomes. This helps create clarity, direction, and a sense of momentum.
Depending on your goals and circumstances, this part of the session may draw on elements of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), or Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP).
This talking therapy component typically lasts around 30 minutes.
The hypnosis (trance) part
In the second half of the session, I gently guide you into a deeply relaxed and focused state, commonly referred to as hypnosis or trance. You can sit upright or recline comfortably — whatever feels most natural and supportive for you.
Trance is a natural state of focused awareness, similar to daydreaming or becoming absorbed in a film or book. During this time, everyday distractions and internal “noise” often soften, allowing the mind to settle into a calmer rhythm. You remain aware, in control, and able to bring yourself out of trance at any time.
In this relaxed state, attention naturally turns inward. This can make it easier for the mind to engage with positive, solution-focused suggestions and imagery that align with the goals discussed earlier in the session. Rather than forcing change, this process supports the mind in gently reinforcing helpful patterns and responses over time.
Hypnosis works just as effectively online as it does in-person, and many clients find it equally calming and immersive in both settings.
Each session is paced carefully, allowing the experience to feel safe, supportive, and tailored to you.
For more information about the format of Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy Sessions, check out my blog series HERE
The Hypnotherapy Process from Initial Consultation to Outcome
Book an Initial Consultation Hypnotherapy
Begin your journey towards feeling calmer and more confident by booking an Initial Consultation. In this session, I’ll explain how Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy works, introduce some of the neuroscience behind thought patterns and behaviours, and answer any questions you may have.
It’s also a chance to explore your goals and see if this approach feels right for you. For clients aged 16–17, a parent will usually attend the session.
Supporting you and working together
We will work together to explore your needs. This is a collaborative process, and together we’ll agree on a flexible plan for sessions that feels right for you.
Our hypnotherapy sessions are structured, positive and forward-looking. We’ll explore practical steps and strategies that may support the changes you would like to make in your life.
Hypnotherapy is not a quick fix, and progress often depends on your own willingness to engage with the process. My role is to guide and support you throughout, helping you focus on your strengths and goals as you move forward.
Supporting positive change
Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy sessions focus on the strengths you already possess. Together, we explore your resources and consider possible solutions that can support you in moving towards the life you would like.
We review progress regularly and adjust the pace of sessions to suit your needs. As you begin to feel closer to your goals, you may decide to leave more time between sessions, giving you the space to practise and consolidate what you’re working on.
Taking things forward
We’ll review your progress together and decide on the right time to bring sessions to a close. Some people prefer a shorter block of sessions, while others continue for longer - it depends on your goals and what feels right for you. Certain issues may be explored over fewer sessions, while others benefit from more time and practice.
Some clients also choose to return for occasional top-up sessions as part of their ongoing wellbeing routine — a bit like checking in with a coach to keep building on what you’ve already achieved.
Hypno-Way? (Blog)
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