Solution Focused Hypnotherapy proved remarkably successful during a pilot trial conducted with the Northumbria Police. With a strong commitment to enhancing officer well-being and effectiveness, the Northumbria Police Force embarked on an innovative journey by exploring the potential of Solution Focused Hypnotherapy.

Alarming statistics from Police Care UK highlight the prevalent psychological and mental health issues among police officers, with 66% estimated to be affected and 71% likely to experience anxiety and depression.

The pilot program received sponsorship from my CPHT Lecturer and supervisor Gary Johannes, a clinical hypnotherapist at Inspired to Change in Peterborough, specialising in Solution Focused Hypnotherapy and advocating for mental health support.

The following information is taken from the outcome report written by Gary Johannes, Dr Emma Treby, and Kerry Seymour.

Results

Results from the study show that participants sought support primarily for anxiety and stress reduction, with additional concerns related to depression, sleep issues, confidence, public speaking, and fertility. Remarkably, 100% of participants responded positively to the therapy, with 78% achieving complete recovery.

On average, participants received 8-12 sessions, aligning with anxiety and depression treatment averages. The therapy’s structured, logical, and positive nature resonated with participants, leading to improved coping skills and increased resilience. Importantly, therapy’s positive impact extended beyond work, positively influencing participants’ home and family life, creating a beneficial ripple effect.

• 80% of officers lost all symptoms of anxiety and depression.

• By the end of the pilot, everyone reported getting better.

• Nearly 80% no longer exhibited symptoms such as disturbed sleep, hypervigilance, self-medicating, and anger issues.

• Over 80% showed an increase in their life wellness score, and more than 90% experienced improved sleep.

• Participants no longer showed signs of PTSD.

Participant experiences

• Participants reported overwhelmingly positive experiences during therapy, feeling supported and understood throughout the process.

• They found the highly structured and logical nature of the therapy sessions beneficial, as the techniques were easy to use and produced fantastic results.

• The therapy’s practical approach enabled participants to learn techniques to reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being, leading to the development of positive habits and enhanced time management.

• The therapy’s independence offered a safe space away from work, allowing participants to discuss their mental health freely.

• The sessions were described as enjoyable and informative, with participants looking forward to each session and finding comfort in understanding how their brain worked.

• The therapy contributed to significant changes in home and working life, fostering resilience and improved coping with challenges.

• Participants gained various tools and strategies, such as relaxation techniques and positive visualisation, enabling them to cope better and reflect positively on themselves.

• The therapy helped participants build resilience, maintain perspective, and respond intelligently to challenges, resulting in a more positive and resilient outlook.

• The therapy opened conversations about mental health, fostering a shared language that empowers individuals to thrive rather than merely survive.

• The client-led process empowered participants to drive the focus of therapy, leading to personalised and comfortable sessions.

• The therapy’s positive impact extended beyond individual participants, with clients sharing newfound knowledge with colleagues and family, incorporating solution-focused tools into their daily lives.

These compelling results affirm the effectiveness of Solution Focused Hypnotherapy as a superior form of therapy. It outperforms other psychotherapeutic treatments, which have reported success rates of only around 50% for patients.

Solution Focused Hypnotherapy Summary

The trial at the Northumbria Police Department serves as compelling evidence of the effectiveness of Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy. Beyond law enforcement, this approach shows promise for wider use in high-stress professions and mental health settings. By implementing evidence-based hypnotherapy programs, like the one piloted in the police department, we can extend valuable support to individuals facing various challenges.

Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy proves to be a valuable tool in promoting well-being and resilience across diverse fields. Through this evidence-based approach, scepticism surrounding hypnotherapy has been successfully addressed.

I encouraged you to maintain an open mind and stay informed when considering alternative therapies.

For more information and to book a free initial consultation get in contact today.

*The pilot was based on the results of 36 participants.

Pilot scheme at Northumbria Police improves mental health