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Human Givens

A fast, effective and solution-focused approach to psychotherapy and counselling

What is the Human Givens approach?

Instead of being reliant on one ‘model’ of therapy, the Human Givens approach is a synthesis of the most effective solution-focused therapeutic techniques, incorporating the latest insights from neuroscience and psychological research. It offers practical, holistic solutions to a range of mental health issues.


Lots more information can be found here:
www.hgi.org.uk

What are the Human Givens?

As humans we are all born with a set of fundamental emotional needs, such as the need for security, control over our lives, meaning and purpose. We also have a range of mental resources such as our instincts, memory and a lively imagination which can help us to get our needs met. These needs and resources are the ‘Human Givens’. Emotional issues arise when, for various reasons, our needs are not being met in balance. This insight provides a simple yet powerful guiding framework for me to work within as a Human Givens therapist.

What kind of therapy is used?

I draw on a wide range of techniques to respond flexibly and holistically to your individual needs. A session might, for example, involve cognitive and/or behavioural therapy, reflective listening and solution-focused questioning or coaching, helping to uncover and shift any unhelpful thought patterns or self-perception.

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I might also share some useful psychological insights and help you to master simple skills such as breathing and relaxation techniques, or to practice self-compassion, all with the aim of building your emotional resources and empowering you to move on with your life.
 

Is Hypnotherapy used?

Yes! Our actions are initiated in the subconscious mind, guided by patterns from the past, so any unhelpful behaviour can often be traced back to patterns created by past traumas, negative conditioning during our vulnerable early years or other difficult emotional issues faced. 

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In a hypnotic, or mild trance state, therapeutic processes can effectively reprogram these patterns and facilitate positive change.

A painful memory can be detraumatised, an anxious inner child can be reassured, a scathing inner critic can be quietened and powerful shifts in self-perception can be embedded. Through guided imagery, this state can also bring to life new possibilities such as passing a test, public speaking success or even physical healing.

What mental health conditions does it work with?

The approach has been shown to be effective at helping clients to reduce anxiety and treat panic attacks, phobias, obsessions (OCD) and overwhelming stress; break the cycle of depression; resolve trauma (PTSD) safely and quickly; manage anger; stop addictive behaviour including substance abuse, eating disorders and self-harm; relieve stress-related medical conditions such as chronic pain; and build healthy relationships in all areas of life.

How effective is the Human Givens Approach?

It is frequently found to be faster, more effective and reliable than many other therapeutic approaches. Published research* has shown that an unprecedented three out of four clients achieve significant improvement or cure, usually over the course of one to six sessions, with an average of 3.6 sessions.

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*References

Andrews, W P, Wislocki, A P, Short, F, Chow, D, Minami, T (2013) "A 5-year evaluation of the Human Givens therapy using a Practice Research Network", Mental Health Review Journal, Vol 18 Issue: 3, 2013, pp 165-176. 
Andrews, W, Twigg, E, Minami, T and Johnson, G (11 February 2011) ‘Piloting a practice research network: A 12-month evaluation of the Human Givens approach in primary care at a general medical practice.' Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice (British Psychological Society)

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