Let’s talk it over

Mood problems do not need to be serious to warrant professional help. Seeing a therapist can simply become part of a self-care regime.

HYPNOTHERAPY

We’ve been on constant high alert recently, with cortisol and adrenalin flooding our bodies and no way to work it off. ‘It’s no wonder we’re feeling on edge – it’s the body’s way of releasing those hormones,’ says hypnotherapist Nicolette Pinkney.

WHY SO GOOD? Hypnotherapy isn’t just for phobias. ‘It can help with a huge variety of issues,’ says Nicolette. ‘I’ve seen an increasing number of clients with feelings of anxiety, lack of control, anger, frustration… the list goes on.’

WHAT HAPPENS? ‘Hypnotherapy uses the state of hypnosis. Similar to daydreaming, it’s safe and natural,’ reassures Nicolette. ‘A hypnotherapist will guide you into this comfortable state simply by talking to you.’ Once in that relaxed state, the therapist will communicate with your unconscious mind to help bring about change. These changes in your thoughts are retained once you come out of hypnosis. HOW FAST DOES IT WORK? ‘Often just a couple of sessions may allow clients to feel back in control,’ says Nicolette. ‘A deep-seated reason for your stress or anger may need more work, but even then, it’s rare for anyone to need more than five or six sessions,’ she adds.

• Nicolette Pinkney is a registered hypnotherapist in Hampshire; inspiringchanges.co.uk

PSYCHOTHERAPY

This may seem like a radical therapy for our rising tempers but, as with hypnotherapy, it works on many levels. ‘Psychotherapy isn’t just for people in crisis,’ says psychotherapist Deborah Maloney-marsden.

WHY SO GOOD? ‘Seeing a therapist helps us understand why we may be reacting angrily and what other issues may need to be processed,’ says Deborah. ‘Just one hour a week can help to release so much of what we end up holding internally.’

WHAT HAPPENS? Typically, sessions are at the same time every week. ‘It’s a space dedicated to the client, where they are truly heard – a space where their journey is seen,’ explains Deborah. ‘We may move from past to present to future, and look at new tools to support the client in where they are now.’

HOW FAST DOES IT WORK? It varies according to the individual. ‘Long-term in-depth psychotherapy is a commitment, but many want short-term counselling, where they can focus on a specific issue,’ says Deborah. ‘The key is that it’s based around a client’s specific needs.’

• Deborah Maloney-marsden is a psychotherapist based in Tunbridge Wells; deborahmaloney.com