A therapist's belief in their client is often greater than the client's belief in themselves. This belief is crucial in fostering positive change and transformation in the client.
​
A therapist's belief in their client comes from a deep understanding of their capabilities and potential.

They witness their client's strengths and resilience, hidden beneath the layers of self-doubt and limitation. This belief serves as a catalyst for the client to step outside of their comfort zone and embrace new possibilities.

A therapist's belief in their client creates a safe and supportive environment. Clients who doubt themselves often fear judgment or rejection. However, a therapist's unwavering support enables them to take risks, try new things, and explore their emotions without the threat of failure. This environment fosters growth and self-acceptance.

A therapist's belief in their client evokes a sense of trust and connection. When a client feels valued and supported, they are more likely to open up, share their authentic self, and engage in therapeutic interventions. This trust allows the therapist to guide the client towards self-discovery, self-awareness, and personal growth.

A therapist's belief in their client motivates them to continue the healing process. When a client doubts their abilities or feels stuck in their difficulties, a therapist's unwavering belief acts as a powerful motivator. It provides the client with hope and perseverance, enabling them to weather life's challenges and make positive changes.

A therapist's belief in their client is often greater than the client's belief in themselves. This belief is essential in facilitating transformation and positive change in the client. It creates a safe and secure environment, encourages self-acceptance, fosters trust, and motivates the client towards growth and healing.

As the days grow shorter and the evenings darker, it's natural to feel a shift in our mood and energy levels. This change can affect both our physical and mental well-being. As a therapist, understanding the impact of darkening evenings can assist me in supporting my clients during these challenging times. 

Shorter days can lead to a decrease in exposure to sunlight, resulting in a decrease in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood. This dip in serotonin levels can contribute to feelings of sadness, anxiety, and irritability. Additionally, the changing seasons can disrupt our internal clock, leading to sleep disturbances and increased fatigue. I'm finding the deep relaxation techniques I use are really helping to lift the mood and energy of my clients, and I use them regularly too, to start the day and to help with deep and uninterrupted sleep.

Recognizing the changes in my clients' well-being is important. As a hypnotherapist, I can offer strategies to combat the darkness, such as regulated and mindful breathing, self hypnosis, and practicing other mindfulness techniques like journaling and reframing exercises to help with stress and anxiety. Encouraging clients to engage in outdoor activities during daylight hours can also help regulate their sleep patterns. I have also been using some guided visualisations on light and warmth which have also proved to be comforting and stabilising.

Remember, during these darker times, it's crucial to prioritize self-care. Engaging in activities that boost mood and promote relaxation, such as spending time with loved ones, practicing gratitude, and engaging in hobbies, can help combat the negative effects of the darkening evenings.

As therapists, we understand the importance of holistic well-being. By acknowledging the impact of darkening evenings on our mental health, we can support our clients in creating a positive and nurturing environment during these challenging times.

One very still evening last week, around 8pm, I headed to the beach with my boy, Ivar. I'd had a 'problem solving' week, with very little time for myself. The stillness of the evening drew me out into the open, where I found what I needed. The Beach at Pevensey Bay, between Normans Bay and Pevensey Village, is never very busy. Very little on road parking means that only locals and people who live or holiday in the houses on the beach, can access it. There was a family having a barbecue, some kids in the sea, a chap setting up his fishing rod. Ivar and I wondered along the beach, slowly taking in the lives of others, feeling part of the scene, but also removed, observing. I found this experience very soothing. My deliberate act of slowing down and observing, felt a lot like the trance state I guide my clients towards, where transformative and healing work is done. I decided to stand still and capture the stillness. I stood still for less than a minute, but the peace I brought home with me has lasted a lot longer.
​