Hypnotherapy for English speakers
Hypnotherapy is a dynamic form of therapy and approach that has a different approach than traditional talk therapy. With the guidance of a certified hypnotherapist, sessions aim to bring positive changes to behavior, thoughts, and emotions. Through a variety of therapeutic exercises, we delve into the depths of your unconscious mind, fostering transformation at your own pace.
What is hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy is a form of treatment where hypnosis, also known as trance, is used to induce changes in thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Trance is a state we all experience, wherein we deeply concentrate on something, thereby becoming less or not aware of our surroundings, such as when engrossed in a book or a movie to the extent that we don't notice someone calling us. That's trance in action - a natural phenomenon we all encounter. Methods encompass visualization, regression, inner child work, and parts therapy. Regression entails revisiting earlier life moments to process unresolved pain effectively. Parts therapy facilitates contact with your inner critic, perfectionist, and various aspects of your inner child. Hypnotherapy is applied to various issues including anxiety, depression, addiction, physical pain, sleep problems, and stress.
The unconscious mind
Freud recognized that the unconscious mind is a powerful driving force behind our behavior and many psychological processes. He believed the unconscious to be a reservoir of hidden memories, suppressed sexual drives, desires, fears, and impulses. The American psychiatrist Milton Erickson, often considered the pioneer of modern hypnotherapy, held a holistic perspective on the unconscious. He viewed it as a vast source of resources and creative solutions that people can tap into to solve problems and effect change. The metaphor of an iceberg is wellknown for explaining the consiuous and the unconscious mind.
The metaphor of an iceberg is often used to explain the conscious and unconscious mind. In this metaphor, the tip of the iceberg, which is visible above the water, represents the conscious mind—the thoughts, feelings, and perceptions that we are aware of and can easily access. However, beneath the surface lies a much larger portion of the iceberg, unseen underwater. This hidden part symbolizes the unconscious mind, which consists of thoughts, memories, desires, and emotions that are not readily accessible to our conscious awareness but still influence our behavior, emotions, and experiences. Just as the submerged portion of the iceberg can impact the movement and stability of the visible tip, the contents of the unconscious mind can profoundly shape our conscious thoughts and actions.
Understanding Hypnotherapy
There's a common misconception that a visit to a hypnotherapist involves explaining a problem, closing your eyes, and having it magically disappear within an hour. If that's your expectation, you might be better suited to a hypnotist. Hypnotherapy serves as a powerful tool in addressing change through techniques like visualization, regression, and parts therapy. Gypnotherapy enables individuals to explore and reframe subconscious patterns contributing to these challenges. It goes beyond conventional approaches, fostering profound connections with the unconscious mind. I work with parts therapy during therapeutic trance—connecting with trauma fragments, addressing the inner critic, or nurturing the inner child. Regression helps release unresolved pain from the past, allowing for healthy processing.
The therapist
My name is Erik Willems, a certified hypnotherapist with a private practice since 2009, located in Amsterdam West. I also work as an addiction group counselor at ITMYS addiction care in Hilversum and I'm am a member of the NBVH (Dutch professional association for hypnotherapists). In addition to hypnosis, my practice integrates EMDR, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), and solution-focused therapy.
In addition to my therapeutic practice, I have a background in the theater industry, having worked as a director, writer, and teacher. I continue to teach stage performance classes for jazz students at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague and the Conservatory of Amsterdam. I find great satisfaction in blending my creative and therapeutic pursuits.
Costs and health insurance
I offer both live and online sessions. A hypnotherapy consultation is 75 minutes and costs €125,- After the consultation you can pay with Tikkie or cash and you will receive the invoice by email. If you have additional insurance (aanvullende verzekering), there is a good chance that the (Dutch) health insurer will (partly) reimburse hypnotherapy.
If you have any inquiries or would like to schedule an appointment, please feel free to reach out.
I'm here to assist you on your journey, so don't hesitate to get in touch.