I have increasingly thought that hypnotherapy can be a useful therapy for all of my clients, including my clients on the Autistic Spectrum ; why not? Clients on the spectrum have all the same issues around weight loss for example as the rest of us. They usually have a heightened anxiety level (which doesn't help with weight loss) and relaxation techniques such as self hypnosis or breathing can be of great help. General issues around exam nerves, driving tests can be dealt with, along with deeper seated issues such as bullying and "inner-child" resolution.

As with any therapy, hypnosis isn't a cure all, and it doesn't suit everyone. However, allied with counselling and talking things through it can be an extremely useful therapeutic tool.

Classic hypnosis can be engaged through progressive relaxation and deepening techniques, also the alpha state can be engaged in the therapy room without any formal trance inductions. This natural state, is a relaxed state where healing can take place. Often imaginative, creative and emotional connection can occur in the alpha state.

A great state for any of us to enter, particularly those of us who struggle to generally relax. Interestingly clients who are often in their "flight or flight" are the ones who relax quickly and deeply when given the permission to do so.

If you would like to know more about therapy and autism, that is counselling or hypnotherapy, please contact me at my Bramhall, Cheshire office.

Jonathan Lloyd

I am delivering a talk on the 10th February in the centre of Stockport (7.30 pm).The title is working with people on the Autistic Spectrum and their carers. I will be talking about the results of my 2008/9 MA on how fathers with autistic children cope along with how I work as a counsellor and (occasionally hypnotherapist) with clients on the spectrum.

If you would like to attend the event, please contact me asap as numbers are restricted.

Jonathan Lloyd