EMDR or hypnotherapy for anxiety

Fear is a deeply human emotion. It's our body's natural response to danger, meant to protect us. But when fear takes on a life of its own, it can be paralyzing. Perhaps you're experiencing panic attacks, social anxiety, phobias, or a constant state of unease. Perhaps there's been a specific event you can't seem to let go of, or you're experiencing unexplained tension. Whatever the cause, it can feel like fear is ruling your life. Fortunately, there is a path to recovery.

Different forms of anxiety

Anxiety has many faces. Some people experience sudden panic attacks, while others struggle with social anxiety and prefer to withdraw. Some common anxiety disorders include:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• A constant state of worry and tension without any immediate cause.
• Panic disorder
• Intense panic attacks with physical reactions such as palpitations and shortness of breath.
• Social anxiety disorder
• A deep-seated fear of social situations or the judgment of others.
• Specific phobias
• Intense fear of objects or situations, such as heights, spiders, or flying.
• PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder)
• Anxiety and stress reactions as a result of a traumatic experience.
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Obsessive thoughts and behaviors that arise from fear.
• Hypochondria and illness anxiety disorder
• A constant fear of serious illness, despite reassurances from doctors.

What all these forms of fear have in common is that they are felt not only mentally but also physically. The body is in a constant state of alert, leading to exhaustion and a disturbed sense of security.

What happens in your brain when you experience fear and trauma?

When you experience a fearful or traumatic event, your brain activates the limbic system, specifically the amygdala, the part of your brain that detects danger. When a threat is perceived, the amygdala signals the hypothalamus, which releases the stress hormone cortisol. This prepares your body to fight, flee, or freeze.

In some people, this system remains overactive, even when there is no longer any immediate danger. This can lead to persistent anxiety or panic. This is where trauma processing comes in: through techniques like EMDR, hypnotherapy, and Havening Touch, we can help the brain reprocess the fear response, so that your body and mind learn that the danger has passed.

How can I help you?

As a psychologist and specialized trauma therapist, I use various methods to address anxiety at its core. Every person is unique, so I offer personalized treatments where we work together to determine what works best for you.

1. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

EMDR reactivates the traumatic memory while you follow your eye movements or receive other bilateral stimulation. This helps your brain reprocess the memory, reducing its emotional charge. EMDR is particularly effective for PTSD and anxiety symptoms stemming from previous traumatic experiences. Many clients experience a reduction in their symptoms after just a few sessions.

2. Hypnotherapy

With hypnosis, we can work directly with your subconscious mind, where many of our fears and beliefs are stored. Through suggestion and visualization, I help you release limiting thoughts and gain more control over your feelings. Hypnotherapy can be particularly effective for persistent anxiety disorders and phobias.

3. Havening Touch Method

This method, developed by two American neuroscientists, focuses on changing the brain's neurological response to traumatic memories. Through gentle touch combined with imagery and breathing techniques, the amygdala is calmed and the emotional charge of fearful memories is reduced. Havening works at a deep level and can help with long-term stress, trauma, and panic disorders.

4. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Together, we'll examine the thoughts that perpetuate your anxiety and learn how to transform them into healthier, more helpful thoughts. CBT is a proven method for structurally reducing anxiety. By becoming aware of negative thought patterns and replacing them with more realistic ones, you'll gain more control over your feelings and behavior.

5. Breathing techniques and bodywork

Anxiety has a direct impact on the body. Through focused breathing techniques and relaxation exercises, you can learn to calm your nervous system and regain control over your physical reactions. Techniques like the 4-7-8 breathing pattern or diaphragmatic breathing can help reduce panic attacks and bring the body into a relaxed state.

There is a way out of fear

You no longer have to live in the grip of fear. There is a path to recovery, and I'm happy to guide you on it. Together, we'll work on resetting your brain so you can experience peace and confidence again. You're not alone in this process, and it is possible to regain control of your life. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, a phobia, panic attacks, or traumatic memories, there are proven methods that can help.

Want to know which method is best for you? Feel free to contact me for a free, no-obligation consultation. Together, we'll take the first step toward a life without limiting fear.