What is Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (SFH)?
Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (SFH) is a brief, goal-oriented therapeutic approach, combining the principles of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) with the techniques of Clinical Hypnosis.
In SFH, the emphasis is not on analysing past problems in depth, but on helping clients articulate a clearer picture of a preferred future and collaboratively building on existing strengths.
Hypnosis is used to support mental calm, deepen focus, and consolidate new patterns of thought and behaviour.
SFH sessions tend to be structured, positive, and efficient, offering clients actionable steps and reinforcing progress in trance.
Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is a relatively new approach to therapy, but it already has a growing pool of evidence for its efficacy.
For instance, a 2024 study titled “Understanding how online solution-focused hypnotherapy can support the wellbeing of police personnel and treat symptoms of anxiety and depression”, conducted with personnel in a UK police force, used an online delivery model.
Pre- and post-measures indicated a strong shift: 97.2% of participants reached a “wellness” threshold post-intervention (up from 19% pre-intervention), and none experienced worsening symptoms.
Quantitative measures (for anxiety and depression) showed meaningful reductions, and qualitative feedback described participants valuing the structured, positive, and practical nature of the therapy.
Another report of a feasibility trial in the Northumbria Police context found that among those completing treatment, 100% showed improvement, and about 78% no longer met clinical symptom thresholds.
Wellness or life-wellness scores rose significantly (by about 84%).
These outcomes suggest that SFH can offer reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms and boost overall wellbeing.