Meet Lois Stavrou
I am very grateful that I have had the opportunity to study throughout my life. I graduated with a BSc (Hons) degree in the fascinating subject of Psychology in 1998. I have applied useful aspects of this for my own personal development ever since.
After studying for a Post Graduate Certificate in Education, I qualified as a teacher in 2003. My fifteen years of teaching provided me with a wealth of experience; professionally and personally. I also became very aware of the increasing number of people suffering with anxiety so I decided to do some further research and training.
In 2018, I gained my qualification in Resilience and Wellbeing Coaching where I coached individuals and staff in schools. One of my clients mentioned hypnotherapy to me and strangely, from that moment, I was hearing it everywhere. I must admit, it was something I never considered training in. Thank the universe I took the plunge! I trained with the wonderful Quest Institute in Cognitive Hypnotherapy and Neuro Linguistic Programming, with a world leader in Cognitive Hynoptherapy, Trevor Silvester and the Team, and WOW what a game changer! Not only did I meet a wonderful network of people, but it also provided me with an excellent bank of tools to add to my toolbox to further help my clients.
What is Cognitive Hypnotherapy?
A brief explanation
Cognitive Hypnotherapy (CH) is not a traditional approach to hypnosis. You are not put into a deep trance and you are always in complete control. In fact, we are in natural trances everyday - for example, daydreaming, thinking about the past or future are states of trance. CH works to de-hypnotise unhelpful states.
It is a bespoke service created from carefully listening to your unique way of thinking, selecting interventions from a variety of techniques and includes individually written and recorded audios, called Wordweaves, to help you unlock your full potential.
Is Cognitive Hypnotherapy & Cognitive Behavioural Therapy the Same?
Cognitive Hypnotherapy does use some useful tools from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) such as journaling, mindfulness and relaxation techniques. However, there is a difference between both therapies. CH takes into account the evolutionary psycholoy model of the limbic system, where emotions comes first and then thought, rather than the other way around as CBT teaches. CH also involves a wide range of Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques, helping people to change unwanted thoughts and behaviours.
Is it for you?
The great things about Cognitive Hypnotherapy is that it offers talking therapy bespoke to you. You need only share what you want to in the safe space that is provided. The only way you'll know if it's for you is if you try it.
Take one step and a time. It's amazing how people often leave their first session believing change is possible.
What does it help with?
It helps with a wide range of unwanted feelings and behaviours including anxiety and stress relief; phobias, limiting beliefs, problems with weight, addictions and more. It's also great for building self confidence and can help with pain management.
Who do I work with?
As well as working with adults, I also have experience in working with children (DBS certificate available on request).
Due to contraindications, I am unable to work with people suffering with any psychiatric condition (e.g.schizophrenia or bi-polar); epilepsy; or those under the supervision of a psychiatrist.
How successful is it?
"In an average of six sessions (of QCH*) 71% reported themselves recovered, compared to 42% of people using other IAPT** therapies."
The Mental Health Review Journal September 2015.
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*QCH (Quest Cognitive Hypnotherapy).
** Therapies like CBT as a stand alone therapy.
Testimonials
Sessions & Fees
I offer face-to-face therapy in Potters Bar and Barnet as well as online. The first session can take up to 90 minutes, with subsequent sessions lasting an hour. It is difficult to say how many sessions you will need, some people need several sessions while others require an average of 3-6.
Tasks will be set in between to consolidate the therapy, so it is important to embrace it. Various forms regarding consent, data protection and questionnaires relating to your wellbeing will be sent to you before therapy begins.
Registered Associations
Enhanced DBS Check - updated annually
Qualifications & Continued Professional Development
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BSc (Hons) Degree in Psychology
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Post Graduate Certificate in Education
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Post Graduate Qualification in Mindful Resilience & Wellbeing Coaching
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Diploma in Cognitive Hypnotherapy - The Quest Institute
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Neuro Linguistic Programming - Practitioner Level
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Introduction to Safeguarding Children (Level 1) - updated every 3 years
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Level 3 Nutrition Course (Certified by AfN)
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Training in Meditation & Visualisation
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Training in Building Emotional Regulation Skills
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Healing Beyond Borders (Level 4) – Case Management & Professional Practice
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Past Life Regression Therapy