Four approaches, one focus: you

How do hypnotherapy, NLP, EFT and counselling differ?

All four approaches aim to help you feel and cope better, but they go about it in different ways. The main differences are how structured a session is and what state you are in while you work.

Hypnotherapy: change through focused relaxation

In hypnotherapy you are guided into a calm, focused state, usually with your eyes closed. This state makes it easier to work on automatic reactions, such as a fear response or a habit, through suggestion and imagery.

NLP: practical tools for thinking differently

NLP takes place while you are fully alert. It is active and conversational, and you practise short techniques for changing how you see a situation, talk to yourself or respond under pressure.

EFT: tapping while you focus on a feeling

EFT combines light tapping on set points of the body with focused attention on a particular feeling or memory. It is hands-on and repeatable, so many people keep using it between sessions.

Counselling: space to talk and be heard

Counselling is the least structured of the four. There is no technique to learn. Instead, you have time to talk openly, be listened to without judgement and make sense of what is happening in your life.

Can the approaches be combined?

Yes, and they often are. All four are offered by Sonya Hudson, so there is no need to see different practitioners or repeat your story. A single session might begin with conversation, use an NLP technique to look at a problem from a new angle and finish with hypnosis to help the change settle in. EFT is sometimes added as a tool you can take home. The mix is always agreed with you and can change as you go.

Which approach is right for me?

You do not need to decide before you get in touch. Many people are not sure where to start, and that is completely normal. As a rough guide:

• If you want to change an automatic reaction, such as a fear, a habit or a stress response, hypnotherapy is often a good starting point.
• If you prefer a practical, goal-focused style and like learning skills you can keep using, NLP may suit you.
• If you would like a simple technique to use in difficult moments, EFT is worth exploring.
• If you mainly want room to talk through something difficult, counselling may be the best fit.

The free first phone call is the easiest way to decide. You can describe what is going on in your own words and get an honest view of which approach, or combination, makes most sense. You may also find our side-by-side guide to the four approaches helpful.

What every session includes

Whichever approach you choose, the basics are the same. Sessions usually last between 60 and 90 minutes and start with a conversation about how you are and what you would like to focus on. Everything is explained before it happens, you can ask questions at any time and you are never pressured to book more sessions than you want.

Everything you share is kept confidential, with the rare limits explained at the start. Your first conversation is always a free phone call, so you can get a feel for how sessions work before you commit to anything.

How many sessions might I need?

There is no fixed number, because it depends on you and what you are working on. Some people come with one clear goal, such as stopping smoking or feeling calmer before a driving test. Others want support with something broader, such as long-standing stress or a difficult period in their life. You review progress together as you go, and you are free to stop at any point.

Who are these services for?

The services are for adults who want support with their emotional wellbeing, habits, confidence or a difficult time in their life. You do not need a diagnosis or a referral. If you are already seeing your GP or another health professional, these approaches can sit alongside that care. Enquiries about sessions for young people are welcome and are arranged with a parent or guardian.

In person in Wallsend or online

In-person sessions take place in a quiet, private therapy room at Hadrian Lodge West in Wallsend. It is a short journey from Newcastle city centre and convenient for Gosforth, Jesmond, Whitley Bay, Killingworth and the rest of North Tyneside. If travelling is difficult, or you would simply rather stay at home, all four services are also available online.