Introduction: A Groundbreaking Model for Modern Times
Human Givens Therapy (HGT) is a psycho–socio–bio framework that provides brief, solution-focused counselling for clients experiencing a wide range of mental health difficulties. In uncertain times—like during and after COVID and the ongoing economic crisis—HGT offers a fast, professional, and practical alternative to more traditional counselling models.
Why Human Givens Therapy Works
Take anxiety, for example. A client might tell me they feel panicky, have intrusive thoughts, brain fog, and no spare capacity for anything else. Some therapies encourage clients to think their way out of this, like CBT. But with anxiety, there’s often already too much thinking. The client is stuck.
Human Givens starts by calming the nervous system with proven breathing techniques. Once calm, the client can then use their cognitive ability to create lasting behavioural change.
HGT was developed 25 years ago by Ivan Tyrrell and Joe Griffin, who have since authored several books and trained hundreds of therapists in this truly innovative approach.
What Clients Want From Therapy
When I see a therapist, I want them to put me first. Let me tell my story—but don’t dwell unnecessarily on the past. I don’t want psychobabble. I want hope, understanding, and a belief that things can get better.
That’s what Human Givens offers. Through a blend of psychoeducation, goal setting, and positive outcome rehearsal, HGT provides a powerful, person-centred therapy model.
Fast and Effective Results
HGT is incredibly flexible. Many clients only need between four to six sessions to feel more confident, calm, and back in control.
I remember watching Joe Griffin using the Rewind Technique to treat a man with a shark phobia and a young woman with trauma. It was almost magical to see the change in just one session. It left me awestruck—and I now use this technique in my own work with fantastic results.
What Training Looks Like
I was already working as a hypnotherapist before qualifying as a Human Givens practitioner. The 18-month training, which included online modules and residential weekends in London and Bristol, was riveting. The tutors had decades of experience, and the exam was tough—but I passed with merit. My background in hypnotherapy gave me strong skills in guided imagery, a powerful part of the HG approach.
Everyday People, Everyday Problems
I feel incredibly privileged to help everyday people who are struggling with their mental health. My client list is growing, especially as I fine-tune the services I offer to those affected by stress, job loss, remote working, health anxiety, weight gain, and more.
I’ve supported young people with body image issues and phone addiction, worked with autism charities, and helped people come back from the brink of crisis. These are real challenges—but they are treatable.
The Case for Early Intervention
These mental health difficulties don’t need to spiral into something worse. Early intervention makes all the difference. Just four sessions can change a person’s life.
Think about it: people have spent money during lockdowns on Amazon, takeaways, exercise bikes, garden makeovers… Why not invest in your mental health?
Private therapy doesn’t have to break the bank. Many therapists offer concessions. Expect to pay around £50–£70 per session—with many offering flexibility.
Find a Therapist Who’s Right for You
You might be on a waiting list for NHS therapy, but how long can you afford to wait? Choose a therapist who feels like the right fit. Here are some useful links to get started:
🌱 Fresh Start Counselling
🌱 Counselling Directory
🌱 Human Givens Institute
My Own Journey with Communication
I’ve learned so much about listening and communication through my personal and professional journey.
Growing up, communication at home wasn’t always easy. Sound familiar?
“Because I told you so.”
“Don’t answer back.”
“Wait till your father gets home.”
“Children should be seen and not heard.”
These kinds of phrases shaped how I communicated—and how I didn’t. Luckily, a sales job at 18 gave me solid training in rapport building, listening, and trust. Later, training in hypnotherapy and HGT deepened my understanding even more.
I’ve now transformed those early communication challenges into real strengths—and I use them every day in my therapy practice.
Conclusion: Counselling That Works
Human Givens Therapy is truly therapy that works. It’s respectful, goal-oriented, and gets results quickly. If you’re struggling, or just want to feel more in control of your life, it could be the perfect fit.
Please feel free to get in touch for a free consultation. I’d love to hear your story and support you on your journey.