Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

What is CBT?

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy or CBT refers to a range of talking therapies based on the theory that thoughts, feelings, what we do and how our body feels are all connected. If we change one of these we can alter the others.

When people feel worried or distressed we often fall into patterns of thinking and responding which can worsen how we feel. CBT works to help us notice and change problematic thinking styles or behaviour patterns so we can feel better. CBT has lots of strategies that can help you in the here and now.

CBT works

CBT has a good evidence base for a wide range of mental health problems in adults, older adults, children and young people. This research has been carefully reviewed by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE), who provide independent, evidence-based guidance for the NHS on the most effective ways to treat disease and ill health.

What can CBT help with?

NICE recommends CBT in the treatment of the following conditions:

Anxiety disorders (including panic attacks and post-traumatic stress disorder)

Depression

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Schizophrenia and psychosis

Bipolar disorder

There is also good evidence that CBT is helpful in treating many other conditions, including:

Chronic fatigue

Chronic pain

Physical symptoms without a medical diagnosis

Sleep difficulties

Anger management

CBT can be used if you are on medication which has been prescribed by your GP. You can also use CBT on its own. This will depend on the difficulty you want help with. The number of sessions you need depends on the difficulty you need help with. This will usually be between six and twenty sessions, typically of an hour long.

Your therapist can help you to notice any patterns in thinking or behaviour which might be keeping problems going and can offer information about different CBT techniques which could help you.

You and your therapist will discuss your specific difficulties and set goals for you to achieve. CBT is not a quick fix – it involves hard work during and between sessions e.g. keeping track of what you are thinking, feeling and doing, or trying out new ways of thinking or acting. Your therapist will not make decisions for you. They will help you decide what difficulties you want to work on in order to help you improve your situation. Your therapist will be able to advise you on how to continue using CBT techniques in your daily life after your treatment ends.

For appointment costs, please visit the individual practitioners’ pages.

Tui Na

Tui na (pronounced ‘twee na’) is traditional Chinese massage therapy. It is one of the four branches of traditional Chinese medicine, the other three being acupuncture, herbal medicine, and medical qi gong. Although tui na is still relatively new to the West compared with acupuncture and herbal medicine, it has always been practised throughout the public health system of the People’s Republic of China, hand in hand with its sister therapies. Tui na’s roots in China are ancient. In fact it is considered to be the forerunner of all forms of massage and bodywork that exist today, from shiatsu to osteopathy. Tui na employs the same methods and principles of diagnosis as acupuncture. Rather than stimulating acu-points by way of needles, however, the practitioner uses pressure of their fingers/thumbs/elbows. Selected groups of points and zones with particular ranges of influence on the body’s functions are activated by specific manipulations in accordance with the condition being treated. The manipulations and techniques used by the tui na practitioner are varied, from strong to mild, static to dynamic, and from deep pressure to the level of subtle energy.

As a style of massage, tui na is wonderfully versatile. It can induce relaxation and relieve stress, but what distinguishes it from other forms of massage is its clinical use in treating diseases of an internal nature (digestive disorders, menstrual irregularities, headaches, insomnia, chronic fatigue, etc.) as well as musculoskeletal ailments (backache, stiff neck, sciatica, tendonitis, frozen shoulder, etc.). Although often used alongside acupuncture, it can equally be used on its own and is particularly useful for treating those who may be needle-phobic. Paediatric tui na is a specialist branch of tui na and a highly effective treatment modality for babies and young children.

Sometimes during a tui na treatment (as with acupuncture treatment) other related therapies may be used. These are: moxibustion – the warming of acu-points or other areas on the body with a smouldering herb known as moxa; cupping – the application of glass suction cups to the surface of the skin; gua sha – gentle abrasion of the skin with a smooth scraper. The tui na massage itself is performed through clothing, but part of the clothing may need to be removed if the practitioner uses any of these related therapies or applies a therapeutic massage medium.

For appointment costs, please visit the individual practitioners’ pages.

Sports Massage

Many people assume that Sports Massage only relates to those who regularly practice and participate in sport. However, it is extremely useful for all those who are in need of massage as the techniques primarily work on soft tissue and joint mobility. It is particularly useful for those with sedentary jobs like those who work in an office environment as it helps to increase flexibility and range of movement in stiff joints and muscles.

It is appropriate for sudden injuries like a pulled hamstring or shoulder muscle and for those injuries that are chronic or longstanding.

Sports Massage uses a range of techniques including Soft Tissue Release, mobilisation, Muscle Energy Techniques and Trigger Points. A Sports Massage treatment also includes a postural analysis to ascertain what specific muscles are causing pain or postural imbalance.

The benefits of Sports Massage are numerous: the stretching of muscle fibres releases tension and prevents build up of pressure; hard or inelastic tissue (due to hard training for example) softens and becomes more flexible; circulation improves, pain and discomfort are diminished. The psychological effects are not to be underestimated: relaxation and pain release balance the mind, reduce anxiety and improve performance level not only in sports but in any field of work.

For appointment costs, please visit the individual practitioners’ pages.

Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a therapy rooted in Japanese and Chinese medical theory. It recognizes the body’s own ability to heal itself and facilitates this process using body work. Shiatsu is a holistic therapy, which regards disease (dis-ease) and other symptoms as manifestations of energetic imbalance. It seeks to support and restore health by working with the person’s energy. Shiatsu works with the energetic state presented by each client to balance and harmonise that state. It is a non-intrusive form of therapy and is practiced with the receiving person fully clothed. Shiatsu uses fingers and thumb pressure (in place of the needles used in acupuncture). In order to achieve different qualities of pressure, hands, palms, elbows, knees and feet can also be used. Gentle joint manipulation and passive stretching techniques are incorporated in Shiatsu treatments.

The theoretical concept of Shiatsu and Acupuncture is based on twelve channels of energy, called meridians, which run throughout the body. The meridians are associated with internal organs and reflect the energy of that organ in the way the energy is manifested.

In Shiatsu as indeed in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) our well being is portrayed in terms of the harmony and balance of the energy in our body. It must be noted however, that a perfect balance in Shiatsu and TCM is considered to be an ideal rather than an ultimate state. Since the body energy forever changes, the work we do in Shiatsu strives towards this ideal.

WHAT IS IT USEFUL FOR?

Although all too often ignored in our society, touch has healing properties and is an essential part of well-being. Shiatsu can be effective at times of change, and can be useful in contributing to bring about change. It can induce body-mind connection and can help people to get in touch with themselves and with their body’s own ability to heal itself. A process of increased body-mind connection often takes place in the course of regular Shiatsu treatments. This change may also facilitate increased awareness and consciousness of the relationship between the individual and their environment as a whole, and the validity of our being a part of this ‘whole’ can be realised. Shiatsu works through deep relaxation and can address a wide variety of symptoms such as:

  • Postural problems: backache, sciatica, neck & shoulder pain, joint problems, etc.
  • Headaches, migraines, etc.
  • Fatigue, tension, etc.
  • Menstrual problems
  • Mental health problems: depression, etc.
  • Insomnia
  • Palpitations

For appointment costs, please visit the individual practitioners’ pages.

Reiki

Reiki is a natural healing energy activated by intention. It is a gentle yet powerful way of improving well-being on all levels, as it works on the physical, the mental, and the emotional: calming the mind, relieving stress, and soothing the emotions; bringing you into balance and harmony. The practice of Reiki is an original method of healing developed by Mikao Usui in Japan early in the 20th century.

The Japanese word Reiki means ’Universal Energy’. Eastern medicine has always recognised and worked with this energy, which flows through all living things and is vital to well-being; known as ’ki’ in Japan, ’chi’ in China and ’prana’ in India. Acupuncture, Tai Chi and Yoga are also based on the free flow of this energy in a person.

A Reiki session is usually carried out with the recipient lying down in a comfortable and peaceful environment. There is no need to remove any clothing as Reiki energy passes easily through all materials. The practitioner places their hands gently on or above the body. The recipient naturally draws in as much energy as is needed, using it in whatever way is most appropriate at the time. Reiki may be experienced as a flow of energy, mild tingling, warmth, coolness or other subtle sensations.

Reiki is deeply relaxing and has a profoundly calming effect. It is a good idea to rest for a while afterwards and drink plenty of water over the next few days to help the energy continue its work.

Here is a short BBC feature on the positive effects of Reiki.

For appointment costs, please visit the individual practitioners’ pages.

Regression Therapy

When we experience an event which is physically, mentally, or emotionally traumatic, a part of us can become frozen in time.

Regression therapy enables a client, with guided assistance, to go back and revisit a time when an emotion or habit was created. The client is safely re-experiencing the past but with their current-day resources, insight and wisdom. This allows them to process the event more effectively, resolving the trauma, and leaving them feeling happier and more complete.

Regression is an extension of hypnotherapy. It can help to provide insight into emotions, thoughts patterns, and relationship dynamics. It can be used to access forgotten or repressed memories that are bothersome, or to reconnect with more positive experiences and talents.

For appointment costs, please visit the individual practitioners’ pages.

Reflexology

Reflexology is based on the assumption that the body possesses the ability to heal itself. Injury, stress and disease create body imbalance. Bodily tensions manifest in feet and hands, blocking the energy paths which results in dis-equilibrium or disease. Reflexology is a practical therapy. It enables restoration of the body to its special equilibrium. By gentle pressure with the hands to the relevant areas of the foot, Reflexology helps remove toxins and improves circulation. This restores the free flow of energy and nutrients to the body cells.

The reflexologist does not diagnose illness, but can tell if certain organs or glands are under pressure. It is often possible to detect injuries that have occurred years in the past, and also weaknesses that have not yet manifested themselves as disease. Above all Reflexology can create a deep sense of relaxation. This encourages the body to heal itself at its own pace and prevents further manifestation of illness.

Reflexologists can discover a great deal by examining the condition of the foot, the temperature, structure and tissue condition of the skin. For instance, corns and callouses may indicate a more deep-seated problem than would initially be apparent.

Reactions to treatment are varied. During treatment the patient may, for example, feel fleeting discomfort in the foot in the areas under pressure, but such discomfort will quickly disappear.

Initially, the patient may feel tired and lethargic, though subsequently s/he should experience a sense of well-being. Previously suppressed diseases may flare up. Secretions of the mucous membranes may increase, urine may smell offensive and stools may become bulkier. Some people experience headaches.

Such reactions are simply a transient phase. They may occur after the first treatment, or sometimes not until the fifth or sixth, but they indicate that the person is responding to Reflexology.

Reflexology can be an aid to resolving many acute and chronic conditions, amongst them disorders of the digestive, respiratory, lymphatic, reproductive and nervous systems. It can ease conditions as diverse as back pain, arthritis, insomnia, migraine and asthma and many other problems. It can also be very helpful for pregnant women and after childbirth.

For appointment costs, please visit the individual practitioners’ pages.

SPECIAL OFFER – £10 OFF all reflexology treatments until 15th October 2022. 

Psychotherapy

In our everyday lives we know the benefit of talking things over with friends, and sayings like “a trouble shared is a trouble halved”, “getting it off your chest”, and “having a good cry” bear witness to the fact that talking about and expressing our feelings helps. Psychotherapy is a sophisticated form of this where the therapist brings to the conversation a theoretical understanding developed through formal training. An essential part of this is a long period in which the therapist undergoes therapy her/himself which helps the therapist to get a clearer self-understanding. The therapist aims to help the client identify and understand what is happening in the present in relationship to the client’s background, upbringing and development so that energy available for change can be released.

People come to Psychotherapy because

  • They see destructive patterns in relationships to themselves or others
  • They feel depressed and lacking purpose
  • They are afraid of taking risks or making necessary changes
  • They feel anxious or panicky without apparent cause
  • They are experiencing a crisis
  • They have experienced a traumatic event like a bereavement or accident
  • They suffer from functional or psychosomatic disorders
  • They want to explore and develop beyond present limits

Before embarking on psychotherapy the therapist will discuss the framework and implications with a potential client.

For appointment costs, please visit the individual practitioners’ pages.

Pilates

What is Pilates?

The Pilates method represents a unique approach to exercise that develops body awareness, improving and changing the body’s postural and alignment habits and increasing flexibility and ease of movement. It aims to condition and improve central core stability and is essential for maintaining correct posture, balance and control of the whole body. Pilates method incorporates unique and specialised exercises that are performed with an underlying set of fundamental principles. The exercises may be performed on a mat or with specialist equipment.

The core fundamentals of the method are based upon a thorough understanding of the anatomy of the human body. The Pilates teacher uses this information to create a comprehensive exercise programme for each client with the aim of restoring a greater sense of balance. It is this holistic approach that sets the method apart from many other forms of exercise. Indeed, osteopaths, physiotherapists and general practitioners are now recommending Pilates as one of the safest forms of exercise today.

Practiced faithfully, Pilates yields numerous benefits. Increased lung capacity and circulation through deep, healthy breathing is a primary focus. Strength and flexibility, particularly of the abdomen and back muscles, coordination – both muscular and mental – are key components in an effective Pilates program. Posture, balance, and core strength are all heartily increased. Bone density and joint health improve, and many experience positive body awareness for the first time. Pilates teaches balance and control of the body, and that capacity spills over into other areas of one’s life.

The Philosophy

To connect the mind and body and achieve the following principles:

• Centering • Concentration • Control • Precision • Breathing • Flowing movement

Who is it for? Pilates suits all ages and fitness levels, including the elderly and children over 12. It is paritcularly beneficial for people with back pain, poor postures, sports injuries, arthritis, stress-related illness and before and after pregnancy. It is often used by athletes and dancers for improving technique and performance.

For appointment costs, please visit the individual practitioners’ pages.

Osteopathy

Osteopathy is an established system of diagnosis and treatment of stresses and strains in the body. Osteopathy uses many of the diagnostic procedures involved in conventional medical assessment and diagnosis. Its main strength, however, lies in the unique way the patient is assessed from a mechanical, functional and postural standpoint and the manual methods of treatment applied to suit the needs of the individual patient. It can help with a wide variety of conditions due to its philosophy that all parts and systems of the body are connected and interdependent, and that for good health all parts need to work well as a whole.

Osteopathy is well known for its treatment of aches and pains in the musculo – skeletal system, and Osteopaths regularly treat people with:

  • Lower Back Pain
  • Headaches
  • Pain and restriction in the joints of the arms and legs

Osteopaths also treat people with:

  • Breathing difficulties
  • Digestive disturbances
  • Gynaecological problems
  • Occupational stress
  • Tension from emotional stress
  • Postural changes in pregnancy

CRANIAL OSTEOPATHY

Cranial osteopathy applies the same principles as Osteopathy while focusing on the subtle mechanic structures of the head and spine, which house the central nervous system, to effect change throughout the body.

CRANIAL OSTEOPATHY FOR BABIES

The gentle nature of the cranial osteopathy makes it particularly suitable for babies and children. Parents regularly report improvement in complaints such as:

• Colic • Sickness and wind • Crying babies • Feeding and sleeping problems • Ear infection • Sinus congestion • Behavioural problems

OSTEOPATHY FOR SPORTS INJURIES

Most people nowadays – especially those of us who work and live in a big city – recognize the need to engage in some regular physical activity. Whether we go walking, running or doing a specific sport, physical exercise helps us relax and balance our work, family and social life.

But if we sustain an injury which prevents us from practising our favourite physical routine, stress can easily build up and create a vicious circle of frustration and poor health.Osteopathy is one of the most effective treatments that can prevent injury and speed up recovery from sports injuries and accidents. The osteopath uses a holistic hands-on approach to understand why the injury has occurred in the first place in order to give the appropriate treatment and prevent recurrence.

At Brackenbury Clinic our highly qualified and experienced osteopaths are involved with amateur to professional athletes from all ages and levels including:

• Short distance runners • Marathon runners • Triathletes • Rugby players • Football players • Dancers • Tennis players • Squash players • Swimmers • Gymnasts • Bodybuilders • Yoga practitioners

You will receive specific advice regarding your training program (stretching, performance progression, goal settings etc.), nutrition and lifestyle, as well as personalised treatment to speed up and enhance your recovery.

If an injury is keeping you away from your activity or sport, visit Brackenbury Clinic – our expert osteopaths will put you back on track for your success.

For information on Osteopaths in your area, or anywhere in the UK, you can contact the Osteopathic Information Service on (020) 7357 6655, or look at the web site of theGeneral Osteopathic Council at www.osteopathy.org.uk

For appointment costs, please visit the individual practitioners’ pages.