News & Media Comments
Always a Last Resort:Inquiry into the prescription of Antipsychotic drugs to people with Dementia living in care homes
November 2009: National College of Hypnosis and Psychotherapy Dementia Faculty
In February 2008, Dr Daniel Nightingale, the Head of the National College of Hypnosis and Psychotherapy Dementia Faculty was one of the Consultants involved in a 2 day inquiry at Westminster looking at the use of antipsychotic medicines in people living with dementia and who reside in a care home.
The evidence that these drugs were being used inappropriately, and very often off licence, alarmed everyone involved in the inquiry.
The All Party Political Group on Dementia that ran the inquiry was led by Jeremy Wright, MP, and other professional professional witnesses included Dr Graham Stokes and Professor Clive Ballard. Relatives, carers and care home providers also gave evidence over the 2 days.
The report was released in April 2008 and Southern Cross Healthcare, the largest provider of residential and nursing homes in the UK, immediately implemented Always a Last Resort throughout its services.
Dr Nightingale welcomes Professor Sube Banerjee's report - The use of antipsychotic medication for people with dementia: Time for action which he was asked to do by the Minister of State.
The fundamental principles of the report focus on making use of all other approaches and interventions to help people during the challenging aspects of the journey through dementia.
"Training and development, continual professional development, further training for GP's and other clinicians and the use of psycho-social interventions are areas in which we are now moving in order to be more person centred and non-aversive" comments Dr Nightingale
He goes on to say "However, it must be remembered that there is sometimes a need for medicines, but we now encourage the title of the inquiry - Always a Last Resort."
The National College has been providing training in Hypno-Psychotherapy since 1977 and has been providing specialist training in the use of Hypno-Psychotherapy in dementia care since 2007. For further information contact the College at enquiries@nchp.org.uk or telephone 0845 2578735
First Annual International Hypno-Psychotherapy Conference
On the 20th and 21st of June 2009 over 100 Hypnotherapists and Hypno-Psychotherapists met at the First Annual International Hypno-Psychotherapy Conference. Delegates came from several countries to hear some excellent presentations which were not only informative but motivational as well. This event was such a success that the dates have been set for next year's event, 11th-13th of June 2010 in the Midlands (Leicester). Here are some photos of the gala dinner on the 20th of June:
UKCP 5 Yearly Review
To retain membership/accreditation with the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy, every Member Organisation submits to a 5 yearly review. The National College underwent its review in May 08. We are delighted to report that we have passed this review. The following is taken from the report:
Decision: Pass: On the basis that NCHP was seen to be meeting UKCP's core Standards for Education and Training, as well as those in place for the Hypno-Psychotherapy Section at the point of this assessment, the assessors consider that NCHP has passed the Quinquenial Review assessment. In arriving at this decision the assessors have also considered the relevant standards for the EAP EWAO for the modality.
This is conditional on their completion of the required actions within the specified time scales and clear evidencing of having given appropriate attention to recommendations.
The National College is a founding member of UKCP and its precursors and we take our responsibility to the psychotherapeutic community very seriously and believe that this review process is one of the best ways to ensure quality accross the hypno-psychotherapeutic modality. We are more than happy with the required actions and that they will be implemented in the within the timescale presented. In fact, several have already been put into place since the inpsection.To read the full report please click HERE
Web Changes
This is where we'll announce the most recent additions to our web site. If you've visited us before and want to know what's changed, take a look here first.
- Statutory regulation of psychotherapists. Click Here for NCHP's response to the White Paper.
- For full details of the National College download Prospectus.pdf
- Planned new course covering the use of hypnosis with people who have Alzheimer's disease . Click Here for further information.
- NCHP's Self-Study Packages are now available for purchase. Click Here for details.
Media Coverage of National College of Hypnosis & Psychotherapy
Read what others have said about NCHP and our graduates who have gone on to join the National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists. The media comments are in chronological order:
National College courses are described as "honest and extremely efficient" and readers are urged to write to us for details of "...therapists who have been properly trained"
Ursula Markham's book 'Alternative Health - Hypnosis', 1987 published by Macdonald Optima
"A good way to find a reputable practitioner is to contact the National College of Hypnosis and Psychotherapy, 12 Cross Street, Nelson..."
The Times, 16th November 1989
"Helping people probe the recesses of their mind, release emotional blockages and grow in self-understanding requires a high degree of competence so it is essential to choose a reputable practitioner. For information and a list of qualified hypnotherapists, send self sae to: National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists, 12 Cross St..."
April 1990 issue of Guiding Magazine
"As the law stands, anyone can set up as a hypnotherapist. So it is important to check out the therapist's qualifications before you book a consultation. To find a reputable hypnotherapist, send an sae to...National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists..."
Bella, 26th January 1991
"For details of qualified practitioners, write (enclosing an sae) to the National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists..."
Woman's Realm, 7th April 1992
Dr John Bird, in his book 'A New Career After Forty', refers to the National College as a "well-run professional organisation...doing much to improve the status and image of hypnotherapists"
'A New Career After Forty' by Dr John Bird, 1993, published by Northcote House
"To find a reputable therapist, send an sae to: National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists..."
Me Magazine, 11th May 1994
"The safest bet is to choose a reputable organisation for the particular therapy...(referring to the National College in the A-Z Guide)...and ask them for a list of recommended therapists"
Good Health Special, Daily Mail, 29th November 1994
"In view of the dangers of hypnotism in unscrupulous hands, it's advisable to contact a reputable hypnotherapist through the National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists..."
Living, March 1995
"...it is extremely important to the success of the treatment that the therapist is carefully selected in order to establish a trusting rapport, and to be absolutely certain that the hypnotherapist's first priority is the patient's welfare...Further information...The National Register..."
Nursing Times, Holistic Health Handbook, 1995
"...you can also check with the National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists for practitioners in your area who, in order to be on the register, must be fully trained and insured and abide by a professional code of ethics. You can ring for details on 01282 699378 "
Manchester Evening News, 1st February 1996
"Anyone can set themselves up as a therapist, so ensure your therapist is a member of the National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists. For a list of practitioners in your area, send an sae to the National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists, 12 Cross Street..."
Woman's Own, 6th May 1996
"There are unscrupulous therapists around and a confusing number of qualifications for hypnotherapy, so you need to be cautious...To find a hypnotherapist in your area, contact the National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists, 12 Cross St...well-qualified and regulated practitioners"
Top Santé, November 1997
In answer to the question of which hypnotherapists are reputable, Dr Hilary Jones responds: "Avoid Yellow Pages - anyone can set up as a hypnotherapist, without qualifications. Instead, send an sae - for a list of registered therapists in your area - to the National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists...".
Sunday Magazine, News of the World, 7th June 1998
"If you are considering hypnotherapy, it's probably not a good idea to go for the pin-in-the-Yellow-Pages approach. This is a highly unregulated sector, so be careful...For guidance on finding a hypnotherapist, contact: The National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists..."
Times Educational Supplement, Friday Magazine, 27th November 1998
"The National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists (NRHP) is the main professional body for those who have trained with the National College of Hypnosis and Psychotherapy (NCHP). Both the NRHP and NCHP are members of the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) and the College is externally accredited by the British Accreditation Council for Independent Further and Higher Education...Diploma holders who fulfil the necessary requirements may...go on to undertake the Masters Degree at Manchester Metropolitan University. Suitably qualified students may also train to UKCP registration level...Further Reading: 'Hypnotherapy', P J D Savage in 'Morag - Myself or Mother Hen' (Ed - M Walker), OUP (1995)...Useful Addresses: National Register....National College, 12 Cross St., Nelson..."
HSBC (formerly Midland Bank) Business Profile, Hypnotherapist, No 321, November 1998
In answer to the question of "How can I find a reputable hypnotist?" Dr Chris Steele in his 'Quick Health' column in TV Quick responds: "There is a National Register of Hypnotherapists & Psychotherapists at 12 Cross Street, Nelson...which provides a nationwide referral service to professional therapists."
TV Quick, 27th February/5th March 1999
"To find a qualified hypnotherapist in your area you can call the NRHP on 01282 699378 or tap in the internet on www.nrhp.co.uk."
'Hypnotism for Beginners', New Woman, May 1999
"...Hypnotherapy is the use of a heightened state of suggestibility to influence thought and behavioural patterns. Hypnotherapy training incorporates psycho-therapy with hypnotic techniques...NCHP...a training faculty for its associated professional body, the NRHP...For further details, visit the College's website on www.hypnotherapyuk.net or call 01282 699378
'At a Glance Guide to Training', Zest, November 1999
"Hypnotherapy...Contact the National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists (01282 716839)
'Free Yourself from Pain the Natural Way', Good Housekeeping, March 2000
"Hypnotherapy - Further information...NRHP supplies a list of therapists and information on whether or not a therapist will treat you on the NHS - but you will need to be referred by your GP. Call 01282 716839
Top Santé, April 2000
In an article 'Hypnotherapy' (April 2000 Edition of the Consumers' Association's 'Health Which?') the readership is warned that, "There's a bewildering array of organisations and thousands of therapists practising hypnosis in the UK.". The article then lists just three contact organisations: The British Society of Medical & Dental Hypnosis, The British Society of Experimental & Clinical Hypnosis and The National Register of Hypnotherapists & Psychotherapists.
'Hypnotherapy' Health Which? April 2000
'All in the Mind - Hypnotherapy session proves that the brain is a powerful tool'. The article describes the work of NRHP member Rod Grant and refers to only two organisations - the National Register and National College.
Saga Magazine, September 2000
The September 2000 issue of "Amateur Stage" featured an article on 'Hypnosis and Performance Nerves' by NRHP member, Angela Plotel. The editors gave substantial information about only two relevant organisations - the NRHP and the NCHP.
Amateur Stage, September 2000
Bella staff volunteers tried out various different interventions to help with weight loss, awarding each a maximum of 10 points. NRHP member Jean Pain featured in the article. Hypnotherapy scored 10/10, and only one professional association was named in this discipline: The NRHP.
Bella, 12th September 2000
In response to a reader's letter asking for help in tracking down a local hypnotherapist, GP, Dr Sarah Brewer, writes: "To find an accredited practitioner, contact the NRHP..."
The Daily Telegraph, Health and Wellbeing, October 25th 2000
Dr Miriam Stoppard advises a reader to contact the NRHP for details of therapists to help her overcome her claustrophobia.
The Mirror, 12th February 2001
In an article 'Mind over Matter' in "Women's Health" magazine, four volunteers sought therapy for various fears, addictions and phobias. Three of the chosen therapists were NRHP members: Simon Clarke; Sacha Khan and John Butler, all achieving positive outcomes.
Women's Health, March 2001
Interviewed for an article discussing the possibility of different therapeutic approaches to help couples with fertility problems, NRHP member, John Butler, referred to "well-documented cases of psychogenic infertility". John went on to describe his therapeutic approach. In our particular discipline, only the NRHP's contact number was given "For further information...".
The Guardian "Weekend", 11th August 2001
"...contact the National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists on 01282 716839, which keeps up-to-date records of reputable hypnotherapists and can provide you with a list in your area."
'Hypnotherapy - the power of suggestion', Woman's Weekly, 16th October 2001
An article entitled "How to beat your fear of flying" in the Mirror magazine discussed the various methods of overcoming this phobia. Only the NRHP's contact details were given with regard to hypnotherapy.
The Mirror Mag, Saturday, 3rd November 2001
In an article "I was hypnotised on stage and relived my worst nightmare" the NRHP's details were given under the heading 'Finding a good hypnotherapist'.
Bella, 27th November 2001
A two-page discussion of how smokers might be helped to stop mentions hypnotherapy as having, "...a good track record for helping people quit." Although we might not endorse the aversion technique described in the article, only the NRHP's contact details are given: "Call the NRHP on 01282 716839 for a practitioner near you...".
Woman's Weekly, 9th April 2002.
An article concerning a woman experiencing panic attacks and her treatment lists the NRHP's details.
Evening Standard Magazine, 28th June 2002
"The New No-diet Way to Lose Weight.Hypnotherapy.For a list of qualified therapists in your area.NRHP"
Zest Magazine, July 2002
Dr Hilary Jones answers a query from a reader suffering from extreme shyness and blushing. He recommends cognitive therapy and hypnosis and adds that the NRHP will be able to help. Only NRHP's details are given.
News of the World Sunday Magazine, 20th October 2002
An article entitled "It's all in the mind" described different methods of achieving improvements in health and performance, e.g., NLP, group therapy. Hypnotherapy was mentioned in relation to pain control and reducing anxiety. The article went on to say "To make sure you are consulting a reputable, properly trained practitioner who follows a code of practice, see the Natural Health guide" Only the NRHP's details are given in relation to the subject of hypnotherapy.
Natural Health & Well-Being, December 2002
"For the final week of our Best of Health campaign, we focus on giving up the most addictive habit of all - smoking" Only one hypno-psychotherapy organisation was mentioned: ".interested in seeing a qualified hypnotherapist.call the NRHP.
Best Magazine, 28th January 2003
In an article on training in hypnotherapy, Alison Coleman wrote: "There are lots of training courses around and those who want to practise hypnotherapy should choose carefully. "We wouldn't encourage someone who we felt couldn't copy with the academic work involved" says Peter Savage, principal of the NCHP, which runs a diploma course in hypnotherapy. "It is a rigorous course and takes commitment" The course is based on weekend attendance at one of the college's training venues and typically takes 18 months to two years to complete. It is accredited by the British Accreditation Council for Independent Further and Higher Education.
Daily Express, Tuesday, January 28th 2003
Details of the NRHP were given for information in an article on training in hypnotherapy.
Daily Express, Tuesday, February 25th 2003
Further to a query from reader: "I suffer from anorexia and I'm not finding counselling helpful. I've heard that hypnotherapy might be beneficial. How can I find a qualified hypnotherapist in my area?" Dr Sarah Brewer responds as follows: "Hypnotherapy has helped many people with eating disorders. Contact the NRHP.or send an sae for a free listing."
Mind body & soul, Prima, April 2003
Dr Mark Atkinson answers a query from a reader who has a habit of cracking the bones in their fingers and toes, as follows: "The problem with habits is that they are, by nature, unconscious processes. In order to cure a habit you need to access the unconscious mind, the easiest, most effective way to do that is with the help of a professional hypnotherapist. In my experience, positive results are possible after one session. To find your nearest practitioner.NRHP."
Now Magazine, 2nd April 2003
A reader suffering from anxiety attacks, asks for advice from Dr Mark Atkinson. One of the things he recommends is regression hypnosis and directs the reader to the NRHP.
Now Magazine, 16th April 2003
Dr Hilary Jones advises a reader suffering from irritable bowl syndrome (IBS) to make dietary changes, take exercise and try hypnotherapy to reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute significantly to IBS. Dr Jones suggests calling the NRHP for details (the only such organisation mentioned).
Sunday Magazine, News of the World, 4th May 2003
A reader writes that a skin trauma, resulting in hyperpigmentation marks on her face, has led to a loss of self confidence. Dr Mark Atkinson suggests suitable medications, but also advises her to focus on changing the way she is reacting to her skin condition. "Hypnosis can help - it reprogrammes the unconscious mind, where all of your beliefs are stored, and can make a real difference to the way you think and cope with a problem. For more information.NRHP on 0800 1613823"
Now Magazine, 21st May 2003
A reader suffering from musophobia (fear of mice) was advised to try behavioural therapy and to contact the NRHP for details of a local reputable therapist.
Woman's Own, 2nd June 2003
BBCi's Health and Parenting website carries a section on Hypnotherapy. It lists five relevant organisations - two of them being the NRHP and NCHP.
BBCi Health and Parenting Team at
http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/healthy_living/complementary_medicine/therapies_hypnotherapy.shtml
In an article "Matters of the Mind" career opportunities in the field of hypnotherapy are discussed. The National College of Hypnosis and Psychotherapy's details are given.
Daily Express, December 9th 2003
Dr Josie Harder, one of NCHP's graduates, appeared in an article on careers entitled, 'On the Job - Hypnotherapist'. Dr Harder advised that courses should be researched carefully, and recommended NCHP training.
Marie Claire, January 2004
In an article on dieting, a reader asked whether hypnotherapy could help her eat more healthily. A dietician, Juliette Kellow advised her to call the National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists or visit the website to find a local practitioner.
Closer, 17-23rd July 2004
Sir Bill Connor, the former General Secretary of USDAW, wrote: -
STRESS MANAGEMENT TRAINING - ENDORSEMENT FROM Usdaw
Following a recommendation from an internal working party USDAW decided to introduce stress management training for all of it`s full-time officials and was anxious to find a reputable provider.
We decided, after some research to engage the services of the National College of Hypnosis and Psychotherapy, based in Nelson.
We were impressed by their training and supervision arrangements and their adherence to a ` Statement of Ethical Principles `. We were further reassured because another organisation of professionals namely; the Royal College of Nursing, had engaged the College to provide Stress Management Training for their own staff.
The training provide by the college was first class, the chosen tutors were empathetic to the specific requirements of our trade union and the feedback from officials who attended the courses was extremely positive.
We would have no hesitation, whatsoever, in recommending the college to any organisation seeking help with Stress Management and looking for a provider with integrity and dedicated professionalism.
Sir Bill Connor
General Secretary of USDAW from June 1997 to May 2004
Usdaw is the fifth largest union in the TUC with over 338,000 members and employing approx. 400 staff and was founded in 1947.