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Human Givens (HG) Therapy

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“Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.”

Jalal ad-Din Rumi (1207 - 73) - Persian Muslim poet & Sufi mystic

 

HG Therapy is an eclectic approach to mental health recovery which is effective, holistic, and person-centred. Therapy focuses on recognising triggers for past and present patterns of feeling, thinking and behaving, identifying clients' innate and learnt resources, and their unmet emotional and physical needs. The HG approach offers a clearer understanding of human nature, emotional well-being, and mental health.    

HG Therapy is based on extensive evidence and research in neuroscience, psychology, and anthropology, bringing together what is actually effective and useful from a wide variety of approaches to psychotherapy and recovery. HG Therapy also recognises many sources of helpful ancient wisdom for daily practical guidance such as Sufi and Buddhist teachings.


Having a broad repertoire of useful and applicable skills, knowing why something is useful, as well as the HG organising ideas make HG Therapy effective and therapeutic in facilitating short to long-term change and recovery.     

Patients' physical, psychological, social, and emotional needs, and their pre-existing resources and strengths - in essence, their Human Givens - are quickly identified. Patients can relax, and talk freely and openly about any problem so that all relevant information can be gathered. Positive and realistic goals are identified early on in therapy. An individual care plan is jointly agreed upon to achieve the identified goals. Patients are encouraged to remember how to breathe diaphragmatically again and to imagine and visualise their plan in action. They are subsequently supported in rehearsing and realising the treatment plan in the real world, with ongoing medical support and review.

"Do not lose hope, nor be sad."

The Holy Qur'an (revealed from 610 to 632), 3:139

Growing evidence shows that HG Therapy is effective in treating mild to moderate depression and anxiety, and emotional distress. This can be highly effective for recovery, especially when other psychological interventions may have been unhelpful. 

HG Therapy is based on the life-changing self-help book "Human Givens: a new approach to emotional health and clear thinking" by Joe Griffin and Ivan Tyrell.  

 

Check how well you are meeting your emotional needs by completing the Human Givens Emotional Needs Audit.

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