How Mindfulness and Hypnotherapy can help Parkingson’s Disease

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition in which parts of the brain become increasingly damaged over time, leading to a reduction in dopamine. This causes motor symptoms such as tremor, slowness of movement, and muscle stiffness.

It is the second most common neurodegenerative disease worldwide, and its prevalence is rising due to increasing life expectancy and an ageing population. While it disproportionately affects older men, more and more younger people are also being diagnosed. This growing burden highlights the urgent need for prevention, early diagnosis, and tailored management strategies to support those affected.

How Can Mindfulness and Hypnotherapy Help?

Many clients with Parkinson’s tell our hypnotherapist and mindfulness teacher Emma Bisdee, they feel as if they have lost their identity, their independence, and their sense of control. Understandably, there is often fear about the future and a feeling of carrying a heavy burden alone.

Emma’s approach is to provide a safe and supportive space where clients can share their worries, process their fears, and begin to take back some control. Work often starts with small, manageable practices such as short meditations, spending time in nature, and learning to focus on the present moment.

Emma reminds clients that no one knows what the future holds; what we do have is this moment. Mindfulness practices can help to reduce anxiety, foster resilience, and encourage self-compassion. Clients learn to listen to their bodies with kindness, allowing rest when needed, engaging in uplifting activities, and noticing the small joys that bring comfort.

Hypnotherapy can also support relaxation, reduce stress, and help individuals feel more resourceful in managing their symptoms. By working with the subconscious mind, it can encourage more positive coping strategies and a stronger sense of inner strength.

Counselling and Parkinson’s Disease

Alongside mindfulness and hypnotherapy, counselling offers a vital space for people living with Parkinson’s to explore the emotional and psychological impact of the condition. A Parkinson’s diagnosis often brings feelings of grief, anger, loss, and uncertainty, not only for the individual but also for their families and carers.

We have a number of low-cost counselling sessions with Emma Bisdee that can help clients process these emotions, strengthen resilience, and develop healthier coping strategies. It also provides a non-judgemental place to talk openly about fears, identity changes, and relationship pressures that often arise. For many, counselling is a sanctuary where they feel understood and no longer alone in their experience.

Family members and partners can also benefit from counselling, as Parkinson’s impacts the whole support network. Therapy can give carers a space to express their own struggles and find ways to cope with the demands of supporting a loved one.

Client Voices

Client 1
“One of my symptoms is anxiety, particularly in crowds. For example, I hate going through airports. I use a technique I learnt from one of Emma’s mindfulness group sessions. It doesn’t completely stop the anxiety, but I’m much more able to cope.”

Client 2
“The classes help me during a difficult time. Emma has a calming influence. I miss the sessions… they are like a harbour protecting us from the storm, a sanctuary.”

Final Thoughts

Emma has learnt so much from working with her clients with Parkinson’s and considers it a privilege to support them on their journeys. By combining counselling, mindfulness, and hypnotherapy, Emma Bisdee hopes to raise awareness of the support available and to encourage more people to seek help. No one should face Parkinson’s alone.

Take the first step today!

If you are struggling with any aspect of your mental health, please get in touch. Embarking on a therapeutic journey can be transformative, and finding the right therapist is a crucial part of the process. Let the Cherry Tree Centre in Henley be your guide in discovering the perfect match for your needs. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and begin your journey towards healing, growth, and well-being.