Content-Free Regression Therapy in Derby
Some people want to shift what an old experience still does to them without saying a word about it. Content-free regression makes that possible — you track the feeling, not the story.
BACP-registered · In-person Derby · Online UK · Confidential
What 'content-free' actually means
In a content-free session you don't have to describe the memory, name the people involved, or narrate any detail out loud. You follow a feeling in the body back to where it started, while I guide the structure of the process. It suits people in professions where disclosure feels risky, anyone who has told the story too many times already, and clients who freeze when asked to talk. It is a way of working, not a promise of a particular result — we review together whether it is helping.
What this can help with
- ✓Reactions that feel far bigger than the situation
- ✓Long-standing shame with no obvious cause
- ✓Memories you'd rather not put into words
- ✓Confidentiality-sensitive roles (police, forces, medicine, law)
- ✓Feeling stuck after years of talking therapy
- ✓Recurrent patterns in relationships or work
- ✓Body-held anxiety without a clear trigger
How sessions are structured
- Step 1
Agree the boundary
We set out clearly what you will and won't be asked to disclose, and how you can pause at any point.
- Step 2
Track the feeling
Using a light hypnotic focus, you follow the sensation back to earlier moments — silently, or with a single word if you prefer.
- Step 3
Settle and review
We ground the session, check how your system feels afterwards, and decide together what's useful next.
What clients say
★★★★★"I decided to seek structured support and expertise — highly recommend James."
★★★★★"Working with James has been incredibly helpful for my anxiety. He creates a calm, supportive environment."
★★★★★"Therapy with James helped me understand myself and overcome patterns I'd struggled with for years."
Frequently asked questions
Do I really not have to say what happened?+
Correct. You can keep the content entirely private. I work with your feedback about intensity and shift, not with the details.
How is this different from EMDR?+
EMDR usually works with an identified target memory, though it also needs very little narration. Content-free regression starts from a present-day feeling and lets that lead, without any target being named.
Is it hypnosis?+
It uses a focused, relaxed state similar to clinical hypnotherapy. You stay aware and in control throughout and can open your eyes whenever you want.
Is it suitable if I have complex trauma?+
Sometimes, and only after stabilisation work. We'd discuss your history first and go at a pace your nervous system can hold.
How many sessions might I need?+
That varies from person to person and I won't guess a number before meeting you. We review progress openly as we go.
Related services
Ready to take the first step?
Two minutes. No forms. No pressure. Just a conversation.