HYPNOTHERAPY is helping problem drinkers in York win the battle against the bottle.

The hypnosis treatment - thought to be the first of its kind in the country at an alcohol treatment centre - started as a trial in April, 2004, and has become a resounding success story.

About 20 clients have taken advantage of the project at the York Alcohol Advice Service (YAAS), a voluntary sector alcohol counselling organisation in Bootham. Only one has had a minor relapse.

One woman was an alcoholic for eight years before seeking help from YAAS, and is now celebrating almost two years months of abstinence after taking part in the pilot.

The 57-year-old donated £1,000 to the project so it could continue to help others.

Alison Tubbs, YAAS service manager, said: "It is an innovative, effective and cost-effective treatment for problem drinkers.

"We think it is unique in England. For us, it is a highly valued treatment approach with some amazing effects."

Alcohol Concern, the national agency on alcohol misuse, has also reported that the hypnotherapy project "appears to be breaking new ground".

It all started when advanced hypnotherapist Robert Williams offered YAAS a free three-month trial.

The results were so positive that the Truemark Trust - which supports small organisations, particularly with innovatory work - provided funding.

Four to five hypnotherapy sessions, which cost about £35 each, are sufficient for most people - fewer than with other forms of therapy.

They offer people an opportunity to address underlying issues behind drinking and the emotional consequences.

Mr Williams said hypnosis was a state of relaxation with the client in contact with his subconscious mind - the seat of emotion and behavioural problems. The client is completely aware of what is happening and always in control.

"We are not born with phobias, insomnia or anxiety. It normally comes on as a result of something that has happened," he said. "This is about working with that initial trigger. Hypnotherapy goes directly to the root cause.

"Through hypnosis, clients can change how they respond instinctively in particular situations so that both the psychological reasons for the negative behaviour pattern and the habit itself can be dealt with effectively."

Alison is keen to see the project formally evaluated to attract permanent funding.

Meanwhile, it is "ticking over" financially, she said.

"A lot of clients say they want to give something back. We use all our client donations for the project. We are working hard to ensure it continues because it is such a valuable service.

"People say hypnotherapy has been a key to their recovery. It complements other services. It is a treatment we can offer to clients who are frequently relapsing and struggling to find the trigger for that."

Clients have reported feeling more positive about their ability to cope with stressful situations and increased self-confidence.

Mr Williams offers a free initial 20-minute consultation.

He can be phoned at the Healing Clinic at Fulford Cross, York, on 01904 679868, or the Natural Health Centre, in Kirkbymoorside, on 01751 430335.

Updated: 09:42 Tuesday, January 17, 2006