Jane – UK

My journey as I recover from chronic migraines

Saul was recommended to me as someone who could help with my chronic migraines. Saul quickly offered me an initial free appointment to discuss my situation. He really listened to me and understood; and even at that first session gave me some ideas to try to help. Saul was completely professional organising the zoom calls, listening, reflecting and offering me practical manageable new ways to tackle problems. He really cared if I was getting better, and helped me through step by step if I felt I was floundering. I thoroughly recommend him to you if you are thinking of starting this therapy. I started it as a bit of a sceptic as I had been ill for 23 years and thought I was beyond help. I was so wrong! This Health Recovery Therapy has helped me so much and given me new energy, even at 58 years old, to live life to the full again. Here is more of my story.

I had migraines often up to 10 times a month and took medication prescribed by a GP and consultant neurologist. I could not predict attacks so my life was being dominated by accommodating them, even though I did my best to remain cheerful and carry on even during the pain.

I am writing this 6 months after my last therapy session as part of me thought the changes I made would revert back over time, but they have not ! I am still better. I cannot explain how amazing that is and I will always be grateful to Saul for what he has taught me.

As my migraines are so physical I could not work out how just talking to someone could help. Saul quietly, firmly and patiently answered my questions and explained how the therapy he offered could help. I explained that I did not want to participate in any strange complimentary therapies, or do anything to interfere with being a Christian. Saul respected this through all the therapy sessions we had, and I always felt in control of what I was asked to do or change. Nothing was weird or strange ! Saul listened carefully and was patiently able to help me find constructive and sensible ways to deal with life’s challenges. I discovered that I was a people pleaser, and carried on if I was emotionally hurt. I just coped on the outside, but inside did not think what I wanted or that I mattered.

Discovering this sacred me a bit as I thought in order to get rid of the migraines I would have to completely change my personality and just look after myself, and so become self centred. Saul was able to reassure me that even small changes could help, and they have.

I was asked to keep simple notes about activities I planned for some days and then reflect in the evenings how I had felt. I learned how to get in touch with my feelings, and Saul helped me see how I could have dealt with some situations in a more positive way to look after my needs, as well as other people’s. During the sessions I did not have to keep thinking about the past as the focus was very practical about dealing with my days as they are now.

I have learned to make boundaries and choose to do fun things as well as just working and doing the chores. It is working really well. I still do not get it right all the time but I know now how to help myself. I still get some migraines, but far fewer, and they are less severe in spite of weaning myself off my preventative medication (under guidance from my GP).

I am writing this 6 months after my last therapy session as part of me thought the changes I made would revert back over time, but they have not ! I am still better. I cannot explain how amazing that is and I will always be grateful to Saul for what he has taught me.

Name and photo for illustrative purposes