Testimonials

The Linden Method
An Appraisal by Dr Francis Teeney
Research Fellow Queen’s University, Belfast.

 
Over the years I have worked with many groups of people affected by what is commonly referred to as “their nerves” and as a consequence, I have used many tools to help to alleviate and overcome these issues; in most cases I have tried the techniques myself in an effort to ascertain whether it improved my own well-being. These tools ranged from relaxation methods of all descriptions, herbal remedies, self-improvement programmes, hypnosis, Yoga, keep fit and many more. Some of these tools worked better than others and sadly some made matters worse, or just cost a fortune with no results at all. This will all sound familiar to many of you and you should take comfort – often the belief is that no one has experienced what you are going through or recovered – WRONG.
 
As a psychologist, with an interest in human emotions, I believe that I have a thorough understanding of what is actually taking place inside the brains of anxious individuals. I also wish to state that I am working to set up a research consortium to investigate the cause and treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/ ME. A major symptom in many CFS/ME cases is anxiety. Please see my work with Mickel Therapy
 
The reader will also be glad to hear that The Linden Method and Mickel Therapy are pooling resources with regards the anxiety symptoms of CFS/ME – progress indeed.
 
The psychology of fear has been very well documented for almost 100 years, especially in the writings of William James, the famous American psychologist, whose findings now form an important part of the foundations on which modern emotional psychology is built.
 
I will not bore you with ‘science talk’, but suffice it to say that James believed the emotional centres of the brain were pivotal to health, mental stability and general well-being. Any greater elaboration of this would require me writing pages and would eventually arrive at the same conclusion.
 
Within our mid brain structures lies the emotional centre. Our emotions, such as anger, sadness, joy, fear and boredom, create levels of activity within the brain that ebb and flow. You can neither laugh nor cry forever – even though we sometimes feel as if we have done the latter. In times of high anxiety, in reality, your emotional stability is simply out of balance. Too much of anything will eventually leave you unsatisfied – including ice cream or your favourite past time. Imagine then what too much exposure to stressful situations will do – apart from the obvious increase in anxiety levels, they will definitely leave you unsatisfied.
 
Pressure at work, at home or in relationships, fast or slow lifestyles with little fulfilment, all lead to emotional instability. What we do know for certain, is that these excesses are likely to cause the over production of adrenalin; in other words, you will be on red alert for too long and places people and things that once did not bother you, all of a sudden, become things to avoid at all cost. And yet, your salvation lies not in avoiding these things but in a structured programme of anxiety recovery.
 
You would not run a marathon without training to increase your fitness levels, so why do you expect to succeed without training for rejoining the marathon of life. Building up new memories, positive memories, emotionally enjoyable memories, bit by bit is the key to anxiety free fulfilment.
 
Remember there are no bears or wolves in the local shop – William James alluded to this many years ago in his findings about how anxiety builds and manifests in the human body.
 
It is possible, without forcing the creation of more anxiety, to replace anxious reactions and memories with none anxious ones, very quickly.
 
My experience of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), is that it relies on manipulating the cognitive section of the brain. This approach can work successfully in some forms of mental illness, but due to its concentration on cognition it does not address the emotions, which is where it fails.
 
I detest sprouts and always have, (despite my mother telling me they were good for me); all the cognitive refocusing I can muster is never going to make me emotionally satisfied when I sit down to a plate of sprouts. If CBT has worked to change your circumstances, I am indeed very happy and wish you every success and happiness in the future. The same applies to hypnosis, drug therapy, Yoga, flooding, NLP and all the other therapies. If they work for you I am happy.
 
Some people do need a break from their daily stress and if their GP has proscribed them sedatives to use as a crutch in the short term, then I wholeheartedly agree that temporary relief in extreme anxiety can be far better than no relief at all. However, some day you will need to withdraw the sedatives, hopefully with the help, guidance and advice of your doctor, but by then, you will need to have implemented a technique that allows you to function without sedatives and to eliminate your anxiety completely.
 
I believe the Linden Method achieves just this.
 
Through my many conversations with Charles and my ongoing work with him, his Method and the research consortium, that includes Mickel Therapy, I have had the opportunity to evaluate Charles’ unique programme. I have no doubt that The Linden Method works and clearly see how and why the structure creates recovery; it makes perfect psychological sense.
 
I have come to the conclusion that The Linden Method is soundly based in solid psychological understanding. It promotes emotional balance, the development of new memories of once feared situations, empowers the sufferer to step out with courage, to attempt new challenges and the programme is written in easily understandable language; it is also very easy to do.
 
The Linden Method has helped very many people and is an easy to understand programme with clear explanations of the processes taking place within your mind and body as anxiety disorder retreats. The Linden Method programme is backed up by a support network of qualified anxiety specialists, psychologists and counsellors, who can simply explain and reassure you about the thoughts, feelings and emotions you are experiencing.
 
The idea that anxiety disorder is simply “nerves” is no explanation at all and will never satisfy or settle your doubts or anxieties. Similarly, the idea that anxiety is something you have to ‘learn to live with’ or that it is a condition that you can never be free from is simply not true.  The Linden Method provides a correct psychological explanation of your condition, reassurance and clear, structured guidance and is definitely a programme for recovery - one that will help you create new emotional memories to replace the anxious ones – and, in addition, The Linden Method provides a blueprint for leading an emotionally fulfilled life.
 
The Linden Method recognises and addresses the fact that there are no bears waiting to attack you, but rather only negative memories of fear that cause and perpetuate your anxiety condition.
 
The Linden Method shows you how to change those negative, anxious memories into happy and emotionally fulfilling ones.
 
I recommend the Linden Method wholeheartedly. It has worked for countless others and it can work for you as well.
 
Finally, there are many out there who would exploit those suffering from anxiety. I am glad to say that the Linden Method will give you your money back if you do not improve.
 
I believe that Charles is going a very long way to shutting down the exploitation of sufferers in this guarantee; his experiences at the hand of anxiety disorder for over 20 years, his 12 years of practice helping sufferers to recover, his qualified staff and his and his organisation’s reputations are testament to the level of respect gained through constantly high results and many thousands of success stories. Lastly his willingness to join a consortium that will include academics and other therapies (such as those lead by Dr. David Mickel) displays an openness to have his Method ruthlessly tested and should be reassuring to those who doubt the efficiency of the Linden Method.
 
In other words you have nothing to lose by trying this psychologically supported recovery programme but you certainly have everything to gain.
 
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About Dr. Francis Teeney
 
Dr Francis Teeney is a Psychologist at Queen’s University Belfast where he is a member of the Social Issues and Health Cluster. He is also a Research Fellow at the University of Aberdeen.

In 2004, Francis became Project Manager for HUMAINE – an EU funded 34 partner/ university worldwide network analysing emotions. Indeed his work in this emotional based research is reflected in is current investigations into the role of emotions in energy disorders such as anxiety, ME/CFS.
 
Francis’ recent activities involve identity and victimhood involving collaboration between the University of Aberdeen and Queen’s University Belfast.
 
Francis was involved in the Northern Ireland Peace Process, held numerous workshops and seminars for victims emotionally affected by the conflict, is an NLP practitioner and is at the forefront of forming an academic research consortium into the causes and treatment of anxiety and ME/CFS with Dr David Mickel, Psychologist Kyle Davies and Charles Linden. With the assistance and guidance of his close friend and colleague, Professor Roddy Cowie of Queen’s University School of Psychology, his objective is to develop a greater understanding of the role of emotions in human health and wellbeing.

Celebrity Endorsements

Jemma Kidd - English Countess, make up artist and fashion model.

Jemma and Jodie Kidd

Photo: Jemma Kidd (now Jemma Wellesley, Countess of Mornington) sister of supermodel Jodie Kidd, interviewed by Fiona Shield for Celebrity Angels

"Panic attacks ruled my life for years. I'd really like to raise more awareness of them; I think something like one in five people have them. They just shatter your life. My twenties were really tough because of them - I was very, very fearful and scared of doing everything. I couldn't go to the supermarket, I couldn't go to crowds - I was very isolated and just stayed at home for a long time. It's a fear of having them, you know when you have them it's horrible, but then you live in fear of having one and that's crippling. There's this wonderful guy called Charles Linden who wrote The Linden Method, if you have panic attacks you should look at his website. It's amazing - it really sorted me out."

Jemma Kidd



Mark Elvidge - TV personality and Musician

Mark's Portrait

"When my problems started around 2001, I thought I might have a physical illness. It was only after a series of tests proved clear, that I considered the root of my problems could possibly be in the mind. After suggesting this possibility to my Doctor, he put me on Seroxat, which at first seemed OK as I could blame any symptoms on the expected side effects. Anyway, I eventually tapered myself off the Seroxat (an option my Doctor gave me), but a year later, was back on them again - and the side-effects were worse still. So I decided to look at other options.

After my enquiry, my GP referred me for an assessment at De La Pole Hospital - which was most bizarre. I had to wait around 6 months, and then at the appointment with two mental health professionals(?) I began to wonder if they were the ones in need of help - but that's another story. Anyway, after an hour, they agreed that I would probably benefit from some CBT, but the NHS waiting time was unpredictable, as there was just one individual conducting the therapy! So they suggested that I might want to try books, the Internet, or even go private. The latter didn't seem such a good idea at the time as my 'condition' had rendered me unable to earn a living at that time.

So being rather Internet savvy (I had been providing Internet hosting services etc. since '98) I eventually explored the Internet - and then thankfully purchased your package 'The Linden Method'. Just on being able to relate to the similarities of your experiences, helped me from day one. And as a result, I didn't rush through the the book etc., as it was there for when I needed a little more - and it remains 'there' in the even of any emergencies/relapses - and just that knowledge alone really helps too.

Interestingly enough, after being diagnosed as needing some help, I got an appointment through - two years after the assessment! So having waited so long, and although I thought I was now in control and almost back to normal, that I would keep with the appointment, and get an outside opinion / assessment.

I had been appointed to see a 'High' something or other therapist, as I had been assessed as being in the 'severe' category!

Anyway, to cut to the chase, the nice young(ish) lady said that she assented me as no longer needing her services, but as she was still in training for these new posts, she asked me if she could induce some anxiety (I had been suffering with HAD) and explore dealing with it?! So with a smile, I told the crazy lady that I had no intention of undoing the repair work just for her experimentation! I also told her about The Linden Method - which she promptly Googled.

Anyway, she summarized that all was good, and that she agreed with the methods used (not that I needed any convincing), some of which she recognized as similar in her ongoing training. She concluded by saying that if I ever needed to make an appointment to see her - then I would not have to wait any amount of time.

I think that must have been a couple of years ago now.

1 year ago, I quit smoking for good (with a little assistance for 2 months with an e-cig - and the knowledge that I could bring about positive change), and with no desire to ever smoke again. And I've also decided to quit alcohol too! Well in for a pound, and one step at a time.

I addition to a number of things, I've been a paranormal investigator (utilizing a lot of technology) for many years - and now, at last, I'm beginning to spend more time not only with the research - but also with the 'people' and media side of things - including giving talks and lectures again, etc.

Also the music is back in game, such as the live gig mentioned earlier. I also have a single still being sold in Europe, which I'm led to believe is popular on the dance floors - so I aim to record some new material, and have just started adding to my arsenal of music equipment for the first time in years!"

Mark Elvidge

Email Testimonials

Juliet's Portrait

"I have purchased your method and it has changed my life. I thank you.
Before I purchased your method I had been in a living hell for eight years and like yourself knew all the medication was not helping. In fact, it only made things worse or it made me feel like a trapped, sedated mess.
The freedom and joy to have my life back and not fear I would harm myself or hurt my family any more emotionally is priceless.
I thank you from my heart of hearts for the work you and your team have done to support me when I started. The honest, open but specific advice worked every time. I have recommended your program to my specialist and am pushing for them to use it (and my GP) and will continue.
I am, like you say, a strong woman and I feel so commited to helping anyone else who is in the same situation as myself and you to have the chance to use your program. The medical profession need to open their eyes and ears and understand the importance of your program. Thank you again."

Juliet J.

Rey's Portrait

"Charles! I'm cured.. I'm moving out to London soon.. I'm so emotional right now cus you got me out of hell! I owe my life to you! May god bless you for what you do cus you're saving lives.
Right now I feel more stronger than anyone, even my own father, and willing to overcome anything in life with a passion to move forward. My family don't know what's hit me lol. I passed my cemap course 1, 2 and 3.. after using The Linden Method I gained inner space to concentrate on my studies and pass. Right now, I'm much more stronger then my peers and I'm currently waiting to be a mortgage advisor at 23 years old only and I found my self a new girlfriend , a Russian hot 10/10.. great personality and im over the bereavement I suffered too at 19... when I got cheated on... how amazing is that! I love you Charles. Seriously.. you are a living legend I wish I can ever meet you personally to thank you and extend my appreciation cus I feel as if you saved my life!"

Rey O.
via Facebook

Jennifer's Portrait

"It's amazing how much more relaxed I feel about the upcoming birth of my twins after doing the method. I'm actually looking forward to this big hectic change in my life rather than frightened! I'm so thankful I came across The Linden Method after having my first child and years of unexplained anxiety, it's the best thing that ever happened to me and I still thank you Charles!"

Jennifer M.
via Facebook

Danejla's Portrait

"Hello Charles! I just want to say thanks because your book was like light at the end of the tunnel. I had agoraphobia for 6 years (attacks, anxiety), and I change over 20 psychologists and psychiatrists but they couldn`t help. Agoraphobia is still taboo in small countrys like Bosnia. I couldn`t belive that one book, one cd, one man, can make such a diferents. After 6 years, I`m OUT again, feel so good, like nothing ever happened, thanks to ur book. I wish you all best, and feel sorry coz I cant give u a hug, coz u done so much for me and people around me."

Best regards,

Danejla K.
via Facebook

Julie's Portrait

"I just wanted to say how very grateful I am to your programme. I found it during a time of suffering from acute anxiety and panic attacks. The programme turned me around so quickly, not a single panic attack since, and that was 4 years ago. I know I'll never have another. Thank you so much."

Julie G.

Claire's Portrait

"When I came across the Linden Method, my panic attacks had reached a point where I could no longer get on buses or the tube and was actually too scared to leave the house to walk the 10 minutes from my halls to my lecture.

The Linden Method was like a lifeline to me and I can't thank Charles enough for helping me put these awful panic attacks behind me. It is so true that no-one completely understands the trauma of a panic attack unless they have experienced it themselves, and to realize other people were experiencing the same things as me helped a great deal in itself, I knew I wasn't completely mad!

Now 2 years later, I cannot remember the last time I had a full blown panic attack, something that I could never have imagined saying a few years ago.

Charles, thank you so much for giving me my life back! I hope many others find your method and escape the vicious circle of anxiety.

Many many thanks"

Claire Farmer

Sandra's Portrait

"Dear Charles,

I call you Charles because you are a friend, a very dear friend...

The most wonderful thing of all about The Linden Method was the knowledge that what was going on. SOMEBODY understood. Every treatment I had been offered over the years gave explanations to people who were worried about going to the supermarket or couldn't cope with a job etc. None of them explained the weird and frightening thoughts I had experienced; thoughts I was, for so many years, afraid to relate to anybody in case they locked me up! I was locked in a desperate world!

I am better than I have been for many years, despite the fact that I still have a lot of problems, troubles, that I am now able to cope with in a different way.

Thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I will never be able to thank you enough."

Sandra T.


Video Testimonials

Marie S. West

Drew Cohen

Etienne Dube

Natasha

Clare James

Mark LaBella

Martin Jensen

Donna Meyers

Lynn Mullins

Les Titford

Dean Lueck

Natalie Bellamy

Regina Weaver

Matt Montgomery