Hypnosis is a natural state of relaxation and heightened awareness which allows us to access the unconscious mind. In Cognitive Hypnotherapy, we work together using hypnosis and trance states to help you to overcome challenges and promote positive change.

Trance is not a special state that I can ‘put’ you into. It’s a natural and everyday experience. We all enter trance-like states throughout the day, such as when we become so absorbed in a TV show that we tune out to our surroundings. In Cognitive Hypnotherapy, we work with the trance states connected to your issue to help create positive change. You will remain in control at all times.

Adult sessions typically last around an hour. The first session may take a little longer to allow time for discussion and assessment, so I recommend allowing up to an hour and a half. Children’s sessions usually last between 30 minutes and 1 hour, depending on their age, concentration and comfort level. The duration is always tailored to suit each child’s individual needs, ensuring the session remains engaging and beneficial.

Because Cognitive Hypnotherapy is tailored to each individual, the number of sessions needed can vary from person to person. Some people only need as little as 3 or 4 sessions but others may need more depending on the nature of the issue. On average, most people tend to need between 3 and 10 sessions.

It’s completely normal to feel unsure or nervous about starting therapy. My aim is to create a safe, welcoming, non-judgemental space where you can feel at ease. We work together to go at your own pace and you’re not expected to talk about anything you’re not comfortable with. I like to think of therapy as just another form of conversation. You’re in control at all times and I’m here to support and gently guide you toward where you’d like to be.

Yes, I can work with children aged 5 and upwards. With over 13 years of experience as a primary school teacher, I’m very used to building trusting relationships with children and always aim to help them feel safe, seen and understood. I support children with a range of challenges including anxiety, sleep issues, exam nerves, bed wetting, fears and low self-esteem. Each session is child-led and goes entirely at your child’s own pace. Therapy with children often looks quite different to therapy with adults. I use metaphors, storytelling and creative approaches to make sessions engaging and accessible. By taking time to build rapport and understand your child’s unique interests, I tailor sessions to create a fun and safe space. My aim is to help them gently explore their issue and feel equipped with tools to support their progress.

In your first session, I take time to get to know a little bit about you and what’s led you to seeking support from me. You are welcome to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with and my aim is to help you to feel at ease as much as possible. This initial conversation helps me understand how your issue is affecting your life, what positive changes you’d like to make and what outcomes you’re hoping for. From there, I begin to develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs. In subsequent sessions, I will explain the direction of our work together and make sure you're happy and comfortable with everything before we proceed. Sessions may involve exploring and gently releasing the root cause of an issue, as well as working with practical, solution-focused tools and techniques that you can use in your everyday life. Everything is designed to support you in making meaningful, lasting change. We go at your pace, with your goals in mind.

My work is guided by a Code of Ethics set out by the NCH which means I cannot work with you if you have ever been diagnosed with any of the following: Any form of psychosis, including Schizophrenia or Bipolar Disorder Epilepsy