How Hypnotherapy Supports Anxiety Relief Naturally
Hi - My name is Andy Selway-Woolley (he/him) and I’m a Clinical Solution Focused Hypnotherapist. I run HeadFirst Hypnotherapy, based in Upper Heyford (near Bicester), Oxfordshire and also work online nationally.
(Can Hypnotherapy Help with Anxiety?)
Anxiety can feel overwhelming, unpredictable, and exhausting. Whether it shows up as racing thoughts, constant worry, sleepless nights or physical tension, it can be hard to know what will actually help.
If you’re looking for a way to feel calmer and more in control — without reliving the past hypnotherapy may offer the support you’ve been searching for.
In this blog, I’ll explain how hypnotherapy works, how it can support anxiety, and what to expect from the process — based on how I work with clients both online and in-person from my therapy space in Oxfordshire.
What is hypnotherapy — and how does it help with anxiety?
Hypnotherapy uses a combination of guided relaxation, focused attention and positive suggestion to help calm the nervous system and support new patterns of thought. When you're anxious, the brain often kicks into ‘fight, flight or freeze’ mode. This is helpful in emergencies — but when it becomes your default setting, it can make everyday life feel overwhelming.
In a relaxed hypnotic state, your brain becomes more receptive to new ideas. I use this to support your mind in letting go of unhelpful patterns, and absorbing more calming, helpful perspectives — without needing to analyse the past.
What happens during a hypnotherapy session for anxiety?
When you work with me, each session typically includes three key parts:
Positive Conversation
We begin by exploring what’s gone well since your last session — even small things. This helps you start shifting your focus away from anxiety and towards progress.
Understanding the Brain
I’ll explain how the brain works when it’s under pressure, and how anxiety builds up. Many clients tell me this part alone helps things start to make more sense.
Guided Hypnosis
I’ll guide you into a calm, focused state where your subconscious mind can begin to accept and integrate positive suggestions. It’s a gentle, deeply relaxing process — you stay fully in control the whole time.
Can hypnotherapy help with all types of anxiety?
In my practice, I work with a wide range of anxiety-related issues, including:
General anxiety and overthinking
Panic attacks
Low mood / motivation
Sleep issues
Social anxiety or fear of judgement
Work-related stress and burnout
Confidence issues and imposter syndrome
Fear of public speaking
Health anxiety
Anxiety related to sexual performance
Because Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is structured, future-focused, and adaptable, it works well for both long-term anxiety and more situational concerns.
How many sessions will I need?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but many people begin to notice a difference within a few sessions. During our initial Discovery Session, we’ll talk about your goals and decide what kind of support might work best for you. Some clients work with me short-term; others stay longer-term for deeper support.
Can I have hypnotherapy online?
Yes — I offer online hypnotherapy sessions via Zoom, and they’re just as effective as in-person work. Some people even prefer working from the comfort of their own space. As long as you have a private, quiet place to relax, online hypnotherapy can be just as powerful.
Final thoughts
If anxiety has been taking up too much space in your life, hypnotherapy offers a calm, natural way to change direction. It helps reduce overwhelm, improve emotional balance, and reconnect you with your own sense of confidence and calm.
Let’s work together!
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is a complementary therapy that supports emotional wellbeing and mental health but is not a substitute for medical or psychological care. If you are experiencing severe anxiety, mental health difficulties, or are in crisis, please consult your GP or a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek appropriate medical advice before making changes to your healthcare routine. Hypnotherapy outcomes can vary and no specific results are guaranteed.
Find Out How Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy Can Help Support You to Feel Less Anxious
Book your 60-minute Initial Consultation today and start your journey towards better well-being
In-person at my Oxfordshire Therapy Room (Upper Heyford, near Bicester or Online via Zoom).
My name is Andy Selway-Woolley (he/him) and I am a fully qualified Clinical Solution Focused Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist. I run HeadFirst Hypnotherapy®, based in Upper Heyford (near Bicester), Oxfordshire.
I assist people in regaining control of their lives by retraining their brains to overcome limiting thought patterns, master their emotions, and cultivate resilient behaviours for a brighter and more positive future.. I know… It’s awesome!
a nutshell, I ‘get you out of your own way’. Because, let’s face it, a lot of us are.
Solution Focused Hypnotherapy taps into the power of your subconscious mind so you can move forward towards the life you’ve always wanted to live. It’s a quick, practical way to address thought patterns, emotions and behaviours that are holding you back in life.
I’m a registered and accredited member of the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC), Association for Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (AfSFH) and National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH).
I service the main towns and cities around Upper Heyford, including Bicester, Banbury, Oxford, Kidlington, Witney, Brackley, Charlbury, Northampton, Buckingham, Chipping Norton, Thame, Didcot, Abingdon, Henley-on-Thames, and Aylesbury, along with other local areas.
I also work nationally and offer remote hypnotherapy services online, so no matter where you're based, support is just a click away!