More open horizons.
Less fear of enclosed spaces.
Thoughtful support for claustrophobia with hypnotherapy and NLP-informed techniques, in Swindon and online throughout the UK.
Whether lifts, tunnels, travel or medical scans have become difficult, we can begin by understanding what happens for you — without pressure or judgement.
When a space feels smaller than it really is.
Claustrophobia is a fear of confined or enclosed spaces. For some, the difficult part is being somewhere they cannot easily leave. For others, the worry begins well before an appointment or journey.
You might avoid lifts, public transport, tunnels, crowded settings or MRI appointments. Your experience could include a racing heart, rapid breathing, dizziness, panic or the urge to escape. These responses can feel intense — and they deserve to be taken seriously.
We start with your experience, not a label. Our first conversation is an opportunity to explore what you hope could become easier in everyday life.
Support that is thoughtful, collaborative and tailored to you.
My work can bring together hypnotherapy, Solution Focused conversations and selected NLP-informed methods, while considering the approaches supported by clinical evidence.
Clinical hypnotherapy
Guided relaxation, imagery and therapeutic suggestion may help some people explore their responses and practise feeling more settled. You remain involved and in control. Hypnotherapy is not a guaranteed cure.
NLP-informed techniques
Where appropriate, we may explore NLP techniques such as reframing, visualisation and the rewind-style approach to help you consider unhelpful associations differently. Evidence for NLP as a phobia treatment is limited, so suitability and expectations are discussed openly.
Evidence-based options
CBT and carefully planned graded exposure are well-established approaches for specific phobias. Depending on your goals and needs, I can discuss these options and whether a suitably qualified specialist or NHS service would be appropriate.
What working together can look like.
There is no need to describe every difficult experience in detail or commit to a treatment plan before we've spoken.
We talk first
Your free consultation is a chance to ask questions, describe what you'd like to change and decide whether the approach feels right.
We agree a direction
If we decide to work together, we'll consider your goals, preferences and relevant treatment options, including any reasons to seek specialist input.
We review progress
Sessions may include Solution Focused discussion, hypnotherapy and suitable NLP-informed methods. We'll review what's helping and adapt as needed.
Hello, I'm Gary.
I'm Gary Smith, a psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist based in North Swindon. I work with people experiencing phobias, anxiety and other difficulties, and I also train and supervise hypnotherapists.
My approach is friendly, practical and respectful. I draw on my Solution Focused training, clinical hypnotherapy and additional NLP and Neo-Ericksonian learning. We'll discuss what each approach might realistically offer, rather than promising the same outcome for everyone.
Questions you might be wondering about.
Can hypnotherapy help with claustrophobia?
Some people find guided relaxation, imagery and hypnotherapy helpful in working with anxiety responses. It is not a guaranteed treatment, and we can consider whether it fits your needs alongside other evidence-based options.
Do you use NLP for claustrophobia?
Yes. Where suitable, I may draw on NLP-informed visualisation, reframing and rewind-style techniques. We will discuss the limited clinical evidence for NLP and agree an approach collaboratively.
Will I have to go into an enclosed space during the first session?
No. The initial consultation is a conversation to understand your concerns and preferences. If graded exposure is considered, it should be carefully planned with an appropriately qualified professional, at a manageable pace.
What if I am worried about an MRI scan?
Tell your hospital or imaging team ahead of time. They can discuss what is available, including scan arrangements or appropriate medical support. Therapy is not a substitute for advice from your healthcare team.
Do you offer online sessions?
Yes. I offer online appointments across the UK, as well as in-person sessions at my Swindon practice, where clinically appropriate.
How many sessions will I need?
That varies. The nature of your difficulties, goals, preferred treatment and response are all relevant. We can discuss a sensible plan and review progress rather than promising a fixed number.
Can younger people receive support?
Please enquire. Any work with children or young people needs age-appropriate planning, consent, parental involvement where appropriate and safeguarding consideration.
How do I start?
Book a free initial consultation or contact me directly. We can discuss the situation, the options available and whether you would like to proceed.
More space to live the life you want.
If claustrophobia is affecting everyday choices, you're welcome to get in touch. We can talk about what matters to you, how hypnotherapy or NLP-informed support might fit, and any alternatives worth considering.
Best Mind Therapy · North Swindon · Online UK-wide