Find your voice.
Feel more confident speaking.
Support for fear of public speaking (glossophobia), performance anxiety and the worries that can arise before presentations, meetings and speeches.
I'm Gary Smith, a psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist in Swindon. We can explore hypnotherapy, NLP-informed techniques and practical, evidence-based strategies at a pace that feels right for you.
When you have something to say, but anxiety gets in the way.
Perhaps you know your subject well, but your heart races as soon as you are asked to speak. You might rehearse every word, worry about being judged or avoid opportunities because a presentation or meeting feels too daunting.
Fear of public speaking is common and can range from understandable nerves to an intense, persistent fear. It may be limited to speaking in front of an audience or be part of broader social anxiety. Either way, your experience deserves to be heard without judgement.
You do not have to become a polished performer. Your goal might simply be to explain your ideas, speak at a family occasion or contribute to a meeting feeling more like yourself.
More connection. More choice. More confidence.
There's no one-size-fits-all version of public speaking confidence. We'll begin with the situations you want to handle differently.
At work
Team meetings, presentations, job interviews, speaking to colleagues, pitching ideas or taking on a leadership role.
At important occasions
Wedding speeches, toasts, family celebrations and sharing something meaningful in front of people you care about.
In everyday life
Introducing yourself, asking questions, speaking up in groups or feeling more comfortable being heard.
A thoughtful approach, tailored to you.
The aim is not to eliminate every flutter of nerves. It is to help you develop a different relationship with the fear and more freedom to do what matters.
Clinical hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy may be used to support relaxation, focused attention, visualisation and confidence-building. Together we can explore how rehearsing a calmer response in a relaxed state might complement practical changes in everyday situations.
Evidence for hypnotherapy specifically treating public speaking fear is limited and variable. It is not a guaranteed cure or a replacement for established psychological care where that is indicated.
NLP-informed techniques
My NLP training can inform exercises involving reframing, visualisation, changing unhelpful internal dialogue and future pacing — imagining how you would like to respond in a forthcoming speaking situation.
Research supporting NLP as a treatment for anxiety and phobias is limited. I'll be transparent about this when we discuss approaches.
Practical confidence strategies
We can explore preparation habits, grounding, breathing, helpful self-talk, realistic goals and ways to respond to a moment of uncertainty without treating it as failure.
When appropriate, small, manageable speaking practices can help turn insight into experiences of progress.
Established psychological approaches
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and gradual, supported exposure are established approaches for social anxiety and related performance fears. They can help people test predictions, reduce avoidance and build confidence through practice.
If a CBT-based or specialist approach would suit your needs better, we can discuss that openly, including seeking a suitably qualified practitioner.
You don't have to give a speech to ask for help.
At your free initial consultation, we'll talk about the situations you find difficult, what you already manage well and what you hope will be different. It's a conversation, not a test of your speaking ability.
We can consider whether hypnotherapy, NLP-informed exercises, practical anxiety-management strategies or another route makes sense. You'll have room to ask questions and decide whether the approach feels right.
Nothing is rushed, and no one will ask you to perform in front of an audience at your first consultation.
Hello, I'm Gary.
I'm Gary Smith, a psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist based in Swindon. I work with people experiencing phobias, anxiety and confidence difficulties, as well as teaching and supervising within the hypnotherapy profession.
My work draws on Solution Focused Hypnotherapy, psychotherapy, NLP training and Neo-Ericksonian approaches. I'll always aim to be clear about the evidence, possible benefits and limitations of the techniques we discuss.
I want you to feel listened to, involved in the process and comfortable asking any questions.
Questions before taking the first step?
Is fear of public speaking the same as glossophobia?
Glossophobia is a term commonly used for an intense fear of public speaking. It may occur on its own or overlap with wider social anxiety. We can discuss your individual experience without assuming a particular diagnosis.
Can hypnotherapy help with public speaking anxiety?
Hypnotherapy may help some people with relaxation, imagery and the experience of anxiety. Evidence for its effectiveness specifically for public speaking fear is limited, so I won't promise a guaranteed result. We can consider it alongside practical work and established psychological options.
Do you use NLP techniques for public speaking confidence?
Yes. Depending on what is appropriate, I may use NLP-informed reframing, visualisation, anchoring or future pacing. The evidence for NLP as a clinical treatment is limited, and we'll discuss that honestly.
Will I have to give a speech during therapy?
Not during the initial consultation. If practising speaking is useful later, we can agree a comfortable, manageable progression rather than unexpectedly putting you on the spot.
Can you help before a wedding speech or job presentation?
You're welcome to enquire about a particular event. We can explore preparation and coping strategies, but the time available and your individual needs will affect what is realistic.
What if my mind goes blank or my voice shakes?
These are experiences many anxious speakers describe. We can look at what you notice, the meaning you attach to it and practical ways to respond. If you have new or unexplained physical symptoms, medical advice may also be appropriate.
How many sessions will I need?
There is no fixed number suitable for everyone. We'll review what you want to achieve, your circumstances and progress without promising a set outcome.
Can I have online sessions anywhere in the UK?
Yes, online sessions are available across the UK where suitable. In-person appointments are also available in Swindon.
What happens at the free initial consultation?
We'll discuss your concerns, goals and questions, and consider suitable next steps. There is no obligation to book a course of therapy.
Your voice deserves to be heard.
Whether it's a work presentation, a special occasion or simply finding the confidence to speak up, you're welcome to begin with a free, relaxed conversation about your options.
Best Mind Therapy · Swindon · Online throughout the UK