New perspectives.
Less fear of heights.
Compassionate support for acrophobia through clinical hypnotherapy and NLP-informed techniques, in Swindon and online throughout the UK.
Whether a bridge, balcony, staircase or a beautiful view feels difficult, we'll begin by understanding your experience and what you'd like to feel more able to do.
When being somewhere high feels overwhelming.
Acrophobia is an intense fear of heights. It may appear on a bridge, a balcony, an open staircase, a viewing platform or simply when imagining a high place. Some people experience the worry days before an event; others notice it suddenly in the moment.
Feelings can include a racing heart, shakiness, dizziness, nausea or a powerful urge to move away. Even when you know that a situation is reasonably safe, the body's alarm response may feel difficult to settle.
It can be frustrating when everyday choices become smaller because of fear. You deserve a calm conversation about what you're experiencing, without judgement or pressure to prove anything.
More choice in how you respond to fear.
There isn't one approach that suits everyone. We can discuss how hypnotherapy, NLP-informed methods and established phobia treatments may fit your needs.
Clinical hypnotherapy
Guided relaxation, therapeutic imagery and suggestion may help some people practise calmer responses and explore new perspectives. You remain involved and in control; outcomes vary and a cure cannot be guaranteed.
NLP-informed techniques
Where appropriate, I may use reframing, visualisation and rewind-style NLP techniques to explore unhelpful associations. Research supporting NLP specifically for phobias remains limited, and we'll discuss that openly.
Evidence-based phobia treatment
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), often including carefully planned graded exposure, is a well-established treatment for specific phobias. We can discuss these options and whether specialist referral would be helpful.
We start with a conversation, not a challenge.
People sometimes worry that seeking help for a fear of heights means being asked to stand somewhere high straight away. That's not how an initial consultation works.
First, we talk about the situations that matter to you, what you already manage well, and what you would like to change. We'll discuss suitable approaches and agree a plan together if you decide to continue.
Where graded exposure is part of a treatment plan, it should be collaborative, carefully structured and undertaken with an appropriately qualified practitioner — not an unexpected test of courage.
It's about the moments you'd like back.
For some, the goal is a family holiday. For others, it's crossing a bridge, enjoying a walk or feeling more comfortable at work. We focus on what a meaningful difference would look like for you.
Travel with more choice
Explore how anxiety affects routes, holidays or transport, and what practical, manageable progress could look like.
Feel more comfortable day to day
Talk about stairs, balconies, bridges or work settings that you would like to approach with greater confidence.
Make space for experiences
Identify the activities and relationships that matter most, rather than letting the fear define every decision.
Hello, I'm Gary.
I'm Gary Smith, a psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist based in North Swindon. I support people experiencing phobias and anxiety, and also work as a lecturer and clinical supervisor.
My work draws on Solution Focused Hypnotherapy, psychotherapy, NLP training and Neo-Ericksonian approaches. I aim to make sessions collaborative, practical and reassuring, with clear discussions about what each approach may and may not offer.
You're welcome to ask questions before deciding whether to proceed.
Things you may be wondering.
Can hypnotherapy help with a fear of heights?
Some people find relaxation, imagery and hypnotherapy helpful for managing anxiety and exploring different responses. Evidence varies, so it is not a guaranteed treatment. We can consider it alongside established approaches such as CBT and graded exposure.
Do you use NLP for acrophobia?
Yes. Depending on your circumstances, I may incorporate NLP-informed reframing, visualisation or rewind-style methods. Research specifically supporting NLP for phobias is limited, and I'll explain that when discussing your options.
Will I have to go somewhere high during the first appointment?
No. The initial consultation is a conversation about your experiences and goals. Any exposure-based work, if appropriate, should be agreed and carefully planned with a suitably qualified professional.
What if I feel dizzy when I'm high up?
Dizziness can accompany anxiety, but it can also have other causes. If it's new, persistent or unexplained, seek advice from a healthcare professional before assuming it is entirely related to a phobia.
How many sessions will I need?
That depends on your needs, the approach chosen and your progress. I won't promise that every fear of heights can be resolved in a set number of sessions.
Can we work online?
Yes. Online consultations are available across the UK where suitable, as well as in-person appointments in Swindon.
Do you support children and young people?
Please get in touch to discuss age, circumstances and suitability. Work with children requires appropriate consent, safeguarding and age-sensitive planning.
What happens at the free initial consultation?
We talk about what is difficult, what you'd like to change, your questions and possible next steps. There's no obligation to book further sessions.
More possibilities. A way forward.
If fear of heights has been affecting your choices, you're welcome to start with a free conversation. We can discuss hypnotherapy, NLP-informed support and other options without pressure or promises.
Best Mind Therapy · Swindon · Online throughout the UK