Fears & Phobias

Fear protects us, but phobias trap us. They are learned emotional reactions that can feel overwhelming, irrational and all-consuming. When a fear is holding you back, it is time to take gentle, decisive action.

“The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid but he who conquers that fear”

– Nelson Mandela

If any of this feels familiar, I can help

Here are the patterns clients most often come in with.

Fear of flying

The thought of the flight consumes me for weeks. Turbulence, take-off, feeling trapped. It hijacks my whole trip.

Fear of driving

I avoid motorways, dual carriageways, or driving at all. My world has got smaller because of it.

Needles & medical settings

Blood tests, dentists, hospitals. I know it is irrational, but my body panics the moment I walk in.

Enclosed spaces

Lifts, tunnels, the MRI scanner, even busy rooms. I need to know I can always get out.

Public speaking

My heart races, my throat closes, my mind goes blank. I turn down opportunities rather than face the room.

Animals & insects

Dogs, spiders, wasps. The moment I see one, logic leaves me. It has started to shrink where I go.

Emetophobia

Emetophobia can feel overwhelming and often affects daily life more than people realise, from eating habits to social situations and travel.

Hypnotherapy can gently help reduce the anxiety around this fear, working with both the mind and body to create a calmer, more manageable response.

“I have additional training in working with emetophobia (fear of vomiting), supporting clients in a gentle and structured way.”

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How hypnotherapy helps

Fears and phobias live in the part of the mind that runs on instinct, not reason. That is why you already know the fear is irrational, and the response still happens anyway. Hypnotherapy works gently with that subconscious layer to find where the response was first learned, sometimes in childhood, sometimes in a single overwhelming moment, and release the emotional charge without needing to relive it.

Alongside hypnotherapy we use NLP techniques including the Rewind Technique, anchored positive states, mental rehearsal and gentle exposure, supported where helpful by CBT and EFT (Tapping). Step by step, we replace the old panic pathway with calm, steadiness and confidence. You may find yourself booking the flight, taking the motorway, making the appointment or giving the speech, not because you forced yourself through it, but because the fear genuinely no longer runs the show. Freedom, and a life unbound by fear, is closer than it seems.

Kind words from clients

Small shifts can make a big difference. Here’s what clients have shared.

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Lyndsey Howe 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I will start this by saying Lorraine has changed my life!! That is really no exaggeration. I suffered with very severe postnatal depression which led to years of health anxiety related to my daughter. As I got older the health anxiety then crept into my own world where I became obsessed with the idea that myself or my daughter were going to suffer some terrible illness. I went to Lorraine in desperate need of some help to relieve the stress, pressure and pain this condition was chasing as it was ruling my every day life. Through hypnotherapy and NLP Lorraine has reprogrammed my thinking and I no longer suffer the symptoms of health anxiety. The thoughts crop up, because she can’t wipe my brain, but I no longer dwell on them, they no longer upset or distress me, and they no longer impact how I live, feel or sleep. It’s truly magical. I am so grateful and have actually recommended two of my family members to see her, one of whom is now already engaging in her care and seeing huge benefits! Thank you Lorraine, you are so wonderful at what you do and I will be forever grateful 🙏🏻 💗
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   kate dolman 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I went to Lorraine with a fear of flying. She skilfully designed a series of sessions which included hypnotherapy and NLP. Every session was not only deeply relaxing and empowering, but also gave me practical tools to take away and practise. Each session built on the last and the final session pulled everything together. During the flight I was able to take control of my nerves an emotions, such an amazing feeling. I would definitely recommend Lorraine, she has taught me skills for life 🤩
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Tom Ruddell 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Seeing Lorraine has been transformational and profound for me, I would highly recommend to others, go with an open mind. She is warm, kind and easy to open up to. I’m on a necessary journey that wouldn’t be possible without Lorraine.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Juli H 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I went to Lorraine for issues with IBS; nothing I had tried previously had had a long term effect. I was very sceptical. I found Lorraine to be a very warm and understanding person, she asked questions in a careful and supportive way. She explained the benefits of deep breathing and hypnotherapy and I have now had 3 hypnotherapy sessions. I feel so relaxed and energised after these sessions and to date have not had an IBS issue for 3 months - RESULT! Would fully recommend Lorraine.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Lisa Smith 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was initially a bit cynical about trying hypnotherapy however due to the long waiting lists on the NHS for treatment I decided to try it.  I went to Lorraine with anxiety issues and a fear of vomiting and eating certain foods. From the moment I met with Lorraine she made me feel at ease,  I felt listened to and hopeful that my problems could be solved. At the end of my 6 sessions I have learnt a lot about myself , Lorraine has given me lots of information and techniques to take away with me. I am now getting back to my normal self , enjoying socialising again and eating food!  I feel so much more relaxed and haven’t had any anxiety issues. I would definitely recommend Lorraine and I am so thankful for all she has done x
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nicola Greenwood 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Lorraine is a very caring and extremely competent  hypnotherapist.  I have always found her to be professional and she always treats her clients with the utmost respect. She is very knowledgeable and approaches even the most sensitive issues with thoughtfulness and kindness. Lorraine goes above and beyond to help you find a solution.  I would definitely recommend her.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Debra Miles 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Lorraine is professional, curious and genuinely interested in helping to resolve any problems. She is kind and caring in nature. A beautiful soul whom i am proud to call my sister and best friend. I wish her every success in the future and looking forward to my next treatment.

If you’re ready to feel calmer, more grounded, and less limited by fear, I’d love to support you

lorrainecooperhypnotherapy@gmail.com 07968 449353 Mon - Thurs 9am - 5pm Poole - Wimborne - Bournemouth and surrounding areas

Begin a new chapter in your life. I’d love to support you on your journey – Let’s talk

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