Stress & Anxiety

Suffering with stress is not a sign of weakness. None of us were born knowing how to navigate the pressures of modern life. While you may not be able to change the world around you, you can learn to change the way your body and mind respond to it.

“Smile breathe and go slowly”

– Thich Nhat Hanh

If any of this feels familiar, I can help

Stress is deeply personal. What energises one person may overwhelm another. Over time, unprocessed experiences, loss, pressure, responsibility and change can accumulate, until your nervous system no longer knows how to switch off. When your stress response stays “on,” it can show up in many ways:

Racing thoughts

My mind won’t slow down. I replay conversations. Predict worst-case scenarios. Overthink simple decisions. Rest feels impossible.

Feeling on edge

I am easily startled. Irritable. Restless. It’s as though something bad is about to happen, even when it isn’t.

Panic symptoms

A tight chest. A pounding heart. Shortness of breath. A sudden surge of fear that feels overwhelming and impossible to stop.

Sleep disruption

I struggle to fall asleep, or wake at 3am with a busy mind. My body is tired, but my nervous system is still alert.

Physical Tension

Tight shoulders, a clenched jaw, headaches, digestive discomfort. My body carries the weight of what I haven't released.

Social Anxiety & Avoidance

I avoid situations that once felt manageable. Presentations, gatherings, speaking up all feel threatening. It seems easier to withdraw than to risk feeling exposed.

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How hypnotherapy helps

Anxiety is not a sign of weakness. It is your subconscious mind doing what it was built to do, protecting you. Only it has learned to stay switched on long after the original pressure has passed. Over time, unprocessed experiences, loss, change and the steady weight of responsibility accumulate, until the nervous system simply forgets how to switch off. Through hypnotherapy we work below the level of conscious thought to gently interrupt that loop. In a deeply relaxed state your mind becomes open to new patterns: the racing thoughts slow, the chest loosens, and the body begins to remember what calm feels like. Each session is shaped around your story, because stress is deeply personal. What overwhelms one person energises another.

Alongside hypnotherapy I use nervous system regulation techniques such as breath work, somatic awareness, grounding and gentle visualisation, so the shifts we make at the subconscious level are supported by what you can do in day-to-day life. You leave each session with practical tools for the moments that used to feel unmanageable: when thoughts start racing, when sleep feels out of reach, or when a social situation tips you into withdrawal.

Stress & anxiety support sessions

Each session is tailored to you, your history, and your goals. Together, we work to unwind the patterns behind the anxious response, regulate your nervous system, and help you feel safe, steady and more like yourself again. Whenever you feel ready, I’m here — reach out to book your first session. It is the hardest and most rewarding step.

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Kind words from clients

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

    
 
 
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   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 🤩
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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 connected to yourself, and free to live with greater ease, 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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