Hypnothotherapy for Children & Young People

As a parent myself, i do know how upsetting it can be for any parent to see their child struggling. To be able to work as a hypno-psychotherapist helping them is very rewarding.Whether it is anxiety, low confidence, sleep problems, worries about school, bullying, fears, anger, or stress, most parents simply want to see their child happier and more comfortable in themselves. I’ve experienced most of those things myself, that’s way better than just reading books on it in my experience, and as I help young people see – if I can overcome these things, they can too.

Over the past 26 years, I have worked with many children and young people, from around the age of 7 through to older teenagers. Every child is different, and the way I work with them is always tailored to their age, personality, and individual circumstances. I also understand how frustrating it can be for parents when they are trying to access support and facing long waiting times.

One thing I often tell parents is that seeking support does not mean there is something “wrong” with your child. Life can sometimes be difficult for young people. School pressures, weight, friendships, family changes, confidence issues, and worries about fitting in can all affect how children feel. Social media has a lot to answer for these days in my view.

I sometimes think young people today face challenges that simply did not exist when many of us were growing up. Social media in particular can make difficult situations feel much bigger and harder to escape from than they once were.

Any work with younger clients is always age-appropriate and adapted to the individual child

What Ages Can Be Helped?

I have worked with children as young as 7 and with teenagers right through their school years.

Age is not always the most important factor. Some younger children are very mature and engage really well, while some older teenagers may take longer to build confidence and trust. Every young person develops differently.

In my experience, many children respond well to therapeutic approaches because they often have strong imaginations and can engage naturally with relaxation, visualisation, and creative ways of thinking.

Supporting Neurodivergent Young People

Over the years I have worked with many young people with autism, ADHD, and other forms of neurodivergence.

I am not claiming to treat or remove autism, ADHD, or any other neurodevelopmental condition. However, some young people may seek support for issues that can occur alongside these conditions, such as anxiety, low confidence, stress, sleep difficulties, emotional overwhelm, fears, or difficulties relaxing.

Every child is different, I always speak to young people with respect and involve them in the process, rather than talking over them or making assumptions.

Common Issues Parents Contact Me About

The range of issues is not quite as broad as with adults, but parents often contact me regarding:

• • • Anxiety and worries
    • Confidence and self-esteem
    • School-related stress
    • Sleep difficulties
    • Bedwetting
    • Fears and phobias
    • Bullying-related concerns
    • Anger, frustration, or emotional stress

Bullying is something I have experienced personally, so I understand first-hand how much impact it can have on confidence and emotional wellbeing. Over the years I have worked with many young people who were struggling with the effects of bullying and low self-esteem.

I am also a big believer that fears and phobias are often best addressed early where possible, before they continue affecting somebody into adulthood.

In Safe Hands

I hold an Enhanced DBS certificate and take safeguarding very seriously.

In most cases I prefer a parent or guardian to remain present during sessions. It tends to help everyone feel more comfortable and relaxed, and parents often appreciate being involved in the process.

As well as my professional experience, I am also a parent myself. I have three children, including two stepchildren whom I think of as my own.

Unlike some therapists, I genuinely enjoy working with children and young people. I have always found it easy to build rapport with them, perhaps because I have never completely lost my own sense of humour and curiosity.

Professional Experience

Author: Garry Webster MCNHC is a qualified hypno-psychotherapist, NLP Master Practitioner, and registered hypnotherapist with more than 26 years of experience helping clients across Derbyshire and the East Midlands.

Garry is fully insured, professionally supervised, and registered with recognised professional organisations including the National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH) and the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC).

Call 07428 590066 to discuss whether hypnotherapy may be suitable for your child or young person, or use the contact form

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