Children’s Fears, Phobias & Anxiety

Supporting children to feel calmer, more confident and more in control

Understanding Anxiety, Fears and Phobias in Children

It is not uncommon for children to experience anxiety, worries or fears at different stages of development

For some children, these feelings can become overwhelming — affecting their confidence, sleep, school experience and everyday activities.

Early support can make a meaningful difference, helping children feel safer, calmer and more able to cope.

You May Notice Your Child:

  • worries excessively or feels anxious
  • avoids certain situations or activities
  • struggles with sleep or bedtime fears
  • seeks frequent reassurance
  • becomes easily overwhelmed
  • experiences physical symptoms such as tummy aches
  • lacks confidence or withdraws socially

Every child deserves a champion — an adult who will never give up on them.

Rita Pierson

My Approach to Hypnotherapy

My Approach

My work combines clinical hypnotherapy with a psychologically informed approach and gentle, age-appropriate techniques.

With a Master’s degree in Psychology and a degree in Social Work, along with extensive experience working with children, I focus on helping children feel safe, understood and supported.

My approach is gentle, supportive and non-judgmental, creating a space where you can feel safe and prepared

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word… all of which have the potential to turn a life around.

Leo Buscaglia

Children’s Fears and Phobias

Children may develop fears of specific situations or objects. These fears can feel very real to a child and may begin to limit what they feel able to do.

Fear of Needles and Medical Procedures

Fear of needles is one of the most common concerns in children.

It can cause significant distress around vaccinations, blood tests or medical appointments, and may lead to avoidance, heightened anxiety beforehand, or strong emotional reactions.

With the right support, children can learn to feel calmer, more in control and better able to cope with these situations.

Other common fears

  • fear of the dark
  • fear of being alone
  • fear of school or social situations
  • fear of needles or medical procedures
  • fear of animals (e.g. dogs, spiders)
  • fear of vomiting or being unwell.

When Fears Begin to Impact Daily Life

Without support, these patterns can sometimes continue into adolescence and adulthood.

  • school and learning
  • friendships and social confidence
  • sleep and overall wellbeing
  • family life

How Hypnotherapy Can Help

Hypnotherapy provides a calm, safe and supportive space where children can:

  • feel more relaxed and settled
  • develop confidence and emotional resilience
  • learn to manage worries and fears
  • feel more in control of their thoughts and reactions

Sessions are gentle, age-appropriate and tailored to each child.school and learning

Taking The First Step

All enquiries are handled with complete confidentiality.

If you would like to explore whether hypnotherapy may support your child, you are welcome to arrange a complimentary 20-minute introductory consultation.

To book an appointment or make an enquiry, you are welcome to get in touch by phone or via the contact form.

Referrals from health professionals are welcome

I work alongside a number of health professionals. Please feel free to contact me to discuss your client’s or patient’s suitability, and how I may support their care.

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