Category: Hypnotherapy

  • Fundraiser Overcomes Obstacles with Hypnotherapy

    Every now and then, a story comes along that truly shows the power of change. One of my clients, a remarkable woman living with multiple long-term health conditions, generously shared her journey to inspire others. Her courage and results speak volumes — and I’m honoured to share her experience here.

    A Life Defined by Pain and Setbacks

    For more than 10 years, she had never known a day without pain. Living with rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia, her daily life was already challenging. On top of this, within the space of just two years, she faced a haemorrhage, underwent surgery to remove a tumour, and then needed further surgery again.

    Then came another terrifying ordeal. One evening, she suddenly found herself unable to move or speak. Having watched her grandmother suffer strokes, she feared the worst. Thankfully, her mother was nearby and able to call an ambulance.

    The following morning, things took a dramatic turn. She was hit by violent seizures that shook her whole body, followed by uncontrollable shouting and movements that doctors compared to a rare form of Tourette’s. At one point, she was even karate-chopping through the air in between seizures — moments she later described with a sense of humour as feeling like a “Ninja Warrior.”

    For days in hospital, these unpredictable seizures continued. Even after discharge, they persisted — up to ten times a day. She lost her independence, her driving licence, and her sense of freedom. Relying on others and being unable to be left alone left her feeling trapped and frustrated.

    A Turning Point

    After nearly a year of living with these frightening episodes, she decided she needed to try something different. That decision led her to me.

    She says:

    “This is the best decision I have ever made. He made me view my life very differently. He gave me the positivity and confidence to do new things. He has helped me to control my anxiety and, as I am writing this, I am touching every piece of wood in sight — but I have not had any seizures since seeing Neil.”

    Real Progress, Real Results

    Not only has she been seizure-free since starting hypnotherapy sessions, but she has also continued to reduce her reliance on pain medication. For someone who had spent over a decade in daily pain, this transformation is nothing short of remarkable.

    Katie Brind seizures tourettes testimonials bude cornwall fundraising

    Her story is a powerful reminder that change is possible, even after years of struggle.


    If you’d like to explore how hypnotherapy could help you, please get in touch.
    And if you’ve worked with me before and would like to share your story, your review could help someone else make the decision that changes their life.

  • Say Goodbye to Skin Conditions

    Say Goodbye to Skin Conditions

    Itching For a Cure? Hypnotherapy Can Help with Skin Conditions

    This month I am focusing on how hypnotherapy can help with the management of skin conditions.

    As many of us who have suffered from these conditions will know, peeling off those extra layers of clothing and exposing skin to the summer sunshine may be good for us. But we do not want others to see our skin.

    Thousands of people suffer with the discomfort, stress and embarrassment that skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, can bring. These conditions are usually not life threatening.  But they can cause untold misery to those who have to deal with them day in and day out.

    skin conditions itchy

    The skin is our largest organ as well as the most visible, especially during the summer months. Whether it is through sweating when we are too warm, shivering when we are too cold, or doing its job of getting rid of toxins and waste through the skin, this piece of body ‘covering’ has a lot of work to do. It is often the first place where any signs of illness, stress and imbalance in our lives, physically or psychologically, shows itself. As those who suffer are only too aware, the more we worry about the state of our skin, the worse it seems to get!

    So where does hypnotherapy come in to the treatment of these conditions? Well, it seems that us hypnotherapists have been working with clients with these conditions for years.

    Some of us may be aware that there is often a mind-body connection with some common skin conditions, so this is often where support from hypnotherapy can help. To give you some more detail…

    In order to do its work, the skin contains millions of nerve endings which are closely connected to the brain, which is our body’s main ‘Control Centre’. Because of these links to our nervous system, the skin is very closely connected to our emotional responses, as well as those physical ones.

    For example, goose bumps when we are afraid, blushing when embarrassed, and so on. When we feel stressed, these emotional responses can make some skin conditions worse if you have them already. Or can in some cases bring them on.

    Pain control.

    Hypnotherapy is a great way to reduce stress levels in general. We understand that stress and anxiety affect the chemical responses in the body and mind. Hypnotherapy can really help to recreate that sense of balance. This is shown to improve skin conditions in general. There is mounting evidence to show that hypnotherapy is very helpful for pain control too. It is helpful for reducing the stress and chemical responses that cause flare-ups. It can also reduce the pain that’s associated with them. We work in a way that helps the client to manage stressful situations more effectively. Thus reducing the possibility of re-occurrence.

    I encourage clients to focus on how they want things to be. We avoid problem-talk and instead help our clients to visualise their preferred future. By encouraging clients to think and express themselves positively, we can help to improve their outcomes and say goodbye to skin conditions.

  • Read Real Reviews

    Genuine Feedback From Clients

    Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work with many clients who’ve shared their experiences of positive change through hypnotherapy.

    For a long time, my reviews were collected on Fresha, the booking system I used. Fresha only allowed genuine clients to leave reviews after attending a session, so it became a trusted way to keep everything transparent.

    During that time, I built up lots of reviews there — and I’m incredibly grateful for every one of them.

    Now that I’ve moved to Square Appointments October 2025, Fresha reviews are no longer going to be visible. Going forward, my feedback will be hosted on Google Reviews, where you can both read and leave your own comments.

    Trust Index Google Reviews

    [Read & leave a review on Google]

    What My Clients Say

    AG – 04 Feb 2020 ★★★★★
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    SW – 14 Feb 2020 ★★★★★
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    LA – 07 Jan 2021 ★★★★★
    Always so enlightening and helpful.
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    TC – 12 Jan 2021 ★★★★★
    Last night I had the best sleep I’ve had in a long time and I’ve only had the initial consultation! Can’t wait for more sessions
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    MJ – 16 Jan 2021 ★★★★★
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    MJ – 23 Jan 2021 ★★★★★
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    JJ – 29 Jan 2021 ★★★★★
    Well what can I say — I’m 2 sessions in. The first free session was amazing; he gave me so much time to help understand me. Considering it was a free session he doesn’t scrimp and save with time — he gave me 2 hours and didn’t just cut off when time was up. After my first paid session I had a massive impact already. He is always professional and I highly recommend him as the person to go to. Definitely worth the time and money. Looking forward to the future outcome. Thank you!
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    MJ – 31 Jan 2021 ★★★★★
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    MJ – 08 Feb 2021 ★★★★★
    Brilliant, life changing, well worth it. Everyone should have a few sessions with Neil — he’s great
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    AD – 29 Mar 2021 ★★★★★
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    RH – 12 Apr 2021 ★★★★★
    Welcoming, excellent service, first class.
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    RH – 06 May 2021 ★★★★★
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    GR – 07 Aug 2022 ★★★★★
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    DH – 09 Dec 2022 ★★★★★
    Clear, professional, patient and a pleasure to deal with. Nothing is too much trouble.
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    GR – 22 Jan 2023 ★★★★★
    Great experience as always.
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    DR – 24 Mar 2023 ★★★★★
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    DR – 03 Apr 2023 ★★★★★
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    SMT – 16 Apr 2023 ★★★★★
    Neil is so very kind and patient and easy to talk to. He helped me in the past back in 2016 with wonderful results. I am hoping he will help me through my current issues with his empathy, professionalism and therapy techniques.
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    GR – 22 Apr 2023 ★★★★★
    Excellent as always.
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    SMT – 29 Apr 2023 ★★★★★
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    MHT – 30 May 2023 ★★★★★
    Neil has been fantastic throughout every appointment I’ve had with him. I have felt comfortable and safe at all times. He is patient and caring with a good sense of humour. He has helped me enormously with my sleep issues and I will not hesitate to go back again in the future if I need.
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    FB – 07 Aug 2023 ★★★★★
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    PD – 12 Sep 2023 ★★★★★
    Excellent.
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    AG – 19 Sep 2023 ★★★★★
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    RS – 20 Sep 2023 ★★★★☆
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    KB – 13 Oct 2023 ★★★★★
    Had a first session with Neil today after an excellent consultation the week before. Neil is diligent, caring, good-humoured and inquisitive. He’s easy to get along with and clearly thinks on his feet regarding his approach. I was a little apprehensive about taking a session online, but it worked really well being around my own home comforts. I already feel like a bit of a load has been lifted and I’m looking forward to next week.
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    AG – 01 Nov 2023 ★★★★★
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    TF – 08 Nov 2023 ★★★★★
    I was warmly greeted by Neil and made to feel very comfortable. After discussing my expectations and outcomes, Neil explained the workings of the brain in a user-friendly way and what the way forward would be should I continue. Left feeling very positive.
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    TF – 17 Nov 2023 ★★★★★
    Welcoming as ever on my second visit to Neil’s home. Easy relaxed chat, followed by clear explanation of today’s therapy.
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    TF – 30 Nov 2023 ★★★★★
    Neil was professional and welcoming as ever for my third appointment. He adapts each session depending on how you feel and how things have been since the last appointment.
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    TF – 06 Dec 2023 ★★★★★
    Neil takes the time to get to know you as a person, which enhances your therapy. He genuinely cares about you as an individual.
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    KP – 13 Feb 2024 ★★★★★
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    RB – 16 Feb 2024 ★★★★★
    An enlightening and enervating experience, thanks.
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    NO – 29 Feb 2024 ★★★★★
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    NO – 12 Mar 2024 ★★★★★
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    NO – 26 Mar 2024 ★★★★★
    Really transformational sessions with Neil; helped hugely with my anxiety. Can’t recommend enough.
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    LN – 04 Apr 2024 ★★★★★
    Very good experience; put at ease straight away.
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    JN – 16 Apr 2024 ★★★★★
    My experience with Neil was very positive.
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    LN – 18 Apr 2024 ★★★★★
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    ZP – 23 Apr 2024 ★★★★☆
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    JN – 24 Apr 2024 ★★★★★
    Very pleased with my experience with Neil today.
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    SB – 05 May 2024 ★★★★★
    Very nice man.
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    LD – 08 May 2024 ★★★★★
    I really felt comfortable and at ease despite the nervous anticipation I’d felt before.
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    ZP – 09 May 2024 ★★★★★
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    SB – 31 May 2024 ★★★★★
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    MU – 06 Jul 2024 ★★★★★
    Really great, Neil made me feel at ease and fully explained what would be happening. Very insightful first session; looking forward to my new journey.
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    NS – 09 Jul 2024 ★★★★★
    Neil has helped me enormously. I would highly recommend him as both a therapist and a very lovely man.
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    MU – 27 Jul 2024 ★★★★★
    What an amazing guy, certainly put me on the right road. Thank you.
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    VA – 14 Aug 2024 ★★★★★
    Great chap and fantastic environment. I feel safe and look forward to my next session!
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    DM – 04 Sep 2024 ★★★★★
    Neil is both very professional and easy to talk to. In our initial consultation, he was attentive, really listened, and responded to what I was saying. I’m very much looking forward to continuing with further sessions!
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    RC – 01 Oct 2024 ★★★★★
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    TF – 09 Oct 2024 ★★★★★
    Welcoming and professional. Makes you feel at ease, enabling you to share in an open and safe space. Continual evaluation of individual needs going forward. Thank you.
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    RC – 10 Oct 2024 ★★★★★
    Very brilliant session. Life is definitely changing for the better.
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    TF – 15 Oct 2024 ★★★★★
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    RC – 17 Oct 2024 ★★★★★
    A brilliant, insightful afternoon and session. Always feel better for it.
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    RC – 23 Oct 2024 ★★★★★
    Neil is excellent. This experience has been profound and life changing. I cannot recommend Neil highly enough.
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    NS – 17 Dec 2024 ★★★★★
    Neil is super professional, warm and supportive – highly recommend.
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    KJ – 07 Jan 2025 ★★★★★
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    KJ – 11 Jan 2025 ★★★★★
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    JH – 22 Jan 2025 ★★★★★
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    ZC – 10 Feb 2025 ★★★★★
    I recently underwent hypnotherapy with Neil to stop vaping. This has worked so well and I have had no withdrawal symptoms or cravings! Neil is very welcoming and I felt at ease throughout the process. A knowledgeable and excellent hypnotherapist who genuinely cares about his patients. The stop vaping fee was very reasonable and a lot cheaper than the others I looked at. Also, the appointment length is not set in stone, so I didn’t feel rushed.
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    EG – 19 Feb 2025 ★★★★★
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    JH – 21 Feb 2025 ★★★★★
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    DL – 12 Mar 2025 ★★★★★
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    KP – 04 Jun 2025 ★★★★★
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    EG – 09 Jun 2025 ★★★★★
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    ID – 18 Jun 2025 ★★★★★
    An initial consultation but we had a wide-ranging conversation and I came away hopeful for some solutions. I look forward to a full treatment session next week. The low cost of this session was encouragement to take the first step.
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    JW – 08 Jul 2025 ★★★★★
    First session with Neil. Man is brilliant and would highly recommend. Doesn’t push you into anything and I will be returning.
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    CC – 18 Jul 2025 ★★★★★
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    HM – 22 Jul 2025 ★★★★★
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    SB – 31 Jul 2025 ★★★★☆
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    AG – 09 Sep 2025 ★★★★★
    Only an informal meeting to discuss what I need and what he can help with. 1st session next week and I am looking forward to moving on with my life. Neil seems the perfect person to help with that.
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    Trust Index Facebook Reviews
  • Rita Westlake retirement 2016

    Rita Westlake retirement 2016


    It is with great humility and respect that I take on the role of carrying forward the legacy of Rita Westlake. As Rita retires from North Cornwall Hypnotherapy (NCH) in November of 2016, I cannot help but reflect on the impact she has had on countless individuals and the Cornwall community as a whole.

    Rita Westlake

    Rita’s commitment to her work as a hypnotherapist has been unwavering throughout the years. Her dedication to her clients and her profession is something that I have always admired. Even when the going got tough, Rita remained steadfast and always found a way to help those who sought her assistance.

    As I reflect on Rita’s legacy, I realise that she has imparted not only skills but life lessons as well. Her unwavering commitment to her profession is something that I will strive to emulate in the years to come. I feel privileged to have been a part of her journey, and I know that the skills and knowledge that I have gained from her will serve me well in the future.

    Rita has touched the lives of many individuals, and I know that her clients, past and present, will have fond memories of the happy years that they spent with her. Her dedication to helping others to achieve a better understanding and quality of life is truly inspiring, and I am honored to have been a witness to her work.

    Of course, it takes a special kind of person to commit themselves to a profession like this on a daily basis, even when faced with challenges and difficulties. Rita is one of those special people, and her unwavering commitment to her clients is something that I will always remember.

    As I take on the mantle of NCH, I am deeply grateful for the confidence that Rita has placed in me. It is an undertaking that I have accepted with humility and determination. Though I am saddened to see her retire, I know that it is for all the right reasons, and I wish her all the best for the future in her retirement.

    The future of NCH is bright, and I am excited about the journey ahead. With Rita’s blessing, I will ensure that NCH provides the same high-quality treatments and care that she has always provided. The website for NCH is being updated and forwarded to this one, as it has been over four years since I took it over.

    In conclusion, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Rita Westlake for her unwavering commitment to her profession and her clients. She has touched the lives of many individuals in Cornwall and has made a significant impact on the community. I am honored to have been a part of her journey and to continue the legacy of NCH in the years to come.

    Neil Cox MNCH(Reg), HPD

    Tel. +447900225171

  • Surviving an Affair?

    Surviving an Affair?

    I don’t know whether any of you reading this article will have had an affair or maybe contemplated it.

    Or even possibly fantasised about it without acting on it.  But, what I do know is that many relationships won’t survive an affair.

    So the people who get caught, and lets face it most do, will find their relationship in disarray and have no hope of surviving an affair.  The regret they feel and constant deliberation over how they could be so stupid takes over.  The ultimate self-sabotage, so why do people still do it?

    We are all human beings, with basic instincts that sit below what we call our humanity.  In other words, a basic primal need to procreate.  A strong biological basis that drives our emotions which comes from our primitive brain.  Rationalising some of those emotions begin and we even lie to ourselves.  Our minds begin to process the benefits and minimise the risks.

    There is a scene in the film Love Actually. Harry is seen trying to buy some jewellery for Mia, before his wife catches him.  The impatience and urgency when trying to buy the jewellery and hoping he’s not seen.  And then the resultant denial when Karen (his wife) finds him.  This may well be a romantic comedy, but I’m sure this gets replayed for real the world over.

    That may well be a film, but in reality… you see the hurt not just to your respective partner but your children and even friends.  There’s the moving out from the family home into a small flat, and seeing the kids only at weekends.  A downward spiral of despair and regret – not the excitement you somehow imagined.

    Let’s face it just like Christmas, people can find the anticipation better than the real thing.  How many of you get excited about Christmas and then it’s over in a flash?

    I’m a hypnotherapist, I’m not a marriage guidance counsellor but where hypnotherapy can help you is to empower you to make better choices and come to more rational decisions.  We talk about the primitive and the intellectual sides of the brain, how to start wrestling control back and begin the process of making better decisions.  It may well be a case of concluding that a relationship is over but at least you can come to that decision without the undue influence or pressure of an affair.  On the other side of the coin, as a hypnotherapist I can help you put more drive into making your relationships work and avoid the distress and misery of a broken down relationship.

    Finally, I feel it’s absolutely necessary to show my gratitude for my good friend Donald from across the pond. You my friend are an inspiration, and I’m thankful for your input without which this blog wouldn’t have been written.

    For counselling, support and information for all relationships https://www.relate.org.uk