When life feels overwhelming, a different way forward is possible
I am Matthew Bates, a clinical hypnotherapist and psychotherapist in Ashford, Kent. I offer thoughtful, one-to-one support for anxiety, stress and sleep difficulties, with a calm, collaborative approach shaped around you.
Monday to Friday, 10:30am to 6pm. In person in Ashford or online.
What I help with
Anxiety
Constant worry, panic, racing thoughts and the tight feeling that never quite leaves. Explore ways to respond differently to worry, tension and the demands of everyday life.
Read about anxiety helpInsomnia
Lying awake, waking at 3am, dreading bedtime. Explore practical ways to respond to wakefulness, night-time worry and disrupted sleep.
Read about sleep helpTrauma
Support with the effects of difficult experiences, with careful attention to stability, choice and your wider support.
Read about trauma helpWhy people choose to work with me
I spent seven years in the military and eighteen years in banking technology before retraining as a clinical hypnotherapist and psychotherapist. I know what sustained pressure does to a person, and I know it can change.
I take a limited number of clients so that each person gets my full attention. Nothing is rushed, and nothing happens that you have not agreed to.
- Professional training and registrations: Diploma in Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (DSFH), awarded by CPHT; registered with NCH and CNHC; member of AfSFH
- Further study in sleep, including the CBT-I Masterclass with the Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute (SCNI), University of Oxford, accredited by the Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians
- One to one sessions, in person in Ashford or online
- Free initial chat before you commit to anything
How it works
Talk it through
A free chat by phone or video. You tell me what is going on and ask anything you like.
Plan together
If we decide to go ahead, we agree goals and how many sessions are likely to help.
Session by session
Relaxed, guided work in each session, plus simple recordings and techniques to use between them.
What clients say
It has been an absolute life changing journey for me.
He gets you to focus on your issues and works through them with you.
The hour I gave to it each week became something I would look forward to.
Book a talk for your business or group
I speak to businesses, community groups and events, including the Kent Wellness Festival, Made in Kent Radio and the Women’s Institute. Talks include “The Power of Sleep” and “When the Alarm Won’t Switch Off”. Fees are arranged to suit the event.
Common questions
Do I need a referral?
No. You can contact Matthew directly. If you are under the care of a doctor or mental health team, it is a good idea to let them know you are starting hypnotherapy.
Will I be asleep or out of control?
No. You stay aware and in control throughout. Hypnosis is a deeply relaxed, focused state, and you can end it whenever you want.
Do you offer online sessions?
Yes. Sessions are available in person in Ashford, Kent, or online by video.
Start with a free, no-pressure chat
Tell me what you are dealing with and we will decide together whether hypnotherapy is a good fit.