Public Speaking Anxiety
Calm, confident support for speaking in front of others
Fear of public speaking is one of the most common forms of anxiety. For many people, the idea of speaking in front of others — whether at work, in an interview, or at a personal event — triggers intense nerves, self-doubt, or physical symptoms that feel hard to control.
I work with public speaking anxiety using clinical hypnotherapy and mindfulness, helping the nervous system settle so you can speak with greater ease, presence, and confidence.
How public speaking anxiety shows up
Public speaking anxiety is often far more physical than people expect. You might experience:
shaking or trembling
blushing or feeling hot
sweaty palms
nausea or stomach discomfort
dizziness or light-headedness
a racing heart or shallow breathing
your mind going blank
These responses can feel frustrating — especially if you know what you want to say but your body doesn’t cooperate.
Why public speaking feels so threatening
Public speaking anxiety is linked to the body’s fight-or-flight response.
When the nervous system perceives social evaluation or visibility as a threat, it releases adrenaline — preparing the body to escape danger. This response is automatic and not something you can simply switch off with logic or reassurance.
For some people, the fear is linked to a past experience; for others, it develops gradually over time. Either way, the response is learned — and it can be unlearned.
How hypnotherapy can help with public speaking anxiety
Hypnotherapy works with the subconscious patterns that associate speaking with danger or fear.
In a calm, focused state, hypnotherapy can help to:
reduce the physical stress response
change unconscious associations with speaking
improve focus and clarity
increase feelings of calm and self-trust
support confident, grounded performance
Rather than forcing confidence, we help the body feel safe enough for confidence to emerge naturally.
You remain fully aware and in control throughout sessions.
A grounded, practical approach
My work combines clinical hypnotherapy and mindfulness, informed by nervous-system regulation rather than performance pressure.
This approach is particularly helpful if:
your anxiety feels physical rather than mental
you’ve tried preparation and positive thinking without relief
fear shows up despite experience or competence
speaking anxiety is holding you back professionally or personally
Sessions are tailored to your situation — whether you’re preparing for a specific event or want more general confidence when speaking.
Common situations I support
People often come to me for support with:
presentations or meetings at work
interviews
conferences or training delivery
weddings or speeches
networking or speaking up in groups
performance-related anxiety
You don’t need to be a “natural speaker” — just willing to work with what’s happening in your body.
Online and in-person sessions
I work with clients:
online worldwide, and
in person in Chichester and West Sussex
Online sessions are particularly effective for public speaking anxiety, allowing you to work in a familiar, comfortable environment.
Considering working together?
If public speaking anxiety is limiting your confidence or opportunities, support is available.
You’re welcome to get in touch for an initial conversation to explore whether this approach feels right for you.