About me
I’m Rachel the founder of The Nest Hypnotherapy and proud member of the Seed Wellness team in Henley. I specialise in helping families overcome anxiety using a powerful combination of evidence-based CBT techniques and hypnosis. Whether in person or online, I provide practical, effective support to help you and your family feel calmer, more confident, and in control.
With a background in education and psychology, I understand how anxiety can impact every part of family life. Perhaps your child struggles with school worries, your teen feels overwhelmed by exam stress, or you’re juggling the mental load of parenting and need support yourself. Anxiety doesn’t just affect one person—it affects the whole family.
Avoidant behaviours—like refusing school, avoiding social situations, or withdrawing from challenges—can make anxiety worse over time. The longer these patterns continue, the harder they are to break. But with the right support, change is possible. I help children step into school with confidence, teens face challenges with resilience, and parents regain a sense of calm and control. My approach is warm, practical, and results-driven, using hypnosis to embed positive change at a deeper level.
During sessions, we work together to break negative thought patterns, build coping strategies, and develop lasting confidence. My goal is to equip you with the tools you need so your family can thrive—not just now, but in the future.
Ready to take the first step towards a happier life, I’d love to help. Get in touch for a free consultation.
Training, qualifications & experience
Rachel Bernard Dip. CBH BA (Hons) PGCE
I’m a fully qualified Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapist with a strong background in education. Before training in hypnotherapy, I spent 25 years as a teacher and senior leader in Buckinghamshire primary schools, which gave me a deep understanding of how children think, learn, and communicate. This experience allows me to work effectively with children, teens, and parents, helping families overcome anxiety together.
I hold a Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy from the UK College of Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy, an institution known for its evidence-based approach. I also have a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from Oxford Brookes University.
I am an accredited member of the General Hypnotherapy Standards Council (GHSC) and registered with the General Hypnotherapy Register (GHR), adhering to their strict ethical and professional guidelines. I am also fully insured for hypnotherapy practice and hold an up-to-date DBS certificate, ensuring my suitability to work with children and vulnerable adults.
Member organisations
Hypnotherapists may become members of the General Hypnotherapy Register if they satisfy certain criteria with regard to both training and ongoing requirements as determined from time to time by the General Hypnotherapy Standards Council (GHSC).
Members are either registered at Practitioner status (which confirms that the GHR acknowledges their qualification to practice), or Affiliate status. Although Affiliate level registrants will have completed a sufficient number of training hours to equip them to commence seeing clients on a limited basis, the GHR does not acknowledge them to have yet been trained to full practitioner level.
All GHR Registered Practitioners are required to accept the published Code of Ethics and Complaints & Disciplinary Procedure.
Areas of hypnotherapy I deal with
info Information about health conditions (*)
Hypnotherapy can enhance the well-being of individuals diagnosed with serious medical conditions, but should not take the place of medical treatment and advice. If you have been diagnosed with - or suspect you may have - any of these conditions, please speak to your doctor before starting hypnotherapy.
Other areas of hypnotherapy I deal with
Habit Reversal- such as nail biting or hair pulling
Fears- such as fear of flying or driving
Social Anxiety
Overthinking
Fear of Failure
Imposter Syndrome
Burnout
Emotional Blockages
Negative Inner Critic
Resistance to Change
Lack of Motivation
Workplace Stress
School Avoidance in Children
Performance Anxiety
Fear of Public Speaking
Stress and Tension
Fear of Failure
Overwhelming Thoughts
Procrastination
Bad Habits
Imposter Syndrome
Negative Thoughts
Rocketing Stress and Tension
Inability to Say No
Fear of Public Speaking
Social Anxiety
Sleep Problems
Frustration
Inability to Cope
Overwhelm
Burnt Out
Lack of Energy
Anxiety Overdrive
Unfulfillment
Feeling Trapped
Scared
Therapies offered
Photos & videos
Fees
£40.00 - £70.00
Additional information
Initial telephone or Zoom consultation (20-30 mins) – Free
Initial face-to-face consultation (60-90 minutes) – £70
Subsequent 1-hour sessions – £70
Students and individuals on low incomes – £40 per session
I believe that everyone should have access to therapy, regardless of income. I offer a sliding scale for those who may struggle to pay the full fee. If cost is a concern, please discuss this with me during your free consultation, and we can explore a rate that works for you.
When I work
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I offer flexible appointment times to fit around busy family life, including daytime, evening, and some weekend sessions.
Online sessions are available for those who prefer remote support.
Further information
My Mission
I’m passionate about helping families navigate anxiety and stress together, empowering each member with the skills to thrive. My approach is centred on providing you or your family with the tools and support to become your own therapists, helping you transform how you manage stress, emotions, and challenges at home and in life in general.
Whether we meet in my cosy, welcoming clinic or online via video call, my goal is to create a safe space where you and your family can feel heard, understood, and equipped to move forward with confidence. Together, we’ll develop personalised strategies that help you break free from anxiety and stress—quickly and effectively.
My Story
With over 25 years in education—including experience as a senior leader in primary schools—I know how the demands of family life and work can create stress that affects relationships, school performance, and mental health. As a mother of four, including twins and children with ADHD, dyslexia and ASD, I also understand the unique challenges families with neurodiversity face.
I’ve personally navigated the pressures of balancing a high-stress job with raising a family, and I’ve seen the profound difference that hypnotherapy, CBT, and mindfulness can make in reducing overwhelm and building resilience.
If you’re feeling anxious, stressed, or unsure about how to help your family, you’re not alone. Together, we can make lasting changes, giving your family the tools to cope and flourish.
Contact me today to find out how I can support you and your loved ones.
