About your Bristol hypnotherapist

Sarah Mortimer HPD DHP Adv. Dip. Hyp. CertHE (Open) Psych

My approach & specialisms

I’m Sarah Mortimer, a Clinical Hypnotherapist based in Bristol. Throughout my professional journey, I’ve worked with a wide range of concerns, but stress, anxiety, and burnout have been at the heart of my work. These challenges can manifest in many ways—whether it’s overthinking, perfectionism, difficulty switching off, or feeling stuck in cycles of self-doubt. I help people break free from these patterns, build confidence, and move forward with greater clarity and ease.

Having personally experienced the impact of chronic pain, stress, and anxiety, I understand how overwhelming it can feel. The pandemic brought about profound changes for many of us—some chosen, others unexpected. I became deeply interested in how we navigate transitions, adapt to change, and build resilience. This led me to further study approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), which now form a key part of my hypnotherapy practice.

My approach is evidence-based, blending hypnosis with mindfulness, cognitive strategies, and self-compassion techniques. I guide clients in developing a new relationship with their thoughts and emotions—one that fosters resilience, self-acceptance, and meaningful action in line with their values. Whether it’s managing anxiety, overcoming people-pleasing, breaking unwanted habits, or navigating major life transitions, my goal is to equip clients with tools they can use long after our sessions have ended.

What brought me to hypnotherapy

I first discovered hypnotherapy when I was struggling with chronic back pain. Over 15 years ago, I suffered from chronic pain—daily lower back pain and sciatica that impacted every aspect of my life. The exhaustion of living with chronic pain led to depression and anxiety, making everything feel even worse. After seeing numerous doctors and consultants, I was referred to an NHS-led pain management programme. It was a turning point.

I learned how pain works, how to relax, use mindfulness and guided visualisation, pace myself, manage stress, set boundaries, and improve sleep. It changed everything. I realised I had more control than I thought, and for the first time in years, I felt hopeful.

Because I gained so much from the programme, I decided to see a hypnotherapist to build on what I had learned. I was fascinated by it, and after just two sessions, I knew I wanted to train in the field myself. I qualified in 2011 and have been helping people make meaningful changes ever since. My personal experience, combined with in-depth training, has reinforced my belief that feeling empowered is at the heart of transformation.

At work

Hypnosis never fails to captivate me - I think it’s incredible! Did you know that its origins go back to the 1800s, when surgeons used it as anaesthesia? It’s still used in some hospitals today. The field of hypnotherapy is vast, and as someone who loves to learn, that excites me. I’m always exploring new research, courses, and books to deepen my understanding and refine my approach.

My journey in helping people manage stress and anxiety spans nearly two decades, with a specific focus on hypnotherapy since 2011. Over the years, I’ve trained in a variety of hypnosis approaches, allowing me to tailor sessions to each client’s needs while staying rooted in evidence-based techniques. My background also includes working as an NHS Social Prescribing Link Worker, where supported people in managing their mental health and well-being. This role gave me insight into how mental health is shaped by many social and environmental factors, not just personal experiences or choices. My work involved well-being coaching to help individuals identify what mattered most to them, as well as signposting to services and activities to improve their overall quality of life.

Now, as one of Bristol’s senior hypnotherapists, I have thousands of hours of clinical practice. I’ve appeared on BBC Radio Bristol multiple times to discuss how hypnotherapy can help with a range of issues. I see clients in person at The Harbourside Practice in Redcliffe and The Practice Rooms on Queen’s Square, as well as online via Google Meet. In addition to my one-to-one work, I facilitate an 8-week online Compassionate Mind Training (CMT) course to help people develop a kinder, more supportive relationship with themselves.

I’m also a college tutor and facilitator at The Anglo European College of Therapeutic Hypnosis in Bournemouth, where I support students training in hypnotherapy. In addition, I support fellow hypnotherapists through my online mentoring programme, supervision, and tuition sessions. My tailored approach helps them build confidence, refine their client work, and grow their practice.

Beyond that, I’m one of the Directors and organisers of the annual UK Hypnosis Convention in London, a key event bringing together experts and enthusiasts from around the world.

At home

Outside of work, I’m currently studying for a BSc Psychology degree with The Open University. I’m also the Secretary and a trustee for OUPS (Open University Psychological Society). My long-term goal is to pursue postgraduate research in hypnosis, contributing to the scientific understanding and evidence base of this fascinating field.

Beyond psychology, I love getting out into nature, reading (mostly psychology-related, but also a good fantasy or sci-fi book now and then), and learning random new things just for fun. I have an insatiable curiosity - I find joy in diving into new topics, exploring fresh ideas, and even picking up unexpected hobbies just to see where they take me. Whether it’s trying out a new sport, studying a niche area of psychology, or getting absorbed in a documentary about something completely obscure, I love the process of learning for its own sake.

I’m also an avid board gamer. What started as a casual interest evolved into a passion during the pandemic, particularly for solo board games that challenged my strategic thinking. Since then, I’ve found a wonderful gaming community and now meet up regularly for game nights filled with strategy, storytelling, and plenty of laughter. There’s something deeply satisfying about immersing myself in a game’s mechanics, solving complex puzzles, and enjoying the friendly competition. Much like reading, board games provide a mental escape, a way to engage deeply with a world of ideas, challenges, and creativity.

Qualifications & professional development

I hold the Hypnotherapy Practitioner Diploma (HPD), the gold standard for hypnotherapy qualifications, alongside a Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy (Dip. Hyp.), a Diploma in Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy (DHP), and an Advanced Hypnotherapy Diploma (Adv. Hyp. Dip.). My training also includes an NLP Practitioner Diploma and a Diploma in Anatomy & Physiology.

Beyond hypnotherapy, I have specialist training in Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), approaches I use extensively in my work with clients. I have also completed Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) and I am a certified Mental Health First Aider (MHFA).

I’m committed to continuous learning and regularly attend seminars, courses, and conferences to deepen my expertise. Some of my more recent studies have included insomnia and sleep disorders, immunity and endurance, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), professional burnout, self-hypnosis, emotion regulation, compassion, self-criticism, perfectionism, ADHD, trauma, neuroscience of psychotherapy, self-esteem, and sports performance.

Supervision is an essential part of my professional practice. I regularly engage in both one-to-one and group supervision, ensuring I continue to refine my skills and provide the best possible support to my clients.

I am also a student member of the British Psychological Society (BPS) as I work towards my BSc in Psychology.

So there we have it, that’s me in a (larger than planned) nutshell. If you would like to work with me, please do get in touch.