Below are some testimonials from the clients I’ve worked with at my Leighton Buzzard practice using Hypnotherapy & Transformative Life-Coaching.

Anxiety, panic, feeling guilty and not good enough, feeling like a failure and like there's something broken inside me, self-criticism and beating myself up

I came to David, through a recommendation, not sure if anyone could really help me. I'd had a difficult, high risk pregnancy and a traumatic birth experience, hated my body and felt I'd really let myself and my family down. I was having regular panic attacks, anxiety symptoms, and post natal depression which had resulted in me feeling disconnected from my baby even though I desperately loved him.

After our initial call, I knew immediately I needed to work with David because - even though he hadn't lived my experiences or anything really close to them - he understood that everything I said I was feeling was actually symptomatic of different issues that he knew he could help me with.

This understanding, and the non-judgemental discussions we had, really turned my world on its head! I discovered so much about myself in the time we worked together. Within weeks, I accepted I am a good mum and the birth experience I had was not my fault, I couldn't have changed any of it and made all my decisions with the best of my ability at the time.

David was there with me, every step of the way. Over time, the really bad days where it felt like I contacted him pretty constantly turned into bad moments that didn't keep affecting me past the moment.

Delving into the real challenges I was facing meant getting uncomfortable and confronting my previously-held core beliefs and values. We looked at pretty much every aspect of who I thought I was and who I wanted to be. At times I felt incredibly vulnerable. I cried, I had to leave some sessions early as it was too much, I messaged him at 3am on several occasions. David made a safe space for me to go through this, be vulnerable, and never feel judged.

Most importantly, David GUIDED me. He wasn't doing the work for me, he was asking the exact right questions, really listening to what I said and what was going on underneath the surface. Getting to the bottom of these challenges has meant I've been able to 'rewrite' my own story.

My life has completely changed. For the first time in my life, I can honestly say I love myself, I love my body, and I'm a great mum. My relationships with everyone in my life have improved.

I do what I love every day, whilst still being connected to my family and spending time with my son. I know my value, my strengths, my self.

I would 100% recommend working with David for anyone experiencing trauma, anxiety or depression; and especially anyone feeling they've lost themselves and no longer know who they are. If you're ready to lean in to the challenge, David will guide you every step of the way.

- E, Age 30, CEO Tech Start-up - Anxiety, panic, feeling guilty and not good enough, feeling like a failure and like there's something broken inside me, self-criticism and beating myself up

Anxiety, worry, stress, and negative thinking, fear of conflict, and feeling insecure, overwhelmed, and too sensitive, hurt by criticism and taking things personally, and feeling lost & lacking direction

In writing this testimonial, I looked again at David's website and in particular the section that states ’You have nothing to lose except what is holding you back’. This sums up my experience working with David as I feel I have lost a lot of what was preventing me from finding more peace in the world, I also did not know quite how much was holding me back.

From our first time speaking I felt very much at ease but also engrossed in the way in which David knows and understands what you are going through. He would very kindly but thoroughly unpack what I was experiencing and made it either disappear or shrank it down so much that it no longer concerned me.

This went on and I feel that over the course I felt lighter and not burdened by what was bothering me to the extent that family members who know me best have noted that I seem like a different person.

The effects are ongoing and I can see obstacles ahead much more clearly, whereas before I always felt blindsided by things. I also don’t think about the things that I used to as they have been unpacked and put away like a holiday suitcase. Some things still bother me but the reassurance that this is normal and perfectly understandable has also helped.

I think the most beneficial aspect has been finding out why I do or think certain things and David's insight is remarkable, he guides you to finding your own answers rather than telling you, he also allows you a space to explore your feelings more deeply to reach a deeper point I had not realised was there.

David is a masterful therapist, a lovely person to talk to and I am convinced that my life is better having worked with him.

- M, 43, Special Projects Manager - Anxiety, worry, stress, and negative thinking, fear of conflict, and feeling insecure, overwhelmed, and too sensitive, hurt by criticism and taking things personally, and feeling lost & lacking direction

Imposter syndrome, anxiety and negative thinking, can't switch off, dealing with frustration, temper, and disappointment, and feeling not worthy and like I don't belong

Before meeting David I suffered from continuous frustrations, always held myself to very high standards and questioned my self worth- to a point where my life was dictated by to-do lists for work and family. I simply could not let things go and always felt that I needed to be on some podium being seen as the best.

This had a knock on impact on my relationship with my wife and kids. I often found myself not being present when with them, constantly thinking about work, to-do lists and frustrated if we were not doing “productive” things during weekends.

Before my first session with David I thought I was wasting my time and was not sure whether this was worth the effort. David listened, asked questions which started to tease out various topics deep inside my mind. He pieced up the puzzle and began translating this in a way that I understood clearly.

Throughout my sessions David provided endless support - providing material to read and listen to which accelerated the process.

My view of the world and how I treat myself and family has totally changed; I am more relaxed, noticing negative thoughts and mindful of times when self-compassion is needed.

In such a short space of time working with David has been a life-changer. I was a big sceptic of this but not anymore. Highly recommended!

- H, Age 39, Hedge Fund Manager - Imposter syndrome, anxiety and negative thinking, can't switch off, dealing with frustration, temper, and disappointment, and feeling not worthy and like I don't belong

Alcohol addiction, anxiety, feeling guilty and like a terrible person

I just wanted to send you a note to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your help in our therapy sessions together.

I can't really express how much working with you has helped me. I have a confidence that I don't think I've ever possessed and I am now looking forward to the future, and for that I will always be grateful.

- N, Customer Service Administrator, Age 32 - Alcohol addiction, anxiety, feeling guilty and like a terrible person

Anxiety, Depression, Panic Attacks, Self-hate

I first started suffering from Anxiety and depression 4 years ago. I was prescribed lots of different types of antidepressants and none of them seemed to work and over the years I was regularly signed off work for months at a time because of it.

I had been to a couple of counsellors, before my husband found David as the general counselling didn't seem to be working.

So, I got into contact with David asking for help with my anxiety, depression and how to cope with it on a day-to-day basis, as I was continuously crying, hiding under the duvet not wanting to go out of the house or even answer the phone and I just hated myself.

Now after the sessions I am more confident and make myself leave the house and see people, say hi to people randomly at Tesco's or ask for help etc and I genuinely look forward to seeing people. I also understand why I feel this way and have coping strategies to help.

I am naturally a nervous person and worrier always worried about trying new things and meeting new people, but as soon as I met David, he made me feel relaxed and myself.

I was initially worried about what he would think of me and I wouldn't know what to say or say something stupid. But I ended up chewing his ear off by me not stopping talking and he didn't judge me and what I said.

He was also always there when I needed advice via email and he responded straight away. That was really helpful because I didn't over think the problem until our next sessions, I got advice straightaway.

Since the sessions have finished, I feel so much more positive, I am more confident now to do things that I couldn't do before, e.g., going for a walk without having a panic attack, talk to people from work. I have also learned to put things into perspective.

David always made me feel positive, safe, I trusted him and I really enjoyed talking to him.

I would definitely recommend David as he was so helpful, non-judgement and we had a laugh. He also sent out extra books and resources to use during and after the sessions had ended. Which I still have and use the audio books and books regularly.

Thank you David!

- G, Teacher, Age 35 - Anxiety, Depression, Panic attacks, Self-hate

Depression and low mood, anxiety and over-thinking, stress, OCD, lack of confidence and low self-esteem, and frustration

After years of suffering with anxiety, depression and low self esteem I realised I should do something about what may be causing these issues for me personally. I had reached a point where I was just existing, not enjoying life, and worrying too much about the past and the future.

In our initial consultation David was able to identify why I might have felt like I did and we embarked on a journey of working together. It wasn’t easy - but I knew I had to deal with things upfront and stop burying my head in the sand hoping for a magic cure. There was a definite shift after one of our sessions where I suddenly felt lighter, happier, and was seeing the world in a different light. There are particular events in my life that had been causing me a great deal of distress - they don’t any more. The events haven’t changed, but the way I was viewing them has.

I now feel ready to tackle life head on and deal with things that come up with a new perspective. I am more accepting of the past and don’t dwell on things.

What I really liked about working with David is that it was all about me - I have been through CBT therapy with the NHS, and that is very much a set path of tasks and homework. David created the programme around me, I was able to talk openly and frankly about things I didn’t even realise I had issues with and in turn David helped me to work through them.

I wasn’t sure before contacting David if hypnotherapy was right for me. Questions like 'Will it work?’ went round in my head. Well the answer is yes it will work! David has the ability to ask the right questions to unlock deep thoughts and beliefs that you may not even be aware you hold. I honestly don’t know where I would be now if I hadn’t taken the plunge.

I would recommend David to anyone - if you are unsure, just make initial contact and have a chat. The first step is the hardest but as soon as you do, you will be on the path to happiness and self discovery. I would also like to add that I really didn’t think Zoom sessions would work for me, but in the end all of our conversations were had online and I didn’t feel inhibited by it.

- R, Stage Manager, Age 35 - Depression and low mood, anxiety and over-thinking, stress, OCD, lack of confidence and low self-esteem, and frustration

Depression, anxiety, anger, stress, lack of motivation, negative self-talk

I was having issues with anxiety, depression and anger. I had reached a point where i didn't like myself much but felt lost and not able to see a way to change this.

I was very frustrated with myself, feeling anxious at work and was with drawing from people around me. In essence this was not something that was going to improve on its own.

Now i feel i much more comfortable with myself, with who i am and what truly matters.

Working together was always challenging, sometimes a ball ache, but on target as dealing with my issues was always going to be uncomfortable. Not shying away from the difficult parts was what needed doing.

I would highly recommend working with David as he works with someone and their issues, not work on them applying a particular form of therapy.

For me this allowed problems, ideas and solutions to come forward without being driven or directed. I think this approach allows for greater understanding of the nature of the issues as well as what to do about them.

- M, Sales Executive, Age 39 - Depression, anxiety, anger, stress, lack of motivation, negative self-talk

Anxiety, OCD, depression, emotional eating, drinking, feeling not-good-enough

I want to say thank you- I have no idea where I would be now without David's help. I feel so much calmer, enjoying my life and not dragging years of hurt along with me.

Anxiety depression and OCD had taken over my mind for many years and now I feel so much more free and able to cope with situations. The sessions always felt safe and comfortable and David is very knowledgeable.

If I knew before that it was possible to feel this good- I would have seeked help a lot sooner. 1000% recommended.

- C, Administration Assistant, Age 31 - Anxiety, OCD, depression, emotional eating, drinking, feeling not-good-enough

Health anxiety, social anxiety, panic attacks, negative thinking, fear of dying

I've had health anxiety throughout my life that went into overdrive when COVID-19 appeared. I also had issues with social anxiety that I've been working around for years, rather than confronting directly.

I got to the point of daily panic attacks, where I would feel unable to breath and be burdened by dread of being ill or dying. I needed help and nothing I had tried previously had given any lasting comfort or relief.

After working with David I have greater awareness of what drives my anxieties and how I can combat anxious thoughts and fears when they arise. I have a better understanding of myself, and that knowledge is useful to stop from falling into old traps and patterns of thought and behaviour.

I have techniques to fall back on now for dealing with anxiety and panic attacks, without having to resort to medication, but find I rarely need them as I have more confidence and self belief. Knowing those tools are there to fall back on is empowering nonetheless. I am much calmer and less fearful going about life.

My conversations with David have opened me up to doing a lot of reading, listening and watching on matters relating to mental health & anxiety, our minds and our relationship with pain, as well as various self-help concepts, spirituality and meditation.

I was simply too deep in the hole of anxiety, fear and hopelessness before our sessions for this to be a possibility, but now have developed a more open and positive mindset, enabling me to continue learning, growing and building on the work I've done with David.

David is thoughtful, friendly, engaging and easy to talk to, but was not afraid to take me out of my comfort zone to get to the root of issues that were causing me problems. He always had a lot of time for me and our sessions were never rushed. He enabled me to see things in a different light and to decode my own thinking and behaviour in order to get to the root of many problems that were holding me back.

I can definitely recommend working with David to anyone who is suffering from problems with health or social anxiety, anyone who feels that they are being held back by negative thinking or lack of motivation, or anyone who simply wants to gain a greater understanding of themself and maximise their potential in life.

- M, Operations Manager, Age 45 - Health anxiety, social anxiety, panic attacks, negative thinking, fear of dying

Health anxiety, over-thinking, beating self up, up-and-down mood, all-or-nothing thinking

Before working with David I had many niggling anxieties that I believed were holding me back in life, but David taught me that very principle - they were nothing but belief systems I had developed.

He has an incredible ability to show you things from a different perspective whilst making you feel at complete ease with him. Because of David’s help and guidance I am definitely heading in the right direction and now have the tools I need to progress in life. Thanks so much mate.

T, Estate Agent, Age 20 - Health anxiety, over-thinking, beating self up, up-and-down mood, all-or-nothing thinking

Stress, anxiety, perfectionism, OCD behaviours, being hard on self, feeling not-good-enough

I was having difficultly with stress, anxiety, depression feeling like a burden to others, feeling under pressure most of the time to prove my worth to myself and others around me, beating myself up a lot, feeling like a failure and chronic pain.

I didn’t really feel like my life had much of a purpose, I wasn’t doing anything I enjoyed or anything for me anymore, I was working extremely hard at work to get noticed for being good enough, I felt a lack of connection between me and everyone else around me, I would constantly feel anxious and worried about things I can’t change, I was living mainly in the past and worrying about the future and not being present at all. I felt like my family were disappointed in me and that I was quite alone.

Since seeing David I feel like my entire mindset has changed, I no longer look back on my past as failures and painful times or anxiously worry about what my future holds I am much more present and have realised that worrying and feeling stressed isn’t serving me. I have started to do a lot more things for me Including hobbies and things I have wanted to learn but have never made the time for. I have learnt to be self compassionate which is turn is helping me to feel less under pressure and stressed.

I liked how it was structured but not overly, if there was something that would come up that needed addressing we would work on it, before each session I would fill out the same questionnaire so by the end of our work together I could see how far I had come. David is patient and I felt like I could really open up and start to deal with my on going issues.

My initial concerns were that it wouldn’t work, I had been stuck in this rut for so long and couldn’t see a way out, after having a telephone call with David and then meeting together I could finally see some light at the end of the tunnel.

I feel extremely happy about my results, and believe healing is something you have to commit yourself to everyday, working hard on doing the things I love and enjoy, connecting with my friends and family and focusing on what makes me happy.

it was a bit of a rollercoaster, I found myself making progress and then things seemed to slip a bit In the middle however by the end I felt like I had been on quite a long journey and had learnt a lot about myself and realised where I was going wrong and everything fell into place.

I would definitely recommend David to anyone who is struggling, I honestly believe now that my life will be completely different since seeing him and I am feeling so much happier and positive.

- N, Postal Service, Age 29 - Stress, anxiety, perfectionism, OCD behaviours, being hard on self, feeling not-good-enough

Depression, negative thinking, self-loathing, feeling stuck

Since working with David, my quality of life has improved.

I reached out to him after recovering from a long period of depression, and whilst my depression had at last eased around two years before approaching him, I was still struggling with overpowering negative thoughts and forming new, positive habits.

From the first time I spoke with David, he put me at ease, we got on well and his knowledge and enthusiasm was infections. We made a plan of what I wanted to achieve and over a 3 month period we worked through it.

With a various range of bespoke material, understanding and conversations we were able to very successfully and calming break down some of my thought process.

Since doing this I have been feeling better and better, like anyone I am sure I have a long way to go - but at 40 years old I genuinely have a positive outlook.

Thanks David!

- R, IT Consultant, Age 40 - Depression, negative thinking, self-loathing, feeling stuck

Depression, anxiety, OCD, overwhelm, lack of motivation, chaotic sleep

I went into therapy with David Bird shortly before I turned 60.

Most of my life I had suffered from mental health problems for which I received treatment from NHS psychiatry and from a number of hypnotherapists (I’ve counted 6 before David!) These therapies took place over a period of decades, some helped a bit but none were remotely successful and I remained stuck and unhappy.

I didn’t really feel that any of the therapists before David had understood what my core problems were let alone actually treated them! I became increasingly isolated, my sleep patterns were disturbed and I often couldn’t even face getting out of bed. I was afraid of life and staying in bed felt safe.

Then something changed in me, I started to realise that if I didn’t do something about this I would stay like it for the rest of my life and that felt intolerable. Over a period of weeks, perhaps a couple of months, I started to look for a therapist, I felt desperate but because of my previous experience of therapy I was far from hopeful that anyone would be able to help me.

Eventually I decided to contact David. Even from the initial phone call, I felt something different from all the other therapies I’d had! I felt David took the time to really listen, ask questions and then actually UNDERSTOOD what the core issues were that were causing my mental health problems. Why hadn’t any of the other therapists done that?

We worked over Skype. Most of my problems had their roots in childhood and whilst it wasn’t all bad I had an unhappy childhood characterised by arguments, aggression and sometimes violence. I had what I considered to be traumatic memories. There was a lot to work on then and along with the sessions themselves David would set ‘tasks’ to be done between sessions.

A lot of the time during the sessions was taken up with working on my core issues and traumatic memories. This was often emotionally intense and with lots of tears but I felt ‘safe’ during these sessions and ALWAYS felt better at the end of every session than I did at the start. I know good therapy when I see it and even more so when I experience it myself!

I also felt very well supported between the therapy sessions, this consisted mainly of support via text and email and was much more extensive than I’d experienced with any other therapist, this too was essential for me.

I was amazed, things started improving for me, I could get out of bed, go out and started talking to more people and joining groups. It wasn’t always easy but I couldn’t have done it at all without this therapy. It got easier over time and I started to feel much better about myself and my future. I started to realise that being alive was great even though it doesn’t always feel so for anyone at times.

Not too long after my therapy programme with David finished along came Coronavirus and the lockdown! That of course brings challenges – and opportunities – all of its own, and for all of us, but I feel so much better equipped to deal with it now, and to build a better life for myself, as a result of David’s help. For that I am extremely grateful and it goes without saying really but I wholeheartedly recommend David Bird if you’re looking for an exceptional therapist who will be able to help you.

- M, Retired NHS Administration Officer, Age 60 - Depression, anxiety, OCD, overwhelm, lack of motivation, chaotic sleep

Relationship Issues and challenges at work

Working with David really helped me understand the mechanics of my problem and to unpick it in a way I didn’t really understand at the time. I found him genuinely kind, patient, and empathetic.

He asked thought provoking questions in a respectful way, and his natural ability to spot a problem pattern is second to none.

I recommended David to a friend who was also able to heal some lifelong issues in a very short space of time. If you’re looking to make a positive change I would recommend David in a heartbeat.

- R, Age 38, Business Executive - Challenges at work and relationship Issues

Lack of self-confidence, fear of confrontation, fear of dying, emotional eating, body image issues

I can’t tell you how much, working with David, has changed my life.

I first contacted David a few months ago because I had a fear of dying that was really getting in the way of me moving forward in my life and was constantly on my mind. From our first meeting I knew 100% that this was the right move.

Over the time we worked together I learnt so much about myself. We didn’t work directly on the fear of dying as there was so much behind the fear which is what we focussed on.

David has this unbelievable skill of being able to really listen whilst putting all the pieces of the puzzle together, translating back to you in a way that totally makes sense and leaves you feeling a little less crazy! And then creating action steps that left me feeling empowered.

It wasn’t an easy process at all, in fact there were a lot of tears and a lot of work outside of our sessions, but it’s the best thing I have ever done (and I have done a lot of work on myself!).

The support that I received in between sessions was totally invaluable as I diligently did my ‘homework’. And having someone who could almost instantly see through all my cr*p and pretence and call me out when it needed to happen was exactly what I needed.

I’m about to have my last session which previously would have terrified me, but I know I will leave the session with a true sense of being in control, empowered and with the skills I was missing to be able to ask the right questions of myself whenever I need it.

This has been totally life changing and I recommend David to anyone and everyone! Thank you!

- A, Accountant, Age 40 - Lack of self-confidence, fear of confrontation, fear of dying, emotional eating, body image issues

Post-Traumatic Stress and trauma

I was struggling to come to terms with my PTSD.

I didn't believe therapy would have an effect on me. But working with David helped me to overcome many fears. 

I now have a better understanding of how my brain works, which made it easier for me to understand myself and why I might be feeling low.

I found working with David insightful and safe. I would definitely recommend him. He makes it a safe environment where you can face your problems and start to better your life. 

- F, Model, Age 24 - PTSD and trauma

Stress, social anxiety, not feeling good enough

I was having difficulty with my most longstanding issues, including stress symptoms and social anxiety. Working with David helped me reveal these stemmed from an unconscious belief of not being 'good enough'. 

The work we did together helped me become more confident, calm and 'still' in social situations. It helped me establish a better relationship with other people. Particularly my closest family and friends. And to feel healthier by tackling the roots of psychological stress.

Absolutely, I would recommend David. I think the example that David sets in working on himself may be what sets him apart the most: he leads by example, which has been a powerful motivator for me. 

I think everyone feels a bit anxious before trying something new, but I see now that you shouldn't ever let that stop you. If you're on the fence, just go for it!

- J, Teacher, Age 29 - Stress and social anxiety

Anxiety, family trauma, low sex-drive

At 65 I was facing a situation that challenged my mental stability which was being compounded in trying to deal with a very traumatic family issue that raised questions as to whether I was managing my life to the best of my ability or if there were underlying problems that needed to be addressed.

After some initial hesitation I reached out to David to see if his skill and expertise would guide me through my personal turmoil and if possible provide me with some clarification as to how I could effectively deal with my situation.

I was very surprised that after a number of consultations David was able to clearly pin point issues that I was trying to deal with and provided clarity as to how I might resolve my personal circumstances in such a way that I have now regained my confidence in managing the situation I was finding myself in.

David has a very warm engaging manner in which he conducts his consultations and this makes a very insightful approach that for me resulted in a very positive outcome.

I would highly recommend David as his skill in being to identify the root cause of a particular issue and by being able to set out a clear path in resolving a person’s own situation has hugely benefited me.

- M, Age 65 - IT Professional - anxiety, family trauma, low sex-drive

Depression, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, self-medication, compulsive spending

I would like to say just how much David has helped me come to terms with a condition that had been holding me back for most of my adult life. A combination of anxiety that had been mis-diagnosed and depression that had crippled me for years.

I had sought help from any source I could and whilst the counselling I received was useful I wasn’t able to find the root cause which would then help me deal with it. David was able to not only help me find the cause but to actually transform my life and my outlook.

Our conversations where hard and sometimes challenging, but David gave me the confidence and ability to look at my life afresh and to approach life with a different perspective of awareness and mindfulness.

Thank you so much for helping me change my life.

- G, IT Professional, Age 49 - Depression, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, self-medication, compulsive spending

Fear of flying (aerophobia, aviophobia)

I’ve been scared of flying for such a long time. No matter how positive I tried to be, each and every plane journey was terrifying. It wasn’t just the journey itself, it was the lead up to it.

Since our session my fear has not just decreased but it has completely gone. I went on a flight and on a helicopter a week after the session and genuinely my fear had gone. So impressed and grateful.

I can now continue to explore different countries without the nervousness before the flight and the sweaty hands and fast beating heart during it. 

David was understanding and calm even though we had to re-visit certain parts again before the fear was finally gone. David made me feel comfortable talking about my experiences and made me realise where my fear had come from.

I couldn’t help but be somewhat sceptical and I worried it wouldn’t work for me. Well aren’t I glad I tried anyway as after just one session, David helped me to overcome my fear.

I would definitely recommend David. He puts people at ease and really listens to what he's being told. It’s clear that he's passionate about what he does.

- S, Police Officer, Age 31 - Fear of flying

Cocaine addiction

I had got to a point in my life where I felt I couldn't socialise without taking cocaine. Our work together has changed all of that.

Cocaine started out as a drug I didn't do all that often. But over time it became part of my social routine. Also, if I had a bad day at work, or a friend had had a bad day, then it would be a reason to 'pick me up'.

At the start of the week I would tell myself "no gear this week". But if I made it through to Friday, I'd be ordering in for the weekend as a 'well done' for not doing any during the week. This happened all too often. 

I now can go out or stay in with friends, even with those friends who still 'get on it', without being tempted. I do not think about cocaine during the week, and it's not part of my socialising routine at the weekends.

I no longer have an argument in my head, during the week, whether or not I should get on it or not. I do not worry and panic anymore about how I am going to have fun without it. I do not feel like I am missing out.

I feel like I am back to the ‘old’ person I used to be, where I could go clubbing, not do any drugs and be the last one on the dance-floor, or last one to go to bed. The 'old me' who could have fun with friends and get through the weekend without cocaine.

I did have concerns whether or not the changes would be long lasting. I was concerned that when in an environment where cocaine was present, I would be to tempted to give in. But I haven't. They have lasted.

I would absolutely recommend working with David to others. Our work together got my life back on track and in control. Best feeling. Uplifting, life changing and back in the driver’s seat!

- B, Account Manager, Age 28 - Cocaine addiction

Depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts

I was suffering with depression and suicidal thoughts, and generalised anxiety.

I was receiving treatment (anti-depressants and CBT) for my depression, and although it was helping me function, I wasn’t noticing a sustainable change - I still felt suicidal all the time. I felt very helpless and hopeless that I was going to have to feel like this for the rest of my life.

I avoided my friends, thinking they hated me or were merely tolerating me; I put so much energy into hiding how ill I was at work that I had nothing left when I got home; and I constantly thought about dying or killing myself.

Since working with David, I'm now more confident and content in myself, and as cheesy as it sounds, I feel more capable to deal with whatever life throws at me, and take everything in my stride.

For example, I have the confidence to stand up to my boss at work when I don’t agree with something; previously I would have become frustrated, angry, depressed, trapped within the situation. But now when something conflicts with my beliefs I’m confident enough to stand up for them and not let that inner conflict drag me down.

I had a LOT of concerns about hypnotherapy before I decided to work with David. Firstly, massive scepticism. I’m a scientist by training and didn’t believe in a lot of this hypnotherapy mumbo-jumbo. Secondly, scepticism. I’d done CBT and other talking therapy so why on earth was this going to work?

Thirdly, scepticism. "He’s not going to be able to help me" and "I'm going to be stuck like this forever" were common thoughts. The scientist in me is still a sceptic. I can’t explain it, I’ve not read enough papers to convince me. But what I do know is it worked for me where CBT only scratched the surface.

I was also really scared about being judged and worried about having to talk through "big stuff" with someone. But there was zero judgement and everything was done to make me comfortable and safe.

We worked at a pace I could cope with. If I was having a rough day with my depression, the session was adapted to not overwhelm me and with no pressure - leave the "big stuff" to another day! In hindsight I can’t believe it was something I was worried about!

David helped me through one of the toughest times of my life - and I’ve come out the other side struggling to remember what depression feels like (and I was in a really dark, scary place). I now feel like a much better version of myself. I’m still me, but a more awesome version of me.

I would absolutely recommend working with David! He's very knowledgeable, professional, personable and patient. His passion for helping others shines through and he's so invested in supporting people through tough times.

- E, Manufacturing Supervisor, Age 32 - Depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts

Spider phobia (arachnophobia)

I had an absolute fear/phobia and irrational behaviour around spiders.

I used to scan a room first when I went in, especially a toilet, looking for spiders. I used to threaten people that if they came near me with a spider, I would knock them out and didn’t care if I lost my job over it. I would scream and shake uncontrollably, which in my position at work is not professional at all.

Now that doesn’t happen. My life is not controlled by my irrational fear anymore.

After just one session with David, he helped me understand where it all started, and that actually, because I love all creatures, I saw it was ok to love spiders too.

It is truly incredible that after all these years, being so fearful of something that you would lose your job over it, to not have that fear is a fantastic feeling. My husband and colleagues/friends at work are all very amazed at the change in me.

I can now watch spiders on TV and look at pictures of them. I can work in my garden without fear of being attacked by a spider. I no longer worry about a spider jumping out on me when I walk into any room. I have even got very close and attached to a rather large house spider which I have named Fred. 

I liked being fearful of spiders. I didn’t want to lose that because I didn’t want to face it. I didn’t think it would work, but I realised I had nothing to lose by trying.

The experience of therapy has been bloody fantastic. The actual therapy was good and the result was amazing. I trusted David completely and he made me feel safe. 

I have already recommended David to my friends, because if they have a chance to combat their fears or phobias or any other areas of their lives that could help them become happier, calmer and/or more in control of their mind, as David Bird would say, then it's worth a shot, right!?

- N, Operations Manager, Age 43 - Spider phobia (arachnophobia)

Depression, suicidal thoughts, feeling hopeless and unlovable

My biggest problem was depression. I felt like there is no hope for me. That I will never be happy again.

Daily tasks become extremely difficult, sometimes I couldn't find motivation and energy to get up in the morning. I would stay at home for weeks feeling nothing but pain. I gave up on my social life, hobbies, felt useless, hopeless and unlovable. I've been fighting with very strong suicidal thoughts.

After just a short while I understood the core of the problem which helped me understand why I've been feeling so miserable and what I can do to change it. I had more energy, I started noticing positive aspects of my life and getting up in the morning wasn't so difficult anymore. It's been a hard work, but I could see how my way of thinking started to change, which was the biggest motivation.

I'm happy to say I don't feel depressed anymore. I still have some bad days, as we all do, but I know it's just a moment. I started going out again, making new friends, enjoying small things and constantly forcing myself to get out of my comfort zone so I can learn myself. I feel loved and I like myself :)

I really like the fact these were not the standard, serious and heavy sessions. I've never felt overwhelmed even when the subjects were very difficult. I felt more like talking to someone who is willing to listen and is able to show me things, I'm trying to hide from myself, which really helped me to feel comfortable and be open about what I feel and think.

The last time I've been looking for help, I've been given antidepressants, which made me feel even worse. I felt like I need to understand the reason rather than trying to heal the side effects, and that's what our sessions gave me.

I could see effects, very quickly, and I was getting feedback from David as well, which helped me to see how far I got. Also the fact we were in touch after the sessions, and I could always reach out to David when I was struggling helped a lot.

Yes, I would recommend working with David! His approach is unconventional. He was able to make me feel comfortable, talking about the most uncomfortable subjects. It was a very positive surprise. From ''I'm hopeless and helpless'' I got to ''I can be happy if I work on myself a little bit more'' within just a few months :)

- P, Senior Hiring Assistant, Age 25 - Depression, suicidal thoughts, feeling hopeless and unlovable

Lack of confidence, anxiety, family issues, and fear of flying

I originally wanted to conquer my fear of flying, but I also had an issue with anxiety, and lack of confidence generally.

I had not taken a holiday abroad with my family since I was a child and went with my own parents at the age of 15. Even talking about holidaying abroad would make me tearful. I was restricting my life and my family's.

I have now taken a flight to Edinburgh! I felt confident and my anxiety was almost non-existent waiting for the plane and although I got nervous on the plane I was able to take control of the nerves. This gave me confidence and a sense of achievement. I am also able to plan a pipe dream trip to America in the next year or so, even contacting a travel agent.

Looking at my fear of flying had also enabled me to take a look at my anxieties more generally. Our work wasn't just restricted to that one thing. Although now I have made decisions to make changes in my life, so it's all a bit upside down (mainly work wise) I don't feel anxious about that. I am sleeping better and any nerves I get are "normal" nerves about starting a new job.

Some family issues have also been put to rest. They are not solved, but the intense feelings I had are not there now. I can be at peace with situations without hatred or grief, simply acceptance. It feels ok. It feels ok to be in this place.

I loved the tools I was given to cope, to take home and use. I discovered things I had never even had a conscious thought about and affected me deeply. This work I found helped me more than others along with looking at layers. Sometimes painfully, but always with an approach to healing.

I am now less anxious and more confident. I am also so surprised at just how much I let go with David. I ugly-cried and spoke about things I don't think anyone but me had ever heard (in my mind to myself) and it felt safe.

I can remember one of our last sessions when we had almost ended our work together, but emotions were high, so we agreed to have another week. I can remember being very tearful, feeling very raw and vulnerable. I looked at David and I felt that he was with me. I really knew he was right beside me and with his support I could look at what I was struggling with. He may be younger than me, but I felt he held me in mind and walked with me through the tough stuff. I was so grateful for that.

I have put to bed an all-consuming fear and feel I have grabbed my life back. I have looked at my anxiety and lack of confidence and softened it. If it does rear its ugly head I have also been given the tools to manage it. The butterflies I constantly woke up with in the night have gone. I have a better quality of life.

Working with David was a hugely positive experience. I kept going home to my family saying: you wouldn't believe what we talked about. You must go and see him! He was empathic, warm and professional. He provided a safe space in which to be able to uncover my darkest fears. He was open and knowledgeable.

I appreciated when David explained why he was taking a certain approach, why he thought it may work. He made me feel part of my therapy, not just a counsellor and client. I was in the driving seat.

I think everyone has things they could do with support with and I think David had the skills to help them. If he can help me get on a plane, I think he can help anyone with anything! David helped me deal with my layers, as well as my main reason for visiting. He saw me as a whole. I believe he can help others get to a place they would like to be emotionally and mentally.

- E, Pharmacy Care Coordinator, Age 44 - Lack of confidence, anxiety, family issues, and fear of flying