Solution Focused Hypnotherapy, CBT &  EMDR Practitioner in Essex

Meet Brian O'Donnell

Welcome to Brian ODonnell Therapy. I am a Solution Focused Hypnotherapist supporting people who want to move forwards from anxiety, stress, low mood, phobias, addictions and confidence issues. I also offer Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

I offer a calm, confidential space for face-to-face sessions in Ardleigh, near Colchester, as well as online appointments via Microsoft Teams.

Book for Free 50-Minute Initial Consultation

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brian's Story

My journey into therapy came from a genuine interest in how people can make positive changes, even when life feels difficult or overwhelming. I understand that anxiety, stress, low confidence and addictive behaviours can affect every part of daily life, relationships and wellbeing.

As a local therapist serving Essex and Suffolk, I am passionate about helping people recognise their own strengths and take practical steps towards the life they want. At Brian ODonnell Therapy, I believe that everyone has the capacity to create meaningful change when they have the right support, encouragement and tools.

I provide a safe, welcoming and judgement-free environment where you can speak openly, feel heard and focus on what you would like to improve.

I am an NMC registered mental health nurse with 23 years of experience working within the NHS.  I currently hold a Clinical Lead position.

During my mental health career, I have gained qualifications in EMDR, DBT, CBT and Solution Focused Hypnotherapy. I am registered with EMDR UK and am a member of The Association of Solution Focused Hypnotherapists.

I am fully insured and hold a valid DBS Certificate through the DBS update service. 

 

 

 

 

Why I Became a Therapist

I started my career as a mental health nurse but became interested in therapy as I saw the effect trauma, anxiety, depression and addiction can have on individuals and I wanted to do more to support them. CBT was the first intervention that I studied and I found this very helpful in supporting people who had negative beliefs about themselves. I found it especially helpful when supporting those with anxiety, OCD and addiction. I then trained in EMDR and started practicing this in 2013. I found EMDR to be incredibly effective in helping people with PTSD and Complex Trauma. I was then made aware of Solution Focused Hypnotherapy.  This offers something very different to my clients. It is very effective in managing phobias, addictions, anger, anxiety and sleeping problems. I have seen it transform the lives of people I have worked with. They report that focusing on solutions rather than the problem is life changing.  As a therapist it is humbling to play a part in making peoples lives better. 

 

person undergoing therapy while a man writes in a notepad

 

 

 

 

My Approach to Therapy

Every person is different, so every therapy plan I create is tailored to the individual. I work collaboratively with you rather than telling you what to do. You remain in control throughout the process.

My approach combines modern neuroscience, psychology, CBT, EMDR or Solution Focused Hypnotherapy techniques to help encourage lasting, positive change. 

My client-centred therapy approach includes:

Focusing on your strengths, resources and progress

 Exploring practical solutions that feel realistic for you

Working at a pace that feels comfortable

 

Creating a calm and supportive atmosphere

Helping you build confidence in your ability to move forwards

Supporting positive change without judgement

As an Essex therapist, I aim to make professional hypnotherapy feel approachable, clear and reassuring.

Book an Initial Consultation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Client seated in a therapy session while therapist takes notes in a notebook.

Cocaine Addiction Therapy

Cocaine addiction is a particular specialist area of interest within my work. I understand that seeking support for cocaine use can feel daunting, particularly where there may be shame, secrecy, anxiety or concerns about how others may react. You will be treated with respect, confidentiality and without judgement.

Through Solution Focused Hypnotherapy, I can help you focus on the future you want to build and develop practical ways to support change. 

How I Can Help

Understanding your goals

We will discuss what you want life to look like without cocaine controlling your decisions, time, finances or relationships.

Managing triggers and urges

We can explore helpful strategies for responding differently to situations, feelings or routines linked to use.

Building confidence
​and motivation

Therapy can help you reconnect with your reasons for change and recognise the progress you are making.​

Supporting wider
wellbeing

Where appropriate, I encourage clients to seek additional medical or specialist addiction support alongside therapy, particularly where withdrawal, mental health or physical health concerns are involved.

More on Cocaine Addiction Therapy

 

 

 

 

Qualifications & Professional Training

NMC Registered
Mental Health Nurse

I am an NMC registered mental health nurse with 23 years of experience working within the NHS. I currently hold a Clinical Lead position, bringing extensive professional experience of supporting people with a wide range of mental health and wellbeing concerns.

Therapeutic Qualifications

Throughout my mental health career, I have developed training and qualifications in EMDR, DBT, CBT and Solution Focused Hypnotherapy. This broad therapeutic background helps inform my client-centred approach and enables me to draw on a strong understanding of emotional wellbeing, anxiety, stress and positive behavioural change.

 

Professional Memberships & Standards

I am registered with the NMC and EMDR UK. I am also a member of the Association for Solution Focused Hypnotherapists. These professional registrations reflect my commitment to recognised standards, ethical practice, confidentiality and ongoing development as an experienced therapist near Colchester.

Insurance, DBS & Continuous Development

I am fully insured and hold a valid DBS Certificate through the DBS Update Service. I also remain committed to Continuous Professional Development, keeping my knowledge and skills up to date so that I can provide safe, professional and compassionate support to clients across Essex and Suffolk.

 

 

 

 

Face-to-Face & Online Therapy

Client experiencing stress during a therapy session with a hypnotherapist.

 

Therapy in Ardleigh, Near Colchester

I offer face-to-face hypnotherapy sessions from my welcoming therapy room in Ardleigh, conveniently located near Manningtree and Colchester on the Essex and Suffolk border. The space is designed to be calm, comfortable and private, allowing you to take time away from everyday pressures and focus fully on yourself.

Many clients value the opportunity to attend in person, particularly if they enjoy having a dedicated space for therapy. As a therapist in Ardleigh, Essex, I welcome clients from across East Essex and South Suffolk.
 

Smiling woman in cozy sweater using a laptop for online therapy session.

 

Online Therapy via Microsoft Teams

Online appointments are available through Microsoft Teams, providing a flexible alternative if travel is difficult, you have a busy schedule or you simply feel more comfortable speaking from home. Online hypnotherapy can be an effective option for clients throughout Essex, Suffolk and further afield.

You will need a private, comfortable place where you can sit or recline safely, a reliable internet connection and a device with a camera and audio. I will explain everything clearly before your appointment so you can feel at ease.

 

 

 

 

EMDR, CBT and Hypnotherapist Serving
Essex and Suffolk

Although my therapy room is based in Ardleigh near Colchester, I work with clients throughout Essex and Suffolk. If you are looking for a trusted EMDR, CBT or Hypnotherapist in Essex or a therapist in Colchester, I offer both in-person and online options.

I regularly welcome enquiries from people in:

  • Colchester
  • Ardleigh
  • Manningtree
  • Mistley
  • Lawford
  • Dedham
  • East Bergholt
  • Harwich
  • Clacton-on-Sea
  • Brightlingsea
  • Ipswich
  • Hadleigh
  • Sudbury
  • Felixstowe

Online appointments also mean that location does not need to be a barrier to accessing support. Whether you are nearby or elsewhere in the UK, we can discuss whether online therapy is suitable for you.

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Why Clients Choose Brian

Free Initial Consultation

I offer a free 50-minute initial consultation. This gives us time to discuss what you would like help with and which therapy feels like the right fit for you.

 

A Friendly,
Approachable Service

Starting therapy can feel like a big step. I aim to make the process straightforward, welcoming and free from pressure from the moment you get in touch.
 

 

Individual
Therapy Plans

There is no one-size-fits-all approach at Brian ODonnell Therapy. Your sessions are shaped around your needs, goals and circumstances.

 

A Focus on
Positive Change

Whether it is CBT to challenge negative thoughts, EMDR to process past trauma or Solution Focused Hypnotherapy. I can help you make positive changes to your life.

 

Evidence-Informed Techniques

All of the therapies I offer are evidenced based.


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In-Person and Online Flexibility

You can choose between sessions in my Ardleigh therapy room or online via Microsoft Teams, depending on what works best for you.


 

 

Confidential and Respectful Support

Your privacy matters. I provide a professional, confidential and non-judgemental environment where you can talk honestly about your concerns.


 

Convenient Essex/Suffolk Border Location

My location near Colchester makes face-to-face therapy accessible for clients across East Essex and South Suffolk, while online sessions offer additional flexibility.

 

 

Questions I get as a solutions-focused hypnotherapy practitioner in Essex

Who is Brian O'Donnell and what is his background in hypnotherapy?

Brian O'Donnell is a Solution Focused Hypnotherapist based in Ardleigh, near Colchester. He supports clients across Essex and Suffolk with concerns including anxiety, stress, low mood, phobias, confidence issues and addictive behaviours, with a particular specialist interest in cocaine addiction therapy.

What inspired Brian to become a Solution Focused Hypnotherapist?

Brian became a therapist because of his interest in helping people make positive changes when life feels difficult or overwhelming. His work is centred on helping clients move beyond feeling stuck, regain confidence and take practical steps towards the future they want.

What qualifications does Brian have in Solution Focused Hypnotherapy?

Brian has completed training in Solution Focused Hypnotherapy, which combines solution-focused talking therapy, hypnosis, psychology and an understanding of neuroscience. He is also committed to ongoing Continuous Professional Development and ethical, confidential professional practice.

What can I expect from my first session with Brian?

Brian offers a free 50-minute initial consultation. This is an opportunity to discuss what you would like support with, learn how Solution Focused Hypnotherapy works, ask questions and decide whether therapy feels right for you, with no pressure to commit.

Does Brian offer hypnotherapy sessions online as well as in person?

Yes. Brian offers face-to-face hypnotherapy from his therapy room in Ardleigh, near Colchester, as well as online hypnotherapy appointments via Microsoft Teams. Online sessions are available to clients throughout Essex, Suffolk and elsewhere in the UK.

How does Brian tailor hypnotherapy sessions to each individual?

Brian works collaboratively with each client to create a therapy plan based on their needs, goals and circumstances. Sessions combine solution-focused conversation with a relaxing trance component and progress at a pace that feels comfortable for the individual.

What types of clients does Brian work with?

Brian works with adults seeking support for anxiety, stress, low mood, phobias, confidence concerns and addictive behaviours. He also offers cocaine addiction therapy, helping clients focus on goals, manage triggers, build motivation and support wider wellbeing.

Will I feel comfortable and supported during hypnotherapy sessions?

Brian aims to provide a calm, welcoming, confidential and non-judgemental environment. You remain in control throughout therapy and can speak openly about your concerns, whether you choose in-person hypnotherapy in Ardleigh or online sessions via Microsoft Teams.

 

 

 

Book Your
Free 50-Minute Consultation

Taking the first step towards support can feel daunting, but you do not have to commit to therapy before finding out more. Your free 50-minute consultation is simply an opportunity to talk about your goals, ask questions and decide which therapy is right for you.

Most clients work with me for around 8 to 12 sessions, although this can vary depending on your individual needs and goals. 

Arrange your Free Consultation

 

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