Fergus Findlay, clinical hypnotherapist and psychotherapist
From classrooms to monasteries and back again
Hi, I’m Fergus Findlay, clinical hypnotherapist and psychotherapist. Following training in hypnotherapy with the renowned Clifton Practice in Edinburgh, I received my Hypnotherapy Practitioner’s Diploma (HPD), the gold standard in UK hypnotherapy training.
For most of my adult life, I’ve been deeply curious about how our brains and minds work, especially what leads to real freedom, peace, and lasting happiness.
My journey began with academic studies in physiology, psychology, and neuroscience, which gave me a solid grounding in the science of the mind. But as fascinating and valuable as that was, it didn’t feel like the whole picture. So I chose to step away from a neuroscience PhD to explore the mind from a completely different angle.
That shift led me deep into the world of meditation. Over the years, I’ve travelled widely across Asia and Europe to learn from renowned meditation masters, spending more than four years living and training in various Buddhist monasteries. These experiences gave me something that books and lectures couldn’t: direct, personal insight into the workings of the mind. I came to understand how we can let go of unnecessary suffering and tap into the inner freedom and ease that’s available to all of us.
Feeling inspired by everything I’d learned, I eventually swapped my robes and alms bowl for jeans and a notepad, and returned to the modern world to study hypnotherapy at the prestigious Clifton Practice. Now, I’m learning how to support others in making meaningful, positive changes in their lives, whether that’s overcoming unwanted symptoms or unlocking greater potential.
How does my background help you?
One of the key elements of Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is helping clients understand how the brain and mind work. When people know what’s going on beneath the surface, it often brings a sense of relief, and a clear path forward. It helps explain why they’re feeling the way they do and shows how change is not only possible, but achievable.
With my background in science, I’m well placed to explain these ideas in clear, straightforward language. I’m always happy to answer questions, whether they're simple or complex, and I genuinely enjoy helping clients make sense of their experience.
My scientific training also means I can keep up with the latest research on the brain and the challenges clients bring to therapy. This ensures the support I offer is grounded in the most current and credible understanding of how real, lasting change happens.
Free Meditation classes
Scientific research shows that hypnotherapy can be even more effective when paired with regular meditation practice. Thanks to my background in meditation training, I’m able to offer a variety of techniques tailored to suit each client’s needs, experience, and preferences.
As a free optional extra, I invite all my clients to join weekly drop-in meditation classes. These sessions are designed to support your journey toward greater self-awareness, clarity, calm, and freedom, while also enhancing the benefits of hypnotherapy.
You’re welcome to join as often as you like, whether you’re currently in therapy with me or have already completed your sessions. It’s a space to continue growing and developing, increasing your potential and your understanding of yourself.