Sounds very much like a thyroid or gland issue. It could be an anxiety issue, but instantly stating that is what it is, and he need's hypnotherapy would not be what I'd recommend. .Just based on what little you posted above. I would advise the following. I would certainly lean towards have a gland specialist see him before I would refer him to a mental health professional. I'd get him in to see a Endocrinologist. I would also request to have all of his gland level's tested. Often the tissue can get very thick/tender in the area due to a goiter or thyroid. Also, has he ever accidentally gotten anything stuck in his throat? Maybe a childhood accident/injury? such as a Popsicle stick? Could be scar tissue from an old injury. However, I'd see the RIGHT type of doctor first and this would be an Endocrinologist. The first signs of hypothyroidism is not being able to swallow, feelings as if you can't complete a swallow, and it's the last thing most doctor's consider. In addition, not being able to swallow does cause panic in the person who's suffering from it. . Please, keep us posted on what the end result is.