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Send us Fan Mail In this fascinating episode of NZACH Talk Time, Meredith McCarthy speaks with author and storyteller Brownell Landrum, founder of the Cosmic Wish Experiment and author of The Art and Science of Wishing. Together, they explore the deeper meaning of wishing — not simply as fantasy or wishful thinking, but as a powerful blend of intention, hope, ritual, storytelling, science, and aligned action. Brownell shares how her curiosity led her to research over 70 scientists and explore how every wish may engage multiple areas of science, including neuroplasticity, anthropology, mirror neurons, psychobiology, the reticular activating system, and the power of collective intention. Meredith and Brownell discuss the difference between a goal, a prayer, and a wish, and how a “cosmic wish” adds science, repetition, emotional alignment, and purpose to the wishing process. This conversation also explores the importance of peaceful, positive, and purposeful wishing; the role of ritual in human history; the power of group intention; and how collective hope can support resilience, meaning, and positive change. Meredith reflects on how these ideas connect beautifully with hypnotherapy, subconscious alignment, reframing, and helping people move beyond fear, limitation, and old belief patterns. In this episode, we discuss: The difference between a wish, a goal, and a prayer What makes a wish a “cosmic wish” Why repetition supports neuroplasticity How the reticular activating system helps us notice opportunities The role of ritual, storytelling, and collective intention Why wishes need to be peaceful, positive, and purposeful How wishing can spark hope and shift energy The connection between hypnotherapy, subconscious alignment, and belief change Why reframing difficult experiences can build resilience How collective hope may help humanity move towards something better This is a warm, thought-provoking conversation for anyone interested in hypnotherapy, manifestation, personal growth, spiritual development, neuroplasticity, storytelling, collective consciousness, and the science behind intention. To learn more about Brownell Landrum and the Cosmic Wish Experiment, visit: https://cosmicwishexperiment.com https://brownelllandrum.com To learn more about becoming a clinical hypnotherapist through the New Zealand Academy of Clinical Hypnotherapy, visit: https://www.nzach.ac.nz If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who may enjoy exploring the power of wishing, hope, and human potential. Keywords hypnotherapy, clinical hypnotherapy, NZACH Talk Time, Meredith McCarthy, Brownell Landrum, Cosmic Wish Experiment, the art and science of wishing, wishing, manifestation, intention, collective intention, collective consciousness, neuroplasticity, reticular activating system, power of hope, positive thinking, subconscious mind, mind body spirit, spiritual growth, personal transformation, storytelling, ritual, mirror neurons, psychobiology, law of attraction, manifestation science, peaceful positive purposeful, hypnotherapy podcast, New Zealand hypnotherapy, becoming a hypnotherapist, hypnosis and mindset, subconscious alignment, reframing, resilience, belief change, goal setting, prayer and intention, collective energy, wish circle

Send us Fan Mail In this heartfelt episode of NZACH Talk Time, Meredith McCarthy is joined by Barbara Banner, psychic medium, to explore grief, healing, spiritual connection, and the comfort many people feel when they sense a loved one is still near. Together, they discuss the emotional impact of loss, the ripple effects grief can have on families, and how signs, memories, laughter, and love can all play a part in the healing process. Barbara shares her own journey into mediumship, her background supporting people in crisis, and her approach to helping those who are grieving feel lighter, more supported, and more open to the possibility that connection continues beyond physical death. Meredith also brings her own lived experience and therapeutic perspective to the conversation, reflecting on grief, remembrance, spiritual experiences, and the importance of keeping loved ones present in our hearts and stories. https://www.bannermedium.com This episode explores: how grief can affect people emotionally, spiritually and psychologically why laughter can sometimes help interrupt the heaviness of grief how people may experience signs, dreams, synchronicities and felt connection the importance of talking about loved ones rather than forgetting them how spiritual beliefs can bring comfort during bereavement why grief does not always move in a straight line how healing can happen in both ordinary and deeply meaningful ways This is a thoughtful conversation for anyone who has lost someone, supports grieving clients, or is curious about the intersection between grief, spirituality and healing. Please note this episode includes discussion of death, bereavement and emotional loss. To learn more about NZACH training, visit: https://www.nzach.ac.nz If this conversation resonates with you, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who may find comfort in it. #GriefSupport #HealingAfterLoss #Mediumship #SpiritualConnection #Bereavement #BarbaraBanner #MeredithMcCarthy #NZACH #TalkTime #ClinicalHypnotherapy

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of NZACH Talk Time, Meredith McCarthy is joined by Peter McLaughlin, a US-based certified hypnotherapist and life coach from Blue Sky Hypnosis, for a fascinating conversation about regression work, past life experiences, grief healing, subconscious change, and the nature of reality. Peter is based in Tarpon Springs, Florida, and offers both in-person and online sessions. His work includes hypnotic regression, anxiety and stress, weight loss, and performance enhancement. During this rich and thought-provoking discussion, Peter shares the deeply personal journey that led him into hypnotherapy after a serious health diagnosis changed the course of his life. What began as a search to better understand the mind-body connection became a lifelong exploration of healing, consciousness, and helping others uncover the deeper roots of emotional and behavioural patterns. Together, Meredith and Peter explore why root cause work matters so much in hypnotherapy. Rather than simply addressing surface symptoms, they discuss the importance of helping clients safely uncover and process the deeper emotional material that may be driving unwanted patterns. The conversation also highlights the value of curiosity over assumption, the importance of staying truly connected to the client in front of you, and why effective hypnosis is often less about reading scripts and more about responsive, attuned therapeutic work. This episode also moves into deeper territory, including: regression as a therapeutic process for uncovering root causes the role of the subconscious mind in symptom formation and healing past life regression and spontaneous regression experiences grief, loss, and the healing power of inner resolution how perspective, memory, and meaning shape our emotional reality spiritual experience, consciousness, and expanded views of healing the relationship between suffering, growth, identity, and transformation Meredith also shares moving reflections from her own life and practice, including experiences of grief, healing, and supporting loved ones through profound emotional and spiritual processes. Together, Meredith and Peter consider how hypnotherapy can create powerful opportunities for closure, reconnection, emotional release, and deeper peace. This episode is for those interested in: clinical hypnotherapy, regression work, subconscious healing, grief resolution, consciousness, spiritual experience, and transformational change. Whether you approach these topics from a therapeutic perspective, a spiritual perspective, or simple curiosity, this conversation invites you to think more deeply about healing, memory, identity, and the wider nature of human experience. About Peter McLaughlin: Peter McLaughlin is a certified hypnotherapist and life coach, trained at the American Academy of Hypnotherapy and the NLP Center of NYC. He is the creator of Blue Sky Hypnosis, author of Becoming the Customer, and a former volunteer firefighter and EMT. According to his website, he works with clients in Florida and worldwide through online sessions. To learn more about Peter’s work, visit https://www.blueskyhypnosis.com To learn more about training in clinical hypnotherapy, visit https://www.nzach.ac.nz If this conversation resonates with you, please like, subscribe, and share it with others who are curious about the deeper dimensions of healing and transformation.

Send us Fan Mail What if your thoughts are not just passing ideas… but creative forces shaping your reality? In this episode of Talk Time, Meredith explores the creative power of thought and consciousness — and how, as a clinical hypnotherapist, she works with this principle every day Across this series, we’ve explored love over fear, unity and oneness, interconnectedness, and the illusion of ego. Now we arrive at something foundational: Where attention goes, energy flows. Every thought you think stimulates new neural pathways. Every belief you reinforce strengthens a pattern. Every dream begins as a conscious idea. In this episode, Meredith unpacks: • How conscious thought reshapes the brain • Why belief must accompany desire • The difference between the “doing” script and the “don’ting” script • How focusing on what you don’t want strengthens it • Why clear intention and strong emotion create momentum • The role of synchronistic moments in life • How manifestation works through aligned thought and feeling Through personal stories — including her journey into art exhibitions and unexpected opportunities — Meredith illustrates how visualising, emotionally engaging, and consistently directing attention toward what you want can open unexpected doors This isn’t about wishful thinking. It’s about: • Cleaning up your thought stream • Becoming your own inner cheerleader • Aligning emotion with intention • Believing you are capable and deserving • Understanding that you are more powerful than you think As a hypnotherapist, Meredith helps clients shift limiting beliefs at a subconscious level — reinforcing empowering narratives that support confidence, clarity, and purposeful action So ask yourself: What are you giving your attention to? What are you emotionally charging? What are you daydreaming into existence? Because strong emotion and clear intention dance together — and they create. If you’re curious about becoming a clinical hypnotherapist and learning how to guide others in unlocking their creative power, visit: www.nzach.ac.nz If this episode resonated, comment below and share what you’re consciously creating next. See you in the next Talk Time.

Send us Fan Mail Is your ego protecting you… or limiting you? In this episode of Talk Time, Meredith explores the illusionary nature of the ego — and how it quietly shapes your decisions, relationships, confidence, and sense of worth . We often think of ego as identity. But what if it’s more of a construct — a collection of beliefs built around fear, acceptance, achievement, and being “good enough”? In this thought-provoking conversation, Meredith unpacks: • How ego can be rooted in fear of rejection • Why low self-esteem and inflated ego often come from the same place • The difference between healthy ambition and ego-driven validation • How ego can stop you speaking up or stepping forward • Why burnout often hides behind achievement • The impact of childhood conditioning on adult identity • How to challenge beliefs that feel factual but may be fictional Ego isn’t the enemy. If we weren’t meant to have one, we wouldn’t. But when ego runs unchecked, it can distort reality — making you feel either not good enough or superior to others as protection. Many clients Meredith works with struggle with delicate self-esteem, overthinking, and fear of what others think The common thread? A belief that worth must be earned. This episode invites you to explore a different foundation: “I am enough.” Not because you won. Not because you achieved. Not because you proved something. But because you are. Through hypnotherapy, Meredith helps clients challenge ego-based beliefs and reinforce empowering truths at a subconscious level — creating sustainable confidence rather than fragile validation If you’ve ever: • Held back in meetings • Felt crushed by failure • Needed to win to feel worthy • Burnt out chasing success • Struggled with harsh self-criticism This episode will resonate. If you’re interested in training as a clinical hypnotherapist and learning how to guide others through powerful mindset shifts, visit: www.nzach.ac.nz Next week: The creative power of thought and consciousness — and how what you think shapes what you experience. See you in the next Talk Time.

Send us Fan Mail Have you ever felt like a ship without a compass? Like something is missing… Like you’re meant for something more… But you can’t quite name it? In this episode of Talk Time, Meredith explores the deeper meaning of interconnectedness — not just with people around us, but across time, purpose, and soul experience Many people report during near-death experiences that they review their life and feel they chose their journey — even their parents — to learn something specific. Whether you take that literally or metaphorically, it opens a powerful lens for therapy and self-reflection. In this episode, Meredith shares: • Why so many people feel disconnected or adrift • The link between depression and lack of community • The power of belonging and shared purpose • How contribution dissolves isolation • Why “finding your tribe” changes everything • The difference between a job and a calling • How she discovered clinical hypnotherapy — and knew instantly it was her path Through a story of a community garden study, Meredith explores how working together toward something meaningful can shift mental health, belonging, and identity We are not here to be singular. We are here to: • Connect • Contribute • Support • Grow • Serve Interconnectedness isn’t abstract philosophy — it’s lived experience. It’s the ache in your heart when you know you’re meant for more. It’s the resonance when you finally find your place. And sometimes, it’s the moment you walk into a room and just know you’re home. If you’re questioning your purpose… If you’re feeling disconnected… If you’re sensing a calling but unsure what it is… This conversation is for you. If you’d like support, you can book a session online at: www.meredithmccarthy.com If you’re interested in becoming a clinical hypnotherapist and discovering your own calling through service, visit: www.nzach.ac.nz In previous episodes, we explored love over fear and unity or oneness. Next week, we explore the illusionary nature of the ego and how it shapes your experience of reality. See you in the next Talk Time.

Send us Fan Mail What if separation is the illusion… and connection is the truth? In this episode of Talk Time, Meredith explores the powerful concept of oneness — the understanding that we are deeply interconnected with each other, with nature, and with the greater field of life itself Even when we feel alone… Even when we feel different… Even when others challenge us… We are still part of something far greater. In this reflective and grounding conversation, Meredith shares: • Why separation is often a construct of the mind • How humanity operates within a collective consciousness • The unseen ways our thoughts and energy influence others • Why difficult people can become our greatest teachers • How judgement softens when we understand shared human experience • The powerful metaphor of nature’s perfect timing • What spring blossoms taught her about alignment and potential Through the lens of nature — trees, breath, rivers, seasons — Meredith explores how our bodies mirror the earth itself, and how remembering our place within that ecosystem can bring peace, acceptance, and joy When we begin to understand unity: • We judge less • We soften more • We accept differences • We feel less alone • We trust timing • We recognise we are part of something intelligent and ordered This episode invites you to contemplate your place in the wider web of life — not as separate, but as deeply woven into it. If you’re feeling adrift, disconnected, or questioning your place in the world, this conversation may offer a powerful reframe. If you’d like support in exploring these ideas further, you can book a session online at: www.meredithmccarthy.com Or if you’re interested in training as a clinical hypnotherapist and learning how to guide others through profound internal shifts, visit: www.nzach.ac.nz Next episode: We continue exploring interconnectedness and what that means in everyday life. See you in the next Talk Time.

Send us Fan Mail Who am I? Why am I here? What’s this all about? These are questions many of us begin asking as children — and they stay with us throughout life. In this deeply reflective Talk Time episode, clinical hypnotherapist Meredith McCarthy explores one of the most powerful truths woven through her 30+ years of practice: love conquers fear — but it starts from within. So many people are unknowingly their own harshest critic. The internal dialogue running in the background can be septic, fear-driven, and deeply limiting. And when fear is left unchecked, it grows — fuelling anxiety, depression, phobias, and self-doubt. But what if fear isn’t as solid as it feels? What if it’s a construct — mind-made and dissolvable? In this episode, Meredith shares: • Why fear often operates like weeds in the emotional mind garden • How your inner dialogue shapes your emotional landscape • The power of becoming your own best friend • How loving internal language rewires subconscious programming • Why self-compassion unlocks your potential • How hypnotherapy helps reinforce empowering beliefs at a subconscious level Imagine walking down the street with your thoughts on loudspeaker. Would you edit them? When we consciously shift our internal narrative from criticism to compassion — from fear to love — something powerful happens. We step back into alignment. We move into our power zone. We begin becoming who we were always meant to be. Love doesn’t start “out there.” It begins within — one thought at a time. If you’re curious about learning how to help others reprogram their inner dialogue and step into empowered living, Meredith also shares how you can train in clinical hypnotherapy through the New Zealand Academy of Clinical Hypnotherapy. Next episode: We explore the concept of unity and oneness — and what that really means in everyday life. If this resonated with you, like, subscribe, and share with someone who may need this reminder today. Learn more about clinical hypnotherapy training: www.nzach.ac.nz Book a session: www.meredithmccarthy.com This episode is part of NZACH Talk Time — conversations exploring hypnosis, healing, self-awareness, and personal transformation. See you next time.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of NZACH Talk Time, Meredith McCarthy sits down with Roger Saxelby, a highly experienced clinical hypnotherapist and respected former trainer in New Zealand, to unpack one of the most essential skills in our work: the art of suggestion. Together we explore how suggestion is more than just words — it includes expectation, body language, tone, pacing, safety language, and the way we build trust in the therapy space. Roger shares insights from decades in the field, including how early-life suggestions shape identity, why different clients respond to different approaches, and how therapeutic language can create powerful change. We also discuss: Why suggestion is a normal part of everyday life (and how it shapes belief) Direct vs indirect suggestion (and when each works best) The shift from authoritarian hypnosis to a more client-centred approach Why scripts can be limiting — and why listening matters How imagination fuels change: “imagine as if…” and future pacing Metaphor and storytelling as a way to reduce resistance Regression work: how safety language and permissions shape outcomes The mind–body connection and how experiences can be held in the nervous system Advice for anyone considering training in hypnotherapy (and what makes a great practitioner) If you’re a hypnotherapist, a student, or simply curious about how language influences the mind, you’ll get a lot from this conversation. ✨ Interested in training to become a clinical hypnotherapist? Visit https://www.nzach.ac.nz and explore the NZACH Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy. 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and drop your questions or reflections in the comments.

Send us Fan Mail In this Talk Time episode, clinical hypnotherapist Meredith McCarthy explores the art of suggestion — one of the most important (and misunderstood) skills in therapeutic hypnotherapy. Many people associate suggestion with stage hypnosis or authoritarian commands. In clinical practice, however, effective suggestion is subtle, collaborative, and deeply respectful of the client’s inner world. This episode breaks down how storytelling, metaphor, pacing, and language are used to help clients move from old belief patterns into new possibilities — without force, pressure, or resistance. In this episode, we explore: The difference between stage hypnosis and therapeutic hypnosis Why authoritarian suggestion often creates resistance How storytelling and metaphor allow clients to “join the dots” themselves Surface structure vs deep structure metaphors (and when to use each) Why the client always has the answers — and how suggestion supports that How post-hypnotic and future-paced suggestions plant change gently The role of listening, curiosity, and unconscious bias in therapy Why mirrored language strengthens intention and emotional alignment Meredith also explains how belief change is shaped through language, emotion, and intention — and why strong listening skills are just as important as hypnotic technique. Whether you’re curious about hypnosis, already working therapeutically with clients, or considering training in clinical hypnotherapy, this episode offers insight into how real, ethical change work happens. If you’d like to learn more about training as a clinical hypnotherapist, visit https://www.nzach.ac.nz If this episode resonated, please like, subscribe, and comment — it helps the channel grow and allows these conversations to reach more people.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Talk Time, Dellisa Hocking joins clinical hypnotherapist Meredith McCarthy for a grounded, value-packed conversation about intuition, self-worth, and the real inner work that creates lasting change. Delisa shares a powerful personal shift: moving away from “prediction-led” content and towards what she calls the activation phase — where information isn’t enough, and people are being invited to do the deeper work of embodiment, self-reflection, and emotional responsibility. Together, we explore how people can stop outsourcing their clarity, break free from rescuer–victim dynamics, and build a stronger relationship with their own inner compass. In this conversation, we cover: Why “seeking answers outside yourself” can quietly disempower you The drama triangle: rescuer, victim, and how these patterns show up in everyday life How emotions can become “treasure” — clues pointing to what still needs healing A simple framework for emotional self-awareness: Approval, Safety, and Control What to do when you identify the core trigger (and how to soothe it in a healthy way) Journaling as a pathway to insight (including the magic of three blank pages) How technology can both steal your attention and support your growth Why small daily practices (10–15 minutes) can shift your life more than big bursts of effort Dellisa also references two standout books that support this kind of inner work: The Four Agreements and The Artist's Way — including the “Morning Pages” practice that helps uncover what’s waiting beneath the surface. If you’ve been feeling emotionally overloaded, stuck in old patterns, or tired of carrying everyone else’s weight, this episode will help you come back to yourself — with practical tools and a refreshing reminder that your clarity matters. Dallisa Hocking: Psychic Visionary & Bold Predictor of World Events Dallisa Hocking is a 5th-generation psychic medium, renowned for her bold and uncannily accurate predictions about global events, U.S. affairs, and personal destinies. She has dedicated her life to helping people strengthen their intuition, understand their self-worth, and connect with the unseen realms. Through a blend of psychic insight, energy work, and intuitive coaching, Dallisa guides others toward clarity, empowerment, and profound personal transformation. She has trained with world-renowned teachers, holds certifications in Energy Mastery, tarot, and mediumship, and has been featured on more than 30 podcasts with hundreds of thousands of listeners. Her work blends spiritual insight with grounded real-world strategy, helping people break through fear, scarcity, and limiting beliefs so they can activate their happiest, most authentic selves. She believes intuition is the ultimate superpower and loves helping others awaken theirs. CONTACT For interviews, bookings, and media inquiries: [email protected] Links & resources Dellisa's website + socials: https://spiritandspark.com Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/dallisahocking/ Weekly intuitive insight, teachings & posts Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/dallisa/ Spiritual community & updates YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@SpiritAndSpark/streams Videos on predictions, tarot, spiritual insight and more 🎧 Audio & Podcast Spotify – Highway to Healing with Dallisa Hocking https://open.spotify.com/show/0Clur1ASO37JwpfDmzZgKx NZACH Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy: https://www.nzach.ac.nz/ Disclaimer: This episode is for general education and personal development. It is not medical, psychological, or crisis advice. If you need personalised support, please reach out to a qualified health professional.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Talk Time, clinical hypnotherapist and educator Meredith McCarthy is joined by seasoned hypnotherapist, trainer, and mentor Roger Saxelby for a rich and reflective conversation on the evolution of hypnotherapy practice. Drawing on decades of clinical experience and training with some of the most influential figures in hypnosis — including Gil Boyne, Ormond McGill, C. Roy Hunter, and the Gouldings — Roger shares how different hypnotic styles have shaped his work, and why authenticity matters more than imitation. Together, Meredith and Roger explore: Authoritarian vs gentle hypnosis stylesInstant inductions compared with relaxation-based approachesWhy some clients need a “convincer” to believe hypnosis has occurredHow fear and misunderstanding around hypnosis have changed over timeThe role of spirituality, ethics, and presence in effective practiceWhy finding your own therapeutic style is essentialHow experienced practitioners evolve away from rigid techniquesThe importance of language, listening, and client-centred suggestionThis conversation is especially valuable for: Hypnotherapy students and early-career practitionersExperienced therapists reflecting on their own styleAnyone curious about how hypnotherapy has evolved over the last 40+ yearsThose wanting a grounded, realistic understanding of hypnosis (not myths)As always, Talk Time is about honest dialogue, professional insight, and passing on wisdom from one generation of practitioners to the next. If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a clinical hypnotherapist, visit 👉 https://www.nzach.ac.nz Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you enjoy these conversations. #hypnotherapy #clinicalhypnotherapy #hypnosis #hypnotherapytraining #hypnotherapyeducation #hypnotherapytechniques #hypnotherapypractice #instantinduction #relaxationhypnosis #authoritarianhypnosis #gentlehypnosis #EricksonianHypnosis #powerofsuggestion #subconsciousmind #hypnosisexplained #hypnotherapystudents #becomingahypnotherapist #hypnotherapyNewZealand #NZACH #MeredithMcCarthy #TalkTime

Send us Fan Mail In this special episode of NZACH Talk Time, clinical hypnotherapist Meredith McCarthy is joined by respected hypnotherapy trainer Roger Saxelby, whose journey with hypnosis spans over five decades. Roger shares his remarkable path into hypnotherapy — from his first encounter with stage hypnosis as a teenager, through formal psychotherapy and hypnotherapy training, to founding and leading one of New Zealand’s most influential hypnotherapy training schools. Along the way, he reflects on the evolution of hypnosis, the shifting theories around depth and suggestion, and what truly creates lasting change for clients. This thoughtful conversation explores: How hypnosis has evolved over the past 50 yearsWhether “depth of hypnosis” really mattersThe role of suggestion, rapport, and trust in effective therapyConversational hypnosis vs direct suggestionWorking with anxiety, phobias, and modern stressRegression, memory, and when “finding the cause” is — or isn’t — necessaryWhy clients often experience rapid change once things make senseThe balance between scripts, structure, and true client-centred workEricksonian influence, utilisation, and curiosity in practiceTeaching hypnosis, common beginner mistakes, and practitioner confidenceThe importance of purpose, meaning, and self-help tools such as anchoring and self-hypnosisThis episode is especially valuable for: Practising hypnotherapists and studentsTherapists curious about different hypnosis stylesAnyone interested in how change really happens in the mindThose considering training in clinical hypnotherapyRoger’s insights are grounded, honest, and deeply informed by decades of real-world practice and teaching — offering both reassurance and inspiration for those walking the therapeutic path. 🔗 Interested in training as a clinical hypnotherapist? Visit 👉 https://www.nzach.ac.nz to download the NZACH prospectus. Roger Saxelby https://www.alphahypnosis.co.nz/contact-us/ If you found this conversation helpful, please like, subscribe, and share — and join us again next week for another episode of Talk Time.

Send us Fan Mail Kia ora, I’m Meredith McCarthy, a clinical hypnotherapist based in Wellington, New Zealand. In this Talk Time episode, I explore one of the most common questions people ask about hypnotherapy: Is there a “right” way to do hypnosis? With so many styles, techniques, and teaching methods out there, it can feel confusing — especially if you’re curious about learning hypnotherapy or wondering what to expect as a client. In this session, I share a clinical, grounded perspective drawn from over 30 years in practice. We talk about: Why hypnotherapy is not a one-size-fits-all processDifferent approaches to inductions, deepening, and suggestion stylesThe role of imagination, rapport, and trust in effective sessionsDepth of trance, somnambulism, and where deeper hypnosis can be clinically usefulWhy adaptability matters — especially for clients with aphantasia, anxiety, or control concernsThe difference between authoritarian and permissive hypnosis stylesWhy hypnosis isn’t a cure-all, and why readiness for change mattersThe real role of the hypnotherapist (and why the client always does the changing)I also speak openly about myths, misunderstandings, and why ethical practice matters when people claim their method is “more powerful” than others. At its heart, hypnotherapy is about facilitating a safe, respectful space where clients can access their own inner resources and make meaningful, lasting change — in a way that works for them. If you’re interested in becoming a clinical hypnotherapist, you’re welcome to visit nzach.ac.nz to download the NZACH diploma prospectus or book a discovery call. If this conversation resonates with you: Please subscribe for future Talk Time episodesLike the video to help it reach others who are curious about hypnotherapyAnd feel free to share it with someone who might find it helpfulThanks for tuning in, and I hope 2026 is off to a gentle and meaningful start for you. I’ll see you next week. #hypnotherapy #clinicalhypnotherapy #hypnosis #subconsciousmind  #hypnotherapytraining #mindsetchange #NZACH

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Talk Time, clinical hypnotherapist Meredith McCarthy is joined by colleague Teresa Saunders to explore a powerful, research-based approach to journaling that goes far beyond everyday reflection. The conversation focuses on expressive writing, a structured form of journaling developed by psychologist Dr James Pennebaker and more recently discussed by neuroscientist Andrew Huberman. Research shows this method can support emotional processing, language shifts, and improved psychological and physical wellbeing when used appropriately. Rather than journaling about daily events, expressive writing involves short, focused writing sessions where people write continuously and privately about emotionally significant experiences — without concern for grammar, structure, or being read by anyone else. In this episode, we explore: What expressive writing is and how it differs from traditional journalingWhy 15–20 minutes of writing can support meaningful changeHow language patterns shift as emotional processing occursThe role of honesty and privacy in the healing processImportant safety considerations when journaling around traumaHow this approach can complement therapeutic workThis episode may be helpful if you’re interested in self-reflection, evidence-based wellbeing tools, or understanding how language and the brain interact in healing. Please note: This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional support. If strong emotions arise, appropriate support is recommended. To learn more about training as a clinical hypnotherapist, visit: 👉 https://www.nzach.ac.nz Thank you for listening to Talk Time. If you enjoyed this episode, feel free to follow, share, or leave a review. 🔗 Resources & Links from This Episode In this episode of Talk Time, Meredith McCarthy and Teresa Saunders discuss expressive writing, a structured journaling method supported by decades of psychological and neuroscience research. 🎙️ Featured Podcast Reference Huberman Lab – A Science-Supported Journaling Protocol to Improve Mental & Physical Health https://www.hubermanlab.com/episode/a-science-supported-journaling-protocol-to-improve-mental-physical-health 🧠 Research & Evidence Base Dr James W. Pennebaker – Expressive Writing Research https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1745691617707315 A peer-reviewed overview of expressive writing research, summarising its psychological and physical health effects across multiple studies. Therapeutic Journaling Protocol (University of Wisconsin – PDF) https://www.fammed.wisc.edu/files/webfm-uploads/documents/outreach/im/tool-therapeutic-journaling.pdf