How Hypnotherapy Can Help With Imposter Syndrome

How Hypnotherapy Can Help With Imposter Syndrome

When I was 15, I was very involved in amateur Theatre. I auditioned for and was offered a place at the Manchester Youth Theatre summer school. At first, I was over the moon, the competition was quite fierce and I felt very proud! but as the time to attend approached, I started to experience self-doubt. I was so anxious about attending, and I remember saying to my parents; “they’re going to find out!” (the finding out was expanded to “that I can’t really act and have been offered a place by accident!”)

I’d never heard the term ‘Imposter syndrome’ but was still experiencing it! I now know that it’s a common experience; the nagging feeling that you’re not as capable as others think you are, and that, one day, you’ll be “found out” as a fraud, and it’s often accompanied by feelings of anxiety, stress, and self-sabotage. People with imposter syndrome discount their achievements and attribute success to luck or external factors, rather than their own abilities.

This persistent self-doubt can undermine confidence and hold people back from reaching their true potential. But what if the root of this issue lies deep within the subconscious? This is where hypnotherapy steps in as a powerful tool for change.

Many of our beliefs about ourselves are formed early in life, sometimes as a result of critical comments, high expectations, or comparisons with others. These beliefs take root in the subconscious mind, influencing thoughts and behaviours long into adulthood. Even when evidence suggests otherwise, the subconscious can cling to the narrative that we’re not good enough.

Hypnotherapy uses guided relaxation and focused attention to access the subconscious mind. It’s a state of deep relaxation where positive suggestions can be planted to challenge and reshape limiting beliefs.

Through hypnotherapy, individuals can address the root causes of imposter syndrome by:

·        Identifying and reframing negative beliefs about their abilities

·        Building self-acceptance and self-compassion

·        Reducing the anxiety and stress associated with self-doubt

·        Strengthening inner confidence through positive visualisation

Over time, these new thought patterns can become embedded in the subconscious, making genuine confidence feel more natural.

Thankfully, I still went to the Youth Theatre summer school! I had an amazing summer and returned for the next few years, building my confidence, making new friends and learning new skills.

If imposter syndrome is holding you back, hypnotherapy can offer a gentle yet effective way to break the cycle of self-doubt. Contact me for a free introductory call!

Candy x

pebblehypnotherapy@outlook.com