Is Your Mind Sabotaging You? How Hypnotherapy May Help Shift Unhelpful Self-Talk

Have you ever noticed that quiet voice in your mind that whispers things like, “You’re not good enough,” or “Who do you think you are?” It’s more common than you might think.

Many people find themselves stuck in unhelpful thought patterns not because they aren’t capable, but because something deeper within them has learned to doubt, worry, or self-criticise. These inner messages often stem from early experiences that shaped how we see ourselves. Over time, these beliefs can become automatic, running quietly in the background of daily life.

Where Does This Inner Voice Come From?

For many, it starts in childhood or adolescence. Perhaps you were told to toughen up, that your emotions were “too much,” or that success always had to come with sacrifice. Even subtle moments like being overlooked or criticised can leave an imprint on the subconscious mind.

Hypnotherapy offers a way to explore and understand these patterns at their origin. It does this by working with the subconscious, which is where many of our beliefs and behaviours are formed and stored.

What Happens in a Session?

Hypnotherapy is a gentle, client-centred process. In a relaxed and focused state, you may be guided to reflect on where certain patterns began. Often, we use visualisation or metaphor to support this process. For example, I might ask, “What would your wise self say?” or guide you through imagining new inner resources like calm, clarity, or confidence being planted and nurtured like seeds in a garden.

This process can offer clients the opportunity to build new awareness and explore new ways of responding to their inner world.

Exploring the Inner Child and Strengthening the Self

In some sessions, we may use what's known as inner child work a therapeutic approach that allows you to gently reconnect with earlier life experiences and offer understanding or reassurance to the part of you that felt overwhelmed, unheard, or uncertain at the time.

Alongside this, ego strengthening techniques may be used to support your sense of inner stability and resilience. This isn't about ego in the everyday sense, but about reinforcing your capacity to navigate life’s challenges with greater steadiness and self-trust.

Post-Hypnotic Suggestions: Supporting Integration

At times, I may offer post-hypnotic suggestions, which are simple, positive phrases introduced during hypnosis that some clients find helpful as reminders. For example, suggestions might relate to finding a sense of calm when breathing deeply, or remembering your strengths during moments of uncertainty. These are never commands they are supportive ideas intended to align with your goals, values, and readiness for change.

As with all forms of therapy, outcomes vary from person to person. Hypnotherapy is not a quick fix, and it is not suitable for everyone. However, for those who are curious and open to the process, it may provide a meaningful space to explore what’s been holding them back and what’s possible instead.

Interested in Exploring Further?

If you’ve been feeling held back by your inner dialogue and you’re curious about how hypnotherapy might support you, I invite you to read more or book a 90-minute introductory session. Sessions are designed to offer insight, reflection, and practical tools to begin shifting long-standing thought patterns at a pace that feels right for you.

You can learn more or book online at:www.meredithmccarthy.com/book-online

Warmly,Meredith McCarthy Clinical Hypnotherapist (NZ) Helping You Reconnect with Your Inner Wisdom