Anna’s’ Journey: How Hypnotherapy Helped Her Overcome the Fear of Public Speaking

Today, I want to share a transformation story that deeply moves me. It’s the story of “Anna” (name changed to protect her privacy), a brilliant and creative professional who came to my practice with a block that was holding back her career: a paralyzing panic of public speaking.

The Problem

Anna had an incredible promotion opportunity, but it required her to present her ideas to a team of executives. The mere thought caused insomnia, a racing heart, and an inner voice that screamed: “You’re going to make a fool of yourself. They will laugh at you. You’re not good enough.” She had tried public speaking courses and breathing techniques, but the deep-seated fear remained intact. She felt an invisible force was sabotaging her.

The Discovery in Hypnotherapy

In our first session, I guided Anna into a state of deep relaxation to dialogue with her subconscious mind. We didn’t seek to “erase” the fear, but to understand its origin.

In that state of calm, a forgotten childhood memory emerged: a scene at school, at age 7, where she had to read a poem in class. She stumbled on a word, and a few children laughed. In that instant, her child’s mind recorded a belief to protect her: “Speaking in front of others is dangerous and humiliating. It’s better to stay quiet to be safe.”

The Transformation

That belief had been protecting her for decades, but now, in her adult life, it had become a cage. The work we did was one of deep compassion. We spoke to that “inner child,” thanked her for protecting her, and showed her that she was no longer a helpless child, but a capable and confident adult.

We reframed the old belief. The new belief we installed was: “Sharing my ideas is safe and valuable. My voice deserves to be heard.”

The Result

Two weeks later, Anna gave her presentation. She sent me a message that I cherish: “Paula, I can’t believe it. I felt nervous, yes, but not panic. I was able to connect with my ideas and speak from a place of confidence. And it went amazingly well!” Anna not only got the promotion, but she also reclaimed a part of herself she thought was lost.

Anna’s story is a powerful example of how a current block often has its roots in a past experience. Hypnotherapy doesn’t change the past, but it allows us to change how the past lives within us.

If you feel that an irrational fear or block is holding you back, it might just be an old belief waiting to be updated. Let’s talk, your story can change too.