Shaping children's confidence with creativity and hypnotherapy

Image

As a hypnotherapist, I’ve developed a unique method that combines my background in art, years of teaching experience, and the transformative impact of cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy. This approach has been highly effective in helping children manage and overcome anxiety, enabling them to embrace life with confidence. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness children transition from a state of fear and worry to one of calm self-assurance. Using my experiences as an artist, teacher, and change therapist, I guide them through this powerful transformation.

Creativity meets therapy: A unique approach

My journey began with a degree in art, where creative expression was at the forefront of my work. Later, as a teacher, I learned how children think, learn, and communicate. This deep understanding has been invaluable in my work as a hypnotherapist. When combined with cognitive behavioural techniques, it creates a truly special approach.

For children dealing with anxiety – whether it’s related to school, friendships, or confidence – traditional talking therapies may feel overwhelming or hard for them to engage with. That’s where creativity steps in. Over my six-week program designed for children aged 7 to 13, I integrate activities like collage-making, personal book creation, and games. These activities make learning therapeutic techniques fun, without the children even realising that they are developing these essential life-long skills.

Teaching children to become their own therapists

The heart of this approach is to empower children to become their own therapists. Through playful activities, they learn techniques that can be used in their daily lives. For example, making collages or personal books allows them to express their feelings and explore solutions in a hands-on way.

Games are another important tool, offering a structured yet playful environment where children practice mindfulness, relaxation, and thought-reframing. By the end of the six weeks, each child has a personalised toolkit that equips them to manage stress and stay on their chosen “path of dreams,” rather than falling into patterns of worry, fear and avoidance.

My personal connection: Parenting neurodiverse children

One of the things that makes this approach particularly effective is my experience as a parent of neurodiverse children. My understanding of autism and ADHD has shaped my perspective on how to help children who learn and think differently.

Neurodiverse children often benefit from more creative and flexible approaches to things like managing anxiety or staying organised. My own children have taught me that every child’s needs are different, and it’s essential to have a personalised, adaptable approach. This personal experience fuels my passion for helping children overcome their worries and realise their potential. I truly believe that change is possible for all children.

Why it works: The language of children

My years of teaching gave me a deep understanding of how children process information and communicate. This knowledge helps me create a safe, engaging therapeutic space. By incorporating art, play, and creativity, children learn complex emotional concepts in a way that feels natural and fun for them.

Children learn best when they are enjoying themselves. By using games and artistic activities, I create an environment where emotional learning happens organically, without feeling forced or overwhelming.

This approach guides children through structured sessions to address common challenges like school attendance issues, friendship problems, shyness, and lack of confidence. Using creativity alongside cognitive behavioural techniques, children are taught how to manage stress, regulate emotions, and build self-assurance.

This blend of creative therapy and hypnotherapy has transformed the lives of many children, helping them move beyond their anxiety and embrace life with a sense of joy and confidence. By giving children the tools to navigate their emotions, they are empowered to face their fears head-on and make meaningful changes in their lives.

info

The views expressed in this article are those of the author. All articles published on Hypnotherapy Directory are reviewed by our editorial team.

Share this article with a friend
Image
Henley-On-Thames, Buckinghamshire, RG9
Image
Image
Written by Rachel Bernard
location_on Henley-On-Thames, Buckinghamshire, RG9
I am the founder of The Nest Hypnotherapy, based in Frieth, near Marlow, Henley and High Wycombe. I offer personalised guidance for all ages and compassionate care to support you by teaching you skills and techniques to help you on your path to h...
Image

Find the right hypnotherapist for you

location_on

task_alt All therapists are verified professionals

task_alt All therapists are verified professionals