Leonie O’Connell - Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy Trainer
Raising the Standard of Hypnotherapy Training in Australia: A Conversation with Leonie O’Connell
At Clinical Hypnosis Australia, we love connecting with leaders in the hypnotherapy world who are truly raising the bar in education and client care. Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Leonie O’Connell, Director of the Academy of Therapeutic Hypnosis (AOTH), and what a powerful conversation it was.
From Student to Industry Leader
Leonie's journey into training hypnotherapists started with her own experience as a student. Despite completing a full diploma in clinical hypnotherapy, she walked away with little confidence in her ability to help real clients. “I had a head full of theory,” she shared, “but putting it into practice was a whole different story.” Out of 18 people in her class, only two went on to become practicing hypnotherapists.
That experience planted the seed for what would become the Academy of Therapeutic Hypnosis. Leonie knew the industry needed something better - something real. And that’s exactly what she’s built.
Practical Skills, Not Just Theory
What sets AOTH apart is its commitment to hands-on, practical training. Leonie’s philosophy is simple but powerful: “If you only have theory, you’ll struggle. But if you have the practical skills and a solid theoretical foundation, you’ll thrive.”
Their programs are intensive, immersive, and designed to build both competence and confidence. Students learn not just how to write scripts, but how to work with clients in real-world situations- whether it's smoking cessation, trauma, anxiety, or even medical hypnosis.
“You can’t teach this if you haven’t lived it,” Leonie says - and that’s exactly why she continues to run a full-time hypnotherapy practice herself.
A Lifetime of Experience
Leonie brings a rich background to her work. With years as a nurse, midwife, and childcare professional, she’s always been drawn to healing - both physical and emotional. Hypnotherapy was a natural next step, and training others became a heartfelt mission.
This lived experience, combined with professional expertise, makes her a standout in the field. She knows what works, what doesn’t, and what new hypnotherapists really need to succeed.
A Program That’s Built to Deliver
Unlike short weekend courses or spiritual-focused certifications that promise quick results, AOTH offers recognised, high-quality training that meets the standards required for private health fund recognition and professional association membership.
Their training also includes:
Full clinical hypnotherapy certification
Advanced medical hypnosis modules
Business and client readiness
Ongoing support and mentorship
“There are five trainers on our team,” Leonie explains, “and every one of them brings their own clinical experience and passion for teaching.”
Why the Right Training Matters
When asked what advice she’d give someone looking for a hypnotherapy training program, Leonie’s response was clear:
“Look at who’s teaching you. Are they still seeing clients? Are they current? And what are you actually getting in the course? Sometimes what looks like a cheap option ends up costing far more when you realise you haven’t really learned what you need.”
So true. As someone who’s walked the path myself, I couldn’t agree more.
The Impact is Real
Leonie recently shared a touching story about working with an 11-year-old girl who had faced deep trauma. After just two hypnotherapy sessions, the child’s foster parents said, “Who is this beautiful child?” - a powerful reminder of how transformative hypnotherapy can be when done right.
If you’re looking to become a high-level, truly prepared hypnotherapist, I wholeheartedly recommend the Academy of Therapeutic Hypnosis. With rigorous training, compassionate guidance, and real-world relevance, Leonie and her team are shaping the next generation of practitioners who will go on to do incredible work in the world.
👉 Visit https://aoth.com.au/ to learn more about their programs.
Let’s keep raising the standard - one skilled therapist at a time.
– Trish Pellen
Clinical Hypnosis Australia
