Introducing
Chris Fleet - SQHP

My hope is to inspire you to consider a career in Hypnotherapy, demonstrating that with unwavering desire, belief, and determination, any aspiration can be realised.

A Turning Point: A Misdiagnosis Ignites a Quest for Help

Several years ago, a beloved family member was wrongly diagnosed with depression when, in reality, she was grappling with stress. She was prescribed the antidepressant drug Seroxat, which resulted in severe side effects, altering her personality and inducing anxiety and withdrawal. This medication has since been banned for adolescent use due to its association with increased suicidal tendencies, and calls have been made for its ban in general use. The profound impact this had on her life deeply affected me. I carried the weight of guilt for not being able to assist her, and this, in turn, took a toll on my own well-being, leading to significant weight gain, excessive drinking, and chain smoking.

Driven by a desire to help her, I embarked on a quest for solutions, delving into various options. Among these, Hypnotherapy emerged as the most promising avenue. I enrolled in a weekend ‘taster’ course, similar to the Certificate in Hypnotherapy Course that I personally deliver. This experience shattered my preconceived notions about Hypnosis, unveiling its potential to enhance lives afflicted by conditions such as stress, depression, and anxiety. Moreover, I discovered that I possessed an innate aptitude for this field.

Becoming Hooked: A Passion for Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy

Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy completely captivated me as I recognised the life-enhancing possibilities they held for countless individuals. This revelation occurred in 2002, and since then, I have relentlessly pursued knowledge in the realms of hypnosis and hypnotherapy. I underwent rigorous training, acquiring not only numerous Diplomas in Hypnotherapy, but also delving into other therapeutic modalities.

My life underwent a dramatic transformation during this training period. It fueled my motivation to shed a quarter of my body weight, quit smoking, and curtail excessive drinking. At the time, I worked in the construction industry, hopping from one job to another, aimlessly. Nevertheless, my Hypnotherapy training instilled in me the conviction that a career focused on helping others was my true calling. The joy and pride of witnessing individuals completely transform their lives were immeasurable and outweighed any financial gains.

Taking the Leap: Establishing My Hypnotherapy Practice

Shortly after becoming a qualified Hypnotherapist, I took a leap of faith and secured an office space. It was far from glamorous – lacking phone lines, and computers, with a pungent carpet and peeling wallpaper. However, my unwavering passion and the profound desire to make a difference propelled me forward. I reminded myself daily why I embarked on this journey, repeating the mantra, “I can do this.” Having experienced a turbulent past with friends and associates passing away prematurely, I felt an intense drive to leave behind a legacy of positive impact on people’s lives.

I understood that the initial office space was temporary but viewed it as a starting point. Deep within, I harboured a steadfast belief that my business would eventually thrive, even during times when clients were scarce. This period was marked by an unrelenting commitment to mastering my craft, often leaving little room for anything else in my life.

I lived and breathed Hypnotherapy.

A Transformative Journey: Achieving Success and Expanding

After relentless dedication and hard work, I upgraded to a more comfortable office space, and my client base began to grow steadily. Notably, the Hypnotherapy treatments I administered were highly effective, catalysing positive changes in the lives of every client I encountered. The dividends of my Intensive Hypnotherapy Training began to manifest. 

During this time, I met a wonderful lady, and fifteen years later, we remain together with a beautiful daughter who serves as my constant inspiration.

My practice expanded to the extent that I now oversee The Devon Clinic in Paignton, Devon, collaborating with 20 other therapists offering over twenty life-enhancing therapies collectively. 

The Devon Clinic continuously seeks innovative solutions for a plethora of life-limiting ailments, including stress, anxiety, depression, weight management, and allergies, employing a range of therapeutic modalities and exploring the most effective combinations of treatments.

Beyond My Practice: Hypnotherapy in Diverse Arenas

My involvement with The Devon Clinic has afforded me the freedom to broaden my horizons and offer services in various capacities. I derive immense satisfaction from volunteering at a local prison, where individuals, serving sentences for their actions, are in need of rehabilitation and support to reintegrate into society.

In recent years, I have dedicated a significant portion of my time to training individuals aspiring to become the next generation of Hypnotherapists. The genesis of this endeavour arose while assisting others during a training course, where I found myself surrounded by individuals seeking knowledge from me rather than the trainer. It was evident that the training course was subpar, overpriced, and conferred a certification devoid of real value or accreditation from major bodies.

This realisation motivated me to develop a professional and effective Hypnotherapy Training Course with a certification that held genuine value. I temporarily stepped away from private practice to focus exclusively on crafting my Hypnotherapy Training Course.

The Journey to Becoming a Hypnotherapy Trainer

To become a qualified Hypnotherapy trainer, I embarked on a journey that required additional training – not merely as a Hypnotherapist but as a trainer. I pursued the PTLLS-Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector, Teacher Training Course. This qualification enabled me to impart Hypnotherapy training to others, upholding high accreditation standards.