Why do I feel like a fraud, even when I keep succeeding?
Imposter syndrome isn't a lack of competence. Most people experiencing it are highly capable, which is exactly what makes it so confusing. It's a belief, usually learned early, that your abilities aren't really yours, or that success is down to luck, timing, or fooling people, rather than anything you actually did.
Competence was never the problem. It's the belief that what you do doesn't count.
You may have noticed that praise slides off, achievements get explained away, and each new success brings relief rather than confidence, along with the quiet dread that you'll eventually be 'found out'. Many people find working harder doesn't touch it, because the belief isn't really about performance. It's about an old conclusion your mind reached once, about what you're allowed to take credit for.
We don't focus on proving your competence to you. We get curious about where the belief that your success 'doesn't count' was first learned, because once that's understood, it can finally be updated rather than argued with.
What happens over our four sessions?
I work within a structured programme of four sessions (usually weekly, where possible) because meaningful change rarely happens in a single appointment. Each session builds on the last, giving your mind and body time to settle, learn and change.
Your first session starts with a conversation. We'll take time to understand what's been happening, what you'd like to be different, and answer any questions you have about the process. I'll then guide you into hypnosis, a calm, inward-focused state, rather like daydreaming, but with a purpose. You remain aware and in control throughout. Many people tell me it's one of the most relaxing experiences they've had in a long time.
Each session is tailored to you and builds on your progress, combining conversation, hypnosis and practical tools where appropriate. You'll also receive personalised audio recordings to listen to between sessions, helping to reinforce the work we're doing together.
What people often notice
People often come exhausted by constantly having to prove themselves. What tends to follow reaches further: taking in praise and success without immediately dismissing it, more genuine confidence, and far less energy spent worrying about being found out.
Is this the right approach for you?
Your free consultation is an opportunity for us to understand what's been happening, whether your imposter syndrome shows up in specific situations, like a new role or promotion, or is a long-standing pattern across your whole career, and decide together whether this feels like the right approach for you.
Ready to own what you've actually achieved?
Start with a free, friendly chatMelissa is an HPD Level 4 Clinical Hypnotherapist, registered with the NCH, BSCH and CNHC, working with adults, children and teens in Harpenden, Hertfordshire, and online.