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Clinical Hypnotherapy and Neuro-Linguistic Programming

Here lies an invitation to embark on a transformative journey of self-exploration and healing.

Why Choose Hypnotherapy and NLP?

The Science Behind Hypnotherapy and NLP

Clinical Hypnotherapy and Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP) are supported by an expanding body of research that underscores their effectiveness in helping individuals make meaningful psychological and behavioral change. These modalities work by targeting the subconscious mind—where patterns, beliefs, and habits are deeply embedded.

Clinical Hypnotherapy: A Research-Based Intervention

Hypnotherapy is recognized by organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) and the British Medical Association (BMA) as a legitimate therapeutic practice. It involves guiding a client into a focused, relaxed state—known as a trance—in which the subconscious mind becomes more open to positive suggestion and change.

Key research highlights include:

  • Pain Management: Clinical hypnosis has been found to significantly reduce chronic pain intensity. In a meta-analysis, hypnosis demonstrated substantial benefits for individuals suffering from conditions like fibromyalgia and cancer-related pain.
    Citation: Jensen, M. P., Patterson, D. R. (2006). Hypnotic approaches for chronic pain management: Clinical implications of recent research findings. American Psychologist, 60(2), 167–177. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.60.2.167

  • Anxiety and Stress: Hypnotherapy has shown strong effectiveness in reducing anxiety symptoms, particularly in cases involving phobias, test anxiety, and generalized anxiety disorders.
    Citation: Hammond, D. C. (2010). Hypnosis in the treatment of anxiety- and stress-related disorders. Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics, 10(2), 263–273. https://doi.org/10.1586/ern.09.140

  • Smoking Cessation: Studies report hypnotherapy can be more effective than behavioral counseling alone for smoking cessation.
    Citation: Elkins, G. R., Marcus, J., Bates, J., Rajab, M. H., & Cook, T. D. (2006). Hypnotherapy for the management of chronic pain. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 54(2), 135–147. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207140500528118

  • Functional Brain Changes: Neuroimaging studies reveal that hypnosis alters activity in key brain regions responsible for attention, awareness, and self-monitoring—creating ideal conditions for psychological change.
    Citation: Oakley, D. A., & Halligan, P. W. (2013). Hypnotic suggestion: Opportunities for cognitive neuroscience. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 14(8), 565–576. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3538

Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP): Cognitive Rewiring in Action

Though NLP is not as deeply rooted in academic research as hypnotherapy, it remains a widely used and practical set of tools in coaching and therapeutic contexts. NLP techniques are based on principles now echoed in neuroscience, such as neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to rewire itself based on new patterns of thought and behavior.

Applications supported by emerging evidence include:

  • Treating Trauma and Phobias: Techniques like the “Fast Phobia Cure” have shown positive outcomes in clinical settings, particularly for PTSD and irrational fears.
    Citation: Einspruch, E. L., & Forman, B. D. (1985). Observations concerning research literature on Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 32(4), 589–596. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-0167.32.4.589

  • Behavioral Change and Communication: NLP tools help reshape internal dialogue and behavior, aligning subconscious beliefs with conscious goals.

Evidence-Based, Client-Focused

In my practice, I combine this science-backed knowledge with a compassionate, individualized approach. Whether you’re working through anxiety, chronic stress, or limiting beliefs, you can trust that our work together is grounded in both clinical evidence and human connection

Joanna Sproul

MA Ed., C. HT., NLP P.

  • Hello and Welcome!

Hello, I’m Joanna Sproul, a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist and Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP) Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals break through barriers, align with their values, and create lasting change. My approach is rooted in evidence-based methods, professional integrity, and a deep respect for each client’s unique journey.

I received my formal training and certification through the Appositiva Institute in Portland, Oregon—one of the region’s most respected and long-standing Clinical Hypnotherapy training centers. With over 100 hours of clinical training and extensive client experience, I bring a blend of precision, intuition, and proven methodology to every session.

I am a proud member of the Oregon Hypnotherapy Association, where I continue to advance my knowledge and uphold the highest standards of ethical and effective practice.

What sets me apart is the foundation I bring from my earlier career as a music educator. Years spent guiding others through the creative process taught me how to listen deeply, communicate clearly, and support people in expressing their truest selves. That experience continues to inform my work, adding a layer of artistry and emotional intelligence to the science of hypnotherapy.

My mission is simple: to provide powerful, personalized support that helps you live more freely, fully, and authentically. Whether you're navigating stress, shifting habits, or stepping into a new chapter, I’m here to offer expert guidance, grounded tools, and a safe, compassionate space for transformation.

About me:

Is Hypnotherapy for you?

I’m here to say the changes you seek are possible!

I specialize in services for:

  • Stress Relief

    Imagine what your life could look like if stress wasn’t running the show—if calm, clarity, and ease were your new normal.

  • Performance Enhancement

    What if you could step into your fullest potential—focused, confident, and completely in flow—whenever it matters most? Imagine performing without the weight of self-doubt, hesitation, or mental blocks. Just you, at your best—clear, calm, and capable. Whether it’s on stage, in sport, or at work, performance doesn’t just depend on skill—it depends on mindset. Hypnotherapy helps align your inner world with your outer goals.

  • Habit Modification

    What if you no longer reached for food when stressed, picked at your nails without thinking, or hit snooze for the fifth time in the morning? These habits might feel automatic—but they aren’t permanent. Through hypnotherapy, we work at the subconscious level to shift the patterns behind behaviors like emotional eating, smoking, nail biting, procrastination, excessive screen time, or poor sleep routines.

  • Confidence, Self love and Acceptance

    What if you could trust yourself fully—without needing to prove, perfect, or perform? Imagine moving through your day with quiet confidence, feeling at home in your body and at peace with who you are. Hypnotherapy helps release the inner critic, dissolve outdated beliefs, and reconnect you with a sense of worthiness that isn’t conditional. Whether you're struggling with self-doubt, body image, imposter syndrome, or people-pleasing, this work helps you build genuine self-trust, compassion, and inner strength—from the inside out.

What are people saying about Awe Inspired Life Hypnotherapy and NLP?

“I had the most wonderful experience with Awe Inspired Life during my 70-minute hypnotherapy session. Joanna made me feel completely safe and at ease. She created a space that was free of judgment, where I felt comfortable being open and vulnerable. The session was incredibly personalized to my needs, and Jo was encouraging and calming throughout. I left feeling relaxed, refreshed, and truly supported. She also provided me with helpful tools to use outside of the session! Highly recommend her services to anyone looking for a transformative experience.”

-Chloe H.

"Before working with Joanna, just the thought of singing solo made my heart race. I loved music but hid behind group performances for years. Through our sessions, I uncovered the root of my fear and, with guidance, rebuilt my confidence. Not only did I perform a solo at our last gig, but I actually enjoyed it. I sing with freedom now, and it’s brought joy back into my voice and my life."

-Elena R.

Does This sound like You? Click eAch box to learn More.

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Awe Inspired Life

Uses Hypnotherapy and NLP in these and many other areas to help people make positive changes, gain insight, and feel relief.

Amidst life's challenges, Clinical hypnotherapy and Neuro-linguistic Programming therapy provide an outlet to help the client grow, develop resilience, and discover new strengths and insights that can ultimately lead to personal evolution and a deeper understanding of oneself and the world.


start living a better life today!

Although I specialize in habit modification, self-love and acceptance, performance enhancement, and stress, Hypnotherapy and NLP have many uses and applications.

Other things NLP/ hypnotherapy can aid in:

  • Overcoming fear and phobias

  • Lose weight

  • Pain relief

  • Improve sleep

  • Identify and release negative emotions caused by trauma

  • Support in the grief process

  • Boost motivation and sharpen focus

  • Resolving conflicts and negotiating for desired results

  • Kick the sugar habit

  • Achieve your goals

  • Spiritual development

  • Most people walk through the world in a trance of

    disempowerment.

    Our work is to transform that into a trance of

    empowerment.

    ~ Milton Erickson

Let’s work together

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly! We can't wait to hear from you!

Contact Info

Hours
Monday–Friday
8am-5pm

Phone and Email
(503) 724-7240 aweinpiredlife1@gmail.com

Location
Appointments are Virtual over Zoom