Welcome to the Faculty page of the New Zealand Academy of Clinical Hypnotherapy.
Here, we introduce our small yet highly dedicated faculty team, committed to providing high-quality education in clinical hypnotherapy. NZACH’s strength lies in the personal approach we take to teaching, combined with the depth of clinical, educational, and wellbeing experience each faculty member brings to their role.
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You’ll meet Meredith McCarthy, Academy Director, whose background spans over three decades of full-time clinical hypnotherapy practice alongside extensive experience in meditation teaching and wellbeing education. You’ll also meet Teresa Saunders, our Academy Advisor, who brings broad experience across mental health and holistic wellness, supporting a thoughtful, client-centred approach to practitioner education.
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Together, we are committed to guiding students through their professional development in hypnotherapy, offering strong theoretical foundations, applied learning, and supportive mentorship. Our teaching reflects a belief that effective practitioners are developed through clarity, ethical awareness, reflective practice, and personal support, not just the acquisition of techniques.
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As you explore this page, you’ll gain insight into our professional backgrounds, our values in hypnotherapy education, and our shared commitment to supporting students to develop confidence, competence, and professional readiness in their practice.
Academy Advisor
Teresa Saunders
Welcome to The New Zealand Academy of Clinical Hypnotherapy, where I proudly serve as the Principal Advisor to the esteemed founder, Meredith McCarthy. Our journey began almost two decades ago, where a shared passion for holistic healing and wellness brought us together at The Oasis Centre of Healing.
I joined forces with Meredith initially to assist in meditation and retreat weekends, and our collaboration evolved naturally over time. With a background spanning over 15 years in mental health and two decades in holistic wellness, my journey has been one of diverse experiences and continuous learning.
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Driven by a profound belief in the transformative power of holistic therapies, I found myself drawn to hypnotherapy. This path seamlessly aligned with Meredith's vision. With over 30 years of invaluable expertise in the field, Meredith took a bold leap to establish this academy, a testament to her dedication and passion for empowering others.
"As the Academy Advisor, my commitment lies in ensuring that our academy embodies excellence, innovation, and a nurturing learning environment. We strive to create an atmosphere where students are not just learners but active participants in their own growth. At our academy, you will discover a rich tapestry of knowledge, blended with practical applications and compassionate guidance.
The New Zealand Academy of Clinical Hypnotherapy stands as a beacon for those seeking a transformative educational journey. Our curriculum, shaped by Meredith's extensive experience and visionary leadership, is designed to empower aspiring practitioners with the skills and mindset necessary to excel in the dynamic field of clinical hypnotherapy.
Join us in this journey of discovery and growth. Together, let's unlock the potential within and embark on a path towards empowering others through the profound practice of hypnotherapy." For more information on Teresa Saunders, visit her profile at Teresa Saunders
External marker
Teresa George
Teresa George is an experienced clinical hypnotherapist and NLP Master Practitioner who supports NZACH as an external marker.
Her role is central to maintaining academic and clinical standards across the Diploma programme. As an external marker, Teresa provides independent assessment oversight, ensuring that student work meets NZACH’s expectations for professional competence, ethical awareness, and applied clinical understanding.
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Teresa’s solution-focused approach and commitment to high standards align strongly with NZACH’s mission to provide robust, credible education in clinical hypnotherapy.
Learn more about Teresa George - With Intent.
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Academy director
Meredith McCarthy
President, New Zealand Association of Professional Hypnotherapists.
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Meredith McCarthy is the founder and Academy Director of NZACH, with over 30 years’ experience as a full-time clinical hypnotherapist and more than a decade dedicated to training practitioners.
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Her teaching is informed by extensive real-world clinical practice, alongside a strong commitment to ethical standards, professional boundaries, and client safety. Meredith’s work focuses on integrating practical hypnotherapy skills with contemporary psychological understanding, clinical reasoning, and reflective practice.​
In addition to her clinical work, Meredith has taught meditation since 2007 and facilitated wellbeing retreats, contributing to her holistic understanding of practitioner self-care, presence, and professional sustainability. At NZACH, her role is centred on curriculum development, academic leadership, and ensuring graduates are prepared for responsible, ethical clinical practice.
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For more information about Meredith’s professional background, visit her profile at https://www.meredithmccarthy.com/about-meredith-mccarthy-life-coach
