Testimonial for Jill Tannenbaum. In 2009 I had been selected to speak at a large, international, annual convention based on an abstract I submitted. I didn’t think the abstract would be chosen, so when I got an e-mail congratulating me on being selected as a speaker, I almost went into shock. At first it was all pride and glory, but that soon faded to dread and loathing of having to stand up in front of a large audience, on a podium and presenting a topic in which I was supposed to be an expert.

 

 

In February 2009, I attended a “presenter webinar” and experienced my first symptoms of panic. When I had to speak about my topic – a relatively anonymous affair, I felt my heart pounding, my hands shaking and an inability to breathe. This was my first of what was going to be many panic attacks – and it wasn’t even at an event! As the date of my presentation loomed up on me, I found my emotions getting out of control. I could throw myself into a panic just thinking about speaking to a large audience. What made it worse was that I was considered an SME (subject matter expert), and I had no confidence in myself to hold that title. I wasn’t sure what was causing the problem, and as an R.N., I knew I needed something to help me cope. At that point, I just wanted to survive the experience.

 

Finally, in May 2009 (only one month before the event), I decided to research hypnotherapy as a means to control my “out of control” emotions and reactions. I read everything I could from how hypnotherapy works to testimonials from people who benefited from it. Next came the hard part – choosing a hypnotherapist I could trust. As an R.N., with a strong background in “traditional” therapies, I had some doubt. However, after an exhaustive search of therapists within my area, I found Jill Tannenbaum. I was almost surprised at my selection because I have always found male voices to be more relaxing. But Jill was certified in areas that were far more fearful than mine – surgeries, dental work – things that cause physical pain as well as psychic pain. So, timidly, I called Jill’s contact number and left a message. Let me just interject a little fact here. The fear of public speaking is rated the number one fear - over the fear of death!!!

 

When Jill got back to me, she was a pleasant and wonderful “human being” who wanted to explore how she could help me in my venture to conquer my fears. I opted immediately for the three session therapy, which I hoped would help me, at least, not to pass-out when I had to present. Then came the first meeting. The first meeting was not a rushed, “give me your history and sit here” session. We spoke for a while, making me feel comfortable; like speaking to a friend. As we spoke, Jill lead me back to the therapy room with neutral coloration and a few pieces on which one’s focus could be attained. She sat me in a comfortable, reclining chair and continued to explore what my focus was; what did I want to accomplish? We discussed my strengths, my likes and things that motivated me. (The first session is the longest to explore what ones fears are and related things that make one comfortable.) I am a doubter by nature. I question everything. So, when it came to putting me into a receptive mode, I really had my reservations. However, I had decided that I would “free my traditional soul” to a new experience - broaden my horizons.

 

 

After we finished the initial questions and answers period, Jill started her relaxation and opening the more subliminal areas of the mind. I must admit, I fell into this area very easily! Through breathing exercises and relaxation, I felt almost numb! I didn’t feel out of control. It was more of a relaxed exploration of what was happening in my mind. The first thing that struck me was that I was “not UNDER.” I had full control of my responses. We further explored my strengths…..why was I chosen as an expert?” Since I had not lost control of myself, I wondered about how effective this therapy would be with me. I finally decided to abandon all. This is not an easy feat for those of us who “control” our lives. Before I knew it, our session was over. I felt a relaxation that I had never known before.

 

 

In our two subsequent sessions, Jill and I reinforced my feeling of success based on my strengths. Jill taught me a technique to keep me focused – rubbing my forefinger against my thumb. Simple, but exceptional! My final session with Jill came only one week before I was to present. We had agreed that one of my strengths was to go among the “attendees” to my conference, make eye contact, and target those with whom I had gotten a rapport by speaking with them prior to the presentation. When I was announced, I went to the podium wondering if all had been worth it. Twenty minutes later, I had completed my presentation without feelings of trepidation and welcoming any questions that would come my way.

 

THE REAL TEST. I became a “trainer” in my organization which meant preparing training sessions (slides and presentation of those.) to a very large group. This was the test of every day activity, not just big event activity! I did not waver in the least! What success!!!!! One Year Later I was selected for a Session Chair position for the 2010 Pharmaceutical Annual Meeting. I had to select a panel, organize their speaking content, approve their final slide presentations, maintain continual communications with the group, and motivate them to do the best they could do. Because this was an international meeting, I had not met my panel until the day before our presentations. It was amazing how I was able to utilize what Jill taught me, to not only cope with my own events, but with those who were presenting under my aegis. The session was not only a grand success, but many people of power contacted me about it and how much they enjoyed it. The best part? I experienced no anxiety from the moment I was told that I would be a chair of the session until the moment it was over. I actually looked forward to it. And best yet…..I really enjoyed it!!! Jill, I am forever grateful for all you did for me and with me. I was always in control, and I finally did feel “POWERFUL.” I recommend not just hypnotherapy as a mode of transforming one’s doubts into feelings of security, but I recommend Jill! She has the power to help you realize the person living inside you!!! I just got back from Washington, DC, where my annual meeting was held. I returned victorious! Jill, there are no word to thank you for what you helped me become!

 

Always yours,​

 

Jennie R. P., RN, BSN , Lower Bucks PA