Hypnobirthing Instructor, Teacher, Coach, Educator or what?

I gave this zero thought when I first trained in 2015. I called myself a Hypnobirthing teacher. If I’m honest this was because others that offered Hypnobirthing also called themselves this.

I’ve noticed these days, women who run Hypnobirthing courses call themselves a variety of things and I think this is wonderful.

It got me thinking about how a title can convey so much. We know language is powerful, right?!

So, I’m writing this blog to get you thinking about which title you choose to go by and what this could do to amplify your brand.

Here are some of the titles I’ve seen…

Hypnobirthing Teacher

Birth Hypnosis Specialist

Birth Coach

Hypnobirthing Practitioner

Hypnobirthing Instructor

Hypnobirthing Facilitator

Birth Educator

Hypnobirthing Specialist

Birth Guide

Pregnancy and birth Mentor

Antenatal teacher

These alternative titles can help get across the focus and expertise of the practitioner while also resonating with their dream potential clients.

I would say the most commonly used term for those who teach Hypnobirthing techniques is typically "Hypnobirthing Practitioner" or simply "Hypnobirthing Teacher." These terms are widely recognised and understood by individuals seeking support for their birthing experiences. So, it certainly is valuable to occasionally use terms like this so you are searchable. However, it is valuable to think about which term gets across the incredible impact of what you do when you work with your clients.

I asked one of my graduates, Ashleigh what she refers to herself as and she said “Hypnobirthing Instructor, however a client commented that what I do is more like birth coaching”. Interesting eh? And how valuable to actually gain the client’s perspective.

If we think about the meaning of coach ‘someone who helps a person reach their goals’ maybe this is what we are doing via Hypnobirthing? Or could it have more of a sporting association of ‘keep going through the burn!’. I’m not sure how I feel about that one.

One of my other graduates, Louise says “I avoid the term instructor, I feel like it makes women feel like I’m going to tell them what to do”. I really get what she’s saying here. I hear instructor and I think instructions.

In this industry of course you can claim the title that you want. It’s also ok to evolve it over time.

Here’s what to consider when choosing what you want to call yourself…

Your focus and preference-

Consider what your primarily aim is. E.g if you are teaching and guiding clients through Hypnobirthing techniques and your brand feels very much about education, "teacher" “educator” or “guide” might be more appropriate. However, if your focus is on ongoing support, accountability, and motivation "coach" might be more fitting. You want to feel comfortable saying your title.

Client perceptions-

Consider what the words you are choosing mean to clients. What associations do they have with them? Seeking feedback from potential clients can help with this.

You may find that certain terms have associations with a higher end service and this might be exactly what you want to communicate as you know you offer this.

Ethical considerations-

Consider whether you are delivering on your title. E.g If you are calling yourself a “Hypnosis for birth specialist”, yet your course features very little hypnosis, this is misleading. Honesty and transparency are crucial in building trust with clients.

I’d love to know your thoughts on this. What title are you going for and why? Come over to my Instagram and let’s chat.

Abby x