When Adriana Mosqueda walked into the hypnotherapy clinic at SWIHA, she was a mother navigating the uncertainty of a paused nursing career, feeling lost in the aftermath of the pandemic. What she didn’t know was that her first hypnotherapy session would unlock a floodgate of healing, purpose, and transformation. That moment sparked a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening that ultimately led her to the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts—and to a calling that now allows her to help others release their own inner blocks. From client to now graduate of the Integrative Healing Arts Practitioner Diploma Program, Adriana’s story is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the path we didn’t plan leads us exactly where we’re meant to be.
What was your life like before SWIHA? What led you to SWIHA and to your particular program of study? Why are you passionate about this modality?
Before SWIHA, I was a nursing school student at the start of the pandemic in 2020. The pandemic created a lot of uncertainty and many challenges. As a mother, I had to make the difficult decision to put the program on hold as my children were sent home for virtual learning. Putting the program on hold left me feeling lost and purposeless for several months. There were so many nights I experienced anxiety as I researched different career options and side income opportunities. It was a difficult time as I grappled with the abrupt change in my educational career path, and I struggled to find direction and meaning in my life. As I focused on different options, I became aware for the first time in my life of mental "blocks". For example, I wanted to be successful; however, every time I started the process to move forward with these options, I just "couldn't" progress. Something was holding me back mentally, and I was unsure of what it was. This is when my Spiritual Awakening began.
My journey to this college and my current program of study were deeply influenced by my awakening and the period of time when I felt directionless in life. During this time, I began researching spiritual healing and discovered the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts website. After speaking with an admissions coach, it was recommended that I make an appointment with the hypnotherapy clinic. Walking into the hypnotherapy clinic, I wasn't sure what to expect, yet I had a really great hypnotherapy student walk me through the process. After experiencing hypnotherapy for the very first time, I had a huge release where I bawled for five minutes in my car. I officially had a breakthrough. I knew what my blocks were. This experience was deeply transformative for me; it clarified my purpose and ignited a passion within me to help others through hypnotherapy. I became committed to bringing this powerful healing modality to others who are seeking their own paths to healing and self-discovery.
Is there a “defining moment” you’d like to speak about? When did you know that you were on the right path?
My defining moment began the day that I left SWIHA for the very first time. Walking in those doors as the client, I left as a student. My purpose became clear after the many months I spent feeling so lost and purposeless. Since that moment, I have had plenty of confirmation along the way that I am on the right path through my client sessions. Witnessing my clients experience their own "aha moments" and breakthroughs leaves me with so much Joy and Purpose.
Has your life significantly changed? If so, how?
My life has changed significantly since my time at SWIHA began. Throughout the program, I experienced my own healing, which has been a transformative journey for me as I have stepped into the role of a Healing Arts Practitioner. Learning a great deal from the various healing modalities I was required to study broadened my understanding and approach to healing. I believe this level of healing and academic experience allows me to see the point of view of my clients and what they need. This combination of personal healing and education has empowered me to grow and better support others on their healing journeys.
What are you up to now—professionally and personally?
Professionally, I am slowly starting to post content and put myself out there on social media. This is a bit scary, yet also empowering as I share my journey and expertise. I have had to learn that not everything needs to be perfect, and it is okay to start where I am. In addition, I took a sound training course in October and am now certified in sound healing, which has expanded my skills and offerings in the healing space. I am currently working on adding "Hypno-Sound Baths" to my calendar so that I may offer hypnosis and sound in one setting.
On a personal level, I am actively involved with my children and their activities. This brings me immense joy. Balancing my professional growth with cherished family moments has been incredibly fulfilling.
If you own a business or private practice, tell us all about it! What inspired you to start your own business? What services do you offer? How do you powerfully impact clients? How are the skills you learned at SWIHA supporting your work?
I was inspired to start my own business because of the strong calling to share my gifts with the world. After experiencing my own healing journey and discovering my purpose, I realized that starting my own business would give me the freedom to share my message through my own brand. I wanted to create a space where others could experience healing and transformation, just as I did. The services I offer include hypnotherapy sessions and private/group sound bath sessions. Through these modalities, I am to provide individuals with the tools they need for self-discovery, healing, and personal growth.
I powerfully impact my clients by creating a safe and nurturing environment where they can explore their inner selves and unlock their potential. By utilizing hypnotherapy and sound healing, I help clients release emotional blockages, reduce stress, and foster a deeper connection to themselves. Witnessing their transformations and growth is incredibly rewarding and motivates me to continue my work. The various healing modalities I have studied are modalities I now use in my own practice. In doing so, I believe this has created a solid foundation, empowering me to confidently share my knowledge and help others achieve their healing goals.
What was the greatest lesson(s) you learned while at SWIHA?
The greatest lesson I learned while at SWIHA is that the various healing modalities I studied reinforced the idea that healing is not a one-size-fits-all. Each person's journey is unique, and it is essential to honor that individuality in the healing process. This lesson is a gift that continues to guide me as I work to empower others on their own paths to wellness.
Who were your most impactful teachers while you studied at SWIHA? What were your favorite classes?
All of the instructors at SWIHA have been amazing! However, I would love to give a special shoutout to SWIHA's Hypnotherapy instructors, Linda Bennett and Sherri Gilbert. Their kindness and expertise, as well as their genuine desire to help their students succeed, have always been so refreshing. I would also like to add Gisele Marasca as the most impactful, as she has been a supportive guide through the Entrepreneurship classes. I have never identified as an Entrepreneur and have admittedly struggled during these business classes, as I had created so much resistance. My favorite classes have been past life regression, dreams and metaphors, and somatic psychology.
If you could give advice to future SWIHA students, what would it be?
Take full advantage of the diverse courses and healing modalities that are offered. Each class is an opportunity to learn something new about yourself and the world of healing. Don't hesitate to ask questions and engage with your instructors and peers. The connections you make with your classmates can provide support and are excellent for networking and collaboration opportunities. Networking within the healing arts community can lead to valuable opportunities and friendships later on!
