SWIHA Blog

Before finding her path at Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA), Melinda York was living what many would consider a successful life—constantly giving, constantly showing up for others—yet something was missing. “Before SWIHA, my life felt like I was constantly pouring into others yet still feeling unfulfilled and disconnected from my deeper purpose,” she recalls.

Melinda’s journey to SWIHA began through her own process of healing and self-discovery. Searching for tools to better understand herself and the world around her, she was drawn to the Integrative Healing Arts Practitioner (IHAP) Diploma program, where she discovered the transformative power of holistic education and self-awareness.

Burnout is a state of chronic—sometimes invisible—physical and emotional depletion. Almost 68% of students in health-related programs report experiencing moderate burnout at some point in their studies (Journal of Medical Education, 2023).

As someone who wore the hats of both instructor and student simultaneously, I can relate. I once found myself saying “yes” to every peer, project, and opportunity—mentoring new students, leading study groups, volunteering for workshops. At first, my cup was overflowing with purpose, yet slowly, motivation evaporated. My sleep vanished. My patience wore thin. Only after a gentle (and honest) conversation with a mentor did I recognize that I, too, needed the same self-care I encouraged in others.

For Sheila Checots, life before SWIHA was a season of transformation. Amidst the unknowns and personal transitions, she found herself drawn to a deeper understanding of how our beliefs shape the way we engage with the world. It was in this pivotal moment—right as she was awakening to the power of perspective—that she stumbled upon an ad for Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA). Following a strong intuitive nudge, she enrolled in the Hypnotherapy program, recognizing it as a powerful tool to help others move beyond their inner limitations and create lives filled with intention and joy.

Imagine a career where you can guide others to break free from limiting beliefs, overcome fears, and embrace a life of clarity and self-empowerment. Hypnotherapy offers exactly that – a powerful, transformative path that taps into the subconscious mind to create lasting change.

At the heart of healing lies a deep calling—one that whispers quietly at first and then grows into a powerful roar that can no longer be ignored. For Allivia Easley, that calling became undeniable when she found her way to the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA). As a recent graduate of the Integrative Healing Arts Practitioner (IHAP) program, with specializations in Hypnotherapy and Healing Botanical & Earth Ceremony Facilitation, Allivia is on a journey of transformation—for herself and the collective.

What Is Hypnosis?

If you’ve ever been curious about hypnosis and how it works, you’re not alone. Maybe you’ve seen it in movies or on stage and wondered if it’s all just smoke and mirrors. The truth is that hypnosis is a fascinating science-backed tool that helps people make real changes in their lives.

Before attending the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA), Natalie Bowker felt called to help others yet wasn’t sure how. The Hypnotherapy program gave her the skills to guide clients which also led her on her own healing journey. Seeing profound transformations within her clients confirmed she was on the right path. Now, as the founder of Space Between Wellness LLC, she empowers others through hypnotherapy and coaching, integrating the lessons learned at SWIHA into her practice and personal life.

Understanding Women’s Experience of Trauma

Many women face trauma in their lives. Whether it’s from past experiences, relationships, or difficult situations, trauma can leave deep emotional scars. However, it’s important to know that healing is possible. By transforming pain into power, women can reclaim their lives and find joy again.

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 attending SWIHA, I felt like I was living in survival mode 24/7, just trying to get through each day. The difficult experiences I faced in childhood, coupled with the lingering effects they left behind, made navigating adulthood feel overwhelming and impossible. From a tough and often abusive childhood to the lifelong impact of trauma, I was constantly juggling my roles as a human being, friend, daughter, sister, mother, and community member. At the same time, I was trying to manage the internal chaos that trauma left in its wake. Most importantly, I was learning how to genuinely care for myself and how to love myself. SWIHA was one of many baby steps I started implementing into my life.

At the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA), we celebrate the journeys of our students and graduates—each unique, powerful, and transformative. Annmarie Lieto, a recent graduate of the Integrative Healing Arts Practitioner (IHAP) program, shares her inspiring story of self-discovery, passion, and purpose.