# GentleBirth (HypnoBirthing) - Business Description

GentleBirth, based in Stourbridge, was established to provide specialist hypnobirthing courses for expectant parents seeking a natural approach to childbirth. Founded by Sheila Barratt-Smith, a qualified clinical hypnotherapist (D.Hyp MBSCH), the business originally focused on helping pregnant women and their partners prepare for labour using evidence-based hypnotherapy techniques to reduce fear, anxiety and pain perception during birth.

Whilst the hypnobirthing courses are no longer actively offered, Sheila's expertise as a clinical hypnotherapist extends to a comprehensive range of therapeutic services. She specialises in treating smoking cessation, anxiety disorders, stress management, weight loss, phobias, depression, sleep disturbances and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Her approach is grounded in the philosophy that mindset and belief systems profoundly influence outcomes—as reflected in her guiding principle from Henry Ford: "If you think you can or if you think you can't, you're probably right."

What sets this practice apart is the combination of clinical expertise with a compassionate, individualised approach to treatment. Rather than one-size-fits-all solutions, Sheila tailors hypnotherapy interventions to each client's specific needs and circumstances. Her professional credentials and membership with the British Society of Clinical Hypnotherapists demonstrate commitment to ethical practice and ongoing professional standards.

Although no longer offering hypnobirthing, the business remains active for clients seeking clinical hypnotherapy support for various psychological and lifestyle challenges across the Midlands region.