Alpha Hypnotics was born from a deep recognition: true healing emerges at the intersection of rigorous understanding and authentic human connection. This practice is not just a business—it is the culmination of decades of experience, research, and a profound commitment to human transformation.

Over two decades ago, Alfred Podhorodecki, then a distinguished Deputy Head of Department at Monash University and a Chief Inspector in the Transit Police, saw firsthand how trauma embeds itself in both body and mind. Through his work in law enforcement, academia, and human resource management, he observed the cyclical nature of suffering—not just in individuals, but across families, communities, and generations. His experience working with diverse populations, particularly Aboriginal communities and disadvantaged individuals, reinforced his understanding of how unresolved trauma underlies many of society’s most persistent struggles.

These insights, however, did not directly lead Alfred to hypnotherapy. Instead, his extensive background in forensic psychophysiology, criminology, and education deepened his appreciation for the subconscious influences that shape human behaviour. As he delved further into investigative and forensic hypnosis—training extensively, including at Houston University—he recognized its potential not only as a tool for truth-seeking but as a powerful means of facilitating deep personal change.

But the story of Alpha Hypnotics is not just about Alfred’s journey. It is also the story of James Podhorodecki, a hypnotherapist, philosopher, and author specializing in Sartrean existentialism, phenomenology, and dialectical ontology. James grew up around hypnosis, learning from his father, yet his own path led him into philosophy, where he became a published academic and an author of Aussie Gonzo Existentialism. His work explores themes of authenticity, self-determination, and the search for meaning, mirroring his approach to hypnotherapy.

James’ therapeutic approach integrates existential and phenomenological thought with Gestalt hypnotherapy and parts therapy, focusing on authenticity, self-reconnection, acceptance, integration and purpose-finding. His work is not merely about resolving surface-level issues—it is about guiding clients toward a deeper understanding of themselves, their adaptive patterns, and their innate capacity for transformation.

This father-son collaboration is more than a family practice. It represents the synthesis of two complementary yet distinct approaches to healing—one rooted in decades of applied practice, forensic expertise, and trauma-informed methodologies, the other enriched by existential inquiry, self-actualization, and philosophical depth. Together, they offer an unparalleled therapeutic experience.