It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost 2 years since we lost Antoine Matarasso, a remarkable man whose impact continues to resonate throughout our lives and profession. On January 9th last year, Antoine peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by his family. For many of us, the loss of this great human left an indelible void—one that remains deeply felt even today.
Antoine was more than just a colleague; he was a mentor, a friend, and a guiding light to so many in the hypnotherapy community and beyond. His unwavering dedication to our industry and his steadfast belief in the power of hypnotherapy helped shape the careers of countless professionals. Even in his personal battle with cancer—one that spanned over two decades—Antoine never wavered in his pursuit of excellence, nor did he allow his illness to define him. With his characteristic dry humour, he would often say, “The bastard hasn’t got me yet,” facing each challenge with a quiet determination that inspired everyone around him.
Antoine’s contribution to hypnotherapy in Australia is immeasurable. He gave his heart and soul to the development and promotion of the profession, ensuring that future generations of therapists would be better positioned to make a difference in people’s lives. Whether through his flourishing practice in Brisbane, his work as a supervisor, or his leadership roles in national associations like the Hypnotherapy Council of Australia, Antoine’s efforts touched every corner of the industry.
His leadership extended far beyond his own practice. Antoine was a key figure in shaping the standards and practices of hypnotherapy at the national level. His roles in various associations, including his time as president of the Hypnotherapy Council of Australia, showcased his dedication to ensuring that the profession continued to grow and evolve. He was also recognised globally, having been awarded a Fellowship with the International Society of Professional Hypnosis (ISPA)—a testament to his decades-long contribution to the field.
But Antoine’s legacy isn’t just in the formal structures he helped build or the roles he held. It’s in the hearts of those he mentored, the colleagues he supported, and the clients whose lives he changed. His passion for hypnotherapy was infectious, and he inspired many of us to strive for the same level of commitment, care, and professionalism that he embodied.
As we reflect on this time without Antoine, it’s impossible not to feel the weight of his absence. And yet, his influence remains. The seeds he planted continue to grow, and his vision for a stronger, more unified hypnotherapy community is being realised every day through the work of those he touched.
Antoine Matarasso may no longer be with us physically, but his spirit, his teachings, and his legacy live on. For that, we are eternally grateful.
Thank you, Antoine. We miss you, but your influence will never fade.
