The International Association of Counselors and Therapists (IACT) was born out of the passion and vision of Steven and Jillian LaVelle. Their journey began in the late 1980s, when they were deeply involved in the world of hypnosis, teaching, presenting, and exhibiting at hypnosis conventions. Recognizing the need for a more inclusive and comprehensive association, they co-founded the IACT in the early 1990s.
Driven by their commitment to excellence, the LaVelle's launched the IACT with a focus on providing a platform for professionals in the field of hypnotherapy and related disciplines. They organized annual conventions in Florida, New Jersey and Georgia, fostering a sense of community and offering valuable opportunities for networking and professional development.
One of their significant contributions was the publication of Unlimited Human!, a hypnosis journal that quickly gained recognition as one of the leading publications in the field. This journal served as a platform for sharing knowledge, research, and insights among hypnosis professionals.
In 1995 the LaVelle’s branched off and went their separate ways, with Jillian assuming sole leadership of the IACT. As the IACT grew, Jillian Lavelle’s dedication to her mission became evident. She expanded the offerings to include a wider range of professional disciplines, ensuring that the association remained relevant and inclusive. Her commitment to quality education was unwavering, as she co-founded a private post-secondary occupational school approved by the state of Florida.
Jillian LaVelle's journey was marked by her passion for teaching and mentoring. She was instrumental in shaping the careers of countless individuals, inspiring them to pursue their own paths in the field of hypnotherapy and related disciplines. Her dedication to her students and her unwavering belief in the power of hypnosis were the driving forces behind the IACT’s success.
In 2006, Jillian LaVelle made a heartfelt decision to pass the torch of leadership to the dynamic Otto team, Robert and Linda Otto. This transition marked a new chapter in the history of the IACT, filled with anticipation and confidence in the Otto's passion and dedication to the field. Robert, a charismatic speaker with two decades of hypnosis experience, was poised to lead the association to new heights. Linda, an astute organizer and visionary with formal hypnosis training, was appointed executive director. Together, their complementary skills and shared passion for the field provided a solid foundation for the IACT's continued growth and expansion.
The International Association of Counselors and Therapists has a rich history, rooted in the passion and vision of its founders, Steven and Jillian LaVelle. Their dedication to providing a platform for professionals in the field of hypnotherapy and related disciplines has had a lasting impact. Through the continued efforts and vision of Robert and Linda Otto, the IACT continues to flourish, becoming a leading organization that fosters community, promotes education, and advances the practice of hypnosis and related disciplines. The legacy of the LaVelles lives on through the dedication and innovation of the Otto team, ensuring that the IACT remains a beacon of excellence in the field.
