Find a hypnotherapist

How to find a hypnotherapist

Hypnosis has become one of the fastest growing treatments for physical, emotional and mental problems, but how do you find a hypnotherapist who can help your particular problem? In this article, we’ll give you some basic tips on seeking out a trained hypnotherapy practitioner.

What’s the best way to find a hypnotherapist?

As with any search, whether it be for goods or services, the best way to find a good hypnotherapist is to shop around. The preferred method for shopping these days is online and if you use the internet you will find thousands of hypnotherapists advertising their services.

How do you narrow down your search?

It’s a little overwhelming when faced with so many options to know which therapist to use. You can easily narrow down the list by seeking out a therapist who works in a location close to where you live. There are two good options to help you do this:

1). Use a therapist directory
2). Use a search engine (google etc.) and use location specific keywords i.e. ‘hypnotherapists in Leeds’

Option one can sometimes be your best bet as a therapist directory will give you a list of qualified hypnotherapists based on the distance from your location, all you need to do is provide your post code. A professional directory will also have checked the therapists qualifications and provide an visual indication or seal of approval alongside their profile.

N.B. – You should still make your own enquiries as to the therapist’s level of training, qualifications and accreditation.

Once you’ve identified a few therapists who you’d like to contact, get in touch by phone or email. It’s usually better to speak over the phone so give the hypnotherapist a call or send an email and ask for a callback to discuss your problem.

Phone call

The phone call is an important step in finding the right hypnotherapist for you. It’s the first opportunity for the therapist to learn more about your specific problem but more importantly, it’s your opportunity to ask questions about them.

Questions you should be asking include:

- What training have they received?
- Do they belong to a professional association?
- What experience do they have in the specific area you’re interested in working on?
- Do they offer a free consultation?
- How much will a hypnosis session cost?
- How many sessions are you likely to need?

Make sure you write their answers down for later reference.

On the question of professional association, this will provide you with the therapist’s accreditation by a relevant governing body that regulates their profession. This is important for your safety and peace of mind. Two of the main self-regulatory associations include the National Council for Hypnotherapy and the General Hypnotherapy Standards Council (GHSC).

Your first consultation

The first consultation with your hypnotherapist (which may or may not be free) is a chance for you both to meet and to see if you feel comfortable working together. The relationship between client and therapist is vital for any treatment to be effective so make sure you’re happy. Don’t feel embarrassed or awkward if you want to see someone else, the therapist will understand and appreciate your honesty.

During the consultation, the hypnotherapist will ask questions to find out specific information about your problem. They will explain the techniques used during hypnosis and advise you on the number of sessions required. Be aware that the number of sessions you’ll need depends upon your condition and your response to the treatment. As a rule, hypnotherapy is considered a short-term therapy.

During your visit, take time to look around the consultation room. Some hypnotherapists will practise from home while others may rent a therapy room in a health centre. Whatever the location, make sure the environment in which you’ll be treated is comfortable and has toilet facilities. You should also ask to see proof of qualifications and make sure you can see the therapist’s public liability insurance certificate (this should be visible by law).