How to Choose Your Hypnotherapist
Because I am predominantly a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, this blog will feature information on what to look for when choosing a hypnotherapist.
Do Your Research
Besides looking up their website and social media,
Have you looked up their education?
If they belong to a legitimate professional association?
Do they have any insurance?
Because hypnotherapists do not require specific credentials like healthcare professionals, they can show you certifications. Any credible hypnotherapist will answer questions about where they got their education, how long their program was, which professional hypnotherapist association they are affiliated with, and who they are insured with. It is up to you what you feel comfortable accepting.
I would provide examples but do not want to push my own bias for which I use. Also, the location of the hypnotist (and the type of work) has different requirements. However, a quick look up in your preferred search engine for your country/state/province will provide you examples of what to look for in your area or where your hypnotherapist is.
Careful if They Say Hypnosis Can “Cure” You in (X) Time
No amount of hypnosis can “cure” anything. Hypnosis CANNOT make you do anything you do not want to do. If you really do not want to stop a bad habit or make a change, for whatever reason, a hypnotist will not be able to provide some magic cure. However, if you do want to make changes, have struggled in the past with making that change, then adding hypnosis to help create that change as another tool in your toolbox to accomplish your goal.
Beware hypnotists and hypnotherapists that say they can cure/make you fix (x) habit in (y) amount of time. Why? Because everyone is different! What works for me may not work for you and not the next client. We all have different histories, resistances, inclinations, etc.
Working with Healthcare Professionals
Hypnotists and hypnotherapists SHOULD NOT, by any means, replace any health care professionals. They are another tool in the toolbox and an additional member to your healthcare and healing team.
Healthcare workers in medical settings may not feel comfortable working with a hypnotherapist. That’s okay. It is still taboo for several non-holistic practitioners. However, a credible and responsible hypnotherapist will have you inform your medical team (primary care physician, psychologist, psychiatrist, pain specialist, etc) of your relationship. The medical practitioner may reject it, which is common because of malpractice and other red tape, but because when hypnosis works for a client, mental and physical pain can improve which is important when working with physical, mental, and medicinal therapies and regimes.
Virtual or In-Person
Yes, hypnosis and energy work can be done online! So, you do not need to limit yourself to a hypnotherapist in your area. You can work with anyone around the world thanks to the internet.
Group vs Individual Sessions
Both are effective. Obviously, working one-on-one allows for more privacy and a personalized experience. Group webinars and workshops are a great way to explore hypnosis and get to know the hypnotist or hypnotherapist while you search for one you feel that you would be compatible with.
Affordability
Hypnotherapists work on all ranges for their hourly fees. You can reach out to see if they work on a sliding scale depending on your economic situation.
Most insurance does not cover hypnotherapy but HSA/FSA do. Some exceptions may be for licensed psychologists that do hypnotherapy as part of their practice. You will have to consult your medical insurance company and/or the mental health professional you would like to work with.
Comfort and Compatibility
The absolute most important aspect is you finding someone you want to work with that you feel comfortable with. This is a very personal and vulnerable relationship just like any other therapist. You are allowed to “shop around” to find someone that vibes with you. Do not ignore any feelings of discomfort or unease because it can cause resistance in you which can inhibit the effectiveness of hypnosis. Also, it does not matter how many times you have seen a hypnotherapist, you can and should find another if the relationship changes. Sometimes, your work with one hypnotherapist may have reached a plateau, have some transference, a specific habit that is not their niche, or not scientific or spiritual for your preference. These are natural occurrences. You can seek someone new on your own or ask for a referral.
No Pressure of Judgement
Do not feel pressured into anything! Sessions should feel like a safe space. If this happens, I highly encourage you cease working with that person to find a new hypnotherapist.
