Choosing a Hypnotherapist.

I always think that finding a Hypnotherapist is a bit like shopping for shoes. There are lots out there but not every pair fit or are suitable for every occasion. You hopefully wouldn’t try to run a marathon in a pair of stilettos!

It is important to find the right one for you. So, what should you look for?

Unfortunately, hypnotherapy in the UK is not regulated by law. This means that an individual could call themselves a Hypnotherapist after reading a few books or watching some videos on the subject. It’s a bit scary when you think about it.

Thankfully, most Hypnotherapists are trained by an approved training establishment whose course follows a recommended Core Curriculum. Most therapist follow voluntary standards and continue to update their knowledge by means of further reading, qualifications, and courses. Some therapists are members of a professional body, such as, The General Hypnotherapy Council and The Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC)

Professional bodies, such as the ones mentioned above, have strict membership criteria. This includes proof of completing an approved training course which involves a set amount of in person classroom training and a stipulated number of minimum practical hours. The therapist must also provide proof of valid professional insurance, complete a minimum number of study hours per year, to continually improve their knowledge and expertise, and undertake a minimum number of supervision hours with an approved supervisor. The therapist must also abide by the professional body’s Code of Ethics, which includes guidelines on confidentiality and contraindications to therapy.

You can check on the professional body website for their code of ethics.

It is not mandatory for a hypnotherapist to be a member of a professional body. However, if they are you will know that they are working within strict regulations and meeting a code of ethics.

How will you know if the therapist is right for you?

It’s simple, you do some research and ask questions a good therapist will be happy to answer.

A lot of people go on personal recommendation from a friend or relative who have used the therapist in the past, or by checking past client reviews. This is great as you can get to know a little bit about the therapist before you contact them. Other ways are to research therapists in your area or search for a therapist dealing with a specific problem. Working with a therapist who isn’t local to you is also an option as many have been offering online sessions since the start of Covid in 2020. This allows therapists to work Nationally as well as Internationally and it gives you, the client, much more choice. More about online sessions in my face to face or Zoom blog https://www.siroccotherapy.com/post/face-to-face-or-zoom

Hypnotherapists who work internationally will be adhering to UK working guidelines and not necessarily those of the client’s country!

Therapists will most likely have a website giving you information about themselves, their training and issues they work with, many are also on social media.

So, where do you start?

· The Initial Step –

Send an email, text message or make a quick phone call. Be prepared to say what you require help with. If the therapist thinks they can help they will most likely invite you for a consultation.

· The Consultation –

Some Hypnotherapists offer a free no obligation consultation others charge a small fee. This is usually completed online or over the phone, some therapists can offer this in person.

This session usually lasts approximately 30 minutes and is an opportunity for the therapist to gain some knowledge about the issue you require help with. It is also an opportunity for you to get to know the Hypnotherapist. This session will not involve any therapy and you should be under no obligation to book sessions unless you want to.

The Hypnotherapist should be able to explain how Hypnotherapy works and they may be able to give you a rough indication of how many sessions you will require. They should also give you information regarding their fees especially if these are not displayed on their website.

The consultation gives you the opportunity to ask yourself if you feel comfortable with the therapist. It gives the therapist the opportunity to decide if they can work with you, this will depend upon the therapist’s expertise regarding your issue. They will also advise you on the suitability of hypnotherapy for you as an individual. The therapist should check to make sure you don’t have any contraindications to Hypnotherapy. If you wish to go ahead with sessions you will be asked to complete a health questionnaire.

· Things to consider.

Are they qualified and who did they train with? This may be displayed on their website but if not ask.

Do they have professional insurance?

You might want to consider if they are a member of a professional body but remember this isn’t mandatory and not every therapist is.

Do they appear knowledgeable about their profession?

Is their aim to work with you to obtain the best possible result for you?

Do they act in a non-judgmental, professional manner?

Do you feel relaxed and comfortable with them?

Most Hypnotherapists will be happy to discuss any issues with you and will make time to reassure you.