by Joy Johnson

Created on: July 12, 2009   Last Updated: July 13, 2009

How do you find a good Hypnotherapist?
If you have tried hypnosis and "it" didn't work, take heart. In reality, there is no "it" to work or not to work. All hypnosis is self-hypnosis. You see, hypnosis is something that almost all people experience on a daily basis and you naturally do it, but you call it something else, like "daydreaming" or "deep thought". If you have ever traveled from one place to another and not remembered the details of getting to your the destination, for example, you might decide that you were just "deep in thought" about something. You were actually in a altered state called hypnosis which is by definition a natural yet altered state where you, quiet your monkey-mind, and focus on selective thoughts.

If you tried hypnosis before and you were told that you were not hypnotizable when you wanted to be, you should seek a Hypnotherapist with more training and experience. My advice is to check out the Hypnotherapist's credentials before making your first appointment. Not all Hypnotherapists have the same style, experience and training. You should choose a Hypnotherapist who you feel comfortable with because you will be working as a team.


Contrary to popular opinion, the Hypnotist does not control you or make you do anything. However, a good Hypnotherapist will be able to help you understand what hypnosis is and what it is not. Since all hypnosis is self-hypnosis and it is about self empowerment, choose a Hypnotherapist who is a good teacher to help you learn how to do it effectively.


Your Hypnotherapist should be certified through a professional organization. Two well known professional organizations for Hypnotherapy are, The National Guild of Hypnotists, which requires a written test and 100 hours of training and the American Council of Hypnotists Examiners (ACHE), which requires a written exam, 250 hours of training and a live session before an examiner in order for certification to be granted.


Ask to make sure that your Hypnotherapist is keeping their certification current so that you can be reasonably assured that he or she is keeping up on the latest information, training and professional competency. Choosing a certified Hypnotherapist also gives you an avenue to file a complaint in the event you have a legitimate concern which needs to be addressed.


When you choose a Hypnotherapist who is not certified you have little recourse if you have a problem with the services provided. So, remember to check credentials and interview your hypnotherapist before you make an appointment. Many Hypnotherapists offer free consultations and you should take advantage of that service.

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