The initial consultation

Prior to any hypno-psychotherapy taking place there will be a consultation, or consultation period, where the issue or problem to be resolved is discussed and where the client has an opportunity to discuss the treatment approach, the number of recommended sessions and the likely cost.

Medical considerations

Few medical conditions contra-indicate the use of hypnosis, though in some cases liaison with the client's medical practitioner may be appropriate. Almost everyone who wishes to be hypnotised can achieve a level of relaxation sufficient to allow therapy to take place.

The hypnosis session

Generally speaking, during the hypnosis session itself, the client is invited to relax in an armchair or couch and is then guided into a state of deep physical and mental relaxation.

In the hypnotic state

While in hypnosis, the client is still generally aware of their surroundings and can choose to come out of hypnosis at any time. No responsible therapist would attempt to hypnotise anyone against their will, or encourage an individual to act against their natural inclinations whilst in hypnosis.

After the hypnosis session

At the end of the hypnosis session, the client will be gently returned to the normal waking state. Most new clients are surprised at how far away the reality of hypnotherapy is from any prior expectation of 'mind control', and find the experience deeply relaxing.

Training for hypnotherapists

At present, anybody can set up in practice as a hypnotherapist, without undergoing any formal training. One way to ensure that your therapist has been properly trained is to ensure that they are a member of the National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists (NRHP).

Training for NRHP members

All NRHP members have trained to the syllabus requirements of the National College of Hypnosis and Psychotherapy, or have equivalent (UKCP) training, The National College provides a thorough training in hypno-psychotherapy, with comprehensive coverage of hypnotherapeutic techniques integrated with a variety of psychotherapeutic approaches. The National College is the only institution of its kind externally accredited by the British Accreditation Council for Independent Further and Higher Education. Such accreditation has been acknowledged by the Secretary of State for Education as the only public guarantee of standards in independent institutions of further and higher education in the UK.

United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy

The UKCP is a registered charity, which aims to create a well regulated, broadly based psychotherapy profession. UKCP expects its Member Organisations to adhere to and apply guidelines for standards of training and ethical practice intended for the protection of the public. As a leading national register of Hypno-Psychotherapists, the NRHP, like the National College, is a member of the Hypno-psychotherapy Section of the UKCP.