Online hypnosis is an increasingly popular alternative to hypnotherapy traditionally done in person. It provides a convenient way to address all of the same conditions, including anxiety, pain, bad habits, and weight loss. In this post, we will explore what online hypnosis is, how it works, and its benefits. We will also provide tips on how to find a qualified online hypnotherapist, also known as an online hypnotist, and get the most out of your online hypnosis sessions.

What is Online Hypnosis?

Online hypnosis is a form of hypnotherapy that is conducted by a hypnotherapist, sometimes called a hypnotist, over the internet by video chat - Zoom, Google Meet, FaceTime or similar. It allows you to receive hypnotherapy from the comfort of your own home, without having to spend the time and costs to travel to the hypnotherapist's office. After a conversation, the hypnotherapist will guide you into a comfortable feeling of hypnosis and work with you to address your specific issues.

How Does Online Hypnosis Work?

Hypnosis is a natural state of heightened suggestibility. During a hypnosis session, the hypnotherapist will use various techniques to help you enter hypnosis. These techniques may include eye fixation, progressive muscle relaxation, controlled breathing, visualization, and guided imagery. They may use various techniques, such as suggestion, affirmations, metaphors, and stories, to help you make positive changes.

Is Online Hypnosis Safe?

Online hypnosis is a safe and effective form of therapy, provided that you choose a qualified hypnotherapist. It is important to be cautious and choose a hypnotherapist who has the proper training and experience. There is no distinction in terms of safety or effectiveness between in person and online hypnosis when working with an experienced hypnotherapist. The induction techniques used may differ (how someone is brought into hypnosis), but the therapy aspects are identical.

What to Expect in an Online Hypnosis Session

During an online hypnosis session, you can expect to connect with the hypnotherapist via video chat so they can see you. Audio only, for example by phone, is rarely used today except when a history has been established between the hypnotherapist and client. The hypnotherapist will ask you some questions about your issue and then guide you into hypnosis. Sessions last typically from one to two hours.

Benefits of Online Hypnosis

There are many benefits to online hypnosis, including:

• Convenience: You can receive hypnotherapy from the comfort of your own home, which saves time and money on transportation.
• Accessibility: Online hypnosis is available to people who live in rural areas or have difficulty getting to a hypnotherapist's office.
• Privacy: You can receive hypnotherapy without having to worry about being seen by others.

How to Find an Online Hypnotherapist

• You found one - Jason Akel at Village Hypnotherapy & Coaching is a Certified Master Hypnotherapist and Hypnotist, Mindset Coach. Schedule a free consultation

• Search online for hypnotherapists in your area using Google Maps, Google Search, Yelp or similar

• Check with one of the national associations such as the ACHE for a hypnotherapist near you

Schedule a Consultation

Before committing to an online hypnotherapist, schedule, of course, an online consultation to discuss your specific needs and ask questions. This will give you an opportunity to get to know the hypnotherapist and determine if they are a good fit for you.

During the consultation, you can also ask about their approach to therapy working with clients who have similar needs to yours, their success rate, and an estimated number of online hypnotherapy sessions.

7 Tips: The Best Online Hypnotherapist

Choosing the right hypnotherapist online can be a bit daunting, especially if you are new to this health modality. It is essential to choose a professional who has received comprehensive training from reputable, accredited institutions and adheres to strict ethical guidelines. These guidelines should be presented on their website or in their intake form - ask to read them.

TIP #1 - Check Their Credential

Certified Hypnotherapist (CHt) or Clinical Hypnotherapist (CCHT) are the two primary professional titles you should look for when seeking hypnosis services online or near you. CHts and CCHTs have undergone rigorous training and must meet specific standards set by their respective certifying bodies. These professionals have extensive knowledge and experience in various techniques used in hypnosis therapy.

TIP #2 - Verify Their Associations

When choosing a hypnotherapist for online work, it is crucial to verify that they are members of one of the top associations in the field such as the American Council of Hypnotist Examiners (top recommendation), American Society of Clinical Hypnosis, National Guild of Hypnotists, International Certification Board of Clinical Hypnotherapists, or the International Society of Advanced Hypnotherapists. These organizations ensure that their members maintain high standards of professionalism and ethical conduct. You can look up a hypnotherapist’s name in the directory of these associations. For example, here’s the ACHE member directory.

TIP #3 - Inquire About Their Training

Ensure that your chosen hypnotherapist has attended an accredited school. Our top recommended schools in the United States:

• The Hypnotherapy Training Institute
• The Hypno Academy

Other recommendations: schools accredited by the ACHE and the HMI College of Hypnotherapy

NOTE: Avoid hypnotists and hypnotherapists in your area or online who do not have formal training or certification as described above. These individuals may lack the necessary skills and knowledge required to provide safe and effective treatment.

It's also worth noting that working with a hypnotherapist who is also a stage hypnotist (part-time entertainer) is not necessarily a negative as their hypnosis skillset overlaps with working with the mind. We do recommend, however, finding someone who was trained first as a hypnotherapist and later became a stage performer so that their development comes from the fundamentals of care and is well-trained.

TIP #4 - Read Reviews or Get References

When searching for a hypnotherapist, it is essential to read/watch online reviews and testimonials. These can provide valuable insights into the quality of services provided by the hypnotherapist. You may also ask for references related to the area of concern you are looking for assistance with.

TIP #5 - Ask Questions

Discuss any issues or hesitations you may have with your chosen hypnotherapist. Being open and honest about your issues and concerns will help them determine if they are a good match for you. Failing to reveal major areas of concern or situational challenges can lead to your full expectations not being met.

TIP #6 - Inquire About the Process

In addition to sessions, some hypnotherapists may offer additional tools such as an audio recording to help support your progress between sessions. Be sure to ask about these options when choosing a hypnotherapist.

TIP #7 - Do They Carry Insurance

When choosing a hypnotherapist, ask if they have professional liability insurance and can please share it. This ensures that both parties are protected.

Costs of Online Hypnosis

As with any service, the cost of hypnotherapy varies greatly depending on several factors. Some practitioners are just starting out and offer lower rates, while others have years of experience and charge a premium for their services because the impact they produce tends to be life-changing. Additionally, location plays a big role in determining the cost of online hypnotherapy. In this section, we will discuss the various factors that influence the rates. There will rarely be a rate distinction between in person and online hypnotherapy sessions.

Hypnotherapist's Experience

The most experienced and accomplished hypnotherapists charge upwards of $1,000 per session. This may seem like a steep price to pay for a one or two hour-long session, but keep in mind that these professionals have spent years honing their craft and developing techniques that produce results quickly and efficiently.

Location

The location where you receive hypnotherapy can also impact the cost. If you live in a major metropolitan area, such as New York City or San Francisco, you can expect to pay more for your sessions than if you live in a smaller town or rural area.

Issues Addressed

Another factor that contributes to the cost of hypnotherapy is the specific issues being addressed during each session. For example, if you are seeking help with smoking cessation or weight loss, your session plan may be more expensive than if you are seeking help with anxiety or stress management.

Package Options

Most hypnotherapists have package options that are tailored to specific issues. These packages often include multiple sessions at a slightly reduced rate compared to paying for each session individually. This can be an attractive option for those who require ongoing treatment or who want to save money on their overall treatment costs. Most hypnotherapists will require a few (e.g. 3-5) sessions when working with a new client as there is an natural arc to feeling better.

Sticker Shocked?

It is worth noting that most hypnotherapists work to create direct and fast change in their clients, charging much higher rates per session compared to talk therapists (psychiatrists, psychotherapists, psychologists, counselors) who earn small reimbursements from the insurance companies and are unfortunately incentivized to conduct dozens to hundreds of sessions lasting months to years -- many are even switching to a direct billing, out-of-pocket approach due to this. Hypnotherapists accept these clients all the time after talk therapy hasn’t achieved the results they desired.

When calculating your total costs, consider that talk therapy sessions and medications often require years of co-pays, fuel and parking costs, and subscription costs (online services). So even at higher rates, hypnotherapy is often seen as a more economical form of therapy than traditional talk therapy.