Not sure if hypnotherapy is right for you? Not surprising, as there is little, to no scientific backed studies despite being well documented within the industry as effective, for a vast array of mental illnesses. Even so, hundreds of thousands of people are finding hypnosis and hypnotherapy on their own along with fantastic results every year!
So what should you do before you book a hypnotherapy session?
Research hypnotherapy and understand what it involves.
As with most unknown proceedings, it is beneficial to have a basic understanding of the process and what to expect before starting hypnotherapy. This can often be done by booking a (usually free) consultation appointment with the hypnotherapist. These consultations are an excellent way to ask questions and get a good feel for your therapist and their methodology.
Find a qualified hypnotherapist.
It is vitally important to work with a trained and experienced hypnotherapist to ensure that you are receiving the best care possible. Look for a hypnotherapist who is licensed and has received appropriate training and certification. Beware of hypnotherapists who have less than 100 hours of training, or claim that only their way/training/accreditation/organization should be trusted. Please know that hypnotherapy is unregulated in Alberta and such claims are false and misleading to clients.
Discuss your goals with the hypnotherapist.
Before starting hypnotherapy, it is important to have a clear understanding of what you hope to achieve through the process. Without a clear direction the hypnotherapist will have difficulty mapping a program for your results. I equate this to jumping into an Uber and when being asked where you want to go you reply with, "I don't know". If you are unsure, this is something that should be worked out during your coordination call.
Review any medical history and current medications.
Be sure to inform the hypnotherapist of any medical conditions or medications that you are currently taking. For example, some medications can restrict people's ability to feel powerful emotions. If the sessions require them to access these emotions and they are unable to, this should be known before the session. Working with your doctor is always recommend when medications are involved.
Prepare for the session.
I recommend wearing comfortable clothing, having a light snack prior, and making sure you are well hydrated before your hypnotherapy session. This does NOT mean chugging a liter of water before your session. That will only make you uncomfortable and need to use the restroom during your session, which is never a good thing.
Relax and focus.
It is important to relax. While relaxation is not a prerequisite for hypnosis, it does help make the process and session more pleasant. More importantly is to focus. If you feel like you are unable to, or lack the ability to do these sufficiently, this would be an excellent first step in your hypnotherapy process. These two skills are invaluable in comfortably handling the uncertainties that is life.
Trust the process.
It can be natural to feel a bit anxious, uncertain and even excited about hypnotherapy, however it is important to trust in the process and the hypnotherapist you have chosen. This is not your normal run-of-the-mill therapy and for good reason. Expect it to be different. Have the experience first, judge it afterwards.
Follow the hypnotherapist's instructions.
During the session, it is important to follow the hypnotherapist's instructions and stay focused on the suggestions being given. Just like hiring a guide to help you navigate a foreign country, your hypnotherapist is your guide. As your guide, they know the directions to get you to where you want to go. No point in hiring a guide if you are just going to go and do whatever you want.
Keep an open mind.
It is important to approach hypnotherapy with an open mind and a willingness to do new things. Let's be completely honest, if what you were doing was working for you, you wouldn't be looking to hire a hypnotherapist. If you want a different result, you need to be willing to do something different. Start by being willing to approach hypnotherapy with positive intent.
Practice self-care after the session.
It is important to take care of yourself after a hypnotherapy session, both physically and emotionally. This may involve getting plenty of rest, eating well, and practicing relaxation techniques. Depending on the session some clients experience tons of energy while some are completely exhausted. Ask your hypnotherapist how you will feel after a particular session as it can depend on the processes being used during the session. For example I would be fine with someone going directly to work after a positive suggestion session, whereas I would recommend taking the day off, or scheduling their appointment after work for a trauma release session.
And there you have it! 10 things you should do before having your first hypnotherapy session! I hope you found this list useful and informative. For more information, or to book a consultation session with me personally, simply fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page here. Once filled out you will be directed to my online calendar to book yourself in!