How to Be Hypnotized

Hypnotherapy can be a safe and even enjoyable treatment for a range of issues from nicotine addiction to Irritable Bowel Syndrome. While movies and TV shows often make hypnosis out to be showy and mysterious, in reality it can be a very simple process of relaxing your mind and becoming deeply focused. Once you’ve found a hypnotherapist with valid credentials that you feel comfortable with, you can get the most out of your hypnosis by practicing deep focus ahead of time and going into your session with clear goals and intentions.

Part 1 - Finding the Right Hypnotherapist

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→ Find a hypnotherapist that specializes in the treatment you want. If you’re hoping to quit smoking, you may not get the best treatment from a therapist who specializes in weight loss. Look for a professional with experience in the type of therapy you want to receive.

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→ Make sure they are registered with a professional association. While a license is not always required to practice hypnotherapy, your therapist should at least be a member of a legitimate professional association, such as the National Board of Certified Clinical Hypnotherapists.

→ Most professional hypnotherapy associations will have a code of ethics that members must sign. You should be able to read this code of ethics on the association’s website.

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→ Choose a hypnotherapist with at least 50 hours of live training. Education and training is a major part of what makes a good hypnotherapist, and practical experience is a must. Ask any hypnotherapist you’re considering how much live, instructor-led training they’ve had.

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→ Find out if your hypnotherapist has published any books or articles. This will give you a chance to learn more about their practice by reading them, and it will also show that they are committed to hypnotherapy and established in the field.

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→ Ask about payment and cancellation options ahead of time. When choosing hypnotherapists, be sure to compare rates and find out if there is a fee for canceling. However, be aware that cheaper doesn’t always mean better - therapists with more experience and training may charge more, but they will be worth it. Consider whether their pricing matches up with their credentials.

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→ Find out how many sessions you’ll need. This can be a major factor in determining what’s affordable. If a therapist has reasonable rates but expects to need 6 sessions to complete your therapy, they may not end up being the most cost effective option.

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→ Take time to find a hypnotherapist you are comfortable with. Hypnosis works best when you are able to relax, so it’s important to choose a therapist you can be at ease around. Before you make an appointment, talk with your hypnotherapist over the phone or meet in person to determine whether you feel comfortable with them.

Part 2 - Getting the Most out of Your Hypnosis

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→ Practice improving your focus before you try hypnotism. Hypnosis works better for people who are good at focusing and becoming immersed in a thought or activity. It can be a good idea to start practicing meditation or other mental focus exercises for a few weeks before your hypnosis to get the best results.

→ While there are many ways to meditate, a good method for beginners is to simply set aside 10 minutes to relax, sit somewhere comfortable and quiet, and focus on your breath or the sensations in your body. The idea is to pay consistent, focused attention to something calming and reduce negative thoughts.

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→ Write down your intentions before your session. Having a clear idea of what you hope to gain from your hypnosis will help you focus and achieve your goal. The hypnotherapist is there to guide you, but ultimately it’s your brain that’s doing the work. You’re more likely to see the changes you want if you have clear, specific goals in mind.

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→ Schedule your session at a time when you will not be busy or rushed. If you are in the middle of finals week or a big project at work, you probably won’t be able to relax and focus very well at your session, which will make the hypnosis less effective. Make your appointment at a time when you won’t be unusually busy or stressed, and don’t schedule anything immediately after your session.

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→ Arrive on time to get the most out of your session. You’ll get your money’s worth if you’re there for every minute you paid for. Make sure you arrive at your therapist’s office on time or a little early. This will also show them that you’re a serious and respectful client.

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→ Research hypnosis success stories to develop positive expectations. Going into a hypnotherapy session with an optimistic attitude and an open mind will yield the best results. It’s natural to have doubts or uncertainties if you’ve never tried hypnotherapy before, but help yourself keep an optimistic outlook by learning about hypnosis benefits and success stories.

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→ Communicate honestly with your hypnotherapist. If you’re feeling uncomfortable, having doubts, or don’t feel that the hypnosis is working as it should, don’t be afraid to tell your therapist. If they know what you’re experiencing, they will be better able to help you improve your session.

Part 3 - Making the Effects of Your Hypnosis Last

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→ Follow up on your hypnotherapist’s instructions after the session. Your therapist may give you “homework” for after your hypnosis. This may include meditations or self-hypnosis practices that will help you maintain the progress you made in the session. Follow these instructions to get the most out of your treatment.

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→ Keep a journal to track your progress. It can be helpful to write down any changes or improvements you experience after your session. It will help you be mindful of the changes you’re trying to make, and also determine whether the treatment was effective.

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→ Expect any effects to be slow and gradual. Like any major change, the effects of hypnosis are typically not instant or dramatic. Don’t be disappointed if you don’t see any changes overnight, and don’t abandon any other methods for meeting your goals because you expect hypnosis to work as a miracle cure.