Hypnotherapy for the first time

Before booking or attending your first hypnotherapy session, you are likely to have a lot of questions about what will happen to you and how it works.

We spoke to Hypnotherapy Directory member Jessica Gardner about what to expect from your first hypnotherapy session. She answers some frequently asked questions, explaining the process – from booking a session, to what you can do after and in-between your sessions.

Is there anything I can do to prepare for a hypnotherapy session?

When choosing a therapist, it is important to check that they have the relevant qualifications and insurance. Once you are ready to book your session, ask as many questions as you feel necessary to put your mind at rest and ensure you feel they are the right therapist for you.

The therapist will tell you if there is anything you need to do in preparation for the session and will be able to advise you on what to expect both during and after the session. It’s advisable to give yourself some space and time after the session to allow your mind to process the experience.

What happens after the session/s? Is there any follow-up work for me to do?

All therapists work differently and will have a different way of conducting sessions and following up with their clients. You can ask about this before you book so you know what to expect. It may be that your therapist recommends further sessions and will, therefore, follow-up with you on your return.

Some therapists may give you exercises to do in-between sessions or a recording to listen to at home – it will depend on the type of training they have received. Ask before you book your session to ensure you know what to expect and what, if any, additional support is included.

I’m open-minded, but I’m nervous. Will hypnotherapy work for me?

Hypnotherapy works best when your mind is relaxed and you allow the process to work for you. The therapist should put your mind at rest and make you feel at ease. It’s important to remember the therapist is there to work with you, not do something to you. They will be using their training to help you to update the default settings in your mind through suggestion and analogy.

Resistance to change is only your mind’s way of protecting you. Making your therapist aware of any resistance will allow them to work with it and help you understand why it is there and what it is doing for you. The therapist is there to support you through your journey but needs you to be ready and willing to change for it to really be a success.