How to become a hypnotherapist in the UK

Are you fascinated by the power of the mind? Perhaps you’ve had hypnotherapy in the past and it worked so well for you that you want to share it with the world. Whatever brought you here, this guide will explore everything you need to know about becoming a hypnotherapist.

What does a hypnotherapist do?

A hypnotherapist helps people enter a deeply relaxed state, called hypnosis. When in this state, they can receive positive suggestions to change their thoughts, emotions and behaviours. Hypnotherapists work with the subconscious. This is the part of the brain that impacts how we think, feel and behave, without us even being aware.

Making changes on a subconscious level can help people think, feel and act differently, resolving issues that have been difficult to change consciously. This work can help in many areas, including:

changing habits
easing stress and anxiety
helping with sleep
overcoming phobias
improving mood
enhancing confidence
managing pain

What skills do you need to be a hypnotherapist?

As a hypnotherapist, you will work closely with clients, speaking to them to learn about what they want help with, their history and what solutions they’ve already tried. You will have to help them get into a relaxed state, where the subconscious is more open to suggestion. This all requires great people skills, strong communication skills, and a desire to help.

Many hypnotherapists work in private practice, so you may need to run your own business. This involves marketing your services, attracting clients, and doing any administrative work that comes with working with the public.

Is hypnotherapy a regulated profession in the UK?

Currently, hypnotherapy isn’t regulated by law in the UK. This means that you don’t need a specific qualification or level of training to legally call yourself a hypnotherapist. Of course, it is highly encouraged to complete formal training to ensure you support people in the best way and gain the trust of your clients.

There are several professional bodies in the industry that voluntarily regulate hypnotherapists. This means that to become a member with them, you must have a certain level of training and be bound by their code of ethics.

Some examples of professional bodies include:

Do you need qualifications to become a hypnotherapist?

As mentioned, legally you do not need a particular qualification to be a hypnotherapist but getting robust training and a qualification is recommended. Getting qualified helps you understand how to use hypnosis to support clients, practice your skills and learn more about ethical considerations.

Those coming to hypnotherapy are often struggling with something and this can be a vulnerable place to be in. By developing your knowledge and skills, you can ensure you feel confident in supporting them and putting them at ease. Gaining formal training also allows you to register with a professional body, adding a degree of security and credibility within your practice.

What qualifications are recognised in the UK?

When looking for qualifications, it can help to see which ones are accredited by major UK hypnotherapy organisations. Some qualifications you may want to explore include:

Diploma in clinical hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy practitioner diploma
Hypnotherapy certification

Hypnotherapy training courses and schools - what to look for

It can be overwhelming when faced with the many hypnotherapy training organisations that are out there. Asking these questions when researching can help:

What qualification will I receive after completing the course?
Can I practise hypnotherapy with this qualification?
Is this qualification recognised in the UK?
Does this school offer any further qualifications?
Can I get insurance with this qualification?
Is the course/organisation accredited by a professional body? (Hypnotherapy courses do not have to be accredited, but they can add credibility to the qualification.)
What size are the classes? What is the learning environment like?
What approaches are taught? Is this one that I want to learn?
How experienced are the trainers?
Does the organisation offer ongoing support?
Is there any impartial course feedback?

Many training schools and organisations will have this information readily available on their website. If you cannot find this information or are unsure, do not hesitate to contact the school directly to ask for more details.

We have affiliated with a number of training organisations, so exploring this list is a great place to start. If you opt to train with one of our affiliate organisations, we recommend that you check that their courses/outcomes meet your needs and expectations before starting your training, as we cannot be held responsible for any information provided by our affiliates.

Although we see they supply a relevant qualification that we can accept, a listing with us does not mean that Hypnotherapy Directory endorses or accredits that organisation, or every qualification offered by each organisation. Please read our terms and conditions for further information.

What is continued professional development?

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) refers to the enhancement and development of the skills you gained from your initial hypnotherapy training course. Attending CPD events will not only develop your skillset but will also help you keep abreast with any new rules and regulations of the industry.

To qualify for professional body membership, most organisations require a certain amount of CPD hours. Also for independent hypnotherapists, CPD can assure clients that they are continuing to top up their skill set and develop their expertise.

CPD opportunities can either be found through our events section or through other organisations (such as professional bodies and training organisations).

How much can a hypnotherapist earn?

The amount you’ll be able to earn as a hypnotherapist will depend on a number of factors, including your location, experience and demand for your services. When you start, you may charge less to help you gain practical experience with clients. As you grow and develop, you may find a particular niche and become known as an expert in this area. This can help to increase demand and let you charge more for your services.

Typically hypnotherapists will charge anything from £50 to £150 per session, however, you may charge more or less depending on your circumstances.

Starting a career as a hypnotherapist

Knowing how much to charge for sessions is one piece of the business puzzle. To have a flourishing career as a hypnotherapist, there are several steps you can take:

Undertake training and receive a recognised qualification
Join a professional body
Register as a sole trader or limited company
Get professional insurance
Decide on the type of client you want to work with
Market your business to attract clients

As a marketing platform, we pride ourselves in supporting hypnotherapists to gain clients so they can focus on the important work of making change. We offer networking opportunities, CPD events, marketing tips and more. Find out how joining us can help you market your business.