Hypnotherapist

You can get into this job through a specialist course run by a professional body.

Other Routes

You could do a course recognised by a professional bodies related to hypnotherapy, including:

• National Council for Hypnotherapy
• The National Hypnotherapy Society
• British Society of Clinical Hypnosis
• General Hypnotherapy Standards Council and General Hypnotherapy Register

Courses usually involve practical workshops, self-study and written assignments. You might have an advantage when applying for courses if you have a background in healthcare or counselling.

Some hypnotherapy courses are aimed at qualified psychologists or healthcare professionals. You'll need a relevant degree or professional qualification for these.

More Information

Career Tips

Most hypnotherapists are self-employed so it will help if you have some experience of running a business.

Professional and Industry Bodies

You could join an accredited register for professional development and to make industry contacts.

Further Information

You can find out more about careers in hypnotherapy from the British Society of Clinical Hypnosis.

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• excellent verbal communication skills
• active listening skills
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be flexible and open to change
• customer service skills
• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

Day-to-day tasks

In this role you could:

• meet with a client to discuss their medical history and life
• suggest courses of treatment
• put your client into a hypnotic trance
• make positive suggestions and statements
• take notes and write reports on progress

Working environment

You could work in a therapy clinic, from home or at a health spa.

With experience, you could move into teaching hypnotherapy techniques.