Hypnotherapist

Job Description:

Hypnotherapists use hypnosis to help people make positive changes to their health, lifestyle and behaviour.

Job Category:
Health Care & Social Assistance

What you will do:

In this role you could:

  • set up meetings with clients
  • discuss your clients’ medical and social history
  • suggest courses of treatment
  • put your client into a hypnotic trance
  • make positive suggestions and statements
  • take notes and write reports on progress

Skills:

You’ll need:

  • counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
  • customer service skills

As well as:

  • excellent verbal communication skills (leadership 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 (adaptability skills)
Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

To become a Hypnotherapist, you typically don’t need specific subjects, as formal educational requirements may vary depending on the training program or certification body you choose. However, having a solid educational background and certain skills can be beneficial. Here are some subjects and considerations that can help you prepare for a career in hypnotherapy:

  1. Science Subjects: While not mandatory, subjects like Biology and Psychology can provide you with a foundational understanding of the human mind and behaviour, which are relevant to hypnotherapy.
  2. English: Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for effective communication with clients and for keeping thorough records of sessions.
  3. Mathematics: Basic mathematical skills are important for managing your practice’s finances and appointments.
  4. Psychology: If your school offers Psychology, this can provide a good introduction to the field and its concepts.
  5. Sociology: Some aspects of sociology, such as understanding social behavior and human interactions, can be relevant to hypnotherapy.

Post School

You can get into this job through:

  • a specialised course run by a professional body

Other Routes

You could do a course recognised by one of the professional bodies related to hypnotherapy.

Courses usually involve practical workshops, self-study and written assignments. You may 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.

Career tips

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

Working Hours and Environment:

A typical week consists of 37-39 hours of work. You could be required to work evenings/weekends as customers demand.

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

Career Path & Progression:

With experience, you could move into teaching hypnotherapy techniques.