Seven questions to ask a hypnotherapist before starting sessions

a cognitive hypnotherapy question mark

7 Important questions to ask your hypnotherapist before starting sessions

If you’re considering hypnotherapy to address a specific issue or improve your overall well-being, it’s essential to find the right therapist to guide you on this journey. Hypnotherapy can be a powerful tool for change, but the effectiveness of your sessions will largely depend on your rapport with the therapist and their expertise. To help you make an informed decision, here are seven important questions to ask your hypnotherapist before starting your sessions.

1. What are your qualifications and experience?

One of the first questions you should ask is about the hypnotherapist’s qualifications and experience. Hypnotherapy is a specialised field, and not all practitioners are created equal. Look for a hypnotherapist who:

  • Holds certifications from reputable hypnotherapy schools
  • Has experience in dealing with your specific issue (such as anxiety, smoking cessation, or phobias)
  • Continues to invest in ongoing training and professional development.

Why it matters: The hypnotherapy field is not as tightly regulated as traditional medicine, which means anyone can call themselves a hypnotherapist after a short course. To ensure you’re in capable hands, you’ll want someone with a solid background in the practice, ideally with a focus on areas that align with your goals.

Victoria’s answer: I trained for one year at the world-renowned Quest Institute of Cognitive Hypnotherapy in London, under the tutelage of Trevor Silvester. I then took a further year of study to complete attain Master Practitioner level. During this time I also achieved the Hypnotherapy in Practice Diploma, the first externally validate hypnotherapy qualification in the United Kingdom. Over my time in private practice I have worked as a generalist, covering most issues that you could imagine, and specialised in areas including trauma, anxiety and holistic life coaching.

2. What is your approach to hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Different hypnotherapists use various techniques, such as:

  • Ericksonian hypnotherapy – Uses metaphor and indirect suggestion.
  • Cognitive-behavioural hypnotherapy – Integrates hypnosis with CBT techniques.
  • Regression therapy – Focuses on uncovering past experiences that may influence present behaviours.
  • Solution-focused hypnotherapy – Concentrates on achieving specific goals.

Why it matters: Understanding the therapist’s approach will help you gauge if their methods align with your preferences. For example, if you’re looking for a straightforward, goal-oriented approach, a solution-focused hypnotherapist might be ideal. On the other hand, if you’re interested in exploring deeper subconscious patterns, a therapist who uses regression techniques might be more suitable.

Victoria’s answer: Cognitive Hypnotherapy blends hypnosis with the best of many different psychotherapeutic and psychosomatic approaches. My approach is solution-focused in that we always have your ideal solution state in mind, using regression techniques where relevant in order to understand why your brain has created the thought and behaviour patterns that are problematic. My hypnotic language is Ericksonian, to gently convince the subconscious to let go of old patterns, and I draw from CBT and Positive Psychology with interventions designed to generate positive change.

3. Can you walk me through the process?

It’s completely normal to feel uncertain or even a little anxious about hypnotherapy, especially if it’s your first time. A good hypnotherapist will be happy to explain what to expect during your sessions. Key points to discuss include:

  • The structure of a session – How long it will last, what will happen during the session.
  • Your role – Clarify that hypnosis is a collaborative process, where you’ll remain fully aware and in control.
  • Possible sensations – Understanding that feeling deeply relaxed, and yet mentally alert, is normal.

Why it matters: Knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and prepared, enhancing the effectiveness of your sessions. Additionally, it sets the tone for transparency and trust, which are crucial for a successful therapeutic relationship.

Victoria’s answer: Our first session will be a deep dive into the problem, to learn where it came from, why it’s there from a subconscious perspective, and how you’d like things to be. We will do a small hypnotic intervention to prime the mind for change and begin to give the suggestions that we’ve worked on together. Future sessions involve gauging change between sessions, and then selecting the most appropriate technique from the many in my toolkit to create the change we’re looking for. 

4. How many sessions will I need?

Different issues require varying lengths of treatment. For example:

  • Simple habit changes (like nail-biting) might only need 1-3 sessions.
  • Issues like anxiety or phobias may require 4-6 sessions.
  • More complex challenges (like trauma or deep-rooted behaviours) might take longer.

Why it matters: Having a rough idea of the commitment involved can help you plan your time and budget accordingly. Be cautious of therapists who promise quick fixes for deep-seated issues. Hypnotherapy is effective, but it’s not a magic cure-all, and genuine transformation can take time.

Victoria’s answer: This is one of the most difficult aspects of my work, in that I cannot guarantee any change within any set amount of time. It would be wrong of me to do so, as every client is unique and while their issues may carry the same labels, they do them in their own unique way. All I can guarantee, is that I will do my best to use my experience and expertise to help you in the most efficient way that I can.

5. What are your success rates with clients facing similar issues?

It’s beneficial to ask about the therapist’s experience and success rate with clients who have faced challenges similar to yours. While no therapist can guarantee outcomes (as much depends on your engagement in the process), they should be able to share examples of past successes or client testimonials (while maintaining confidentiality).

Why it matters: A therapist who can confidently share positive outcomes indicates both experience and effectiveness. It can also give you confidence that you’re choosing the right practitioner for your needs.

Victoria’s answer: I have testimonials on my website and many success stories that I can share with you. There is no genuine way for a therapist to give a % success rate, as unless they continue to interview all of their former clients over a long period of time there is no real way to know if the change was permanent for everyone. I am honest with my potential clients about which issues seem the most straightforward to resolve (i.e. phobias, anxiety) and which are more complex and often require longer commitment to therapy (i.e. eating disorders, OCD0.

6. Do you offer a free initial consultation?

Many hypnotherapists offer a free initial consultation to discuss your needs, answer questions, and determine if their approach is a good fit for you. During this consultation, pay attention to:

  • How well they listen to your concerns.
  • Whether they explain their methods clearly.
  • If you feel comfortable and understood.

Why it matters: The initial consultation is a great opportunity to assess whether you have a good rapport with the therapist. Hypnotherapy is a collaborative process, and a strong therapeutic relationship can significantly influence your results.

Victoria’s answer: I insist on a consultation before taking on any client, to make sure that we are right for each other. This will last between 15 and 30 minutes, and gives you a time to ask any questions that you have. If more time is needed, we can speak further.

7. How do you tailor your sessions to individual clients?

Every person is unique, with different backgrounds, challenges, and goals. Ask your hypnotherapist how they personalize their sessions to fit your specific needs. A skilled therapist should take the time to understand your history, preferences, and objectives to create a tailored approach.

  • Customisation – Will they adapt techniques and suggestions based on your feedback?
  • Flexibility – How do they adjust the sessions if your needs evolve over time?
  • Personalisation – Do they use specific imagery, metaphors, or language that resonates with you?

Why it matters: A personalized approach can significantly enhance the effectiveness of hypnotherapy. By ensuring the therapist is responsive to your individual needs, you’re more likely to achieve meaningful and lasting results.

Victoria’s answer: Absolutely, every session is tailored to not just that client but what that client needs in that moment. While I usually have a plan in mind for what we’ll do in each session, it’s very common for something to have come up for a client between sessions that needs I mean to completely adapt that plan – or abandon it altogether! In cognitive hypnotherapy we take great attention in using your specific words and ways of experiencing the world in the hypnosis interventions we create for you. Every part is tailored to you and the unique way you do your problem.

Final thoughts: Trust your instincts

Beyond these questions, trust your instincts when choosing a hypnotherapist. Do you feel comfortable, safe, and understood in their presence? Do they seem genuinely interested in helping you? The right hypnotherapist will not only have the skills and experience to guide you but will also create an environment where you feel empowered to explore and make positive changes.

Starting hypnotherapy can be a transformative step towards overcoming challenges, changing habits, or simply enhancing your well-being. By asking the right questions upfront, you set the stage for a successful and rewarding experience.

Ready to take the next step?

If you’re curious about how hypnotherapy can help you achieve your goals, I invite you to schedule a free consultation. Together, we can explore whether this approach is the right fit for you.

Feel free to reach out through Victoria Ward Hypnotherapy to learn more.