Person to person referral is generally the easiest way to find any type of professional. However, upon occasion, you may be going beyond the experience or the comfort zone of friends or trusted acquaintances and must adventure into unknown territory. So, you find yourself scouring Yelp! and other online review sources or relying on advertisements. How do you know which hypnotherapist is best suited for you? Call…

1. Hypnotherapy really boils down to the voice. Imagine yourself as the client, if the hypnotherapist’s voice is not pleasing to you  (or reminds you of an ex, a parent or an old boss) it maybe hard for you to follow their suggestion. Virtually all people can be hypnotized, and though this statement is true not all hypnotherapists can hypnotize all people. In order to be hypnotized you have to be willing.

2. Seek a phone or office consultation regarding your presenting issue or goal. Ask questions.

3. Ask the hypnotherapist if your presenting issue is within their scope and if they have experience with it.

4. Ask their education and professional associations.

  5. When asking questions make sure that answers are angled toward your goals, not toward the therapist.

6.Do not be dissuaded if the hypnotherapist asks for a medical referral.  Medical or psychological based issues may require a medical referral, to work as a complimentary modality. Most doctors are willing to provide a simple letter without an appointment.

7. Ask their rates. Hypnotherapy is intended as a short-term therapy. Though rates may seem high upon initial exploration, the result is what you truly care about. Getting rid of a bad habit or other presenting issue that you’ve had for years within a short time frame may be worth what seems to be an initial high rate.  A low rate may be an indicator of more sessions than necessary.

8. Ask if they provide phone or Skype sessions if getting away from home or the office is an issue for you.

9. Review. Did they answer your questions in a way you felt comfortable with?

10. Assess your feelings. Did you feel comfortable with this person?

Some hypnotherapists offer initial consultations within their office. If your presenting issue or what you desire to work on is more complex than a 15 minute conversation, an exploratory appointment may be necessary. The hypnotherapist's time is important. Though it is important to find someone to work with you, it is also important to recognize this as a profession. The most important thing in finding any practitioner is to rely on your feelings. If you don't feel that you can trust or work with someone, trust that and try someone else.