Safety and regulation issues

Hypnotherapy is practised by some doctors, dentists, psychologists and counsellors, but it's also offered by non-professionals with little training. This is because in the UK, hypnotherapists don't have to join any organisation or have any specific training by law.

Make sure you choose a qualified hypnotherapist with a solid healthcare background. Most health professionals who practise hypnotherapy belong to a professional organisation such as the UK Council for Psychotherapy(UKCP) and are regulated by the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC). Search for a CNHC-registered hypnotherapist .

You can also find a hypnotherapist by searching the website of the National Hypnotherapy Society . This organisation has a register accredited by the Professional Standards Authority.

A private hypnotherapy session can cost anywhere between 50 and 90, although costs will vary across the country.It's unlikely you would get hypnotherapy on the NHS, but it depends on the availability in your area.

What to expect

You're fully in control when under hypnosis and don't have to take on the therapist's suggestions if you don't want to. If necessary, you can bring yourself out of the hypnotic state.

Hypnosisdoesn't work if you don't want to be hypnotised.

According to Cancer Research UK, most cancer patients say they've had a positive experience with hypnotherapy, although it has made some feel anxious. Read information about hypnotherapy on the Cancer Research UK website .

When you shouldn't use hypnotherapy

You shouldn't use hypnotherapy if you suffer from Puerperal psychosis orcertain types of personality disorder ,as it could make these conditions worse.

If you have any type of mental health problem or serious illness, such as cancer, make sure the hypnotherapist is trained in working with your particular condition.

Similarly, children should not be hypnotised by anyone who isn't trained to work with this age group.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018