The idea of having hypnotherapy online might seem unusual to some. Most often we associate any type of therapy as something we experience in person.
I used to think the same. But due to Covid restrictions, I had to run my practice over Zoom and in fact my own expectations have been far exceeded.
I’d go as far as saying that there are some circumstances and some particular therapies where online hypnotherapy can work even better.
I have helped clients on Zoom for the following things:
- Stop Smoking
- Lose Weight
- Reduce Anxiety and Panic
- Lift Depression
- Overcome Phobias
There have been many others, but these represent the majority. So, how are my patients able to get so much from an online hypnotherapy session?
The nature of hypnotherapy means the patient should be in a deep state of relaxation. Accessing your therapy with me through Zoom instantly allows you to experience your therapy in the comfort of your own home. You don’t have to adapt to a new environment.
After a few weeks of working online, I realised that online hypnotherapy is just as good, and sometimes it can be easier for the client.
We can’t underestimate the amount of stresses that online therapy can remove around getting treatment. Hypnotherapy online removes the stress of travel, spending money on petrol, fiddling with the Sat-Nav (a common issue for those suffering with anxiety or stress), worrying about parking (although you can park outside my practice).
Removing these things from the equation means a client often comes to their session much more relaxed and ready for their treatment.
There’s no need to fear technology
There’s a general fear of technology and trying something unfamiliar, which is understandable. But I know that if I can adapt to using Zoom, then anyone can. It really is amazing how many clients I have been able to help on Zoom.
Sometimes I meet clients who think it’s inconvenient or not appropriate for them.
I had one such client who I started off on in-person, but one day he was running late. He had car trouble, and it was bad weather, and so we agreed to go online that day. He soon realised how it was just as good. It also meant it didn’t take up half his day with the travel. He could get back to what he needed to do immediately. And most importantly, he experienced great success from his session.
Accessing your treatment online also means you get to work with the therapist of your choice, not just the person who is closest to you geographically. That means you have a greater selection and can find the right therapist for you, someone you connect with. That’s what it’s all about – you have to trust your hypnotherapist and feel like you want to work with them.
Hypnotherapy online for anxiety, stress and depression can work wonders
Hypnotherapy online can be perfect if you have anxiety, stress or depression. Sometimes a journey to an unfamiliar place can cause unnecessary pressure, perhaps even taking up half the day trying to get to the appointment. Having treatment online removes this immediately.
It can also be stressful fitting in therapy around work commitments. On Zoom you can be done and in your own environment when you’re finished. So it saves you time.
Online hypnotherapy also saves you having to sit down in an unfamiliar environment which can be a struggle for an anxious person, so it removes any feelings of vulnerability. Zoom has an array of lovely backgrounds which means if you haven’t tidied up, it’s not intrusive. Even after 18 months into this new way of communicating, I think people still haven’t fully grasped how amazing it is.
That’s why I offer ten-minute free zoom sessions when I meet my clients, so it gives them a taste of what it can be like.
Hypnotherapy online is great for parents
Sometimes parents who need my help have childcare issues, and that’s why I am happy to help out by doing evening sessions on Zoom. It’s the most convenient way to access therapy for those restricted by childcare, which of course is normal for most parents.
It is better for you if your children are well settled in bed, as hypnotherapy requires a deep state of relaxation, so you won’t want any interruptions. But I have worked with many mums at home that don’t have help with childcare, and accessing help online has been instrumental in their well-being. It’s particularly important for parents who are struggling with trauma and coping alone to be able to access help quickly. Sometimes counselling doesn’t quite hit the spot for them, and it has a longer time commitment.
Hypnotherapy takes a practical approach
Zoom and hypnotherapy work well together because practicality is at the heart of hypnotherapy. It’s very solutions-based. I work with patients to get them to view issues in a different way, focussing on how a person can change their approach. It can often be a much quicker result than a year of therapy or counselling, which might be cheaper per session but can run on for six months on a weekly basis.
Many also find that hypnotherapy is more flexible and practical than other types of therapy, allowing you to manage your therapy in a way that suits your lifestyle better. Depending on the needs of the client, my therapy typically runs for four sessions with a follow-up session after a couple of months.
What do I need for online hypnotherapy?
There are some requirements to having a successful session from your home: you need a quiet room where you can close the door. There should be no interruptions. You will obviously need a device to access Zoom (either a smartphone, a laptop or a PC), and an internet connection. Choose a place that is relaxing and where you can lay down.
Online you don’t have to arrive feeling apprehensive. If you’re worried that your cat will come in and interrupt you, shut them outside for an hour. It won’t do any harm!
Learning to use a new technology
I had one caller say his mum wouldn’t manage Zoom because she’s 58. But once you have the application downloaded to your phone (which you can do with the help of someone), it’s just like having a normal video call. It’s easier than most imagine. I have created a guide for anyone who needs to learn how to use Zoom. See it at the end of this article.
I’ve been privileged to have so many clients say they love working with me, and want to come back for more help. Some of these are as far as Scotland and Norfolk (and I am in Trowbridge!).
That’s why in so many instances, online hypnotherapy works well. And let’s not forget, just as importantly, it protects us from Covid!