Does Hypnotherapy Work Online?

I've always offered sessions online, even before lockdown, but now of course, all my hypnotherapy and group relaxation sessions are online and I don't see that changing anytime soon. I suppose that's answered the title question: "Does hypnotherapy work online?" - Yes, it does!

End of blog? No.

People tend to have questions about it so I'll try to cover off some of the things I'm asked.

No. If you can open an email and click a link, you're there. Just make sure you switch on your webcam/camera and sound! Much easier than finding a parking space!

No, you don't. I use Zoom for my sessions and I have an account so you don't need to. I set up individual meetings for each client session with a unique meeting ID and password for each one. I email you the link to join the meeting and off we go.

If you're new to Zoom, the first time you click a link to join the meeting you'll be asked to allow Zoom to download a small piece of software to your device (which only takes seconds). You might need to click "Yes" or "Allow" a couple of times but that's it. It costs you nothing.

After initial set-up (if it's your first time on Zoom) then you'll be added into my virtual waiting room. I'll get a wee message telling me you've arrived and will admit you to the session. It's a bit like having security on the door - if you're not on the list, you're not coming in!

All Zoom sessions and connections are encrypted for security and I always use unique meeting IDs and passwords shared only with you so we don't get any unexpected visitors joining by mistake. Also, I use headphones on our sessions so only I can hear what you're saying, even if someone passes the closed door of the room I'm working in.

I do nothing differently regarding online session records to what I would do if we met in person. At the end of the session, they're securely locked away and remain confidential.

No, it's the same as if we met face to face instead of virtually so. Same process, just as effective.

• A device with a camera/webcam - tablet, computer/laptop, smartphone - the choice is yours!
• Broadband/wifi connection - unless you have a shed load of data allowance on your phone, I suggest you connect to wifi.
• Somewhere you can relax. You can sit or lie down anywhere as long as you're comfortable. Try to make it somewhere you won't be disturbed. If there are others in the household, tip them off to leave you alone for an hour!
• A blanket or something to keep you warm. Most people are fairly still during hypnosis so you can feel a little cold (although I have have a few fidgets as well - Whatever, as long a you're comfortable! It all works just the same).

What happens if the connection drops during hypnosis?
I've never had that happen but if it should you'll likely be aware of it as you'll stop hearing my voice and come around pretty quickly, just like if I were to stop talking during a session in my therapy room. Reconnect and then we'll be off again. You cannot get stuck in hypnosis, it isn't possible.

I'll also take a phone number for you so if you don't reconnect, I'll phone you and help you get back online.

Most people only think they fall asleep during hypnosis, actually they don't, they're just in a deeply relaxed trance state. Most will wake up when they hear me stop talking or call their name and instruct them to open their eyes in a progressively louder voice! I'm usually a gentle speaker but I can be really quite loud if I need to be!

A (very) few people really do go all the way through a trance state and nod off to sleep. If you're worried this might happen to you and that you won't wake up when I speak loudly to you, or you really need to make sure you get up after your session, set an alarm on your phone for 5 minutes after the scheduled session end time. Job done.

My online booking process takes care of that should you want to book in and accepts credit/debit card, or PayPal payments.

• You get all the benefits you'd get from a face to face session plus,
• There is no travel time so it's easier to fit into your day
• You can relax in the comfort of your own home, or wherever you happen to be
• Geography is no barrier. It really doesn't matter where in the world either of us are - everywhere is local online
• You can Stay Home, Stay Safe and Protect the NHS

If I haven't answered your question, you'd like to discuss an online session or would like a Zoom demo drop me a line to elaine.neale@happy-hypnotherapy.co.uk and I'll do my best to answer it (if it's not about hypnotherapy, be prepared to be told to go and google it yourself, I know a lot of random stuff but there are limits!)