Online Hypnotherapy: Effective and Accessible Across the UK

A few weeks ago now, I wrote an article for Psychology Today on the benefits of online therapy and how studies show that it is as effective as psychotherapy delivered face-to-face. Since that article went live, I’ve had several emails asking if this also applies to hypnotherapy. The short answer is: “yes.”

The Rise of Digital Hypnotherapy

During the pandemic, hypnotherapists had to switch their clinics to an entirely online model, whether clients liked it or not. Since then, like other therapy forms, some therapists have remained fully online, while others offer both face-to-face and web-based sessions.

Although official studies on digitally delivered hypnotherapy are limited (at least as far as I know), some research is promising. One study showed effectiveness in treating migraines, while another suggested it helps children with nocturnal enuresis, or bedwetting.

Anecdotally, a magazine editor wrote positively about her experience with online hypnotherapy, while another described the joys of a FaceTime Hypnotherapy session. Many successful hypnotherapy apps now allow you to benefit from suggestions via smartphone or tablet.

Also, I am listed with the Hypnotherapy Directory and they are firmly in favour of it.

My Experience Delivering Online Hypnotherapy

From my own experience, online hypnotherapy works just as well as in-person sessions. I’ve been delivering digital hypnotherapy for years, long before the Coronavirus pandemic forced the first UK lockdown in March 2020.

Early in my career, about 19 years ago, a client asked to continue sessions while traveling across Europe for work. I conducted sessions in hotel rooms, once by a large empty pool, and another time on a patio overlooking a glorious mountain. Back then it was Skype rather than Zoom, but the variety of backdrops did not hinder our work together.

Choosing Between Online and Face-to-Face Hypnotherapy

Ultimately, the choice between online or in-person hypnotherapy comes down to preference. Some clients opt for digital sessions due to convenience or other constraints, while others prefer seeing their therapist face-to-face.

Reasons to choose online hypnotherapy include convenience, flexible scheduling, work-life balance, access to therapists in London, Bristol, or nationwide, comfort at home, mobility issues, and more.

Benefits of Web-Based Hypnotherapy

Web-based hypnotherapy is effective for many issues, including stress (life, work, burnout syndrome), anxiety disorders, reactive depression, anger management, self-esteem challenges, weight control, and pain management.

Preparing for Your Online Session

If you are considering digital hypnotherapy, keep a few things in mind:

• Ensure your internet connection is stable so every hypnotic suggestion is delivered clearly.

• Choose a larger screen; laptops or tablets work best for optimal visibility.

• Sit in a comfortable chair to support deep relaxation.

• Keep a blanket nearby if you prefer warmth and coziness.

• Use high-quality speakers or headphones for precise audio.

• Select a safe, private, and secure environment to maintain confidentiality.

Also, consider the severity of the problem. For high-risk cases involving suicide or self-harm, one-to-one live therapy with a nearby therapist and a clear care plan is essential. Mild-to-moderate issues, however, are well suited to online hypnotherapy.

Online Hypnotherapy and REBT in London, Bristol, and Beyond

If you would like to see me for online hypnotherapy—or online rational emotive behaviour therapy (REBT)—my contact details are at the bottom of this page.

Finally, REBT is an elegant form of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) that works well for stress management, anxiety, confidence issues, and more. It can be used alone or alongside hypnotherapy.