Hypnotherapy is currently popular with many people, especially those who have chronic health conditions. This is the reason many individuals now aspire to be certified hypnotherapists.
However, like other professions, to become a certified hypnotherapist, one must earn a degree and undergo rigorous training related to hypnotherapy to become certified. At present, there are many training programs on hypnotherapy. And depending on your goals or preferences, you have the freedom to choose the one that suits you best.
If you’re still on the starting line and don’t know what to do yet, follow the steps below to fast-track yourself to become a certified hypnotherapist.
1. Earn A Degree In A Mental Or Medical Health Field
Before you start searching for a hypnotherapy school or program, one of the things you should know when on a hypnotherapy job path is to earn a degree first. You can choose to have a degree in social work, counseling, traditional medicine, behavioral sciences, psychotherapy, and psychiatry.
Hypnotherapists work with clients suffering from a variety of mental or medical health conditions. Some of them are below.
- Trauma
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Addictions
- Chronic pain
Because of the type of those conditions, you’ll need to have medical know-how first before you can attempt to treat individuals suffering from them.
2. Know Your State Requirements For Hypnotherapists
Depending on the state you’re in, the requirements for hypnotherapy certifications may vary and sometimes subject to change. So, make sure to check your state’s requirements before you pursue becoming a certified hypnotherapist.
To start your research, visit the official union website of hypnotherapists in your state first. It will allow you to know immediately if your state regulates hypnotherapy or not. Take note that some other states may only require you to register yourself first to practice hypnotherapy while some may also require you to earn a degree first before you can apply for certification and registration.
Of course, it’s necessary to get your degree from an accredited institution if you’re required to get one.
3. Enroll At A Hypnotherapy School And Take Certification Classes
Find schools in your area that offer certification classes for hypnotherapy. Once you find one, go ahead and apply.
In terms of cost, hypnotherapy schools have different fees. If your budget is tight, look for the most affordable accredited institutions. However, don’t just enroll in a class just because it’s cheap. If possible, ask to sit in a class to know the quality of the materials taught and the styles of the instructors. If the class passes your standards, then get yourself enrolled.
On the other hand, the location of your preferred school may also matter, particularly if you have a job and can’t travel often to attend classes. In this case, choose the one that’s most accessible for you and try to visit the schools you prefer. Alternatively, you can ask if the school you want offers online classes.
4. Attend Hypnotherapy Certification Classes
Once you have already earned a degree and enrolled at a hypnotherapy school, you’ll need to take 50 or more hours of certification classes before you can be considered as a certified hypnotherapist.
Typically, at least 18 hours of your classes are focused on hypnosis courses that include an in-class supervised practice. To become a diplomate, you need to practice hypnotherapy for three years and treat patients for 150 hours. On the other hand, if you like to become a fellow, you must practice hypnotherapy for three years and treat patients for 250 hours.
5. Apply To Get Your Certification
After you complete your classes, you should send an application to the National Board for Certified Clinical Hypnotherapists (NBCCH) to get certified. This application must contain verification of completion of training programs in clinical hypnotherapy or hypnosis. The board will evaluate your transcripts, and once they approve, you can start working as a certified hypnotherapist.
If you want to start a business after getting a certification and offer hypnotherapy services to anyone, particularly those who want to be better at business, get a business license first to avoid paying penalties. Depending on your state, the cost of a business license may vary. However, no matter how much it costs, it helps you show your business operation is legitimate.
Conclusion
As the demand for hypnotherapy increases, the need for certified hypnotherapists also rises. If you want to pursue a career in hypnotherapy, make sure to follow the steps above. Once you’re a certified hypnotherapist, you can apply for a license to practice and provide your service.