Is hypnotherapy safe?
For most healthy adults, yes. Hypnotherapy is a calm, talking-based approach in which you stay aware and in control, and you can open your eyes and stop at any point. Some people feel a little tired, emotional or light-headed afterwards, and it is not suitable for everyone, so it is worth a word with your GP first if you have a serious health condition, a history of psychosis or epilepsy, or you are under a mental health team.
Why it is generally considered safe
- You stay in control. Hypnosis is a relaxed, focused state. You hear what is said and can end it whenever you choose.
- Nothing is done to your body. You sit or recline fully clothed and no physical treatment is involved.
- You only accept what suits you. A hypnotherapist offers suggestions, and you are free to let any of them go.
- You can talk first. A good practitioner explains what will happen, asks about your health and answers questions before you begin.
What can go wrong
Problems are uncommon and usually mild. Some people feel sleepy, light-headed, a little tearful or have a mild headache afterwards, and this normally passes soon. Sitting quietly for a few minutes before you stand up or drive helps. The bigger risks come from the practitioner rather than the method: someone who promises certain results, discourages you from seeing your doctor, or works beyond their training. That is why choosing carefully matters.
Try something tonight
Want to see what it feels like in a low-key way? A self-guided relaxation recording lets you try the same gentle settling at home, tonight, and stop whenever you like.
Relaxation recordings are not medical treatment. Please only listen somewhere safe where you can relax, never while driving.
Or see someone: find hypnotherapists near you
3213 hypnotherapists in the Practitioner directory, each with a phone number. Pick your town:
Also: counsellors
Who might need to be more careful
Hypnotherapy may not suit everyone, or may need adapting. Take extra care and speak to a professional first if you:
- have a history of psychosis, delusions or hallucinations
- have severe depression or are in a crisis
- have epilepsy or other conditions where relaxation or focus could matter
- are dealing with a trauma that you have not talked about before
- have a condition with unexplained symptoms that has not been checked
A good hypnotherapist will tell you if another route is better first.
How to choose a hypnotherapist
Hypnotherapist is not a protected title in the UK, so anyone can use it. Look for someone who has completed proper training, belongs to a professional body, carries insurance and is happy to explain how they work. The Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) keeps a register of hypnotherapists who meet set standards. Book a free first chat if you can, and trust your sense of whether they listen and do not pressure you.
Roughly what does it cost?
Private hypnotherapy in the UK commonly costs from £50 a session, and often more in big cities. Many hypnotherapists offer a free first chat or a lower-priced first session. Check the price, how long a session lasts and the cancellation terms before you book.
When to check with your GP first
Please talk to your GP, and tell your hypnotherapist, if you have a serious physical or mental health condition, if you take regular medication, if you are pregnant and unsure, or if you have symptoms that are new, unexplained or getting worse. Hypnotherapy can sit alongside NHS care, but it is not a replacement for it, so please don't stop or change any treatment because of a session.
This page is general information, not medical advice. If you have symptoms that haven't been checked, or you are under medical care, please talk to your GP as well.
More questions
Can hypnosis make me do something embarrassing?
No. You stay aware and keep your own values and choices. Stage shows are different from therapy, and a hypnotherapist has no wish or ability to make you act against your will.
Can I get stuck in hypnosis?
No. It is a relaxed state that you move in and out of naturally. If a session ended suddenly, you would simply either come back to normal alertness or drift into ordinary sleep.
Can hypnotherapy bring up difficult memories?
Occasionally, yes, though a good practitioner does not go digging. If something upsetting comes up, you can stop, and a counsellor may be a better place to explore it.
Is online hypnotherapy safe?
Many people find it works well and feels safe at home. Choose someone who checks your health first, and make sure you are somewhere comfortable where you will not be disturbed or need to drive straight afterwards.
Is it safe in pregnancy?
Many pregnant women use hypnotherapy for relaxation and birth preparation. Tell your hypnotherapist you are pregnant and mention it to your midwife or GP.