Choosing a Registered Hypnotherapist
In the UK hypnotherapists are not regulated by the law, meaning they are not required to hold a specific license. However, the industry uses voluntary, professional registers to ensure safety, training standards and ethical practice.
The Professional Standards Authority (PSA) oversees these registers, and it is recommended to choose a therapist who is on an Accredited Register.
Choosing a registered therapist ensures they meet high standards regarding training, ethical codes, insurance and accountability and participate in ongoing development.
Choosing a qualified hypnotherapist in the UK
1.. Check Accreditation You should select a practitioner with an accredited body (The National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH), General Hypnotherapy Register (GHR) or Complimentary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC). - they will be able to show you their certificate
2. Search directories Make sure that they hold insurance or you can search on the Hypnotherapy Directory or the NCH directory by putting your area postcode in.
3. Verify Qualifications Look for verified qualifications
4. Experience & Specialisation. Ask if they have experience in treating your specific concern.
5. Initial Consultations Ask for a consultation - many offer free consultations which last up to 30 minutes.
The consultation works well for both clients and therapists to ensure that you feel comfortable with them as rapport is essential for success.
Key Accredited Registers & Professional Bodies
- General Hypnotherapy Register (GHR): The UK's largest organization, managed by the GHSC.
- Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC): An accredited voluntary register supported by the government.
- National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH): A prominent not-for-profit professional association.
- National Hypnotherapy Society (HS): Holds an accredited register under the PSA programme.
- National Register of Hypnotherapists and Psychotherapists (NRHP):Focuses on high-level training standards. +8
Additional Bodies & Directories
Other recognised bodies include the Association for Professional Hypnosis and Psychotherapy (APHP), the British Society of Clinical Hypnosis (BSCH), and the British Institute of Hypnotherapy & NLP (BIH). The Hypnotherapy Directory is also a key resource for finding professionals.