A hypnotherapist is a therapist who utilizes hypnosis as a primary tool for assisting clients to achieve their goals. A hypnotherapist often differs from other therapists because they focus on the role of subconscious behaviors and influences on the client’s life.

In 1973, Dr. John Kappas, Founder of the Hypnosis Motivation Institute, wrote and defined the profession of a hypnotherapist in the Federal Dictionary of Occupational Titles: “Induces hypnotic state in client to increase motivation or alter behavior patterns: Consults with client to determine nature of problem. Prepares client to enter hypnotic state by explaining how hypnosis works and what client will experience. Tests subject to determine degree of physical and emotional suggestibility. Induces hypnotic state in client, using individualized methods and techniques of hypnosis based on interpretation of test results and analysis of client’s problem. May train client in self-hypnosis conditioning.

Marrieta Explains a little more…

The therapist talks to the patient, relaxing them without them falling asleep. When the mind is distracted and in this state, the subconscious is more receptive and the therapist can speak to it, giving instructions and encouraging the brain to change old negative behaviors. So, for an arachnophobia this may involve implanting suggestions that spiders are smiling, furry friends. For confidence issues, techniques can be used to get the mind to make useful changes such as discouraging negative thoughts. And for stress or anxiety, you may be taught instant relaxation techniques for everyday life.

Marietta says, ‘It’s not like what you see on TV. You are completely conscious throughout, but you feel very relaxed and in control. Most people don’t think they’re hypnotized during their first session but they do have an altered state of awareness. It’s a warm, relaxed feeling as if you’re about to drop off to sleep or you’ve just woken up. The mind focuses inwards, a bit like daydreaming, but you remain in complete control of what you say and do and can “wake” when you want to.’

Where else is it used?

Hypnofertility is a technique designed to relax women who are trying to conceive, encouraging them to let go of their fears and prepare emotionally for conceiving a baby. Hypnobirthing and natal hypnotherapy are well-established methods to teach moms-to-be self-hypnosis techniques. So they can put themselves in a calm, controlled childbirth. Research has shown that this can lead to shorter labours, less pain relief medication being administered and less surgical intervention.

The latest hypnotherapy technique in the weight-loss world is the hypno gastric band and It’s causing a huge stir because of the successful, and surprising, results. It involves the hypnotherapist helping patients visualize having an imaginary gastric band fitted -so no surgeon or scalpel is required’
Helen Wood, 36, had tried every diet out there before finally visiting a hypnotherapist to try the technique. ‘He put me into a light trance and ‘prepared’ me for surgery by describing the operating theater, the doctors, the lights. He talked me through how the “band” would help me know when I was full and that I wouldn’t be able to eat as much as before,’ she recalls. ‘That same evening I left half of my dinner, and since January last year I’ve been eating smaller portions, I’ve gone from 82kg to 69kg. I’d advise everyone to give this technique a go, its non-invasive and a lot less expensive than the surgery.’

Where can I get it?

At the moment there are lots of people practicing hypnotherapy in South Africa, the real challenge is to find one that’s reputable. Do some online research and check the credits of a potential practitioner. Some even have psychology as a background. A session costs at least R 550 so it makes sense to find someone who is either personally recommended or has some kind of mandatory training standards. Two good ones to look out for are the South African Institute of Hypnotism (SAIH). which has been around since 1998, and the International Medical and Dental Hypnotherapy Association (IMDHA). Find the right person and hypnosis could be your key to a healthier future.