In the past few years, patients have been turning to alternative medicines and treatments in handling their ailments. One of the most sought out treatments is hypnotherapy. Hypnotherapy has been used to stop addictive habits like smoking and substance abuse as well as problems dealing with weight loss, pain management, marriage and family problems, and fears, phobias, and anxiety.
Hypnotherapists help clients overcome physical and psychological problems through hypnotherapy. Hypnotherapy is a form of alternative medicine which combines hypnosis and therapeutic intervention. The hypnotherapist use exercises that bring deep relaxation and an altered state of consciousness, more commonly known as trance.
A career as a hypnotherapist is very rewarding. It is becoming widely accepted and offered by medical experts. In fact, there are insurance companies that cover this service.
Duties and Responsibilities
Basically, a hypnotherapist is a medical professional who heals and treats patients with their medical conditions, problems, or dependencies. They help their patients get rid of either mental of physical pain. A hypnotherapist uses the power of hypnosis alongside other techniques. The hypnosis used in this therapy is of a higher level and not just the hypnosis used in entertainment.
Hypnotherapists have a background in psychology or therapy. They understand the ability of the human brain. Carefully, they administer hypnosis, which provides relief for the patient. These professionals work directly with patients.
Hypnotherapists usually run their own practice. Responsibilities may also include handling general paperwork, and guiding patients in every step of the consultation and treatment. Hypnotherapists help their patients understand the problem, its cause, and how the hypnotherapy treatment could relieve them.
Skills and Education
Aspiring hypnotherapists should have earned a master’s or doctoral degree in psychology, counseling, therapy or other related discipline. Work experience is definitely an advantage. In addition, candidates must take a 30-hour program and an examination before becoming a certified hypnotherapist.
A hypnotherapist should have communication skills, maturity, and emotional stability. The candidate must be capable of understanding and helping people with their problems, should have the ability to build a rapport with clients, and should be able to remain emotionally unattached.
Work Environment and Salary
Hypnotherapists work in a traditional physicians office or clinic. For therapists working as a part of a holistic medical clinic, it would be a busier environment since there are more services offered.
There is a separate room where hypnosis and related treatments are performed. Another room is assigned for paper work and consultations. The hypnotherapy room is generally serene for the patient to feel relaxed and comfortable.
The demand for hypnotherapists is growing. More and more General Practitioners and private health insurers are referring hypnotherapy to patients. There is no standard salary range. It depends on the years of experience, specialization and geographical location. Generally, most hypnotherapists earn about $64,000 per year. Some health clinics provide a basic pay and traditional benefits such as medical coverage and paid vacation.
Thousands of patients attested to the benefits of hypnotherapy. It has cured a wide range of addictions and mental problems, as well as improved patients’ health and well-being.