Starting a hypnotherapy practice can feel like a challenging concept, especially when you’re new to the industry. If you haven’t started your training yet and are looking at the commercial viability of hypnotherapy, then the idea of starting out alone may feel like an impossible hurdle. But we’re here to show you it’s not.
At CPHT, we provide reliable hypnotherapy training that gives you all the tools and techniques you need to start and grow your own hypnotherapy practice. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide that makes the process clear and simple, ensuring you’re ready for your exciting future as a certified hypnotherapist!
Can’t wait to begin? Get in touch!
Step 1: Starting Your Hypnotherapy Training
Your first step should be to get some initial training as a hypnotherapist. If you’re already certified – great! You can move on to the next stage. If not, however, then this section is for you.
In your hypnotherapy training, you will be guided through all the key principles of providing hypnotherapy. This includes:
- Methods you can use
- Common problems you will see
- How solution focused hypnotherapy works
On top of these basic fundamentals, you will be given modular tasks, the opportunity to gain field experience, and an open platform for further discussions.
After you’ve completed your training, you should be in the prime position to start your own hypnotherapy practice. But if you’re still feeling uncertain, worry not, as there are plenty of other avenues available to you as well.
Step 2: On-the-Job Experience
As mentioned, you will receive on-the-job hypnotherapy experience during your Solution Focused Hypnotherapy Diploma course. For some people, this gives them enough experience and confidence to carry out hypnotherapy for a diverse range of clients and customers.
However, if you find you still want to gain more experience, there are options.
Working with friends and family. Many hypnotherapists get into the practice as they want to help a friend or family member resolve a specific issue. By working with them to help find a resolution, you will gain confidence in yourself and your abilities that can be massively beneficial for your future work.
Joining a hypnotherapy organisation. You may be able to find a place as part of a larger, established hypnotherapy practice. Depending on your location and work requirements, this may give an avenue to build your confidence and experience, using the reputation and support of an existing organisation.
Volunteering. When someone is paying for something, it’s a given that they’ll expect to get their money’s worth, and this can be daunting when you’re just starting out as a hypnotherapist. Volunteering takes away the expectation that money brings, giving you an opportunity to gain experience without as much pressure.
Step 3: Understanding How to Market Yourself
Alongside experience and skill in hypnotherapy, marketing is a vital part of starting your own hypnotherapy practice. If you can’t sell yourself and your skills, you may find it hard to get things off the ground and really prove yourself – especially when you don’t have a large portfolio.
Our Hypnotherapy Diploma offers marketing training alongside everything else, helping you be prepared for starting your own practice upon completion.
Step 4: Setting Up Your Hypnotherapy Practice
With the skills, expertise, and resources in place, the next step is to start your own practice. Here are some simple steps you can follow to begin:
- Join a professional body. This includes organisations like the Association for Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (AfSFH), the National Hypnotherapy Society, or the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC).
- Get insurance. You will want insurance like professional indemnity insurance or public liability insurance to protect you in case of an incident.
- Register your business. There are a few different options here, such as registering as a sole trader or a limited company. You will want to ensure you’re registered with HMRC, and that you have a business bank account set up to handle expenses.
- Set up a practice space. Whether you’re operating from home or investing in your own premises, you will want to have a safe and professional space for your clients to see you in.
- Set up your fees. You will need to set how much your services cost, and market this clearly to potential customers. Looking at other hypnotherapy practices can give you an idea of where to start, and our marketing training will help you as well.
- Marketing and growing your practice. While staying compliant with the regulations, you can now continue to grow your practice in accordance with your capabilities. This could mean taking on a broader range of customers, or narrowing your focus to a specific niche.
Step 5: Specialising in a Niche
Many hypnotherapists find that as their practice grows, they want to focus on a specific type of issue. This could be due to personal preference, customer trends, or a need to understand more about a specific issue.
In any case, we can help you develop your skills with a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) course. In this course, you can dive deep into the specifics of certain hypnotherapy-treatable issues like:
- Adult ADHD
- Neuroscience
- Self-harm
… and many more! We even offer a CPD in Growing and Building Your Hypnotherapy Practice – a great next step if you’re feeling stuck.
Take the next step in your hypnotherapy career with a CPD course >
Start Your Hypnotherapy Career with Training from CPHT
Wherever you are on your hypnotherapy journey, CPHT are here to help. With courses from entry-level to advanced, and decades of industry experience, we can answer all your questions and help you take your next step.
If you’re interested in finding out more, check out some articles below or get in touch today!
Find out why continuous education is vital for hypnotherapists >