I trained as a hypnotherapist because I felt it was time for a career change. I was interested in people and psychology, so hypnotherapy training seemed a natural choice, and now at the time of writing, 7 years down the line – I absolutely love my job.
From my point of view, here are the 5 best things about being a hypnotherapist.
Hypnotherapy is about helping people
I wanted to make a difference to people. Yes, my previous role had benefitted businesses; however, I wanted to use my interest in people and psychology to help individuals. The positive, forward-looking approach of solution focused hypnotherapy really appealed to me, as it combined therapeutic techniques with practical ways forward towards a clear goal.
As a therapist, people come to you because they need your support to help them change their lives. That’s quite a responsibility – but it’s also very, very rewarding.
It’s a rewarding job
“Rewarding work” means something different to all of us. Some people like visible targets and results, others get a buzz from the social aspect of their workplace. For me, it’s about ending the day knowing that I’ve helped someone make a change for the better.
I sometimes see a former client going by on the bus who had trouble leaving the house before. I know all the steps we took to get him to this point; so now to see him travelling confidently makes me want to burst with pride for him. Every day, you’ll be helping people quit habits, gain confidence, and learn how to relax. That’s some job.
The hours are flexible
The traditional “9 to 5” actually suits very few of us. It could be that your commute is crazy in the morning, or you care for young kids or an older relative. Being a self-employed hypnotherapist allows me to bypass conventional working hours, and I have colleagues who fit their clinics in around courses, family and other employment.
Business tip: if you can flex around your clients’ hours, that’s a great advantage. Evening or weekend clinics enable busy 9 to 5 people to see you when it’s convenient for them. The CPHT hypnotherapy course is on a Saturday and Sunday, one weekend per month, as that makes it easier for most people to attend.
There are constant self-development opportunities
Working as a hypnotherapist has given me an exciting career of constant learning. Psychology and therapy are dynamic fields to be in, and there’s always new research and techniques. Sitting down with a professional journal and a cuppa is actually a real treat.
Sometimes a client comes to me with an unusual problem I haven’t encountered before. You’ll find this happens all the time, as we humans have such a range of complex and nuanced issues. There are always techniques you can draw upon; and as you work together, you’ll find yourself growing along with your client.
Hypnotherapy helps with my own relaxation
Like physiotherapists always have good posture, hypnotherapists know how to care for their own emotional health. I’ve learned various relaxation techniques and tips over the years, which can be just the thing after a busy day at the clinic.
It’s truly wonderful being so in tune with your own mind. I can spot any signs of stress or overload a mile off; and when you start your hypnotherapy training, so will you.
Debbie Daltrey – CPHT Senior Lecturer and Practicing hypnotherapist at Great Minds Clinic