How to Become a Hypnotherapist: Hypnotherapy Classes, Hypnosis Training
In the 1964 claymation movie "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," Santa Claus employs an elf named Hermie who does not want to make toys, which is what Santa's elves normally do. Instead, Hermie wants to be a dentist. When Hermie informs his employer of his chosen profession his employer responds, "What! You don't like making toys? Elves make toys!"
Hermie is left feeling like a misfit. I think many parents would respond in the same way if their child came to them stating he or she wanted to be a hypnotherapist. Hypnotherapy seems as real a profession to most people as dentistry seems to Santa's elves…except for Hermie, that is.
This article will shed light on the mysterious world of hypnotherapy classes, hypnosis training, and obtaining certification as a hypnotherapist. There are many holistic institutes online and across the country that offer courses and instruction in hypnotherapy.
Hypnotherapy schools are viewed as alternative learning centers and though hypnotherapy classes, hypnosis training seminars, etc. must be state-approved and claim they offer everything from undergraduate to graduate degrees, there are no actual professional licensing regulations for hypnotherapists. Hypnotherapists receive credentials based on the number of hours of training they have received. Students must undergo at least 200-250 hours of training to become certified. They must also undergo a residency or internship to gain hands-on experience.
How to Find Hypnotherapy Classes, Hypnosis Training, and Hypnotherapy Schools
Hypnotherapy is a form of therapy that heals by placing the patient in a trance-like or relaxed state. Because patients are relaxed, their subconscious minds are open and it is believed that hypnosis can provide access to the memories, talents, and abilities hidden in the subconscious. Because of the nature of hypnotherapy, practitioners must have high ethical and moral standards.
Minds under hypnosis can be highly suggestible and a good hypnotherapist would never take advantage of patients in this state. They also need to have adequate training to guide patients appropriately in utilizing their underlying fears and anxieties to help change thought and behavior patterns in the conscious mind.
An Internet search will provide sketchy results at best for hypnotherapy alternative education programs. The following websites and or institutes appear to be legitimate resources on hypnotherapy classes, hypnosis training, and the field of hypnosis therapy in general. Many offer online courses and tuition fees as low as $249.00.
Visiting a practicing, reputable hypnotherapist is an excellent way of getting a good referral to a hypnotherapy school. Many hypnotherapists are actually licensed psychologists who just happen to incorporate hypnotherapy theories into their practice. Many teach hypnotherapy classes, hypnosis training seminars, and online courses.