Hypnotherapy Not Working? Here’s What You Can Do

Written By

Helen Kaminski, MSc

Fact Checked

a woman laying down during hypnosis

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Online and traditional hypnotherapy is a type of therapy that utilizes hypnosis techniques to create subconscious change in an individual in a virtual and physical settings.

It has been used to treat various conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more.

However, sometimes, hypnotherapy doesn’t seem to work as intended.

If you feel like your hypnotherapy isn’t producing results, don’t lose hope. Here are some things you can try to get your hypnotherapy back on track.



Evaluate Your Hypnotherapist

The most obvious place to start is by taking a closer look at your hypnotherapist.

Do they have strong training and credentials specifically in hypnotherapy? Many states don’t regulate the practice, so look for certification through respected hypnotherapy organizations.

How many years have they been practicing hypnotherapy? More experience is better.

Do they specialize in treating your specific condition? Expertise and customization are key.

If your gut feeling is that your hypnotherapist may not be an ideal fit, don’t be afraid to seek out a new one. Finding the right provider is essential.

Review Your Goal-Setting

Hypnotherapy relies heavily on the power of suggestion to reprogram thoughts and behaviors. For this to work, your goals need to be concrete and targeted.

  • Are your goals S.M.A.R.T. – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound? Vague goals won’t stick.
  • Did you write down or record your goals to solidify them? Saying them out loud isn’t enough.
  • Are you monitoring your progress week by week? This keeps you accountable.

Revisiting your goals with your hypnotherapist can help get you back on track.

Check Your Commitment Level

a virtual hypnotherapy bed and neon circles behind it

Hypnotherapy requires an open mind and a full commitment to success. You have to want to change and believe in the process.

Are you actively listening during sessions or letting your mind wander? Pay close attention.

Are you doing your homework and practicing self-hypnosis regularly? It takes repetition.

Do you secretly doubt hypnotherapy will work for you? Skepticism can hinder progress.

If your level of commitment is questionable, discuss ways to strengthen your engagement with your hypnotherapist.

Rule Out Medical Causes

In some cases, a lack of progress with hypnotherapy could indicate an underlying physical or mental health issue.

  • Has your sleep, diet, exercise, or stress level changed recently? Lifestyle factors affect therapy.
  • Could medications or new health conditions be interfering? Some drugs or illnesses can inhibit hypnotherapy.
  • Might you be suffering from severe anxiety, PTSD, or depression? These might require medical treatment first.

If you suspect medical problems could be sabotaging your hypnotherapy, speak with your doctor.

Give It More Time

Lastly, don’t jump ship too soon. Hypnotherapy can take some time to work.

Have you given it at least 8-12 sessions over 2-3 months? Fully retraining your mind takes patience.

Are you noticing subtle improvements in your thinking patterns? Small changes still count.

Could you schedule more frequent sessions to accelerate progress? Momentum builds over time.

Stay the course for a while longer before deciding hypnotherapy has failed. Small steps in the right direction will compound.

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Don’t Lose Hope!

If you feel your hypnotherapy isn’t working, try the strategies above before giving up completely.

Tweak your approach for the best chance of success. And remember – the impact hypnotherapy can have differs greatly by individual.

Stick with it a while longer and you may still get the breakthrough you need.

Key Takeaways: Fixing Ineffective Hypnotherapy

  • Evaluate your hypnotherapist’s qualifications and fit
  • Review your SMART goal-setting
  • Check your personal commitment level
  • Rule out interfering medical issues
  • Give it more time before judging the progress
  • Don’t lose hope – small improvements count
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The Power of Hypnosis

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About the author

Helen Kaminski, MSc

Helen Kaminski, MSc

Mindful living for a happier, healthier you. I’m a medical writer, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and a mental health advocate in Warsaw, Poland, with nine years working as a therapist. I hold a Master's in Clinical Psychology degree from the University of Warsaw. I specialize in writing about mental health, using my experiences and academic background to educate and inspire others. In my free time, I volunteer at a Disability Learning Center and go for nature walks. My writing aims to break down mental health stigma and help others feel understood. Social connections are vital to mental well-being, and I am dedicated to fostering communities of support and empathy. By sharing knowledge and personal insights, I strive to create a more compassionate world. Social

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