Embracing Change: A Follow-Up on ChatGPT and Hypnotherapy
Thank you to everyone who responded to my last blog, How Can ChatGPT Help You as a Hypnotherapist?
One of the things I’ve always loved about our profession is the openness to share ideas and discuss different perspectives. We all bring our own experiences to the table—and that’s how we learn and grow. So, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on some of the feedback I’ve received, both positive and—well—more cautious!
Let’s start with the positive.
At this month’s HSOH School of Hypnotherapy meeting, several of our graduates shared how they’ve been using ChatGPT in their practice. They spoke about how quickly it can help them reply to client enquiries, generate ideas for sessions, and even explore new topics they want to learn more about.
The speed and accessibility of AI is, for many, a game-changer.
Others in the group haven’t yet explored AI—but after hearing these experiences, they’ve said they’re curious to give it a go. That, for me, is encouraging. As hypnotherapists, we are in the business of change—so perhaps it’s time to embrace it ourselves, even when it feels a bit outside our comfort zone.
That said, not all the feedback I received was enthusiastic. One email I received raised some strong concerns—and I think it’s important to address them, not dismiss them.
Common Concerns—and My Thoughts
“I don’t believe in reading scripts to clients—too many risks.”
This one always gets me thinking.
In everyday life, we follow ‘scripts’ all the time. You probably have a script for how you make your morning coffee or how you introduce yourself to new clients. Hypnotherapy scripts, for me, are a structure—an outline that ensures I include the essential elements that help facilitate change.
There’s a huge difference between reading a script and delivering one. It’s not the words alone—it’s the intent, the tone, and the connection we bring to those words that matter. And of course, the script is just one part of the session. The therapy—the work we do with the subconscious mind—that’s where the real transformation happens.
And then there’s the word risk. Honestly, I think it’s a bit of scaremongering. Hypnotherapy is a talking therapy. We use words. And if you’re a trained hypnotherapist, you already understand the power of positivity, the importance of language, and the responsibility that comes with it.
Telling a client how brilliant they are, reminding them of their strengths—I don’t see that as risky. I see that as healing.
Other Concerns I’ve Heard
1. “Lack of personalisation”
Yes, effective hypnotherapy should always be tailored to the client’s unique beliefs, needs, and language. But that’s the beauty of ChatGPT—you can personalise. I often ask it to include certain metaphors, sensory details (VAK), or even reference a client’s favourite place. It gives me ideas I can shape and make my own.
2. “No therapeutic judgement”
Of course. AI is not a therapist. It doesn’t replace our judgement, our training, or our intuition. But it can be a supportive tool. It’s still you deciding what’s appropriate and safe for your client.
3. “Ethical concerns”
Absolutely—hypnotherapy should only be delivered by trained professionals. Using an AI-generated script without understanding the principles behind it? No. But using AI as an assistant to help structure your work or give you inspiration? That’s a different story entirely.
4. “Loss of rapport”
Reading a script word-for-word can feel robotic. But again, it’s how you use the script. I deliver scripts in my own voice, with my own pacing, tuned into the client’s needs. Rapport is built on presence, listening, and empathy—not on whether your words are pre-written or spontaneous.
In the end, I think it comes down to this: AI is a tool. Like any tool, it’s how you use it that matters.
Let’s stay curious. Let’s stay open. And above all, let’s keep supporting each other as we explore new ways to make our work even more impactful.
I’d love to hear your thoughts—whether you’re using ChatGPT already or just starting to dip a toe in. Let’s keep the conversation going.
Warmest wishes,
Lorraine
