Who Really Sets the Standards in Hypnotherapy?
I’ve been in hypnotherapy a long time, and one of the things I’ve noticed is how confusing the world of “governing bodies” can be, especially for newer hypnotherapists. Everyone seems to promise accreditation, recognition, and credibility, but if you look beneath the surface, it’s often more about red tape, politics, and money than about the quality of training.
When I created my Diploma, it came from a place of frustration. Much of the training out there was still focused on Elman, Erickson and others from decades ago. Important historically, yes, but hypnotherapy has moved on. For me, it’s an art as much as a science, and it should be practical, creative, and results-driven. That’s why I wrote my own book and developed my own course — because I wanted something modern and effective.
The Tick-Box Problem
Take the CNHC and the National Occupational Standards (NOS). On paper, they’re supposed to set the benchmark. In reality, they feel more like a tick-box exercise — a bit like Checkatrade for hypnotherapists. Endless paperwork, endless compliance, but little that truly reflects what makes someone a skilled hypnotherapist.
I had hoped that when new people joined the CNHC board, things might shift. But in truth, the focus still seems to be on red tape and compliance, rather than flexibility and innovation.
The Clever Branding of the “NHS”
One organisation I’ve always found fascinating is the National Hypnotherapy Society. Cleverly, they branded themselves as the “NHS” and positioned hypnotherapy as a talking therapy. Smart marketing move! And how impressive are they? I take my hat off to them.
Hypnotherapy in my opinion is so effective and it is a talking therapy. There is so much evidence that backs the power of our minds and our thoughts.
But here’s the catch: their training hours sit about 40 hours below the GHSC benchmark. That says a lot, doesn’t it? Recognition and branding don’t always line up with the highest standards of training.
Politics and Money
Early in my career, I asked an established trainer how they got their school off the ground. The answer was simple: they threw money at it. That told me everything I needed to know about how much politics and funding influence recognition in our profession. It isn’t always the best training that gets recognised — it’s often the best-resourced. Apparently their budget for Google ads was back then £18,000 a month. Yes you read that right!
Old School vs Modern Training
And then there’s the leadership style of some of the older names in the field. Many come at things from a very scientific, old-school perspective. That had its place, but to me it feels dated now. Hypnotherapy is about people, creativity, and adaptability – not just data and clinical boxes to tick.
Why I Rate the GHSC
This is why I’ve always rated the General Hypnotherapy Standards Council (GHSC). Their standards are solid. They assess schools without charging fees — which to me shows they’re for the schools, not just a money-making machine. They also give schools flexibility in how they deliver training, as long as the quality is there. Most importantly, they’re supportive. They feel like they’re on the side of therapists, not just another layer of bureaucracy.
Conclusion
Accreditation and recognition matter, of course — but we need to look at what sits behind the logos and certificates. Are these bodies genuinely supporting hypnotherapists and schools, or are they just ticking boxes and collecting fees?
For me, hypnotherapy is an art as much as a science. It’s about creativity, adaptability, and results. Our training and our governing bodies should reflect that — not hold us back with outdated models and unnecessary red tape.
Training That Reflects Real Hypnotherapy
At the HSOH School of Hypnotherapy, I’ve built our Diploma to reflect what hypnotherapy really is — practical, hands-on, creative, and adaptable. We don’t just teach you theories about people who lived decades ago; we focus on what gets results today.
We now offer live online diploma training, making it easier than ever to learn in real time, connect with your tutors, and practice alongside other students — all without compromising the quality of your training.
Find out more about training with the HSOH
