Does it work?
The simple answer is a resounding yes! It is every bit as effective as face-to-face therapy in terms of outcomes and recent research supports this view. Many of my clients prefer the convenience and availability of online sessions and it has enabled me to reach out to individuals who otherwise would not have been able to access the therapy.
How does an online session work?
I use the Zoom platform for online hypnotherapy sessions so once we have had an initial chat and agreed a suitable date and time, I will send you an email (or text) with a link for each session. The link is safe and secure and only you can access it. You don’t need to have a Zoom account to join a meeting as a participant, you just click the link and follow the on-screen instructions to join.
If you haven’t used Zoom before, it’s very simple and I’m happy to arrange a quick practice session with you.
What do I need to do to prepare for a Zoom session?
You can use your desktop computer, laptop, tablet or phone to join the session. It works best with an internet connection; you can use your cellular connection on your phone but you may need to check that your mobile data allowance allows for this.
You will need a quiet space where you will not be disturbed, somewhere you can feel comfortable and relaxed. A couch or comfortable chair is suitable for the hypnotherapy part and you may wish to have some water and a rug or fleece to hand for your comfort as you relax. You can wear headphones if you like, it isn’t necessary but some people feel it helps them remain more focused during the session.
It is best to make sure you have turned off all notifications on your phone or other devices before the session and let other people around you know that you won’t be available for a while. Cats and dogs often join the sessions though and seem to enjoy them!
If we lose our connection due to technological difficulties, I will always attempt to re-establish the connection. If this is not possible, I will contact you by an alternative method to either continue the session or reschedule. We can talk this through at the start of the session, along with arrangements for follow up contact should this occur.
Benefits of online therapy
- Clients feel more relaxed and comfortable in their own surroundings.
- Sessions can be fitted in during the working day, even in your workplace if you have access to a quiet space.
- No travel time or costs, no concerns re parking or finding the location.
- More flexibility around appointments, sessions can be arranged for the early evening or sometimes even weekends.
Links and references
https://www.hypnotherapy-directory.org.uk/blog/2021/08/09/does-online-hypnotherapy-work
https://www.hypnotherapy-directory.org.uk/hypnotherapists/eileen-sweeney
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22858538/
https://www.manchester.ac.uk/discover/news/skype-hypnotherapy-is-effective-treatment-for-ibs/
https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/4423182002317-Joining-a-Zoom-meeting-without-an-account