Hypnosis typically is used for weight loss, smoking cessation, anxiety, phobias, procrastination, low self-esteem, insomnia, sexual performance issues and other problems.
Typical costs:
Hypnosis sometimes is covered by health insurance, but it varies by policy and individual case. For example, BlueCross BlueShield of Montana[1] considers hypnosis medically necessary for relief of acute or chronic pain or as an adjunct to psychotherapy. Aetna[2] , however, considers hypnosis experimental. For patients covered by health insurance, the cost of hypnosis typically consists of a doctor visit copay or coinsurance of 10%-50%.
For patients not covered by health insurance, hypnosis typically costs $50-$275 or more per session -- or a total of $100-$1,375 or more for the two to five sessions typically recommended for most issues. For example, Columbus Ohio Hypnosis charges $50-$100 per session, depending on the provider, with three to five sessions typically required, for a total of $150-$500. Possibilities Hypnosis Centers[3] in Massachusetts and Rhode Island charge $95 per session and recommend two sessions for smoking and three for weight loss -- for a total of $190-$285. Lakeside Counseling & Hypnotherapy Center[4] in North Carolina charges $110 per session -- with up to three or more sessions recommended, for a total of up to $330 or more. Brennan Smith[5] , a hypnotherapist in California, charges $145 per session, with three to eight sessions recommended, for a total of $435-$1,160. Absolute Peak Hypnosis Center[6] in Ohio charges $275 per session, and requires two session to quit smoking and three to five sessions to lose weight, for a total of $550-$1,375.
In a session, the hypnotherapist typically induces a state of hypnosis -- a deep relaxation in which the mind is more open to suggestion -- by speaking soothingly. The provider then begins to make suggestions for how the patient can change thinking and behavior to achieve desired goals, and may help the patient visualize the changes in detail. A session typically lasts a half hour to an hour, and most providers recommend one to eight sessions, depending on the patient and the issue being addressed.
The Mayo Clinic offers information on hypnosis[7] , and Atlanta West Hypnotherapy offers a list of hypnotherapy myths[8] .
Additional costs:
Additional sessions might be required occasionally after treatment has been completed.
Discounts:
Some providers offer coupons. For example, Absolute Peak Hypnosis Center[9] in Ohio offers a 50% discount on its website.
Shopping for hypnotherapy:
The National Board for Certified Clinical Hypnotherapists offers a hypnotherapist finder[10] by state.
There is no national regulatory body that oversees hypnotherapy, and few states have any requirements. Only Colorado, Connecticut and Washington require licensing or registration of hypnotherapists. The Hypnotherapist's Union offers a list of state requirements[11] for hypnotherapists. It is important for consumers to check credentials and experience and, if the provider is a medical or mental health professional, to verify that they are state-licensed in their chosen field.
NW Medical Hypnosis offers a guide to choosing a qualified hypnotherapist[12] .
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
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Been smoking for since I was in my late 20's, due to some other issues I finally decided was the time to quit. I made an appointment with the hypnotherapist because a friend recommended them. I was a unsure about it at first but it only took a few sessions and I haven't smoked since, my urges are gone and I don't feel like smoking anymore.
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