Hypno-psychotherapy is a form of psychotherapy which combines hypnosis with other established forms of psychotherapy such as CBT (cognitive behaviour therapy) and psychodynamic therapy. It was approved by the British Medical Association as a valid medical treatment in 1955 and the American Medical Association followed in 1958.  Full hypno-psychotherapy training is only provided by three training organizations in the UK (NCHP, Beeleaf, and Awaken) and leads to accreditation as a UKCP registered psychotherapist. Hypno-psychotherapy is completely natural and safe. There are no harmful side-effects. When administered by a professionally trained and skilled hypno-psychotherapist the benefits can be long lasting and assist in many different ways.

Hypnosis is a natural form of very deep relaxation where the mind becomes more open to suggestion.

Hypnotherapy is a term for the use of hypnosis and suggestion to ease a particular problem.  Hypnotherapy does not necessarily include any knowledge or experience of treating psychological problems, so may be no more than trance with helpful suggestions.  Although this may be successful in some cases it is potentially hit and miss, unless the therapist actually has some understanding of the cause of the problem and training in the most effective therapeutic strategies.

Hypnosis has at times been regarded rather negatively, despite the fact that the earliest forms of psychotherapy all grew out of it. Freud practised hypnosis with his early patients, as did Josef Wolpe (an early behaviourist)  who originated the behavioural technique of desensitization now widely used to cure phobias - and a cornerstone of CBT. Part of the problem is that often people who call themselves hypnotherapists are not adequately trained - see this article for information on understanding what the credentials mean.

By going to a fully accredited hypno-psychotherapist you can ensure that you are treated by a legitimate, fully insured psychotherapist who has regular supervision, abides by a code of ethics and maintains their skills and knowledge by continuing professional development.