Research & Evidence for Hypnotherapy

What hypnotherapy is...

Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic approach that uses relaxation, focused attention, and suggestion to support positive change in thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Over the past several decades, researchers, clinicians, and professional bodies have explored how and where hypnotherapy may be beneficial. This page is intended to provide clear, balanced, and evidence-informed context, not hard “proof”, so you can understand the research landscape.

Hypnotherapy typically involves guiding a person into a calm, focused state (often described as a natural, relaxed “trance”) where the mind can become more receptive to helpful suggestions and positive therapeutic ideas.

For an overview of clinical hypnotherapy and professional standards in the UK, you can explore the British Society of Clinical Hypnosis information page: BSCH – Information.

What the science shows (measured and balanced)

Research into hypnotherapy varies in quality and context. Studies are conducted with different groups of people, for different goals, and sometimes alongside other therapeutic approaches. That said, there are systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggesting that hypnosis can be helpful in certain settings.

Anxiety, pain, and stress

In controlled contexts, hypnosis has been studied for its potential to reduce anxiety and distress, and to support pain management - particularly as a complementary, non-drug approach alongside standard care.

Adjunctive (supportive) use

In some settings, hypnosis is explored as an adjunct that may enhance relaxation, improve coping, and support therapeutic outcomes when combined with other interventions. It is generally considered low-risk when used appropriately and responsibly.

Professional context and standards

Responsible practice matters. A strong professional framework helps ensure hypnotherapy is delivered ethically, with proper training and clear boundaries.

• British Society of Clinical Hypnosis (BSCH): UK professional body promoting standards and information about clinical hypnotherapy. Learn more.
• Quest Institute: Training and resources in cognitive hypnotherapy and related approaches. Visit site.
• LSCCH: Training in clinical communications and hypnosis in the UK. Visit site.

What research does, and does not, show...

Responsible use

Hypnotherapy should be approached sensibly and responsibly. If you are using guided hypnosis or meditation recordings, it’s important to listen in a safe setting (never while driving or operating machinery).

If you have significant medical or psychological concerns, hypnotherapy is best considered as part of a wider, appropriate support plan.

Selected research and trusted references

Definitions and professional context

The American Psychological Association’s Division 30 describes hypnosis as a state of consciousness involving focused attention and an enhanced capacity for response to suggestion. This kind of definition is helpful because it frames hypnosis in psychological terms rather than as something mysterious or theatrical.

What reviews and meta-analyses suggest

When researchers look across multiple studies (systematic reviews and meta‑analyses), hypnosis is most consistently explored as a supportive approach for areas such as anxiety and distress around medical procedures, and pain management in controlled settings. There is also research looking at hypnosis as an adjunct to established psychological therapies, where it may enhance outcomes for certain goals.

Links to key sources 🔗

• NHS overview: Hypnotherapy as a complementary approach - what it is and what happens in a session. Read on NHS.uk
• Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych): A balanced description of hypnosis and hypnotherapy. Read on RCPsych
• APA Division 30 (Society of Psychological Hypnosis): Definition and professional context. Read on APA Divisions
• Kirsch, Montgomery & Sapirstein (1995): Meta-analysis of hypnosis as an adjunct to cognitive-behavioural psychotherapy. View on PubMed
• Montgomery et al. (2002): Meta-analysis of hypnosis with surgical patients (clinical outcomes vs controls). View on PubMed
• Schnur et al. (2008): Meta-analysis on hypnosis to reduce distress related to medical procedures. Read on PubMed Central

References and further reading 📚

Here are reputable starting points if you’d like to explore further:

• British Society of Clinical Hypnosis (BSCH) – Information: https://www.bsch.org.uk/information.html
• Quest Institute: https://www.questinstitute.co.uk/
• London School of Clinical Communications and Hypnosis (LSCCH): https://www.lscch.co.uk/
• NHS overview of hypnotherapy: https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/hypnotherapy/

A final thought...

Over the years, I’ve seen how guided relaxation, positive suggestion, and focused attention can help people feel calmer, more confident, and more in control of their habits and wellbeing. Everyone’s experience is unique, but when you look at the research thoughtfully, it supports the idea that hypnotherapy can be a meaningful part of a holistic approach.

My aim has always been to blend compassionate practice with grounded understanding - and to create recordings that people can use in a practical, supportive way.

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