Is Hypnotherapy Safe? What Are the Side Effects?

For most people, hypnotherapy with a properly trained therapist is considered safe, and any side effects are usually mild and short-lived. It is not right for everyone. In my practice I do not recommend it for people with epilepsy or for people who experience hallucinations.

What side effects can happen?

Side effects are uncommon and tend to pass quickly. Health sources such as WebMD list anxiety, headaches, dizziness and drowsiness as the rare ones. The most common are:

1. Tiredness or drowsiness for a short time afterwards.
2. A mild headache.
3. Feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
4. Feeling emotional or a little anxious.

These usually settle within hours. If a symptom lasts or worries you, please speak to your GP.

The main concern: false memories

The risk discussed most often is the creation of false memories. It can happen when a therapist asks leading questions or makes unintended suggestions, which is why hypnosis should not be relied on to recall exact details of past events. A careful therapist avoids leading questions and never treats a memory that appears under hypnosis as proof of what happened.

Who should not have hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is not suitable for everyone, and I ask safety questions in the free consultation for that reason.

1. Epilepsy. I do not recommend hypnotherapy for people with epilepsy.
2. Hallucinations. I do not recommend it for anyone who experiences hallucinations of any kind, whether they are pleasant, unpleasant or neutral.
3. Serious mental health conditions such as psychosis. Please speak to your GP or specialist first.

My reason is that hypnotherapy works through a channel to the subconscious mind, and in these situations I believe that channel could open wider than is safe. That is my professional view and my own safety rule, not a universal medical rule, which is why you should always check with your doctor if you have any doubt.

How to choose a safe hypnotherapist

1. Ask about their training and how long it lasted.
2. Check that they ask about your health and medical history before they start.
3. Be wary of anyone who promises a cure or a guaranteed result.
4. Make sure they explain what the session will involve.
5. Ask what they do not treat. An honest therapist has a clear answer.

Hypnotherapy is not a substitute for medical care

Hypnotherapy can support your wellbeing, but it does not replace medical treatment. If you have a medical or mental health condition, please keep working with your GP or doctor. If you are in crisis, call 999 or NHS 111, or call the Samaritans free on 116 123.

I am Shahin Gurbanov. If you would like to talk through whether hypnotherapy is right for you, the free consultation is the place to ask. You can also read what to expect in your first session before you decide.