Understanding the differences between hypnotherapy and counselling

When it comes to mental health and wellbeing, there are numerous therapeutic approaches available, each with its unique methods and benefits. Two such approaches that often spark curiosity are hypnotherapy and counselling. Both are effective tools in promoting mental health, but they differ significantly in their techniques and applications. In this blog, we'll explore these differences to help you decide which might be right for you. 

What is counselling? 

Counselling is a conventional form of therapy focused on conversation and communication. It involves a trained therapist helping a client to explore and solve problematic behaviours, beliefs, feelings, relationship issues, and/or somatic responses (sensations in the body). Through active listening, empathy, and questioning, counsellors help clients delve into their emotional worlds to uncover answers to their current difficulties. The process aims at clarity and insight, fostering personal growth and resolving psychological distress.

Counselling sessions typically occur once a week, offering clients the chance to build a relationship based on trust with their counsellor over time. This consistency helps individuals understand themselves better and learn new ways of thinking, which can lead to changes in their feelings and behavior. 

What is hypnotherapy? 

Hypnotherapy, by contrast, is a form of therapy that involves inducing a trance-like mental state of deep relaxation and heightened focus using verbal repetition and mental images. When in this state, individuals are more open to discussion and suggestion from the hypnotherapist. This state is akin to being deeply absorbed in a book, movie, or meditation. Under hypnosis, clients might find it easier to explore painful thoughts, feelings, or memories they might have hidden from their conscious minds. 

Hypnotherapists use this state to suggest ideas, concepts, and lifestyle adaptations to the clients, which are designed to positively influence behaviours and thoughts. The approach is often direct and focused on a specific goal such as reducing stress, quitting smoking, or overcoming a phobia. 

What are the key differences? 

Method of interaction: Counselling relies on verbal communication and is largely interactive. It depends on building a dialogue where the client and counsellor work together. Hypnotherapy, however, often involves the client being more in a receptive state where the therapist guides much of the session.

Focus and goals: Counselling can address a broad range of issues from relationship problems, bereavement, to general dissatisfaction with life. The goals can be varied and often evolve over time with the therapeutic process. Hypnotherapy is typically more focused, targeting specific problems such as an addiction or a particular phobia. 

Duration of therapy: Counselling relationships might last from a few months to several years, but hypnotherapy often involves fewer and shorter sessions. For instance, some people may feel an improvement in their symptoms after just one session of hypnotherapy, depending on the issue being addressed. 

Which therapy should you choose? 

The choice between hypnotherapy and counselling depends on your personal preferences, the specific issues you’re facing, and what you hope to achieve. If you have a specific problem you wish to work on in a concise manner, hypnotherapy might be the approach for you. However, if you’re looking for a broader exploration of your thoughts and behaviours, or if you need ongoing support, counselling might be more suitable. 

Regardless of the path you choose, the most important thing is to ensure that your therapist is qualified and that you feel comfortable working with them. Mental health is a significant aspect of overall wellbeing, and taking the step to work on it is commendable.