Since March 2014, I have been using video conferencing online (Zoom) to deliver my hypnotherapy sessions.
I was keenly aware I needed to deliver the sessions professionally with equal spirit and energy as facets face.
So, would the sessions be as effective online?
The University of Manchester published research in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis. This showed that using hypnosis on Skype was an effective treatment for people with IBS (International Journal of clinical and Experimental hypnosis 2019)
The University of Zurich found that online therapy was more effective for clients with depression than face to face therapy. (Journal of Affective Disorders, 2013)
A team of Global experts in mental health have written in the Lancet Psychiatry about what they describe as ‘telepsychiatry’ (online therapy). The experts say that online therapy is particularly helpful when it is delivered in an intelligent, targeted manner that provides appropriate support. They also recommended focus on routine measurement and valued outcomes be part of the therapy (2020)
Although the Covid situation has propelled most Clinical Hypnotherapists into using video conferencing platforms; I have been using this platform for many years with great success. I have seen clients in US, Belgium, France, Spain and Dubai.
The session format remains unchanged and I recreate the atmosphere by feeding the music through the computer system, so it is clear and crisp.
I am now able to give my clients a choice between working online or face to face in the clinic. Some people are happier online, saving on travelling time.
I leave the choice to the client.