Let’s be honest. If you’re looking up hypnotherapists in Exeter, you’re probably dealing with something that’s been hanging around too long.

Maybe it’s stress that just won’t quit. Maybe you want to stop smoking, and nothing else has worked. Maybe you’re stuck in overthinking and can’t break the loop.

Hypnotherapy keeps showing up in your search bar — so you’re thinking… could it actually help?

Here’s what you need to know.

Why People Try Hypnotherapy

It’s not what the movies made it out to be.

Nobody’s swinging a pocket watch. You’re not going to bark like a dog.

Real hypnotherapy? It’s about helping you access the part of your mind that runs on autopilot — the stuff that drives your habits, fears, and emotional triggers.

When done right, hypnotherapy may help with anxiety, sleep issues, stopping smoking, weight problems, public speaking nerves, chronic pain, and confidence. Some people use it to deal with past trauma. Others just want to stop waking up feeling panicked for no reason.

And no — you don’t black out or lose control. You stay aware the whole time. The therapist just guides your focus and helps you work through the mess.

But Not Everyone’s Qualified

Here’s the part most people don’t realise.

In the UK, there’s no law saying someone needs training to call themselves a hypnotherapist. Anyone could print a business card and start tomorrow.

That’s a problem.

So if you’re gonna do this, make sure the person you work with is fully qualified. That means they’ve done proper training, have insurance, and are listed with a recognised organisation like the National Board for Hypnotherapy (NBH).

If they’re not NBH registered, you’ve got to ask — why not?

Use their online directory to find real, trained professionals near you:

https://www.nbh.org.uk

Finding Someone in Exeter

Go to the NBH website and pop in “Exeter” or your postcode. It’ll show you a list of fully qualified hypnotherapists in your area. Check their profiles. See what they specialise in — anxiety, phobias, stopping smoking, all that.

You can also ask your GP or speak to people you trust. Just steer clear of flashy ads with no proof or random people offering hypnotherapy without credentials.

Before You Book — Ask This

Once you’ve found someone that looks decent, don’t rush in. Ask a few things first.

What training have they done?

Are they NBH registered?

Have they helped people with your issue before?

How many sessions do they usually recommend?

Do they offer a consultation?

And maybe most important — do they make you feel heard? If you’re getting weird vibes, walk away. This stuff only works if you trust the person guiding you through it.

What It’s Like in a Session

You’ll probably talk for a bit first. The therapist will want to know what’s going on and where you’re trying to get to.

Then you’ll sit or lie back. They’ll help you relax, guide your focus, and walk you through whatever technique fits your situation.

You’re not asleep. You’re not “under.” But your brain’s in that in-between place — kind of like when you’re driving and suddenly realise you’ve zoned out for a few minutes.

That’s where the work happens. And yeah, hypnotherapy may help way faster than most people think.

Afterwards, you’ll talk through what came up, how it felt, and maybe leave with a recording or something to work on before the next session.

Does It Actually Work?

Let’s talk results.

Studies have shown hypnotherapy helps around 93% of people after just a handful of sessions. One meta-analysis even said it’s three times more effective than nicotine patches for quitting smoking. Another found it can boost deep sleep by up to 80%.

Loads of people in Exeter are already using it to stop panic attacks, sleep better, break old habits, and finally feel in control again.

So yeah — hypnotherapy may help. Not for everyone. But for a lot more people than you’d think.

Bottom Line

If you want to try hypnotherapy, cool — but don’t just go with the first person who shows up in search.

Make sure they’re fully qualified, insured, and NBH registered. Talk to them. Ask questions. See how you feel during that first chat.

Because when you find someone good, the results can be life-changing. You don’t have to stay stuck in that same cycle forever.

Start with the NBH directory and find someone real:

https://www.nbh.org.uk

Quick FAQs

Is it safe?

Yep, as long as you’re working with someone trained and registered.

Does it work for anxiety?

Yes. Hypnotherapy may help calm your nervous system and rewire stress loops.

How many sessions do I need?

Some people feel better after four or eight. Others take a few more. Depends on the issue.

Do I lose control during the session?

No. You’re aware the whole time and can stop whenever you want.

What about online sessions?

Works great over Zoom. Most good hypnotherapists offer it now.