This is probably the most common question I am asked as a Clinical Hypnotherapist in Melbourne. The honest answer is that hypnotherapy can be remarkably effective for many people—especially when it’s delivered ethically, skilfully, and in a way that fits your needs and personality.
Hypnotherapy is a structured therapeutic modality that uses focused attention and a deeply relaxed state to help you work with thoughts, feelings, habits, and automatic responses. Despite the myths, you certainly don’t lose control. In fact, most clients describe hypnosis as feeling calm, absorbed, and mentally clear—like being fully engaged in a book or movie.
In that state, your mind can become more receptive to helpful suggestions and new perspectives. Hypnotherapy can support change by:
- Reducing anxiety and overcoming phobias by teaching your nervous system how to settle, reset and respond differently to old triggers.
- Changing habits such as overeating, drinking alcohol, nail biting, or procrastination by addressing the cues and subconscious patterns that keep them going.
- Improving confidence and performance, for example in social situations, public speaking, sports, exams, or job interviews.
- Supporting sleep by easing the mental “noise” that keeps you alert at night.
- Helping with pain management often alongside medical care, through relaxation and attention-based techniques.
But, how do I find the Best Hypnotherapist?
If you are searching for the best hypnotherapist in Melbourne, (or wherever you may be located)I encourage you to think of “best” as in best for you. Melbourne has many practitioners, but the right choice is the one who meets strong professional standards and feels like the right fit.
Use this simple checklist:
- Registered with a recognised hypnotherapy association such as The Australian Hypnotherapy Association. This ensures they follow a code of conduct, have regular training and supervision.
- Demonstrated experience with your specific goal or issue. E.g. How often do they assist with people facing anxiety? As a parent, you need evidence they have worked successfully with Children.
- Evidence-informed approach, they can explain what they do, why they do it, and what outcomes are realistic for you.
- Strong reviews/testimonials that mention professionalism, safety, and results—without exaggerated promises.
- You feel trust and rapport during the consultation call and during the very first session.
A great hypnotherapist will welcome your questions, take a thorough history, explain the process clearly, and collaborate with you on a practical plan. If anything feels pushy, vague, or “too good to be true,” keep looking—because trust and credibility are part of what makes hypnotherapy work.
Ultimately, the “best” hypnotherapist is the one who combines professional registration, real experience, evidence-informed practice, and a relationship where you feel genuinely understood and cared for. When you find that combination, you are in a winning position to make lasting change.