Recently, I was chatting with a friend who tried group hypnotherapy. She joined a group that was there to stop smoking with hypnosis She was really surprised that although she wasn’t able to quit smoking herself during that process, there were a lot of people who successfully quit smoking in the group. It was clear that she was confused and lost belief in hypnosis.

Group hypnotherapy sessions and private hypnotherapy sessions can be significantly different from each other. Therefore, the results, effects, scope, and practice of hypnosis will be different too. Having the right information and expectations will help you make the best decision!

What are group hypnotherapy sessions?

Group hypnotherapy sessions are hypnosis sessions conducted with two or more participants. Usually, during a group hypnosis session, the focus is on a specific problem that the group is trying to tackle with hypnosis. Group hypnotherapy sessions are usually between 1 to 6 sessions depending on the hypnotherapist, topic, and the group. 

During these sessions, the hypnotherapist will use techniques and methods that are applicable to the majority of the group. So generally, common problems and issues will be addressed.

Although group hypnotherapy sessions are very successful and cost-effective, the success rate of a group hypnotherapy program is usually not 100%. Sometimes one or two people may need more personal support than the others which could lead to nuances.

Common topics group hypnosis can be helpful with

Many topics can be covered with a group hypnotherapy program. Some topics will have more general symptoms and therefore better success rates than others. Here are some common issues a group hypnotherapy session can be successful with:

Weight loss with group hypnosis

Successfully losing weight with hypnosis is pretty common. Group hypnotherapy weight-loss programs are also known to be very helpful for many people. Losing weight with hypnosis is successful in the long term because with hypnosis, the focus is on creating a healthy lifestyle rather than focusing on a specific diet or workout. With hypnotherapy, all areas that contribute to weight gain are covered such as subconscious self-image, emotional eating, binge eating, or lack of motivation.

A group hypnotherapy session for weight loss can be a long process since a healthy weight loss is about 1.5 lbs. to 2 lbs. a week. During this process, depending on the program, there may be other professionals involved such as nutritionists or psychotherapists. Regardless, the program may take anywhere from 6 to 9 sessions; focusing on a different topic each week. Additionally, some weight loss group hypnosis programs offer support groups during and after the process.

Smoking cessation with group hypnosis

Quitting smoking with a group hypnotherapy session can be a great and economical option. Most smokers have similar triggers, habits, and problems that they experience. By addressing these issues subconsciously during hypnosis, the hypnotherapist can help you quit smoking effectively.

Group smoking cessation programs are usually short and to the point. Usually, these programs take anywhere from 1 session to 4 sessions. Sometimes follow-up sessions may be required for long-term success.

Hypnobirthing with group hypnotherapy

Hypnobirthing is a process of conditioning the mother to have calm and relaxed labor with minimum to no pain. This process is not easy, nor overnight. Everyone has a different perception of pain, childbirth, and additionally set of their own fears and problems. In a group hypnobirthing program, mothers are trained in different topics each week.

Usually, group hypnobirthing sessions can take anywhere from 3 sessions to 8 sessions. During the program mothers learn about pain management, gaining control in case of emergency situations, how to control emotions as hormones change, and different breathing techniques. The effects of the hypnobirthing group class can be really different. Usually, some mothers will get successful results that will lead them to even opt out of epidural use while other moms can get very little benefit.

Increasing motivation

We all have motivation inside somewhere, and sometimes, all we need is a little nudge that will help us start and keep going. Group hypnotherapy sessions can be really helpful with increasing motivation and igniting the force inside.  

Group hypnotherapy sessions can start with different techniques to increase motivation naturally and continue with hypnosis to subconsciously bring out the inner desire. Usually, group sessions like this could take 1 to 3 sessions. Increasing motivation with group hypnotherapy can also be more specific such as increasing motivation for being more active, eating better, increasing sales numbers or job success.

Individual hypnotherapy sessions vs Group hypnotherapy sessions

When we look at the experience and success rates of both group hypnotherapy sessions and private hypnotherapy sessions, we see big differences. For one, the prices are significantly different. Private hypnotherapy sessions can quickly become expensive while group hypnotherapy sessions will be more affordable.

On the other hand, private hypnotherapy sessions can bring more successful results than group hypnosis sessions since private sessions are tailored to the person’s needs. Oftentimes, although the problem may seem the same, the reasons and subconscious association of the problem could be different. Addressing the cause can bring long-term relief. While the group hypnotherapy sessions often address common problems and issues, which may not cover the necessary areas for everyone.  

Hence, the results with group hypnotherapy sessions and private hypnotherapy sessions are also very different from each other. Oftentimes, a group hypnotherapy session can be hit or miss. Some people will get great results while others may struggle to succeed. However, private hypnotherapy sessions will be tailored, to the point and specific which usually brings significantly greater results than group sessions.

Pros of group hypnotherapy sessions

For decades, group hypnotherapy sessions have been helpful to bring relief to lots of people in a variety of topics from weight loss to quitting smoking. Especially when the cause of the problem is not relevant, group hypnotherapy sessions can be the best economic solution to your problem.

The fact that it’s economic enables many people to give it a try. The knowledge and skills acquired during the program may be life-changing to many people. Additionally, being surrounded by others who are experiencing similar problems may be empowering for many people. After all, we all want to be heard and understood.

Cons of group hypnotherapy sessions

Although it’s economic and welcoming, when it comes to more complex problems, group hypnotherapy sessions may fall short. We all have personal needs and history. At times, the real problem may lay there and you may not even get close to it during a group hypnotherapy session.

Additionally, the hypnotherapist will explain and use the language according to the group, in the group hypnosis sessions. For example, if the majority of the group doesn’t know about the subconscious mind, the hypnotherapist will take time to explain how the subconscious mind works. Even though you may have more than enough knowledge in the area, you will have to participate during that time as well! That is to say, it is easy to lose rapport and interest in the hypnotherapist because of these miscommunications during a group hypnotherapy session. 

Final words

If you are considering a group hypnotherapy session, take a look at what is the core of the problem. If you suspect that the problem may be associated with an early-life experience or an emotional block, private hypnotherapy sessions may be a better option for you. However, if you think you just need help with everyday problems that keep you away from being your best self, group hypnotherapy sessions are worth a shot!