What should be the initial entry point to the profession of hypnotherapy?

There is a wealth of different training routes, models and modalities of hypnotherapy training, and experience in the profession which contribute to its vitality, creativity, effectiveness, and public choice. Any establishment of a common entry level to the National Regulatory Register must take this into account and not undermine the unique character of the profession.

What is the purpose of a common entry level ?

To ensure public protection by demonstrating that hypnotherapists meet minimum standards of ethics, training and experience before they are deemed safe, appropriate and ready to see clients. This is about minimum standards and public safety - not the imposition of training models and modalities or approaches which the therapist may not wish to work with, and not about ensuring that hypnotherapists all end up "being trained the same."

What about professional bodies?

Professional bodies provide a vitally useful role in helping to maintain hypnotherapy standards and promoting and protecting practitioners. However, the Working Group must act independently of professional bodies in that it is there for public protection and the progression of hypnotherapy voluntary self-regulation. So the entry point to the profession cannot be confined to membership of particular professional bodies - this allows hypnotherapist choice as well as preventing a conflict of interest where professional bodies are seen to "run the register."

What about grandparenting?

Determining the entry point to the profession will allow for grandparenting for existing hypnotherapists and this will be consulted as widely as possible.

What about National Occupational Standards?

Useful work was done in 2002 to produce NOS in hypnotherapy.  The relevant documents are here. NOS may provide a useful starting point for these discussions.

How will the consultation work?

We are asking for initial ideas and comments on the idea of the "entry level to the profession" to be received no later than August 1st 2008. These will be collated and a draft document will be put out for formal consultation ending December 1st 2008, with a formal vote commencing January 1st 2009.

SEND ALL COMMENTS TO:

info@hypnotherapyregulation.co.uk

by August 1st 2008