Does hypnotherapy work for children and teens?

I've been asked a few times recently whether hypnotherapy is suitable for children and teenagers.

In short, the answer is Yes! Here's why.

Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is a talking therapy which is increasingly being recognised as a positive therapeutic option for young people. Current research shows it is particularly effective at the early intervention stage when presenting problems are not severe. 

This therapy crucially teaches young people about how their brain works — the neuroscience behind their thoughts and feelings. Being given a clear explanation of why their brain works the way it does — and reassurance that it is not their fault, simply their brain overprotecting them — is often deeply comforting at an age when young people can feel alone or to blame for their feelings.

The sessions can help children and teenagers to identify their worries or fears and what they would notice if their problems had gone away. It enables them to explore their strengths, skills and resources to move them towards a place where the problem is either resolved or feels manageable.

Sessions never tell young people what to do; instead, they are guided to discover their own solutions. There is no pressure if goals aren't met between sessions — young people respond better when they are treated with respect and empowered to make their own decisions.

Children have a natural advantage over adults with hypnotherapy in that their brain is more neuroplastic — more adaptable and open to change — giving them a more flexible imagination and growth mindset. This makes them great candidates, as they are able to readily accept and connect with the positive language suggestions used in each session.

Sessions typically use relaxation techniques or hypnosis for the last part of the session, which most young people enjoy and will already recognise from apps such as Headspace, Calm or YouTube recordings. Sessions also help young people understand the importance of allowing the brain to rest and not become overwhelmed by noise and social media content.

This relaxation work is reinforced at home with a recording to help them sleep better. Sleep is crucial for this age group to allow them to process their worries and feel more energised the next day.

Can children and teenagers benefit from hypnosis?

Children and teenagers are often ideal candidates for hypnosis. Because their brains are still developing, they tend to be naturally imaginative and less guarded in their thinking than adults, meaning they can enter a relaxed, focused state with ease. Where an adult might question or intellectualise the process, a younger person will often simply go with it, making the hypnotic experience both quicker to access and highly effective. Hypnosis in therapy never stops the person being in control.

For a child or teenager who feels uncomfortable lying down, or who finds stillness difficult, the deep relaxation can be delivered in other ways — eyes open, seated, drawing, Lego building.

How many sessions will my child need?

Every child is different, and the number of sessions will vary. As a general guide, most young people benefit from six or more sessions — though many notice positive changes sooner.

In summary, what hypnotherapy gives children and teens

• An understanding of how their brain works and why they feel the way they do

• Effective tools for managing anxiety or anger

• Better sleep quality — crucial for this age group, particularly teens

• Greater resilience through a lifetime self-care toolkit

• A deeper appreciation of the importance of exercise, social interaction and positive thinking.

About my services

I work with children age 8 upwards. My mission is that a young person finishes my sessions feeling empowered so that they can make long-lasting change to their lives. They also go away with some practical 'stuff' - a self-care toolkit which is personalised to what works best for them which they can use at times when things feel more difficult.

If you are a parent looking for support for your child, please do email me for an initial, no obligation, phone call - hello@tamsindenbightherapy.com