Hypnotherapy for Quitting Smoking: Success Rate and Tips

When considering the success rate of hypnotherapy for quitting smoking, it's important to recognize that hypnosis is merely a tool. The success of using this tool is largely dependent on the client's genuine desire to quit and the commitment to changing their habits.

Case Study: My Sister's Experience

Many years ago, my sister sought hypnotherapy to break her smoking habit. Much to our surprise, the therapy changed her preference from Marlboroughs to Rothmans. While it may seem like the therapy did not fully succeed, it worked by altering her perception of the cigarettes she preferred. This further illustrates that the success of hypnotherapy can vary widely among individuals.

My Son-in-Law's Journey

In a more recent case, my son-in-law used to be a smoker. Despite my attempts to persuade him with rational arguments like the fact that he could work in a mine for 12 hours without smoking, he was not convinced. However, his wife took a different approach and convinced him to visit a highly professional hypnotist. After a few months, his wife reported that he had not smoked in over 4 months!

The Process and Success Rate

By combining a few hours of cognitive therapy with short hypnotherapy sessions, I have seen a range of outcomes. However, I strive for a much higher success rate, believing that failing to help 50% of the clients is not acceptable. I firmly believe in professional ethics, and if my success rate is not satisfactory, I believe it would be better to find a different line of work.

It's crucial to understand that if a client is only quitting to appease someone else, hypnosis may not be as effective. For example, if a person is only quitting to shut a spouse up, they likely don't truly want to quit. They need a genuine desire and willingness to stop smoking in all aspects of their life.

Why Hypnotherapy Works

Hypnotherapy works by addressing the root causes of a smoking habit, such as emotional and psychological triggers. By identifying and resolving these underlying issues, a hypnotist can help a client develop sustainable alternatives. One simple technique is to suggest deep breathing exercises as a substitute for smoking. For instance, a client might decide to do deep breathing instead of having their usual cigarette, making the change feel natural and permanent.

Many experienced hypnotists specifically focus on smoking cessation and have developed effective techniques to help clients quit. When combined with a strong desire to stop smoking, these methods can be remarkably successful. However, it's essential to find a reputable hypnotist who can build trust and motivate the client toward their goal.

Conclusion

To determine if hypnotherapy is right for you, it's advisable to contact a local hypnotist and discuss your goals. The right hypnotist should inspire confidence and trust in the client, helping to create a path toward successful smoking cessation. With the right approach and dedication, hypnotherapy can be an effective tool for quitting smoking.

Keywords

Hypnotherapy Smoking cessation Success rate