This may fit if
- You live outside Bellingham, or your schedule makes travel hard.
- You feel more relaxed in your own space than in someone else's.
- You wonder whether hypnosis can really work through a screen.
- You want to learn a relaxation routine you can repeat in the same chair.
Does hypnosis work over video?
Hypnosis mostly relies on a calm voice, your attention and your willingness to follow along. None of that needs us to be in the same room. Research on video hypnosis is small and early, so I will be careful about what I claim.
One early pilot in Scotland offered hypnosis by videoconference to people living in remote areas. Ten of the eleven people who took part said they were satisfied, and all said they would like more video sessions. A 2023 pilot trial of hypnotherapy delivered online found it was acceptable to participants, even though many had technical problems along the way. These are small studies about how acceptable video sessions are, not proof of results.
Mayo Clinic notes that hypnosis is not right for everyone, online or not. If it does not suit you, we can lean on guided relaxation, conversation and practical tools. For a full picture of what hypnosis is and is not, see hypnotherapy in Bellingham.
How should I set up my room for online hypnosis?
Hypnosis goes better when you are not worried about being interrupted. A little setup beforehand helps a lot.
- A private room with a door you can close, where no one will walk in.
- A comfortable chair that supports your head and neck. Sitting up works better than lying flat, since you are less likely to drift off to sleep.
- Headphones or earbuds, so my voice is clear and steady and others cannot overhear.
- Your device propped up and plugged in, with notifications and other apps turned off.
- Comfortable clothes, and a glass of water nearby.
- Pets, kids and phones looked after for the length of the session.
What does an online hypnotherapy session look like?
- Join the callI send you a secure Zoom link. You can also join by phone if video is not possible that day.
- Talk first, eyes openWe go over your goal and agree on the words and images I will use. You can ask anything.
- Relax with your eyes closedI guide you into a relaxed, focused state by voice. I keep watching on video, and you stay aware and in control the whole time.
- Come back and debriefI guide you back to full alertness, then we talk about what you noticed. Take a moment before standing up or getting on with your day.
What if the connection drops during hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a relaxed, aware state, not sleep, so you are never stuck in it. If the call drops, you simply open your eyes and carry on as you would after a nap. Then we reconnect and pick up where we left off.
One firm rule: never take part in a hypnosis session, or listen to a relaxation recording, while driving or operating anything. Pull over and park somewhere safe, or reschedule.
Who can book online hypnotherapy with Ian?
My registration is with the Washington State Department of Health. Online sessions are for clients located in Washington State at the time of each session, whether that is Bellingham, the rest of Whatcom County, Seattle or Spokane. If you will be out of state on a session day, let me know and we can find a time when you are back.
Online hypnotherapy fits well with the self-hypnosis routine on the stress page, since you practice in the same chair you sit in for sessions. More about logistics and privacy is on the online sessions page, and my background is on the about page.
To start, book an introductory call by phone, email or the contact form. Fees and superbills are on the fees page. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 or call 911. Ian Whitelaw Counseling for Men is not an emergency service.
Common questions
Do I need to keep my camera on during hypnosis?
Video is helpful, because I can see that you look comfortable and settled while your eyes are closed. Frame the camera so I can see your face and shoulders. If you are uneasy about the camera, tell me, and we can talk about doing a session by phone instead.
Can hypnotherapy be done by phone?
Yes. Hypnosis is guided mostly by voice, so a phone call can work if you have a quiet, private spot and a good signal. Headphones help. Video lets me see that you are settled, so it is my first suggestion, but the phone is a reasonable option.
Is online hypnotherapy available everywhere in Washington?
Yes, as long as you are physically located in Washington State at the time of each session. That covers Bellingham and Whatcom County, Puget Sound, and eastern Washington. It is about where you are during the session, so plan around trips out of state.
References
Published by Ian Whitelaw Counseling for Men, the practice of Ian Whitelaw, Washington State Registered Hypnotherapist (HP61341961). Last updated October 27, 2026. This page is general information, not medical or mental health advice, a diagnosis or a substitute for care.