Distinguishing true hypnosis experts from mere amateurs can be difficult. Since there is no single, governing body that sets a criterion for hypnotherapists, just about anyone can call herself a "certified hypnotist." If you attended a weekend-long hypnosis workshop, you could call yourself a certified hypnotist by this coming Monday.

Finding Hypnosis Experts

Fortunately, there are hypnosis experts out there. Finding them may not be easy, but once you have, you'll be amazed at what they can help you accomplish. A hypnosis expert can help you quit smoking, stuttering, drinking, overeating and nail-biting. He can help cure your insomnia, impotence, bed-wetting or blushing. He can help treat premature ejaculation, fear of flying or panic disorders. If a problem has its root in your mind, a hypnotist or hypnotherapist can help you treat it.

The best way to choose a good hypnotist or hypnotherapist is to look at his experience. Has he been treating people for two months, two years or two decades? In general, the more experience he has, the more gifted he is. People don't stick with hypnotherapy for 30 years without good word of mouth and a steady stream of clients.

You can also look at his resume. Has this person received awards, written books or hosted talk shows? Has he distinguished himself as a respected person in the hypnosis field? When a person is lauded by his peers, chances are he is great at what he does.