Are You Talking the Same Language as Your Client? Neurodivergent hypnotherapy clients' needs

Claire Jack
Jan 18
4 min read

One reason that clients don't return for a second hypnotherapy session is because they didn't get much out of their first experience, which is often because the hypnotic language just didn't connect with them.

Why Language Matters in Neurodivergent Hypnotherapy (and beyond)

Hypnotherapy is a powerful tool for change, but its effectiveness depends on the therapist’s ability to connect with clients using language that feels natural and accessible. For many, especially neurodivergent clients, traditional hypnotic scripts can feel confusing or even impossible to follow. Words like "visualise," "picture," or "see" are commonly used in hypnotherapy training and practice, but not everyone processes information visually. This issue was highlighted recently during our HypnoSober workshop, particularly around clients who are non-visual or have aphantasia, which is the inability to form mental images. It's something that's come up with a couple of clients in the last week or so, too, who have explained they "tried" hypnotherapy before, but were not able to connect with the experience at all. When hypnotic language doesn’t fit a client’s experience, it can leave them feeling disconnected, misunderstood, or even excluded from the benefits of hypnotherapy.

Understanding Your Client’s Processing Style

Every client brings a unique way of processing the world. Some are highly visual, able to conjure vivid scenes in their mind’s eye. Others process information through sounds, words, or physical sensations. For some neurodivergent clients, including those with autism, ADHD, or aphantasia, non-visual processing is especially common, but it’s not limited to this group (it's also important to note that not all neurodivergent people are non-visual - as an autistic woman, I'm very visual as are many of my clients). Anyone can have a non-visual style, and it’s essential for hypnotherapists to recognise this diversity.

To create an inclusive, neurodivergent-friendly practice, which also benefits any of your hypnotherapy clients who are less visual, start by asking open, respectful questions:

Do you tend to see things in pictures, or is it easier to recall words, sounds, or sensations?
How easy is it for you to imagine what someone close to you looks like?
When you relax, are you more aware of images, physical sensations, or internal dialogue?
What helps you feel most comfortable and engaged during guided exercises?

These questions not only help tailor your approach but also signal to your client that their experience is valid and welcome.

The Impact of Language on Hypnotherapy Outcomes

Language is more than a tool for communication. It shapes the therapeutic experience. If a client is repeatedly asked to "visualise" a safe place or "picture" a golden light, but can’t, they may feel like they’re doing something wrong. This can lead to frustration, reduced engagement, and ultimately, poor outcomes. In some cases, clients may even decide hypnotherapy “doesn’t work for them” and not return for further sessions.

For hypnotherapists committed to client-centred, neurodivergent-affirming practice, adapting language is not just about inclusion—it’s about results. When clients feel understood and the process fits their natural way of experiencing the world, they are more likely to relax, engage, and benefit from hypnotherapy.

Practical Tips for Inclusive Hypnotic Language

Avoid Visual-Only Language: Replace words like "visualise," "see," or "picture" with more open cues such as "imagine in whatever way is right for you." This subtle shift acknowledges that imagination is personal and can include sensations, memories, sounds, or emotions—not just images.
Offer Multiple Pathways: After inviting a client to "imagine in whatever way is right for you," give concrete examples: "You might notice some sensations in your body," or "perhaps you remember something you told yourself at that time." Providing options helps clients access their experience without feeling pressured to “see” anything.
Personalise Your Approach: If a client has shared that they notice physical sensations or recall conversations rather than images, focus your suggestions on bodily sensations, sounds, or words. For example, "Notice any warmth or coolness in your body," or "Recall the words you heard or said."
Check In Regularly: During sessions, ask gentle, open-ended questions: "What are you noticing right now?" or "Is there a particular way you find it easiest to connect with these ideas?" This ensures your approach remains flexible and responsive.
Normalise All Experiences: Let clients know that there is no right or wrong way to experience hypnosis. Share that many people, neurodivergent or not, don’t see images and that all processing styles are valid.

Why This Matters for Neurodivergent Clients (and Everyone Else)

Neurodivergent clients are more likely to experience non-visual processing, aphantasia, or unique ways of relating to hypnotic suggestions. For autistic clients, in particular, a direct, concrete, and sensory-aware approach can make hypnotherapy more accessible and effective. However, these principles benefit all clients. By adapting your language and approach, you:

Make hypnotherapy more inclusive and welcoming
Improve client outcomes and satisfaction
Increase the likelihood of repeat sessions and referrals
Position yourself as a thoughtful, client-centred practitioner
Future-proof your practice as awareness of neurodiversity grows

Ensuring that your practice is more inclusive is also important in terms of continuing to attract clients, and ensure that they have an experience that means they want to come back again. As more people seek hypnotherapy for neurodivergent needs, therapists who can confidently and compassionately serve this group stand out in the marketplace. Inclusive practice leads to better results, more positive reviews, and greater word-of-mouth referrals. It also positions you as a leader in a rapidly evolving field, ready to meet the needs of a diverse client base.

Looking Ahead: Training for Hypnotherapists

The demand for neurodivergent-affirming hypnotherapy is growing. In response, I'm developing a new hypnotherapy training course specifically designed for working with neurodivergent clients. This programme will cover: