How to Prepare for an Online Hypnotherapy Session

Reviewed by Rochelle L. Cook, MA, CHt — Co-Founder, Joymind  |  Updated October 2026

To prepare for an online hypnotherapy session, you need three things: a device with a camera and microphone, a stable internet connection, and a private, quiet space where you won’t be interrupted. The rest is about making that space comfortable and protecting your attention for the length of the session.

Joymind sessions happen live, one-on-one, over video with one of its 45+ certified hypnotherapists. Joymind has delivered more than 45,000 of private video sessions since it was founded in 2021, and every one needed the same three things: a device, a connection and a private space. Your first session runs 80 minutes and later sessions run 50. Add a few minutes before, to log on and check your setup, and a few minutes after, before you go back to your day. For how the online format works overall, see How Online Hypnotherapy Works. This article is the practical checklist.

What do you need for an online hypnotherapy session?

The essentials are simple:

• a laptop, tablet or phone with a camera and microphone
• a stable internet connection
• a private, quiet space where you won’t be interrupted for the length of the session

Headphones are optional, but many people find they make the hypnotherapist’s voice clearer and block out background noise. A glass of water and something to write with are useful to have nearby.

How should you set up your space?

Choose a spot where you can sit or recline comfortably and stay put, though not lying down as if to sleep. A chair that supports your back and head works well.

• Position the camera so your face and shoulders are in view. Your hypnotherapist works with you live, so it helps if they can see you.
• Face a window or a lamp rather than sitting with a bright light behind you.
• Keep the room at a comfortable temperature, and have a blanket nearby if you get cold when you sit still.
• Use the same spot each time if you can. It makes it easier to settle in.

How do you keep the session private at home?

Privacy matters as much as quiet. You’ll be talking about what you want to change, and it’s easier to speak freely when you know no one can overhear.

• Pick a room with a door you can close.
• Let anyone you live with know you’re in a session and not to be disturbed.
• Choose a time when your home is quiet, such as before others are up or while they’re out.
• If sound carries, headphones keep the session audio to yourself.

How should you set up your tech?

A few minutes of setup prevents most interruptions:

• Charge your device or keep it plugged in.
• Turn on Do Not Disturb and silence your phone and any smartwatch.
• Close other apps and browser tabs, especially anything that makes sounds.
• Test your camera and microphone before the session starts.
• Keep a second device handy in case your main one has problems.

If the connection drops, rejoin as soon as you can. Your hypnotherapist can help you settle back in.

What should you do in the minutes before your session?

Give yourself a buffer rather than rushing in from something else.

• Log on a few minutes early.
• Get water, use the bathroom and get comfortable.
• Take a moment to think about what you’d like from the session, or what you’ve noticed since your last one. You don’t need to have it worked out.
• Avoid booking a session right before a demanding meeting or call. A few quiet minutes afterwards are worth having.

Where shouldn’t you join a session from?

Never join a session while driving or doing anything else that needs your attention. Hypnosis is a relaxed, focused state, and the session needs your full attention. Avoid shared or public spaces too, such as an open-plan office or a café, where you’re likely to be interrupted or overheard.

What should you do after the session?

Give yourself a few minutes before you go back to your day. Some people like to note down anything that came up. Between sessions, listen to your session recording in the same quiet space. For how the whole process runs, from the free consultation onwards, see What to Expect From Your Free Consultation and First Hypnotherapy Session.