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    Saybrook University
   
 
  Aug 25, 2026
 
2026-2027 Academic Catalog and Student Handbook 
    
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2026-2027 Academic Catalog and Student Handbook

Clinical and Applied Hypnosis Certificate


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Overview of Program


The Clinical and Applied Hypnosis Certificate program provides an alternative for the individual who wishes to obtain a comprehensive introduction to clinical and applied hypnosis, without necessarily undertaking an academic degree program. All training and didactic education is designed to follow the clinical training guidelines of the American Society for Clinical Hypnosis. The certificate is a 9-credit program, including three academic courses, and two virtual learning experiences. The program is best started in the fall term when all three courses can be scheduled in consecutive terms.  Students who begin the sequence in the spring will need to wait until the following fall to take the Intermediate course and then wait until the summer to finish the Advanced Course.

Program Learning Outcomes


  1. Proficiency in Hypnotic Techniques: Students will demonstrate proficiency in a range of hypnotic techniques, including induction methods, deepening techniques, and therapeutic suggestions. They will develop the ability to effectively guide clients into hypnotic states, deepen relaxation, and deliver appropriate therapeutic interventions using hypnosis.
     
  2. Ethical and Professional Practice: Students will understand and adhere to ethical guidelines and professional standards when practicing clinical hypnosis. They will demonstrate knowledge of the ethical considerations specific to hypnosis, such as informed consent, confidentiality, and client autonomy. Students will also develop skills in building rapport, establishing a therapeutic alliance, and maintaining professional boundaries. 
     
  3. Application of Hypnosis in Clinical Settings: Students will apply their knowledge and skills in clinical hypnosis to address specific client needs and conditions. They will learn to assess client suitability for hypnosis, develop tailored treatment plans, and implement hypnotic interventions to support therapeutic goals. Students will gain competency in utilizing hypnosis for various applications, such as pain management, stress reduction, habit control, and enhancing well-being.

Career Opportunities


Clinical Hypnosis can enhance any clinical practice but may be useful as well in many other occupations and in interpersonal relationships.  Only licensed clinicians should use these skills in clinical settings however these same skills may be used as well for coaching and in optimal performance settings with a non-clinical population.  Scope of practice will be discussed extensively during these courses to ensure the ethical use of this modality.   

Program Requirements


Admissions Requirements


Applicants for the certificate must submit the following documents: 

  •   An official transcript from an accredited university demonstrating successful completion of an undergraduate degree, with a 3.0 GPA or better 
  • Professional resume or CV 

  • Personal statement 

  • An interview with a faculty member may be required 

  • The department chair may require a writing sample if applicants submit a personal statement that contains any grammatical mistakes, spelling errors, or poorly organized text. 

University Learning Experience


Virtual Learning Experience (VLE) - Optional, Community Learning Experience (CLE) - Optional 

All new students begin their studies with Welcome Week activities that are held online during the week ahead of the start of the semesters. Participation is strongly encouraged.  

No face-to-face residential learning experiences are required for this Certificate.  However, students are invited to attend Saybrook's biannual face-to-face Community Learning Experiences (falls of odd calendar years) or virtual learning experiences (first week of each fall and spring semester) where they will meet other Saybrook students, faculty, and staff.   

Students enrolled in the MBM certificate programs must attend any residential, community, or virtual learning experience as required for the courses.  

Credits/Hours


​​The Clinical and Applied Hypnosis Certificate is a 9-Credit Certificate. ​ 

Mode of delivery


Courses are presented as a combination of reading assignments, videos, live videoconferences, asynchronous class discussions and written assignments. Each class format may vary based on content and instructor preference and students are encouraged to review the course syllabus and Canvas course shell prior to the start of each term to assess the requirements of each course. 

Length of Program


The Clinical and Applied Hypnosis Certificate may be completed in 1 year consisting of 3 consecutive terms.  

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