Originally Posted by
Hechosedrugs 
I tried hypnosis to get rid of my social anxiety. Didn't work for me, and I think I really believed it would. I actually asked for my money back immediately after the session, because I was never "under", though the hypnotist insisted I was.
So I think on top of the patient believing , it also takes some real skill on the part of the practitioner in order for it to be effective.
I thought about that,too.... How would a lay person assess a therapist's will of hypnosis PRIOR to the appointment. For an internist, surgeon, dentist, psychologist one can ask around among friends etc for recommendations. But I don't know anyone who has been treated with hypnosis who could recommend or advise to avoid a specific provider. Did you get your money back?