Hypnosis for ADHD in Children
Hello,
Does your child have trouble concentrating at school, forget their things, or seem to be constantly “spaced out”?
Has your child been diagnosed with ADD or ADHD—and may be taking medication—and do you want to give them additional tools?
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) affects many children and can make daily life challenging for the whole family.
Did you know that Does hypnosis offer a gentle and effective approach to helping children better manage their attention, impulsivity, and stress?
What is ADHD in children?
The 3 Faces of ADHD:
ADHD manifests itself in different ways depending on the child.
There are generally three subtypes:
- ADHD with predominantly inattentive symptoms:
The child has trouble concentrating, seems to be daydreaming, and forgets his or her tasks or belongings. - ADHD with predominantly hyperactive/impulsive symptoms:
The child is restless, talks a lot, has trouble waiting his or her turn, and acts without thinking. - Combined-type ADHD:
A combination of the two previous options.
The Daily Challenges Faced by a Child with ADHD
Children with ADHD may face challenges at school (delays in learning, conflicts with teachers), at home (organizational problems, family tensions), and in their social relationships (difficulty following the rules of games, misunderstandings with other children).
This can have a major impact on their self-esteem, and they may feel that they don't «fit in» with the world around them.
A disorder, not a lack of willpower
ADHD is not caused by a lack of education or willpower; it is a disorder related to brain function, particularly to neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine.
It is therefore essential not to make the child feel guilty, even if the daily lives of the parents and caregivers around him or her can sometimes be quite exhausting.
Hypnosis: A Complementary Approach to ADHD
What Is Therapeutic Hypnosis?
Hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness, similar to the one we experience just before falling asleep or when we are engrossed in a book or a movie. Contrary to popular belief, hypnosis is neither magical nor mysterious: it is a recognized therapeutic tool used to work with the subconscious mind.
Why are children particularly receptive to hypnosis?
Children have vivid imaginations and a great ability to naturally enter altered states of consciousness. They love stories, role-playing, and visualization, which makes hypnosis a particularly suitable approach for their age group.
The Benefits of Hypnosis for Children with ADHD
Hypnotherapy can help children with ADHD in several ways:
- Improved Concentration:
Through visualization and anchoring techniques, the child learns to focus their attention on a task, as if they were pressing a "concentration button.". - Reducing Stress and Anxiety:
Children with ADHD are often stressed by academic expectations or comments from adults.
Hypnosis allows them to create and rediscover a sense of inner calm. - Better Emotional Management:
Impulsivity and mood swings are common among children with ADHD.
Hypnosis helps them develop strategies to better regulate their emotions. - Building Self-Esteem:
By focusing on positive beliefs ("I’m capable," "I can do it"), children gain confidence and motivation. - Identifying, channeling, and building on their strengths:
ADHD also comes with unique skills—strengths that allow people with ADHD to do things that others cannot.
The goal is to help children recognize these strengths so that they can become an asset in their daily lives, rather than viewing ADHD as a «disability.».
What happens during a hypnosis session for a child with ADHD?
It is very important that your child be willing to participate in the process.
For example, you can show them a photo of the hypnotherapist you’ve chosen or have them watch the therapist’s introductory video on our website.
If you can't find a child hypnotherapist on our team near you, please note that We offer video consultations for children ages 6 and up—it works very well, too.
First, your hypnotherapist will take the time to talk with your child to learn about their interests, challenges, and goals. This step is crucial for tailoring the techniques to their personality.
Techniques Used in Hypnotherapy for Children with ADHD
Hypnosis sessions with children are often very creative 😊 and are tailored to their inner world and interests.
The main techniques used are:
- Visualizations where the child is encouraged to imagine soothing or motivating scenes.
For example:
«Imagine you're a superhero and your power is to focus when you need to.»
or «Picture yourself successfully completing your math problem, step by step, calmly and confidently.» - The Anchors That is, a gesture or a word that will help the child regain a state of calm or concentration.
For example, gently squeezing her wrist or saying «I'm focused.» can become a soothing habit. - Metaphors that will help the child understand and grasp abstract concepts.
For example, comparing his brain to a remote control that he can use to «turn down the volume» on distractions.
Are you worried about what happens during your child's session?
Feel free to discuss this with your hypnotherapist.
Some of us offer parents a video monitor (with the sound turned off) so they can watch the session from the waiting room.
«My 8-year-old son is now able to sit still during meals and in class for fairly long periods of time by using his “focus button”!»
Frequently Asked Questions About Hypnosis and ADHD (FAQ)
Is Hypnosis Safe for Children with ADHD?
Yes, hypnosis is a gentle, non-invasive method. It is performed by trained professionals and poses no risk to the child.
Can Hypnosis Replace Medication?
Hypnosis is not a substitute for medical treatment but is part of a comprehensive approach (medication, CBT, educational strategies).
At what age can a child begin hypnotherapy sessions?
Children can benefit from hypnosis as early as age 5 or 6, provided they are able to understand and follow simple instructions.
Duration and Frequency of Sessions
Sessions with children begin with a discussion with the parent(s), followed by a one-on-one session with the child, unless the child wishes for the parent to be present.
A therapeutic hypnosis session usually lasts between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on the child's age.
A course of 5 to 10 sessions is often recommended, spaced one to two weeks apart.
How much does a hypnotherapy session for children cost?
Rates vary by practitioner. At Solutions Hypnose, expect to pay approximately $135CAD / 80€ per session.
We issue insurance receipts in Quebec, and in France, some health insurance providers partially reimburse the cost of sessions.
Would you like to seek hypnotherapy for ADHD with your child?
Hypnosis for Children with ADHD is a caring, playful, and often highly effective approach to helping children cope better with their differences.
In addition to medical care or educational strategies, it helps improve concentration, self-confidence, and a sense of calm in everyday life.
If you’d like to explore this option for your child, please feel free to contact a member of the Solutions Hypnose team who specializes in working with children.
Together, let’s give your child the tools to reach their full potential!
The Hypnosis Solutions Team
Meet the Solutions Hypnose team that works with children
Meet our team specializing in pediatric hypnosis—hypnosis for children and adolescents.
Note: Your child needs to be willing to go through with this. You can show them a photo and/or introductory video of the hypnotherapist you’ve chosen so they can decide if they’d like to meet this person who tells stories that are a little bit magical 🙂
Our team has offices in Quebec and France.
If you can't find a hypnotherapist near you, most of our team members offer video sessions 💻 and theVideo consultations often go very well, but it depends on the child's age.
We suggest that you contact the hypnotherapist you are interested in to make sure that all the necessary conditions are in place for an effective session with your child.
Hypnosis for Children: To Help Children Grow Up Healthier!
