In credentialing hypnotherapists and NLP practitioners, the IHA believes that skill level is the most important criteria. We do not believe that certification should be based solely on the number of hours of study, nor is a person qualified to practice hypnosis or NLP solely on the basis of a degree in a related field.

Our view is that testing and live supervision by instructors qualified in hypnosis and NLP provide the best way to judge skill level and ensure that all practitioners are practicing in a way that benefit their clients. In supporting that view we work with qualified instructors to ensure that their courses provide not only adequate information delivery but sufficient testing to judge student efficacy.

While there is a controversy in the field between those with advanced degrees and those who have concentrated their education/training on hypnosis and NLP, the IHA supports the practice of both groups as long as they stay within their respective scopes of practice. The IHA  provides guidance in staying within scope of practice.