ACHE certification represents a commitment to professional standards, ethical practice, and ongoing education in hypnotherapy. Through clear certification pathways, ACHE supports both newly trained and experienced practitioners in demonstrating their qualifications and dedication to responsible practice. Our certification process is designed to substantiate professional credibility, protect the public, and promote excellence within the field of hypnotherapy.
Requirements for Registration and Certification
The criteria below defines the education, training, and examination requirements for ACHE certification levels.
A. Certified Hypnotherapist
Has completed at least two hundred (200) hours of instruction from an ACHE approved hypnotism school that is licensed by their State Board of Education. The Hypnotherapist must also pass the ACHE written and practical skills exam. Exceptions are considered on a non-discriminatory basis and may be granted by the Qualifying Board.
B. Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist
Has fulfilled all of the requirements for Hypnotherapist and has completed a total of three hundred (300) hours instruction in hypnosis from a school approved by the appropriate state agency and by the American Council of Hypnotist Examiners.
C. Certified Hypnotic Coach
Has completed at least two hundred (200) hours of instruction from school approved by the appropriate state agency and by the American Council of Hypnotist Examiners. The Hypnotic Coach must also pass the ACHE written and practical skills exam. Exceptions are considered on a non-discriminatory basis and may be granted by the Qualifying Board.
D. Certified Master Hypnotic Coach
Has fulfilled all of the requirements for Hypnotic Coach and has completed a total of three hundred (300) hours instruction in hypnosis and coaching from a school approved by the appropriate state agency and by the American Council of Hypnotist Examiners.
Note: Examination may be waived for hypnotherapists who submit evidence of three consecutive years of full-time professional practice. The Board of Directors may grant any exception on a case-by-case, non-discriminatory basis. If you have just graduated from a 200-hour non-ACHE program, you may be able to take the exam and be certified. Please contact the office for more information at (619) 280-7200.
Steps to apply for certification (from a non-ACHE school)
- Complete the Application for Certification (print and mail or online)
- Submit online or mail the form and documents to
ACHE
7183 Navajo Rd., Ste. E.
San Diego, CA 92119 - Print, read and sign the Code of Ethics (below)
- Include payment $270.00 ($50 non-refundable; mail check with application or use PayPal)
- Include copies of your certificates of completion for 200 hours of training from your school.
- Submit proof of being in practice for three (3) consecutive years of full time professional practice OR Schedule the ACHE exam.
Apply to join now
Ready to Join? Begin your registration now. You can save the form to continue later.
You can also download the form here and send by mail to
ACHE
7183 Navajo Rd., Ste. E
San Diego, CA 92119.
Application Fees
- Initial fee for registration and certification for two years: $220
The initial fee for two-year registration and certification is $220 and expires December 31st of the second year.
Note: If you apply in January through September of 2026, your certification expires December 31, 2027. Registrations made in October, November, or December of 2026 will expire on December 31, 2028.
The initial fee includes a one-time $25 application/examination fee and a $195 registration and certification fee for two consecutive years. There is a $25 one-time fee to upgrade/change Certification status.
ACHE has established a nonprofit Legislative and Legal Defense Fund to fight legal battles that arise to maintain the free and open practice of hypnotherapy. A voluntary contribution of $10 helps support these legal encounters.