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Peter C williams, protecting the Practice of Hypnotherapy in
Peter C Williams, striving to protect the Practice of Hypnotherapy in Florida
A Victory for Hypnotherapists in Florida
Advanced Hypnotherapy of Naples proudly celebrates a landmark achievement in defending the free and open practice of hypnotherapy within the State of Florida.
On June 18, 2012, Mathew Brownstein, President of the Florida Institute of Hypnotherapy, contacted Peter C. Williams, Director of Advanced Hypnotherapy of Naples, to report that Collier County was denying his graduates the right to practice hypnotherapy. Mr. Brownstein sought assistance in understanding and addressing the County’s position. After consulting with his legal counsel, he was advised that challenging the County’s interpretation would not be possible.
However, after personally reviewing the relevant statutes, Mr. Williams determined that Collier County’s interpretation of the Florida Hypnosis Law was incorrect.
Challenging a Longstanding Misinterpretation
At the time, Collier County required hypnotherapists to secure an affidavit from a physician, making the physician legally responsible for supervising the hypnotherapist’s sessions and overseeing client care. This misapplication of Chapter 485, Florida Statutes, placed an unreasonable restriction on qualified practitioners and created a barrier to the lawful and ethical practice of hypnotherapy.
As Director of Advanced Hypnotherapy of Naples, Mr. Williams could not accept such a limitation on the profession’s right to practice freely. He initiated direct communication with the Collier County Tax Collector’s Office to clarify the statute’s actual intent and scope. County representatives initially maintained that their interpretation—unchanged for more than 30 years—“would not be changed.”
Through persistence and collaboration, Mr. Williams met with Ms. Carolyn Francis, County Business Office Manager, and Mr. Rob Stonburner, Deputy Tax Collector. During these meetings, he presented a detailed proposal clarifying that while Florida law requires therapeutic hypnosis to occur under the referral, prescription, supervision, or direction of a licensed healthcare provider, it does not mandate direct physician supervision or a signed affidavit.
The Resolution
Following these discussions, the County referred the proposal to the County Attorney’s Office and the Florida Department of Health in Tallahassee for review. On September 19, 2012, the County confirmed its decision: the verdict was in the affirmative.
As a result, Collier County adopted a new affidavit process that more accurately reflects Florida law. The updated affidavit requires that qualified hypnotherapists:
- Certify that they have read and understand Chapter 485, Florida Statutes.
- Intend to practice hypnosis or hypnotherapy within the scope of their professional training.
- Agree to perform therapeutic hypnosis only under the appropriate referral, supervision, or prescription of a licensed healthcare practitioner.
- Acknowledge their obligation to comply fully with Chapter 485 under penalty of law.
This vital clarification restored the legal right of qualified hypnotherapists to practice freely in Collier County, ensuring compliance with state law while protecting professional autonomy.
Gratitude and Impact
Advanced Hypnotherapy of Naples extends sincere gratitude to the Collier County officials who participated in reaching this resolution. Special thanks are given to Ms. Francis and Mr. Stonburner for their professionalism, courtesy, and willingness to approach the matter with fairness and open-mindedness.
This victory not only reaffirmed the rights of hypnotherapists within Collier County but also set a precedent that could influence other counties throughout Florida and beyond.
Through the dedication of Mr. Peter C. Williams and the advocacy of Advanced Hypnotherapy of Naples, the profession of hypnotherapy stands stronger, protected by law, supported by evidence, and empowered to continue serving communities with integrity, compassion, and skill.