Hypnotherapists in Swansea, NSW

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Photo of Tamika Dwight-Scott, Psychotherapist in Swansea, NSW
Tamika Dwight-Scott
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Macquarie, NSW 2283  (Online Only)
Using an integrative and holistic approach utilising Gestalt Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, Resource Therapy, mindfulness, awareness, somatic work, art therapy, guided visualisation and metaphors, enables you to gain connection between your mind, body and emotions.
I am a Wellbeing Coach, Facilitator and Trainer who is passionate about supporting you to become the best version of YOU. I have many years experience in supporting people to reduce stress, chaos and angst in life and educating them towards a life where they can experience peace, balance and calmness, no matter what is happening around them. I feel much gratitude to work on faculty as resident Facilitator with the Petrea King, Quest for Life Foundation. I am passionate about my work and living my life to my full potential, so therefore love passing on my knowledge, wisdom and life experience to others.
Using an integrative and holistic approach utilising Gestalt Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, Resource Therapy, mindfulness, awareness, somatic work, art therapy, guided visualisation and metaphors, enables you to gain connection between your mind, body and emotions.
I am a Wellbeing Coach, Facilitator and Trainer who is passionate about supporting you to become the best version of YOU. I have many years experience in supporting people to reduce stress, chaos and angst in life and educating them towards a life where they can experience peace, balance and calmness, no matter what is happening around them. I feel much gratitude to work on faculty as resident Facilitator with the Petrea King, Quest for Life Foundation. I am passionate about my work and living my life to my full potential, so therefore love passing on my knowledge, wisdom and life experience to others.
(07) 3184 4537 View (07) 3184 4537
Photo of Mimi Bloom, Psychotherapist in Swansea, NSW
Mimi Bloom
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Kahibah, NSW 2290
I work eclectically with my highly specialised range of modalities including attachment-informed EMDR, Gottman Method for couples, Internal Family Systems, CBT, hypnotherapy, EFT (tapping), mindfulness techniques and yoga, which I use to create a safe and unique environment for personal growth and transformation for both individuals and couples.
I am an experienced and professionally qualified EMDR and couples psychotherapist and relationship therapist. I have experience working with adolescents and adults ranging in age from 13-80 and have worked with client issues including depression, anxiety, interpersonal or relational issues, self-harm, suicide ideation, social anxiety, bereavement, trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse, and neurodiversity, particularly ADHD. My clients come to me with a range of issues, but all seeking a safe space to explore themselves and break through barriers to achieve personal growth, increased contentment and better relationships.
I work eclectically with my highly specialised range of modalities including attachment-informed EMDR, Gottman Method for couples, Internal Family Systems, CBT, hypnotherapy, EFT (tapping), mindfulness techniques and yoga, which I use to create a safe and unique environment for personal growth and transformation for both individuals and couples.
I am an experienced and professionally qualified EMDR and couples psychotherapist and relationship therapist. I have experience working with adolescents and adults ranging in age from 13-80 and have worked with client issues including depression, anxiety, interpersonal or relational issues, self-harm, suicide ideation, social anxiety, bereavement, trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse, and neurodiversity, particularly ADHD. My clients come to me with a range of issues, but all seeking a safe space to explore themselves and break through barriers to achieve personal growth, increased contentment and better relationships.
(02) 4058 4694 View (02) 4058 4694
Photo of Tracy Leigh Lynch, Counsellor in Swansea, NSW
Tracy Leigh Lynch
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlestown, NSW 2290
With over 30 years experience, I work with Individuals and Couples to help support real and lasting change. I use a combination of EMDR, Parts and Attachment informed therapy. I include Gottman for Couples. This can to help change underlying beliefs that form negative patterns. I specialise in Intensive Therapy. I use longer sessions over a shorter period. My extensive experience and skill base alongside my care and compassion can help you get to the bottom of what is going on and to process this, leading to change. Much more than just talking about issues we process them allowing real change to be possible.
With over 30 years experience, I work with Individuals and Couples to help support real and lasting change. I use a combination of EMDR, Parts and Attachment informed therapy. I include Gottman for Couples. This can to help change underlying beliefs that form negative patterns. I specialise in Intensive Therapy. I use longer sessions over a shorter period. My extensive experience and skill base alongside my care and compassion can help you get to the bottom of what is going on and to process this, leading to change. Much more than just talking about issues we process them allowing real change to be possible.
(02) 4063 1001 View (02) 4063 1001
Photo of Carla Bonetti, Psychologist in Swansea, NSW
Carla Bonetti
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Lake Macquarie, NSW 2283
Waitlist for new clients
Brazilian born Psychologist, Carla Bonetti understands that we all need help at times to navigate life’s challenges. She offers help that is underpinned by years of experience working within the public and private sectors with a range of different clients addressing a number of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship and existential problems.
Brazilian born Psychologist, Carla Bonetti understands that we all need help at times to navigate life’s challenges. She offers help that is underpinned by years of experience working within the public and private sectors with a range of different clients addressing a number of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship and existential problems.
(02) 4012 4035 View (02) 4012 4035
Photo of Sharon Atkins, Counsellor in Swansea, NSW
Sharon Atkins
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Toronto, NSW 2283
I am a registered Clinical Counsellor, Psychotherapist, and Hypnotherapist, and I have been providing counselling for over 10 years. Have you been struggling with your thoughts, confidence, anxiety leading you to experiencing mental and physical discomfort? Choosing a counsellor who is a good match for you is imperative to your journey of recovery and meeting your individual needs. I am dedicated and I have genuine concern for your health and wellbeing on a holistic level, addressing both the cognitive and physical aspects and approach these topics with compassion and empathy, while you shift toward health and wellbeing.
I am a registered Clinical Counsellor, Psychotherapist, and Hypnotherapist, and I have been providing counselling for over 10 years. Have you been struggling with your thoughts, confidence, anxiety leading you to experiencing mental and physical discomfort? Choosing a counsellor who is a good match for you is imperative to your journey of recovery and meeting your individual needs. I am dedicated and I have genuine concern for your health and wellbeing on a holistic level, addressing both the cognitive and physical aspects and approach these topics with compassion and empathy, while you shift toward health and wellbeing.
(02) 4012 0931 View (02) 4012 0931
Photo of Essy K Counselling & Wellness Hub, Counsellor in Swansea, NSW
Essy K Counselling & Wellness Hub
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Croudace Bay, NSW 2280
Are you struggling with past or current trauma, feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you find it hard to communicate with your partner, or have you lost someone you love? Whatever the issue is, I am here to support you. My name is Esther, however I go by Essy K, I have experience in a diverse range of issues and welcome new clients to feel supported in a safe environment that is built on trust, empathy and compassion. I believe we are all unique and deserve the best opportunity to learn about ourselves and grow, to heal and find peace and contentment in our daily life. I take a holistic approach to fulfil all aspects of our being.
Are you struggling with past or current trauma, feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you find it hard to communicate with your partner, or have you lost someone you love? Whatever the issue is, I am here to support you. My name is Esther, however I go by Essy K, I have experience in a diverse range of issues and welcome new clients to feel supported in a safe environment that is built on trust, empathy and compassion. I believe we are all unique and deserve the best opportunity to learn about ourselves and grow, to heal and find peace and contentment in our daily life. I take a holistic approach to fulfil all aspects of our being.
(02) 4046 7823 View (02) 4046 7823
Photo of Bluefield Alcohol Recovery Clinic, Psychologist in Swansea, NSW
Bluefield Alcohol Recovery Clinic
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Toronto, NSW 2283  (Online Only)
Do you need help to take control of your drinking? Are you drinking too often, too much, binging or experiencing cravings? Have you tried to cut down only to relapse, feeling isolated and overwhelmed? Have you become anxious or depressed because of your drinking? If your drinking is threatening your physical or mental health, your job, your relationships, your finances or your family life, it's time to take control, and restore your mental health and wellbeing. Our telehealth program, complements The Sinclair Method (TSM), and offers you an effective alternative to the traditional detox and rehab pathway to recovery
Do you need help to take control of your drinking? Are you drinking too often, too much, binging or experiencing cravings? Have you tried to cut down only to relapse, feeling isolated and overwhelmed? Have you become anxious or depressed because of your drinking? If your drinking is threatening your physical or mental health, your job, your relationships, your finances or your family life, it's time to take control, and restore your mental health and wellbeing. Our telehealth program, complements The Sinclair Method (TSM), and offers you an effective alternative to the traditional detox and rehab pathway to recovery
(02) 4058 4497 View (02) 4058 4497

Online Therapists

Photo of Wilfred Lax, Psychologist in Swansea, NSW
Wilfred Lax
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Edgecliff, NSW 2027
I have been a Clinical Psychologist for many years, I have worked with individuals, couples and families who present with a variety of needs. I have trained in Hypnotherapy worked with clients with complex trauma, and across the lifespan. I don't believe that any one is 'broken' but do believe that everyone can be fixed. Optimism and humour are central to my practice as are warmth and empathy. Courage is important both for you and me.
I have been a Clinical Psychologist for many years, I have worked with individuals, couples and families who present with a variety of needs. I have trained in Hypnotherapy worked with clients with complex trauma, and across the lifespan. I don't believe that any one is 'broken' but do believe that everyone can be fixed. Optimism and humour are central to my practice as are warmth and empathy. Courage is important both for you and me.
(02) 9100 0797 View (02) 9100 0797
Photo of Dr Tracie O'Keefe, Psychotherapist in Swansea, NSW
Dr Tracie O'Keefe
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
I use clinical hypnotherapy and psychotherapy to help you solve your problems - fast. When you are stressed, addicted, have behavioural problems, phobias, sexual issues, traumatised, high anxiety or depression, you may have tried many avenues without success but I can help you fix things fast. The work we do is very in-depth and always positive as I help you build the skills you need to avoid those problems in the future and feel better quickly. From the first session we start to change what you are doing and experiencing. You want therapy to be empowering. I know your time and money are precious.
I use clinical hypnotherapy and psychotherapy to help you solve your problems - fast. When you are stressed, addicted, have behavioural problems, phobias, sexual issues, traumatised, high anxiety or depression, you may have tried many avenues without success but I can help you fix things fast. The work we do is very in-depth and always positive as I help you build the skills you need to avoid those problems in the future and feel better quickly. From the first session we start to change what you are doing and experiencing. You want therapy to be empowering. I know your time and money are precious.
0403 398 808 View 0403 398 808
Photo of Positive Thinking Clinic, Psychotherapist in Swansea, NSW
Positive Thinking Clinic
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wolli Creek, NSW 2205
Focus, Concentration, Performance, Job skills, Self-esteem, Relationships, Grief & loss, Body image/ weight, Health, Addictions, Stress, Anxiety, Panic, Depression, Phobias, Sleep Disorders, Mental Health, Suicidal Thoughts, Neuro Linguistic Programming, Hypnotherapy, Goal Setting, Study, Beliefs.
“Everybody is important; everybody deserves to live their best life. I am here to help you connect with yourself and others, to solve your requests as quickly and effectively as possible, in a way that is long lasting and sustainable”. Her approach is unique. She integrates therapies and customises them to suit the needs of the client. She aims to work with clients to co-create individually tailored and sustainable solutions. Amanda’s interventions aim to address the important relationship between the mind and body. She enjoys helping clients attain a greater wellbeing.
Focus, Concentration, Performance, Job skills, Self-esteem, Relationships, Grief & loss, Body image/ weight, Health, Addictions, Stress, Anxiety, Panic, Depression, Phobias, Sleep Disorders, Mental Health, Suicidal Thoughts, Neuro Linguistic Programming, Hypnotherapy, Goal Setting, Study, Beliefs.
“Everybody is important; everybody deserves to live their best life. I am here to help you connect with yourself and others, to solve your requests as quickly and effectively as possible, in a way that is long lasting and sustainable”. Her approach is unique. She integrates therapies and customises them to suit the needs of the client. She aims to work with clients to co-create individually tailored and sustainable solutions. Amanda’s interventions aim to address the important relationship between the mind and body. She enjoys helping clients attain a greater wellbeing.
(02) 8294 5710 View (02) 8294 5710
Photo of Sydney Strategic Therapy-Hypnotherapy/Counselling, Counsellor in Swansea, NSW
Sydney Strategic Therapy-Hypnotherapy/Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Not Verified Not Verified
Kareela, NSW 2232
Clinical Hypnotherapy/Counselling/Psychotherapy can help you manage a busy life by facilitating effective strategies that support you. I treat issues with phobia's, addiction, weight loss, sleep, relationship issues, performance, grief, anxiety, stress within a warm, relaxed, non-judgemental environment I will provide guidance to assist you to: Develop new insights into the nature and origins of your current difficulties. Identify & challenge the behaviours, thoughts & beliefs that are creating distress. You will discover new ways of thinking and behaving that enhance well-being and allow you to achieve your full potential.
Clinical Hypnotherapy/Counselling/Psychotherapy can help you manage a busy life by facilitating effective strategies that support you. I treat issues with phobia's, addiction, weight loss, sleep, relationship issues, performance, grief, anxiety, stress within a warm, relaxed, non-judgemental environment I will provide guidance to assist you to: Develop new insights into the nature and origins of your current difficulties. Identify & challenge the behaviours, thoughts & beliefs that are creating distress. You will discover new ways of thinking and behaving that enhance well-being and allow you to achieve your full potential.
(02) 9159 6172 View (02) 9159 6172
Photo of Hannah Myall, Psychologist in Swansea, NSW
Hannah Myall
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Dee Why, NSW 2099
Waitlist for new clients
This includes CBT-E, ACT, EMDR, Cognitive Hypnotherapy and Coaching.
Hannah specialises in working with individuals of all ages with Eating Disorders to achieve full recovery. This includes Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, Orthorexia, disordered eating, body image concerns and related issues. Hannah also offers support and guidance to parents, carers and families of those struggling with an eating disorder. Hannah, who has also recovered from an eating disorder believes that full recovery is possible with the right support and guidance to help you feel like you are not alone in your struggles.
This includes CBT-E, ACT, EMDR, Cognitive Hypnotherapy and Coaching.
Hannah specialises in working with individuals of all ages with Eating Disorders to achieve full recovery. This includes Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, Orthorexia, disordered eating, body image concerns and related issues. Hannah also offers support and guidance to parents, carers and families of those struggling with an eating disorder. Hannah, who has also recovered from an eating disorder believes that full recovery is possible with the right support and guidance to help you feel like you are not alone in your struggles.
(02) 9100 0047 View (02) 9100 0047
Photo of Paige Linegar, Psychologist in Swansea, NSW
Paige Linegar
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Manly, NSW 2095  (Online Only)
Techniques include nutrition and a range of psychological (including CBT, ACT, Hypnotherapy, Art Therapy, Guided visualisations and EMDR).
I am an APHRA, MAPS, APS registered Psychologist and have years experience as a Nutritionist and yoga teacher. I am one of the only certified joint Psychologist and Nutritionists in Australia providing a unique integrative approach which involves gut-biome support through: hypnotherapy, nutrition and exercise strategies for those interested in holistic tools for whole system thriving. These can increase outcomes for sports, fertility/hormone health, pre-post natal, weight-loss and beyond. I have also worked with many athletes and teams with diet and performance.
Techniques include nutrition and a range of psychological (including CBT, ACT, Hypnotherapy, Art Therapy, Guided visualisations and EMDR).
I am an APHRA, MAPS, APS registered Psychologist and have years experience as a Nutritionist and yoga teacher. I am one of the only certified joint Psychologist and Nutritionists in Australia providing a unique integrative approach which involves gut-biome support through: hypnotherapy, nutrition and exercise strategies for those interested in holistic tools for whole system thriving. These can increase outcomes for sports, fertility/hormone health, pre-post natal, weight-loss and beyond. I have also worked with many athletes and teams with diet and performance.
(02) 9100 0691 View (02) 9100 0691
Photo of Cullen Therapies, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swansea, NSW
Cullen Therapies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
For 20 years I have worked as a clinical therapist with people around the world. I offer Clinical Hypnotherapy & Talking Therapies. I work easily with all ages and genders. I specialise in trauma, child & teenage issues amongst many other mental health concerns.
For 20 years I have worked as a clinical therapist with people around the world. I offer Clinical Hypnotherapy & Talking Therapies. I work easily with all ages and genders. I specialise in trauma, child & teenage issues amongst many other mental health concerns.
(02) 9100 0549 View (02) 9100 0549
Photo of Veronica Engel, Psychologist in Swansea, NSW
Veronica Engel
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I am guided by you but particularly interested in cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused therapy, clinical and gut-directed hypnotherapy.
Owner/Director of the Engel Clinic - I have been privileged to work with clients for over 10 years using mindfulness based CBT, ACT, FBT, gut-directed hypnosis, and clinical hypnosis. I work extensively with all kinds of anxiety and stress conditions, gut-brain disorders, and eating disorders (including obesity and ARFID).
I am guided by you but particularly interested in cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused therapy, clinical and gut-directed hypnotherapy.
Owner/Director of the Engel Clinic - I have been privileged to work with clients for over 10 years using mindfulness based CBT, ACT, FBT, gut-directed hypnosis, and clinical hypnosis. I work extensively with all kinds of anxiety and stress conditions, gut-brain disorders, and eating disorders (including obesity and ARFID).
(02) 8203 8780 View (02) 8203 8780
Photo of Menaka Iyengar Cooke M.app.psych, Psychotherapist in Swansea, NSW
Menaka Iyengar Cooke M.app.psych
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Haberfield, NSW 2045
I use mindfulness, hypnotherapy, somatic (body-based) approach, psychodynamics (what has happened in a person's developmental years), and family constellations work (patterns or issues over generations).
Clients want help with managing stress and anxiety over life matters such as workplace issues, relationships including marriage ups-and-downs, divorce and separation; death including grief and loss; personal development from being assertive to managing health and personal wellbeing; assistance in being better parents; personal trauma incuding sexual assault or bodily harm or migration difficulties
I use mindfulness, hypnotherapy, somatic (body-based) approach, psychodynamics (what has happened in a person's developmental years), and family constellations work (patterns or issues over generations).
Clients want help with managing stress and anxiety over life matters such as workplace issues, relationships including marriage ups-and-downs, divorce and separation; death including grief and loss; personal development from being assertive to managing health and personal wellbeing; assistance in being better parents; personal trauma incuding sexual assault or bodily harm or migration difficulties
(02) 8069 5431 View (02) 8069 5431
Photo of Green Valley Psychotherapy Practice, Psychotherapist in Swansea, NSW
Green Valley Psychotherapy Practice
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Verified Verified
Prestons, NSW 2170
Green Valley Psychotherapy Practice offers accessible services in Counselling, Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Psychotherapy to cater to the individuals' unique mental health needs and overall holistic well-being.
Shahid draws his experience and expertise from 20 years of working with teenagers, adults, couples and group therapy work. He has worked with alcohol, and drug rehabilitation program, vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals, families experiencing domestic violence and other mental health issues. He provides well-being support and empowerment programs to support individuals in achieving their goals. With his private practice (Green Valley Psychotherapy Practice) in Hinchinbrook, Shahid offers online and in-person consultations that cater to individuals from across the wider Sydney region and online consultation worldwide.
Green Valley Psychotherapy Practice offers accessible services in Counselling, Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Psychotherapy to cater to the individuals' unique mental health needs and overall holistic well-being.
Shahid draws his experience and expertise from 20 years of working with teenagers, adults, couples and group therapy work. He has worked with alcohol, and drug rehabilitation program, vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals, families experiencing domestic violence and other mental health issues. He provides well-being support and empowerment programs to support individuals in achieving their goals. With his private practice (Green Valley Psychotherapy Practice) in Hinchinbrook, Shahid offers online and in-person consultations that cater to individuals from across the wider Sydney region and online consultation worldwide.
(02) 8105 5120 View (02) 8105 5120
Photo of Sage Scott, Counsellor in Swansea, NSW
Sage Scott
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
New Lambton, NSW 2305
Howdy! I'm Sage (they/them). I use my experience as a queer (pansexual) & neurodiverse (ADHD) counsellor to facilitate spaces that diverge from traditional talk therapy. I incorporate modalities like hypnotherapy, energy healing, drama therapy, and utilise a somatic and strengths-based approach. Presently, I practice on unceded Awabakal & Worimi Land (Newcastle). For telehealth sessions, I provide both phone and video options, seamlessly conducted through platforms such as Zoom or Discord.
Howdy! I'm Sage (they/them). I use my experience as a queer (pansexual) & neurodiverse (ADHD) counsellor to facilitate spaces that diverge from traditional talk therapy. I incorporate modalities like hypnotherapy, energy healing, drama therapy, and utilise a somatic and strengths-based approach. Presently, I practice on unceded Awabakal & Worimi Land (Newcastle). For telehealth sessions, I provide both phone and video options, seamlessly conducted through platforms such as Zoom or Discord.
(02) 4012 6991 View (02) 4012 6991
Photo of Dr Arthur Stabolidis: The Psychology Suite, Psychologist in Swansea, NSW
Dr Arthur Stabolidis: The Psychology Suite
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
You have come here with a concern you want some help with. Understanding that concern, its impact on your life, and its place within the story of your life is an integral part of the therapy process. My specialty clinical interests include adult ADHD assessment and treatment, anxiety, depression, stress management, and helping clients navigate significant life changes. I am also trained in clinical hypnotherapy which I utilise in the management of chronic pain conditions such as endometriosis, fibro neuralgia and IBS.
You have come here with a concern you want some help with. Understanding that concern, its impact on your life, and its place within the story of your life is an integral part of the therapy process. My specialty clinical interests include adult ADHD assessment and treatment, anxiety, depression, stress management, and helping clients navigate significant life changes. I am also trained in clinical hypnotherapy which I utilise in the management of chronic pain conditions such as endometriosis, fibro neuralgia and IBS.
View
Photo of Navneet Jassal, Counsellor in Swansea, NSW
Navneet Jassal
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Bella Vista, NSW 2153
Sometimes just talking is not enough. Therefore, I use EMDR and Emotional freedom technique (EFT), in my sessions to create balance in your energy system and treat pain, anxiety, depression, PTSD and more. I use Clinical hypnotherapy to treat any addictions such as Nail Biting, Smoking, and also to treat OCD, Low self-confidence, Low self-esteem and more. I use mindfulness techniques during my session to help people disconnect with sticky emotions so that they can connect with their true self by receiving the divine guidance and the healing.
Sometimes just talking is not enough. Therefore, I use EMDR and Emotional freedom technique (EFT), in my sessions to create balance in your energy system and treat pain, anxiety, depression, PTSD and more. I use Clinical hypnotherapy to treat any addictions such as Nail Biting, Smoking, and also to treat OCD, Low self-confidence, Low self-esteem and more. I use mindfulness techniques during my session to help people disconnect with sticky emotions so that they can connect with their true self by receiving the divine guidance and the healing.
(02) 8074 1729 View (02) 8074 1729

See more therapy options for Swansea


Hypnotherapy Counsellors

How does hypnotherapy work?

Hypnotherapy works by using guided hypnosis to help you reach a state of focus and concentration through mental imagery and soothing verbal repetition. The state is somewhat like being absorbed in a book, a film, or your own thoughts. You are not under a therapist’s “control,” but they can help you relax and turn your attention inward to discover the resources to achieve behaviour change or better manage psychological concerns. Therapy sessions may involve guiding you through recognising a problem, releasing problematic thoughts about it, and considering and accepting more productive alternatives before returning to normal awareness. Hypnotherapy is typically used by a therapist along with traditional forms of talk therapy. Eventually, your therapist can help you learn hypnotherapy techniques yourself, so you can establish a stronger sense of control on your own in stressful or challenging moments.

Is hypnotherapy the same as hypnosis?

Hypnotherapy, which is sometimes called hypnotic suggestion, is a therapeutic technique in which a therapist uses hypnosis to help patients. It is not the kind of hypnosis portrayed in stage shows, or in movies or on television. You will not be unconscious or asleep during hypnotherapy, you will not lose control of yourself, your thoughts, or your free will, and you will be able to fully recall your experience. And while you will hear your therapist’s suggestions, it is always up to you to decide whether to act on them. Hypnosis by a trained mental-health professional is not a form of mind control, which is impossible to achieve anyway.

Can everyone be hypnotised?

The most common challenge of hypnotherapy is that as many as one in four people cannot be hypnotised. Brain imaging has confirmed differences in patterns of brain connectivity between those who respond to hypnotism and those who do not. Other people who could potentially be hypnotised may not respond to the technique because of their scepticism or resistance to entering a hypnotic state. If a therapist’s “post-hypnotic suggestion” is effective, it’s because they are suggesting something you want to achieve.

Does hypnotherapy work?

Through hypnotherapy, you can achieve changes that are real and sustainable. Like other talk therapy techniques, when hypnotherapy succeeds, it’s a case of mind over matter. Effective hypnotherapy involves self-healing because you access resources you need to change inside of yourself and learn how to tap into them whenever you need. Hypnotherapy has been shown to be an effective therapy for anxiety, phobias, stress, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, sexual dysfunction, and undesirable behaviours like smoking. It can be used to help improve sleep or to address relationship challenges, and to aid with pain management, digestive disorders, skin conditions, and the gastrointestinal side effects of pregnancy or chemotherapy.