Hypnotherapists in Chatswood, NSW

Photo of Paige Linegar, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Paige Linegar
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Chatswood, NSW 2067
Techniques include nutrition and a range of psychological (including CBT, ACT, Hypnotherapy, Art Therapy, Guided visualisations and EMDR).
Rediscover inner and outer freedom. I offer professional psychology for clients experiencing unhealthy relationships and forming healthy relationships. I work closely with women through pre-post partum including body positivity, confidence and hormonal support. I have worked with clients of all ages experiencing anxiety, depression and addiction management from alcoholism to binge eating. I have also worked with psychedelic integration and holistic health including treatments for brain fog, auto immune, sickness and chronic pain to which we find the source and endeavour to move through and create a far more liberated existence.
Techniques include nutrition and a range of psychological (including CBT, ACT, Hypnotherapy, Art Therapy, Guided visualisations and EMDR).
Rediscover inner and outer freedom. I offer professional psychology for clients experiencing unhealthy relationships and forming healthy relationships. I work closely with women through pre-post partum including body positivity, confidence and hormonal support. I have worked with clients of all ages experiencing anxiety, depression and addiction management from alcoholism to binge eating. I have also worked with psychedelic integration and holistic health including treatments for brain fog, auto immune, sickness and chronic pain to which we find the source and endeavour to move through and create a far more liberated existence.
(02) 9100 0691 View (02) 9100 0691
Photo of Jessica Koch, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jessica Koch
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Chatswood, NSW 2067
Jess provides a safe, nurturing and respectful environment for each individual to explore their current challenges and gain insight into the background, maintenance and effect of these challenges. Jess holds the power of the client-therapist relationship in high regard and collaborates with her clients to reach their individual treatment goals and guide them towards living their best lives. Working from a holistic, strengths-based approach, Jess encourages each individual to utilise their strengths, build resilience and acquire practical skills to manage emotions, thoughts and actions.
Jess provides a safe, nurturing and respectful environment for each individual to explore their current challenges and gain insight into the background, maintenance and effect of these challenges. Jess holds the power of the client-therapist relationship in high regard and collaborates with her clients to reach their individual treatment goals and guide them towards living their best lives. Working from a holistic, strengths-based approach, Jess encourages each individual to utilise their strengths, build resilience and acquire practical skills to manage emotions, thoughts and actions.
(02) 9159 6981 View (02) 9159 6981
Photo of Matti Lee, MSc, PACFA, Counsellor
Matti Lee
Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Verified Verified
Chatswood, NSW 2067
"Feeling stuck?" - This is one of the most common expression for counselling clients. Innerhealth Practice has been helping clients to explore options and exercise solutions in difficult situations. I am passionate about improving health and maintaining harmonious life balance. Life is filled with challenges and joy. If you would like to try a new way of coping, you might prefer working with someone who has been professionally trained in counselling combined with the practical experience. Look no further, make a call today and be in charge of your issue. Nationally Registered & Accredited services by PACFA and ACA.
"Feeling stuck?" - This is one of the most common expression for counselling clients. Innerhealth Practice has been helping clients to explore options and exercise solutions in difficult situations. I am passionate about improving health and maintaining harmonious life balance. Life is filled with challenges and joy. If you would like to try a new way of coping, you might prefer working with someone who has been professionally trained in counselling combined with the practical experience. Look no further, make a call today and be in charge of your issue. Nationally Registered & Accredited services by PACFA and ACA.
(02) 8294 8741 View (02) 8294 8741
Photo of Skye Elizabeth Hudson - Skye E Hudson Psychotherapy, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Skye E Hudson Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Chatswood, NSW 2067
I am an accredited psychotherapist offering face to face and online counselling. My work calls upon a variety of modalities such as Gestalt, Internal Family Systems, Body- Mind practices, Compassion practices, Symbol and Depth work. This integrative approach enables my clients to discover their own unique path to change and healing. I prioritise creating a safe and sturdy rapport within the therapuetic relationship as the foundation for the ongoing work of therapy. I work with individuals, adolescents and children. I also offer sand play, art and expressive therapies with a trauma informed lens.
I am an accredited psychotherapist offering face to face and online counselling. My work calls upon a variety of modalities such as Gestalt, Internal Family Systems, Body- Mind practices, Compassion practices, Symbol and Depth work. This integrative approach enables my clients to discover their own unique path to change and healing. I prioritise creating a safe and sturdy rapport within the therapuetic relationship as the foundation for the ongoing work of therapy. I work with individuals, adolescents and children. I also offer sand play, art and expressive therapies with a trauma informed lens.
(02) 5604 8849 View (02) 5604 8849
Photo of Helen Caroline Gibbons, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Helen Caroline Gibbons
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a very experienced holistic focused Clinical Psychologist having worked in clinical practice and health psychology for over 25 years. I have a warm and caring approach to psychotherapy and treat all my clients with respect. I am passionate about helping clients who are struggling as a result of anxiety, depression, trauma, narcissistic abuse, work stress, psychosomatic or chronic medical conditions. I also offer a neuro-affirming service in the management of adult and young adult ADHD and ASD.
I am a very experienced holistic focused Clinical Psychologist having worked in clinical practice and health psychology for over 25 years. I have a warm and caring approach to psychotherapy and treat all my clients with respect. I am passionate about helping clients who are struggling as a result of anxiety, depression, trauma, narcissistic abuse, work stress, psychosomatic or chronic medical conditions. I also offer a neuro-affirming service in the management of adult and young adult ADHD and ASD.
(02) 5104 1059 View (02) 5104 1059

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Anita Bonollo - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Anita Bonollo - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Double Bay, NSW 2028
Hypnotherapy can be a very effective treatment for involuntary and compulsive behaviours.
Anita works with clients of all ages and diverse backgrounds including individuals, couples and adolescents. She has extensive experience counselling clients and can help you with anxiety, stress, panic attacks, or depression; coping with pain, post-trauma (PTSD), OCD, or workplace issues; managing weight loss; couples therapy and sports psychology. How can Anita help you? Whether you need support, guidance, motivation, or counselling, she can assist you in your journey. Please feel free to book an initial consultation with her.
Hypnotherapy can be a very effective treatment for involuntary and compulsive behaviours.
Anita works with clients of all ages and diverse backgrounds including individuals, couples and adolescents. She has extensive experience counselling clients and can help you with anxiety, stress, panic attacks, or depression; coping with pain, post-trauma (PTSD), OCD, or workplace issues; managing weight loss; couples therapy and sports psychology. How can Anita help you? Whether you need support, guidance, motivation, or counselling, she can assist you in your journey. Please feel free to book an initial consultation with her.
(03) 9068 5232 View (03) 9068 5232
Photo of Leigh Milne - Leigh Milne - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Leigh Milne - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Double Bay, NSW 2028
Leigh has over 15 years experience in CBT- based Clinical Hypnotherapy / Psychotherapy and more.
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
Leigh has over 15 years experience in CBT- based Clinical Hypnotherapy / Psychotherapy and more.
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
(03) 7003 2164 View (03) 7003 2164
Photo of Deborah Ann Petlueng - Empowered Lives Psychotherapy
Empowered Lives Psychotherapy
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you a woman who realises there are things holding you back from creating the life you desire? My unique approach using hypnotherapy & psychotherapy is specifically designed for women. I offer personalized online sessions that fit your schedule. You may have tried traditional counseling or psychology sessions, but found that even after months there is not much change in your life. Or, you may have found traditional therapy confronting and tiring. Psychotherapy and hypnotherapy delivers deep change within 3 sessions in a safe and relaxing way. Let’s work together to create the vibrant, fulfilling life you deserve.
Are you a woman who realises there are things holding you back from creating the life you desire? My unique approach using hypnotherapy & psychotherapy is specifically designed for women. I offer personalized online sessions that fit your schedule. You may have tried traditional counseling or psychology sessions, but found that even after months there is not much change in your life. Or, you may have found traditional therapy confronting and tiring. Psychotherapy and hypnotherapy delivers deep change within 3 sessions in a safe and relaxing way. Let’s work together to create the vibrant, fulfilling life you deserve.
(02) 5604 8653 View (02) 5604 8653
Photo of Nancy Rodriguez - Hypnotherapy , Counsellor
Hypnotherapy
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
I offer Clinical Hypnotherapy, taught by world experts.
Hypnosis is not whoo hoo. It is using a flow state to connect to solutions, using imagination, visualisation to get unstuck and find solutions to concerns or achieve goals. Trained by Dr Rob McNeilly who learned from Milton Erickson himself. I feel blessed to pass on this wonderful gift of healing to my patients. I have used hypnosis for pain, addiction, coaching, mental health, anxiety, couples therapy, corporate coaching, creative blocks and more.
I offer Clinical Hypnotherapy, taught by world experts.
Hypnosis is not whoo hoo. It is using a flow state to connect to solutions, using imagination, visualisation to get unstuck and find solutions to concerns or achieve goals. Trained by Dr Rob McNeilly who learned from Milton Erickson himself. I feel blessed to pass on this wonderful gift of healing to my patients. I have used hypnosis for pain, addiction, coaching, mental health, anxiety, couples therapy, corporate coaching, creative blocks and more.
(03) 8338 4304 View (03) 8338 4304
Photo of Shahid Hussain - Green Valley Psychotherapy Practice, MPsych, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Green Valley Psychotherapy Practice
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Verified Verified
Prestons, NSW 2170
​ We offer flexible Counselling, Clinical Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy services face to face and online.
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.
​ We offer flexible Counselling, Clinical Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy services face to face and online.
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 Veronica Engel - Veronica Engel, MAPS, Psychologist
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 15 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 15 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 Amanda Dounis - Positive Thinking Clinic, ACA-L4, Psychotherapist
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 Dr Tracie O'Keefe, PACFA, Psychotherapist
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 Dr Arthur David Stabolidis - Dr Arthur Stabolidis: The Psychology Suite, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Dr Arthur Stabolidis: The Psychology Suite
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
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 Tammy M Hatherill, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Tammy M Hatherill
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I offer a range of therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Clinical Hypnosis ( Hypnotherapy), to assist clients in overcoming their traumas.
I have had the opportunity to work in various diverse settings prior to becoming a psychologist. I firmly believe that my experiences enable me to assist individuals from all walks of life. I have previously worked as a prison officer and have a particular interest in assisting correctional officers, police force members, and emergency service workers as a whole. In addition, being of Aboriginal descent and having grown up in a remote Aboriginal community, I am passionate about providing support to First Nation Australians. My expertise lies in assisting individuals who have undergone traumatic experiences.
I offer a range of therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Clinical Hypnosis ( Hypnotherapy), to assist clients in overcoming their traumas.
I have had the opportunity to work in various diverse settings prior to becoming a psychologist. I firmly believe that my experiences enable me to assist individuals from all walks of life. I have previously worked as a prison officer and have a particular interest in assisting correctional officers, police force members, and emergency service workers as a whole. In addition, being of Aboriginal descent and having grown up in a remote Aboriginal community, I am passionate about providing support to First Nation Australians. My expertise lies in assisting individuals who have undergone traumatic experiences.
(08) 7948 3794 View (08) 7948 3794
Photo of Hannah Myall, MSc, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Hannah Myall
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Dee Why, NSW 2099
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 Aneta Zydzik-Plucinska, Psychotherapist
Aneta Zydzik-Plucinska
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Penrith, NSW 2747
Strategic psychotherapy is a brief therapy which is solution-focused and outcome-based. It focuses on HOW you do what you do and not WHY. I won’t be delving into your past and seek “reasons” (ie tough childhood), I uncover and address the very pillars you have unconsciously developed that create and sustain the problem. The integration of hypnotherapy accelerates the therapeutic outcomes. Clients experience relief more rapidly, as the hypnotic state enhances receptivity to change, streamlining the path to recovery.
Strategic psychotherapy is a brief therapy which is solution-focused and outcome-based. It focuses on HOW you do what you do and not WHY. I won’t be delving into your past and seek “reasons” (ie tough childhood), I uncover and address the very pillars you have unconsciously developed that create and sustain the problem. The integration of hypnotherapy accelerates the therapeutic outcomes. Clients experience relief more rapidly, as the hypnotic state enhances receptivity to change, streamlining the path to recovery.
(02) 4501 7422 View (02) 4501 7422
https://mindspsychology.com.au/
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychologist with psychoanalytic orientation and using CBT and hypnotherapy.
Issues I deal with are anxiety, depression, phobias, loss and grieving, obsessive compulsive disorders, schizophrenia, mood disorders. I also work with couples plus organizational issues
I am a psychologist with psychoanalytic orientation and using CBT and hypnotherapy.
Issues I deal with are anxiety, depression, phobias, loss and grieving, obsessive compulsive disorders, schizophrenia, mood disorders. I also work with couples plus organizational issues
(02) 9100 0860 View (02) 9100 0860
Photo of Lauren Reiners - Thrive Holistic Therapies, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thrive Holistic Therapies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Are you at a crossroads in your career or emotional life? Do you want to change your negative patterns or habits permanently? Ready for deep healing of old hurts or letting go of past issues? I not only provide a safe space for you to uncover and heal but also can help you release any physical, mental and spiritual blocks in your life through counselling, trauma recovery, hypnotherapy and reiki. I believe that you have the strength not just to survive, but to truly thrive, let me support you in taking your power back and transforming your life.
Are you at a crossroads in your career or emotional life? Do you want to change your negative patterns or habits permanently? Ready for deep healing of old hurts or letting go of past issues? I not only provide a safe space for you to uncover and heal but also can help you release any physical, mental and spiritual blocks in your life through counselling, trauma recovery, hypnotherapy and reiki. I believe that you have the strength not just to survive, but to truly thrive, let me support you in taking your power back and transforming your life.
(02) 4214 4922 View (02) 4214 4922
Photo of Wilfred Lax, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
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

See more therapy options for Chatswood

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.