Hypnotherapists in Geelong, VIC

Photo of Kerri Ludlow, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Kerri Ludlow
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Geelong, VIC 3220
Through compassionate Counselling and Hypnotherapy, I empower my clients to heal from trauma, set healthy boundaries, and embrace a future filled with confidence and emotional well-being.
With 16 years of experience and lived experience, I help women recover from narcissistic abuse. I understand their struggles and use compassionate Counselling and Clinical Hypnotherapy to guide them. My skills include healing from trauma, and boosting self-esteem, empowering women to reclaim their lives and embrace emotional wellbeing.
Through compassionate Counselling and Hypnotherapy, I empower my clients to heal from trauma, set healthy boundaries, and embrace a future filled with confidence and emotional well-being.
With 16 years of experience and lived experience, I help women recover from narcissistic abuse. I understand their struggles and use compassionate Counselling and Clinical Hypnotherapy to guide them. My skills include healing from trauma, and boosting self-esteem, empowering women to reclaim their lives and embrace emotional wellbeing.
(03) 4236 7720 View (03) 4236 7720
Photo of Barbara Grace, Psychotherapist, MA
Barbara Grace
Psychotherapist, MA
Geelong, VIC 3220
Relationship troubles? Wondering if anything or anyone could help? You may be feeling alone, and doubtful - full of worry, guilt or shame at being here. But hearing more anger or blame as you withdraw emotionally only prolongs the problem & often makes things worse. It's lonely being in a relationship where the other person no longer feels 'present'. Ignoring the problems doesn't work, rather it pushes them underground where they fester. At this point you may be feeling raw, stressed, isolated, fearful or disillusioned. Tears & frustration one minute, anger the next. If rekindling love and connection is important to you, let's talk.
Relationship troubles? Wondering if anything or anyone could help? You may be feeling alone, and doubtful - full of worry, guilt or shame at being here. But hearing more anger or blame as you withdraw emotionally only prolongs the problem & often makes things worse. It's lonely being in a relationship where the other person no longer feels 'present'. Ignoring the problems doesn't work, rather it pushes them underground where they fester. At this point you may be feeling raw, stressed, isolated, fearful or disillusioned. Tears & frustration one minute, anger the next. If rekindling love and connection is important to you, let's talk.
(03) 9070 5773 View (03) 9070 5773
Photo of Elizabeth Fuentes, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Elizabeth Fuentes
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability "I am passionate about helping people live more purposeful lives. I use a warm and empathic therapist style, with a practical focus on collaboratively helping my clients move towards meaningful and achievable goals" Areas I am passionate to work with: Anxiety Disorders such as Social Phobia & Panic Disorder, Depression and Low self-esteem, Trauma and PTSD, Work/Life stressors, Self- improvement, Assertiveness and effective communication skills, Adjustment issues, Grief and loss, Interpersonal and family difficulties.
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability "I am passionate about helping people live more purposeful lives. I use a warm and empathic therapist style, with a practical focus on collaboratively helping my clients move towards meaningful and achievable goals" Areas I am passionate to work with: Anxiety Disorders such as Social Phobia & Panic Disorder, Depression and Low self-esteem, Trauma and PTSD, Work/Life stressors, Self- improvement, Assertiveness and effective communication skills, Adjustment issues, Grief and loss, Interpersonal and family difficulties.
0468 887 908 View 0468 887 908
Photo of Sarah-Jayne Duryea - Happy Minds Psychology, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Happy Minds Psychology
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Happy Minds Psychology Geelong helps you and your family to flourish by creating meaningful and sustainable positive change. The team at Happy Minds Psychology work with individuals, couples and families during the most vulnerable times in their lives, where they might be battling infertility, perinatal depression or anxiety, parenting issues, eating disorders or experiencing trauma. The team at Happy Minds know that families come in all different shapes and sizes and are comitted to inclusivity in their practice.
Happy Minds Psychology Geelong helps you and your family to flourish by creating meaningful and sustainable positive change. The team at Happy Minds Psychology work with individuals, couples and families during the most vulnerable times in their lives, where they might be battling infertility, perinatal depression or anxiety, parenting issues, eating disorders or experiencing trauma. The team at Happy Minds know that families come in all different shapes and sizes and are comitted to inclusivity in their practice.
(08) 9126 9440 View (08) 9126 9440
Photo of Anne Evans, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Anne Evans
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
My style is integrative and I draw from a range of therapies including Psychodynamic Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Somatic Therapies, Person-Centred Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy.
Feeling stuck or experiencing low mood? Constantly stressed or worried? Struggle with self-esteem or 'imposter syndrome'? Have trust or relationship issues? Want to date but lack confidence? Feel depleted by the people in your life? Want to make a change but do not know how or where to start? Or simply want to talk to someone and not feel judged? I support clients experiencing a range of mental health challenges from depression, anxiety and trauma through to emotional difficulties, relationship and dating struggles, navigating grief and loss as well as a range of life challenges and transitions.
My style is integrative and I draw from a range of therapies including Psychodynamic Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Somatic Therapies, Person-Centred Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy.
Feeling stuck or experiencing low mood? Constantly stressed or worried? Struggle with self-esteem or 'imposter syndrome'? Have trust or relationship issues? Want to date but lack confidence? Feel depleted by the people in your life? Want to make a change but do not know how or where to start? Or simply want to talk to someone and not feel judged? I support clients experiencing a range of mental health challenges from depression, anxiety and trauma through to emotional difficulties, relationship and dating struggles, navigating grief and loss as well as a range of life challenges and transitions.
(02) 5662 2110 View (02) 5662 2110
Photo of Deirdre Rolfe - CounsellorOnCall, Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
CounsellorOnCall
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Trauma isn’t the events in the past it’s the adaptogens you learned in survival mode . Addictions, abusive relationships, anxiety, depression, people pleasing , and negative patterns , thoughts or beliefs . I have a lived trauma experience and focus on the solutions or new adaptogens that rewire your brain and calms your nervous system . With extensive training and 30 yrs professional experience in Jungian Psychology, EMDR, Flash, Havening, NLP, DBT, ACT ,CBT, Psychodynamic , somatic, & Clinical Hypnosis , I’m solutions focused in behavioural change and encourage the Neuro plasticity abilities of your brain to heal thy self!
Trauma isn’t the events in the past it’s the adaptogens you learned in survival mode . Addictions, abusive relationships, anxiety, depression, people pleasing , and negative patterns , thoughts or beliefs . I have a lived trauma experience and focus on the solutions or new adaptogens that rewire your brain and calms your nervous system . With extensive training and 30 yrs professional experience in Jungian Psychology, EMDR, Flash, Havening, NLP, DBT, ACT ,CBT, Psychodynamic , somatic, & Clinical Hypnosis , I’m solutions focused in behavioural change and encourage the Neuro plasticity abilities of your brain to heal thy self!
(03) 4422 4813 View (03) 4422 4813
Photo of Lucy Goode, Psychologist, MPsych, FAPS
Lucy Goode
Psychologist, MPsych, FAPS
Serves Area
Hello, I'm Lucy, a senior clinical psychologist with a wealth of training and experience working with diverse presentations, such as: anxiety, depression, parenting, behavioural problems, burnout, perfectionism, stage-of-life challenges, self-esteem, individuation, confidence, assertiveness, trauma, complex PTSD, attachment issues, relationship difficulties, emotional neglect, grief and loss, adjustment and coping with change, learning difficulties and differences, school and academic issues, bullying, neurodiversity (eg. ASD and ADHD), social skills, relationship difficulties, self-harm, suicidal ideation, work and career problems.
Hello, I'm Lucy, a senior clinical psychologist with a wealth of training and experience working with diverse presentations, such as: anxiety, depression, parenting, behavioural problems, burnout, perfectionism, stage-of-life challenges, self-esteem, individuation, confidence, assertiveness, trauma, complex PTSD, attachment issues, relationship difficulties, emotional neglect, grief and loss, adjustment and coping with change, learning difficulties and differences, school and academic issues, bullying, neurodiversity (eg. ASD and ADHD), social skills, relationship difficulties, self-harm, suicidal ideation, work and career problems.
0404 629 219 View 0404 629 219
Photo of Clare Barrett, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Clare Barrett
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
My multi modal Psychotherapy includes parts therapy (IFS) expressive therapies, CBT, trauma informed therapy, and hypnotherapy.
I am a dedicated psychotherapist & hypnotherapist, willing & ready to work with the willing & ready. I work with all ages and genders and have a passion for working with men and with adolescents. Relationships, addictions, anxiety and stress can make life feel like a burden. If you feel the heavy weight of your situation, I am here to help you de-stress and simplify. Together we will cast light on your thinking, your emotions and behavioural patterns to create a new view. I work systemically, informed by IFS (Internal Family Systems) so we look at all your internal parts and all your external parts, for an integrated solution.
My multi modal Psychotherapy includes parts therapy (IFS) expressive therapies, CBT, trauma informed therapy, and hypnotherapy.
I am a dedicated psychotherapist & hypnotherapist, willing & ready to work with the willing & ready. I work with all ages and genders and have a passion for working with men and with adolescents. Relationships, addictions, anxiety and stress can make life feel like a burden. If you feel the heavy weight of your situation, I am here to help you de-stress and simplify. Together we will cast light on your thinking, your emotions and behavioural patterns to create a new view. I work systemically, informed by IFS (Internal Family Systems) so we look at all your internal parts and all your external parts, for an integrated solution.
(03) 4422 2033 View (03) 4422 2033
Photo of Aadhyaa Udawat, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Aadhyaa Udawat
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Online Only
Navigating the intricate landscape of mental health, I specialize in supporting adolescents, young adults, and middle-aged individuals. From attachment and trauma to anxiety, relationship challenges, career stress, grief, depression, bipolar disorder, self-harm, substance abuse, low self-esteem, ADHD, complex trauma, and BPD – I address a diverse range of concerns. With a compassionate approach, we embark on a healing journey tailored to the unique needs of each individual, fostering resilience and well-being. Together, we navigate the complexities, promoting growth and empowerment in the face of various mental health challenges.
Navigating the intricate landscape of mental health, I specialize in supporting adolescents, young adults, and middle-aged individuals. From attachment and trauma to anxiety, relationship challenges, career stress, grief, depression, bipolar disorder, self-harm, substance abuse, low self-esteem, ADHD, complex trauma, and BPD – I address a diverse range of concerns. With a compassionate approach, we embark on a healing journey tailored to the unique needs of each individual, fostering resilience and well-being. Together, we navigate the complexities, promoting growth and empowerment in the face of various mental health challenges.
(03) 7003 2119 View (03) 7003 2119

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ramona Lever - The Couples Coach, Counsellor, ACA-L4
The Couples Coach
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Hoppers Crossing, VIC 3029
I use: NLP, hypnotherapy, inner child work, Positive psychology, Neuroscience and lots of mindset techniques that really work.
Hi, I'm Ramona. I offer Couples Coaching - Relationship counselling - Pre marital counselling - Marriage counselling in Hoppers Crossing. Vic. Face to face sessions. Book in your initial session to see if you feel comfortable working with me.
I use: NLP, hypnotherapy, inner child work, Positive psychology, Neuroscience and lots of mindset techniques that really work.
Hi, I'm Ramona. I offer Couples Coaching - Relationship counselling - Pre marital counselling - Marriage counselling in Hoppers Crossing. Vic. Face to face sessions. Book in your initial session to see if you feel comfortable working with me.
(03) 7302 8306 View (03) 7302 8306
Photo of Kavita Kaur - Bridge Your Mind Counselling & Clin Hypnotherapy, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Greetings! I believe that counselling and clinical hypnotherapy can help us overcome our challenges, thus achieving our full potential. I offer evidence based strategies & have a unique perspective, having had international experience working with clients. I also have degrees in psychology & counselling respectively, and a diploma in clinical hypnotherapy, a modality I incorporate if need be. This is something that I have personally benefitted from & clients always give amazing feedback after having experienced the positive changes that hypnotherapy brings about. I'm qualified in seeing kids age 5 onwards, adults & couples.
Greetings! I believe that counselling and clinical hypnotherapy can help us overcome our challenges, thus achieving our full potential. I offer evidence based strategies & have a unique perspective, having had international experience working with clients. I also have degrees in psychology & counselling respectively, and a diploma in clinical hypnotherapy, a modality I incorporate if need be. This is something that I have personally benefitted from & clients always give amazing feedback after having experienced the positive changes that hypnotherapy brings about. I'm qualified in seeing kids age 5 onwards, adults & couples.
(03) 7302 2812 View (03) 7302 2812
Photo of Jennifer Castledine, Social Worker, AMHSW
Jennifer Castledine
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
So many people feel lonely and disconnected. This can have many causes - childhood trauma, bullying, there are numerous factors. This results in anxiety, depression, sometimes suicidal thoughts. I value people beginning to see their own self worth, to recover from anxiety, depression trauma, whatever has caused them problems. Wonderful to see people starting to cope better with life, to become fully alive and be able to have meaningful relationships. Whatever is causing you suffering doesn't need to continue, do the work and start to recover.
So many people feel lonely and disconnected. This can have many causes - childhood trauma, bullying, there are numerous factors. This results in anxiety, depression, sometimes suicidal thoughts. I value people beginning to see their own self worth, to recover from anxiety, depression trauma, whatever has caused them problems. Wonderful to see people starting to cope better with life, to become fully alive and be able to have meaningful relationships. Whatever is causing you suffering doesn't need to continue, do the work and start to recover.
(03) 6118 7103 View (03) 6118 7103
Photo of Belinda Hulstrom, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Belinda Hulstrom
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
My additional specialist training in Clinical Hypnotherapy enables me to offer clients the opportunity to use hypnosis as well as more traditional counselling methods in our sessions often with more rapid and lasting outcomes.
I have trained in a variety of counselling methods and tend to favour brief, solution-focused approaches designed to help you move forward so that you can lead a life that works. Over the years I have worked with a wide range of people of all ages from 8 to 80 and from all walks of life and I can probably help you with just about any personal, lifestyle or professional issue that is troubling you.
My additional specialist training in Clinical Hypnotherapy enables me to offer clients the opportunity to use hypnosis as well as more traditional counselling methods in our sessions often with more rapid and lasting outcomes.
I have trained in a variety of counselling methods and tend to favour brief, solution-focused approaches designed to help you move forward so that you can lead a life that works. Over the years I have worked with a wide range of people of all ages from 8 to 80 and from all walks of life and I can probably help you with just about any personal, lifestyle or professional issue that is troubling you.
(03) 6120 6312 View (03) 6120 6312

Online Therapists

Photo of Susan Wilder, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Susan Wilder
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Cowes, VIC 3922
I am certified in clinical hypnotherapy and use it as a modality in treating addiction, anxiety and phobias.
Hello, my name is Susan Wilder and I am a dedicated and empathetic counsellor providing in-person support for adolescents, adults, couples and families in Cowes (Phillip Island/Bass Coast). Are you looking for a kind and gentle therapist for yourself or family member? Specialist services include; anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, family violence, trauma and neurodiversity. NDIS participants are supported to meet their plan goals through counselling.
I am certified in clinical hypnotherapy and use it as a modality in treating addiction, anxiety and phobias.
Hello, my name is Susan Wilder and I am a dedicated and empathetic counsellor providing in-person support for adolescents, adults, couples and families in Cowes (Phillip Island/Bass Coast). Are you looking for a kind and gentle therapist for yourself or family member? Specialist services include; anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, family violence, trauma and neurodiversity. NDIS participants are supported to meet their plan goals through counselling.
(03) 5614 8362 View (03) 5614 8362
Photo of Cherie Dalton, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Cherie Dalton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Malvern, VIC 3144
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years experience providing psychotherapy to clients in private practice. I view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership between client and therapist, and feel it is paramount for successful outcomes in therapy. My process is to identify the problems that you bring and the psychological barriers that have inhibited you from moving forward. My approach is compassionate and insight-oriented whilst incorporating practical strategies that can be utilised in your daily life. I have been trained in CBT, psychodynamic psychotherapy, ACT/mindfulness & clinical hypnosis.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years experience providing psychotherapy to clients in private practice. I view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership between client and therapist, and feel it is paramount for successful outcomes in therapy. My process is to identify the problems that you bring and the psychological barriers that have inhibited you from moving forward. My approach is compassionate and insight-oriented whilst incorporating practical strategies that can be utilised in your daily life. I have been trained in CBT, psychodynamic psychotherapy, ACT/mindfulness & clinical hypnosis.
(03) 9068 6015 View (03) 9068 6015
Photo of Helen Killmier - Guidestar, Psychologist, MAPS
Helen Killmier - Guidestar
Psychologist, MAPS
Coburg, VIC 3058
Guidestar provides a safe space for confidential psychology, counselling, assessment and support services for children, adolescents and adults. We are neurodiverse affirming, Rainbow Tick accredited and a safe space for the LGBTIQA+ community. Our psychologists are registered with the AHPRA and are members of the APS or AAPi. Each psychologist has a different focus and approach; review the profiles of our psychologists on our website.
Guidestar provides a safe space for confidential psychology, counselling, assessment and support services for children, adolescents and adults. We are neurodiverse affirming, Rainbow Tick accredited and a safe space for the LGBTIQA+ community. Our psychologists are registered with the AHPRA and are members of the APS or AAPi. Each psychologist has a different focus and approach; review the profiles of our psychologists on our website.
(03) 9070 5239 View (03) 9070 5239
Photo of Irene Evangelou, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Irene Evangelou
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stressed or struggling with people-pleasing, perfectionism, and lacking boundaries? Do you tend to overthink and plan out everything in your life, and to self-isolate and avoid certain situations?​ Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Now more than ever, people are anxious, self-sabotaging and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your anxiety and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe it shouldnʼt be so hard to live a calm, confident life.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stressed or struggling with people-pleasing, perfectionism, and lacking boundaries? Do you tend to overthink and plan out everything in your life, and to self-isolate and avoid certain situations?​ Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Now more than ever, people are anxious, self-sabotaging and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your anxiety and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe it shouldnʼt be so hard to live a calm, confident life.
(03) 8797 5008 View (03) 8797 5008
Photo of Monika Polemicos
Monika Polemicos
Verified Verified
Online Only
Our Programs have won us awards for Clinical Hypnotherapy & Psychotherapy Practice of the Year 2024 - Victoria, and Most Transformative Hypnotherapist Melbourne.
Has traditional ‘talk therapy’ not completely worked? Maybe you have an understanding of anxiety triggers but lack the strategy for stopping it. Frustrated with feelings of dread, edginess, lack deep sleep, worry, panic coming out of nowhere, exhaustion, reduced productivity at work, irritability, emotional outbursts, crying, anger, feeling inadequate. Thankfully you dont have to put up with it. You can work with an award winning Anxiety Relief S.P.E.C.I.A.L.I.S.T who will take you through a step by step process, teaching you the tools to be free from anxiety and panic.
Our Programs have won us awards for Clinical Hypnotherapy & Psychotherapy Practice of the Year 2024 - Victoria, and Most Transformative Hypnotherapist Melbourne.
Has traditional ‘talk therapy’ not completely worked? Maybe you have an understanding of anxiety triggers but lack the strategy for stopping it. Frustrated with feelings of dread, edginess, lack deep sleep, worry, panic coming out of nowhere, exhaustion, reduced productivity at work, irritability, emotional outbursts, crying, anger, feeling inadequate. Thankfully you dont have to put up with it. You can work with an award winning Anxiety Relief S.P.E.C.I.A.L.I.S.T who will take you through a step by step process, teaching you the tools to be free from anxiety and panic.
(03) 8372 0463 View (03) 8372 0463
Photo of Mona Shafique - Mind Therapy Psychotherapeutic Services, Social Worker, AMHSW
Mind Therapy Psychotherapeutic Services
Social Worker, AMHSW
Fawkner, VIC 3060
Immediate Openings Available - Medicare Bulk Billed. Face to face + telehealth. Cognitive Behavioural, Mindfulness, Emotional Focused Therapy & more. I work from the belief that the therapeutic relationship is built on trust, acceptance, validation and understanding. My purpose is to get you unstuck, confident, emotionally intelligent and not afraid to face life. I am passionate about working with Individuals, Adolescents & Couples facilitating meaningful and lasting change. I take pride in my ability to connect in a genuine way with a variety of clients and tailor my approach to best respect each person's potential, strengths.
Immediate Openings Available - Medicare Bulk Billed. Face to face + telehealth. Cognitive Behavioural, Mindfulness, Emotional Focused Therapy & more. I work from the belief that the therapeutic relationship is built on trust, acceptance, validation and understanding. My purpose is to get you unstuck, confident, emotionally intelligent and not afraid to face life. I am passionate about working with Individuals, Adolescents & Couples facilitating meaningful and lasting change. I take pride in my ability to connect in a genuine way with a variety of clients and tailor my approach to best respect each person's potential, strengths.
(03) 7302 2111 View (03) 7302 2111
Photo of John Windschuttle, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
John Windschuttle
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L2
Online Only
I use a range of psychotherapies to support clients, including trauma focused therapies such as the Flash Technique, EMDR, and EFT, in addition to Deep Looking (parts work), Hypnotherapy and CBT.
I am a compassionate and experienced psychotherapist and counsellor providing an unconditionally accepting space for my clients. I work with a broad range of issues including trauma (complex PTSD and PTSD), difficult emotional or mental patterns, anxiety, chronic illness, relationship issues and low self esteem.
I use a range of psychotherapies to support clients, including trauma focused therapies such as the Flash Technique, EMDR, and EFT, in addition to Deep Looking (parts work), Hypnotherapy and CBT.
I am a compassionate and experienced psychotherapist and counsellor providing an unconditionally accepting space for my clients. I work with a broad range of issues including trauma (complex PTSD and PTSD), difficult emotional or mental patterns, anxiety, chronic illness, relationship issues and low self esteem.
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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.