Hypnotherapists in Fremantle, WA

Photo of Martina Sackmann, PACFA, Counsellor
Martina Sackmann
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
Martina is a Clinical Counsellor and Clinical Hypnotherapist who brings with her a wealth of extensive experience working with families, children and teenagers through mindful connections and a person-centred approach. She places strong value around relationships and exploring therapeutic goals to facilitate motivation, improving wellbeing, growth and more fulfillment in life. Recognising that at times life can be tough, Martina utilises evidence-based therapies to support change in a safe and nurturing manner and environment including EMDR, Schema Therapy, Hypnotherapy and NLP.
Martina is a Clinical Counsellor and Clinical Hypnotherapist who brings with her a wealth of extensive experience working with families, children and teenagers through mindful connections and a person-centred approach. She places strong value around relationships and exploring therapeutic goals to facilitate motivation, improving wellbeing, growth and more fulfillment in life. Recognising that at times life can be tough, Martina utilises evidence-based therapies to support change in a safe and nurturing manner and environment including EMDR, Schema Therapy, Hypnotherapy and NLP.
(08) 6206 8339 View (08) 6206 8339
Photo of Angela Ranallo, MSc, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Ranallo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Angela Ranallo is an accredited mental health clinician and supervisor with AASW.  She is a member of Australian College of Social Work (ACSW) signifying advanced clinical practice. Angela is a Medicare Australia registered provider, a Clinical member of the Australian Association of Family Therapy (AAFT). Angela Ranallo has operated an independent counselling and family therapy service in Perth, WA since 2008.   Angela has over 26 years’ professional experience in counselling, family therapy with a focus on:
Angela Ranallo is an accredited mental health clinician and supervisor with AASW.  She is a member of Australian College of Social Work (ACSW) signifying advanced clinical practice. Angela is a Medicare Australia registered provider, a Clinical member of the Australian Association of Family Therapy (AAFT). Angela Ranallo has operated an independent counselling and family therapy service in Perth, WA since 2008.   Angela has over 26 years’ professional experience in counselling, family therapy with a focus on:
(08) 6490 9034 View (08) 6490 9034
Photo of Karin Sephton, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Karin Sephton
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
I feel passionate about assisting people to achieve positive life changes and gain lasting relief from lifelong pain and trauma. I believe that a therapist can work better with the suffering and distress of others not only through professional and ongoing theoretical training, but also with a true knowledge of themselves.
I feel passionate about assisting people to achieve positive life changes and gain lasting relief from lifelong pain and trauma. I believe that a therapist can work better with the suffering and distress of others not only through professional and ongoing theoretical training, but also with a true knowledge of themselves.
(08) 7079 4354 View (08) 7079 4354
Photo of Marilyn Louise Barton - Applecross Psychological Services, PsychD, MAPS, Psychologist
Applecross Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
I am passionate about assisting clients to understand the reasons behind their presenting issues, and help them develop strategies to manage those issues, so that they are better equipped to handle the various things that life can present. I work with children in the areas of school resistance, social skills, or bullying, as well as parenting strategies. I can assist older teenagers and young adults such issues as sexuality, abuse, difficulty with relationships, work related problems and workplace bullying. I work with adults and older adults in older lifestyle areas such as, retirement and health issues such as dementia.
I am passionate about assisting clients to understand the reasons behind their presenting issues, and help them develop strategies to manage those issues, so that they are better equipped to handle the various things that life can present. I work with children in the areas of school resistance, social skills, or bullying, as well as parenting strategies. I can assist older teenagers and young adults such issues as sexuality, abuse, difficulty with relationships, work related problems and workplace bullying. I work with adults and older adults in older lifestyle areas such as, retirement and health issues such as dementia.
(08) 9540 0718 View (08) 9540 0718

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tammy M Hatherill, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Tammy M Hatherill
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
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 Yolanda Strydom - Insightful Awakening, PACFA, Counsellor
Insightful Awakening
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sorrento, WA 6020
I offer a tailored, client-centered approach that blends psychotherapy, Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT), clinical hypnotherapy, and life coaching.
If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or seeking clarity and emotional healing, I’m here to support you. I work with a variety of presenting problems across different age groups, helping individuals navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. My goal is to help you take control of your mental and emotional well-being, so you can live a more authentic and fulfilling life. Together, we’ll unlock your potential, heal past wounds, and build the confidence you need to reach your goals
I offer a tailored, client-centered approach that blends psychotherapy, Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT), clinical hypnotherapy, and life coaching.
If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or seeking clarity and emotional healing, I’m here to support you. I work with a variety of presenting problems across different age groups, helping individuals navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. My goal is to help you take control of your mental and emotional well-being, so you can live a more authentic and fulfilling life. Together, we’ll unlock your potential, heal past wounds, and build the confidence you need to reach your goals
(08) 6206 8539 View (08) 6206 8539
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 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.
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Photo of Sabinne Barquett, MPsych, PACFA, Counsellor
Sabinne Barquett
Counsellor, MPsych, PACFA
Verified Verified
Leederville, WA 6007
She uses CBT, Mindfullness, Hypnotherapy, Jungian Therapy, Creative Visualisation and Psychodrama.
Sabinne has been leading hundreds of people in their paths of self-transformation. There has been a huge impact in these people’s lives. She has helped them to successfully overcome depression, anxiety disorders, panic, trauma (including PTSD), relationship challenges, loss and grief, suicidal ideation and self-harm, parenting conflicts, stress, eating disorders, addictions, bullying, self-esteem issues, insomnia and also assisted them with their self-awareness. During these years she has worked with all age groups, with people from different backgrounds and also in the disability field. She works with Psychotherapy and Coaching.
She uses CBT, Mindfullness, Hypnotherapy, Jungian Therapy, Creative Visualisation and Psychodrama.
Sabinne has been leading hundreds of people in their paths of self-transformation. There has been a huge impact in these people’s lives. She has helped them to successfully overcome depression, anxiety disorders, panic, trauma (including PTSD), relationship challenges, loss and grief, suicidal ideation and self-harm, parenting conflicts, stress, eating disorders, addictions, bullying, self-esteem issues, insomnia and also assisted them with their self-awareness. During these years she has worked with all age groups, with people from different backgrounds and also in the disability field. She works with Psychotherapy and Coaching.
(08) 7079 4274 View (08) 7079 4274
Photo of Leigh Milne - Leigh Milne - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Leigh Milne - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Cottesloe, WA 6011
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 Theresa Potter - Serene Solutions Counselling Services, AMHSW, Psychotherapist
Serene Solutions Counselling Services
Psychotherapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ellenbrook, WA 6069
Whether it's individual counselling, group therapy, or transformative hypnotherapy sessions, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
I'm Theresa, the driving force behind Serene Solutions Counselling Services. I've worn many hats, from social work to theology, psychotherapy, and hypnotherapy. My journey has been winding, but it's led me here, ready to be your guide to positive transformation. With a background in social work, I've been in the trenches, working with families and children, and I have equally nurtured knowledge and community in academic settings. Now, as a psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist, I combine all these experiences to offer you a comprehensive range of services.
Whether it's individual counselling, group therapy, or transformative hypnotherapy sessions, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
I'm Theresa, the driving force behind Serene Solutions Counselling Services. I've worn many hats, from social work to theology, psychotherapy, and hypnotherapy. My journey has been winding, but it's led me here, ready to be your guide to positive transformation. With a background in social work, I've been in the trenches, working with families and children, and I have equally nurtured knowledge and community in academic settings. Now, as a psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist, I combine all these experiences to offer you a comprehensive range of services.
(08) 6361 7051 View (08) 6361 7051
Photo of Jenean Walters - Inner-Truth Counselling and Psychotherapy - Jenean, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inner-Truth Counselling and Psychotherapy - Jenean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Wembley, WA 6014
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years experience. I am also an Accredited EMDR Practitioner and member of the EMDRAA. I specialise in neurobiological approaches to support resolving a wide range of mental health symptoms. I specialise in working with adolescents, youth, adults and trauma survivors including supporting repair of relational trauma. Graduating in 2003 with Masters and Diploma in Social Work. Other qualifications include Graduate Certificate in Mental Health, Certificate in Hypnotherapy, Diploma in Regression Therapy and can take spiritual informed approaches if requested.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years experience. I am also an Accredited EMDR Practitioner and member of the EMDRAA. I specialise in neurobiological approaches to support resolving a wide range of mental health symptoms. I specialise in working with adolescents, youth, adults and trauma survivors including supporting repair of relational trauma. Graduating in 2003 with Masters and Diploma in Social Work. Other qualifications include Graduate Certificate in Mental Health, Certificate in Hypnotherapy, Diploma in Regression Therapy and can take spiritual informed approaches if requested.
(08) 9515 9849 View (08) 9515 9849
Photo of Deborah Ann Hilton
Deborah Ann Hilton
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westminster, WA 6061
Clinical Hypnotherapy, Strategic Psychotherapy, and NLP can help you develop new mental processes.
Welcome! I'm Deb. Have you just had enough and want to change, to move forward, to be calm? Do you often feel overwhelmed by anxiety, as if it's happening to you and beyond your control? You're not alone—many people experience these thoughts. Anxiety is at the core of many issues and is a learned response generated from within, whether on a conscious or subconscious level. Understanding its origins isn't necessary for effective treatment. Solution-focused Clinical Hypnotherapy can help you reconnect with your unique inner resources, enabling you to leave past problems behind and embrace a more empowered future.
Clinical Hypnotherapy, Strategic Psychotherapy, and NLP can help you develop new mental processes.
Welcome! I'm Deb. Have you just had enough and want to change, to move forward, to be calm? Do you often feel overwhelmed by anxiety, as if it's happening to you and beyond your control? You're not alone—many people experience these thoughts. Anxiety is at the core of many issues and is a learned response generated from within, whether on a conscious or subconscious level. Understanding its origins isn't necessary for effective treatment. Solution-focused Clinical Hypnotherapy can help you reconnect with your unique inner resources, enabling you to leave past problems behind and embrace a more empowered future.
(08) 6206 8535 View (08) 6206 8535
Photo of Jennifer Lloyd, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Jennifer Lloyd
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Ardross, WA 6153
I am a senior Clinical Psychologist with over 40 years experience in working in Public Health, Education and in private practice with adults and older adults and people from diverse backgrounds. My special interest is in helping clients conquer their OCD symptoms. I am experienced in using ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) and I have significant experience in using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation) and Imagery Rescripting for treatment resistant OCD and other conditions.
I am a senior Clinical Psychologist with over 40 years experience in working in Public Health, Education and in private practice with adults and older adults and people from diverse backgrounds. My special interest is in helping clients conquer their OCD symptoms. I am experienced in using ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) and I have significant experience in using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation) and Imagery Rescripting for treatment resistant OCD and other conditions.
(08) 6333 0775 View (08) 6333 0775
Photo of Dr Coby Liew, PsychD, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr Coby Liew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsychD, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to my profile! I've dedicated my life to helping people of all ages and backgrounds navigate their way through life's challenges, and I do so with compassion, care, and empathy. I was born in Borneo, identify as gay, and have experience living in different countries and cultures. I offer more than ten years of clinical experience in counselling and psychotherapy, specialising in loss and grief, gender and sexuality, complex trauma and abuse, attachment issues, ASD, ADHD, personality disorders, relationship and intimacy issues, anger management, family conflicts, workplace bullying, and intercultural adjustment issues.
Welcome to my profile! I've dedicated my life to helping people of all ages and backgrounds navigate their way through life's challenges, and I do so with compassion, care, and empathy. I was born in Borneo, identify as gay, and have experience living in different countries and cultures. I offer more than ten years of clinical experience in counselling and psychotherapy, specialising in loss and grief, gender and sexuality, complex trauma and abuse, attachment issues, ASD, ADHD, personality disorders, relationship and intimacy issues, anger management, family conflicts, workplace bullying, and intercultural adjustment issues.
(03) 8595 5297 View (03) 8595 5297
Photo of Stuart Hight, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Stuart Hight
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mundaring, WA 6073
We all face challenges throughout our lives which often leave us carrying heavy burdens reducing joy and freedom. I am delighted to offer Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFSCA trained) where we shift from simply talking about our issues to making contact with our own parts and providing them a safe place for deep healing to occur. With bachelor and masters qualifications in counseling (PACFA registered) and years of professional and person experience, I am confident I can provide a safe, gentle space, for individuals and couples to truly feel seen and heard, regardless of your situation or personal history.
We all face challenges throughout our lives which often leave us carrying heavy burdens reducing joy and freedom. I am delighted to offer Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFSCA trained) where we shift from simply talking about our issues to making contact with our own parts and providing them a safe place for deep healing to occur. With bachelor and masters qualifications in counseling (PACFA registered) and years of professional and person experience, I am confident I can provide a safe, gentle space, for individuals and couples to truly feel seen and heard, regardless of your situation or personal history.
(08) 6171 2957 View (08) 6171 2957
Photo of Toni Knight
Toni Knight
Verified Verified
Online Only
You're a busy, highly achieving professional and you're getting tired. Possibly burning out. You're feeling more negative these days and you're struggling sometimes to bring your usual 'A game' to what you do. You've tried holidays, 'self care' and self-help, but nothing seems to do much to move you out of the gloom. You feel stuck. And you're worried, because this can't continue. You want to get your mojo back, continue to achieve greatly, and keep bringing the good stuff to your people. Joyfully. Your work matters, and you want to be all you can be. You want to thrive. But how do you even begin to get back to who you truly are?
You're a busy, highly achieving professional and you're getting tired. Possibly burning out. You're feeling more negative these days and you're struggling sometimes to bring your usual 'A game' to what you do. You've tried holidays, 'self care' and self-help, but nothing seems to do much to move you out of the gloom. You feel stuck. And you're worried, because this can't continue. You want to get your mojo back, continue to achieve greatly, and keep bringing the good stuff to your people. Joyfully. Your work matters, and you want to be all you can be. You want to thrive. But how do you even begin to get back to who you truly are?
(02) 4077 2834 View (02) 4077 2834
Photo of Delphine Marina - Delphine Marina, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Delphine Marina
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I am an experienced Clinical Psychotherapist, Counsellor, and Coach with a profound commitment to guiding individuals on their transformative journeys. Trained in the intricacies of Soul Centred Psychotherapy (SCP), a Jungian-based modality, I specialise in fostering a vital connection with the whole self. In the realm of SCP, I can orchestrate a delicate dance between the everyday sense of self and the myriad layers of consciousness. This therapeutic approach illuminates the internal dynamics that shape our thoughts, moods, and behaviours in both personal and interpersonal realms.
Hello, I am an experienced Clinical Psychotherapist, Counsellor, and Coach with a profound commitment to guiding individuals on their transformative journeys. Trained in the intricacies of Soul Centred Psychotherapy (SCP), a Jungian-based modality, I specialise in fostering a vital connection with the whole self. In the realm of SCP, I can orchestrate a delicate dance between the everyday sense of self and the myriad layers of consciousness. This therapeutic approach illuminates the internal dynamics that shape our thoughts, moods, and behaviours in both personal and interpersonal realms.
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Photo of Luigi C Romanelli, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luigi C Romanelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
Client "Doug" once felt trapped in cycles of trauma, afraid to open up after past rejection. Through our sessions, he broke free from old patterns, rebuilt trust, and created deeper connections. Doug found the confidence to communicate openly and reduce his anxiety. Today, he wakes up feeling calm and in control. His story shows that with the right support, real change is possible. Are you ready to take the first step? Call today to start your journey.
Client "Doug" once felt trapped in cycles of trauma, afraid to open up after past rejection. Through our sessions, he broke free from old patterns, rebuilt trust, and created deeper connections. Doug found the confidence to communicate openly and reduce his anxiety. Today, he wakes up feeling calm and in control. His story shows that with the right support, real change is possible. Are you ready to take the first step? Call today to start your journey.
(03) 6315 9073 View (03) 6315 9073
Photo of Clinton Power, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Clinton Power
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
Can you relate to either of these statements? “I’m so over hurtful relationships. I’m starting to think I’ll be single forever” "We can’t keep fighting like this. If something doesn’t change we’re headed for a breakup” If you can relate to the pain of struggling in a relationship, you’re not alone. If you’re an individual in relationship pain, I can help you overcome your past relationship hurts, understand your blocks to intimacy, and help you create a successful long-term relationship. If you’re a couple, I can help you resolve long-standing issues and rebuild the loving, intimate and harmonious relationship you once had.
Can you relate to either of these statements? “I’m so over hurtful relationships. I’m starting to think I’ll be single forever” "We can’t keep fighting like this. If something doesn’t change we’re headed for a breakup” If you can relate to the pain of struggling in a relationship, you’re not alone. If you’re an individual in relationship pain, I can help you overcome your past relationship hurts, understand your blocks to intimacy, and help you create a successful long-term relationship. If you’re a couple, I can help you resolve long-standing issues and rebuild the loving, intimate and harmonious relationship you once had.
(02) 8188 3842 View (02) 8188 3842

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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.