Hypnotherapists in Bristol

Photo of Sarah Avenell - The Bristol Hypnotherapy Clinic, Counsellor, MBACP
The Bristol Hypnotherapy Clinic
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
Welcome to the Bristol Hypnotherapy Clinic!
By being open to the process of hypnotherapy, you can make life changing transformation. You may feel that most of you wants to be less fearful, less anxious or stop that habit etc, but that another “part” is stopping you from achieving that. We simply use trance to speak to that “other part” so that all of you can safely move forward in the right direction.
Welcome to the Bristol Hypnotherapy Clinic!
By being open to the process of hypnotherapy, you can make life changing transformation. You may feel that most of you wants to be less fearful, less anxious or stop that habit etc, but that another “part” is stopping you from achieving that. We simply use trance to speak to that “other part” so that all of you can safely move forward in the right direction.
01572 494673 View 01572 494673
Photo of Francesca Sciandra, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Francesca Sciandra
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Bristol BS2
Even when you’re thoughtful and self-aware, certain patterns can continue to shape your relationships in ways that don’t feel good. You may find yourself cycling through the same reactions, fears, or dynamics, leading to conflict, distance, or not feeling fully met. You might be carrying pain from childhood, navigating stress or anxiety, or facing challenges around intimacy or sexuality. You’re seeking more than insight—you want real change. Ultimately, you want relationships where you feel emotionally secure, connected, and confident.
Even when you’re thoughtful and self-aware, certain patterns can continue to shape your relationships in ways that don’t feel good. You may find yourself cycling through the same reactions, fears, or dynamics, leading to conflict, distance, or not feeling fully met. You might be carrying pain from childhood, navigating stress or anxiety, or facing challenges around intimacy or sexuality. You’re seeking more than insight—you want real change. Ultimately, you want relationships where you feel emotionally secure, connected, and confident.
020 3838 0861 View 020 3838 0861
Photo of Sarah Clothier, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Sarah Clothier
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Bristol BS6
Hi, I am a caring, fully qualified integrative therapeutic counsellor, experienced in supporting adults, children, and young people with a range of emotional challenges. I provide a safe and supportive space to explore the root causes of your feelings, whether you’re facing anxiety, stress, low mood, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, grief, or life changes. For young people, this may also include school pressures, exam stress, friendships or big emotions. These challenges can leave us struggling to cope, and together, we can make sense of your feelings and find positive ways forward.
Hi, I am a caring, fully qualified integrative therapeutic counsellor, experienced in supporting adults, children, and young people with a range of emotional challenges. I provide a safe and supportive space to explore the root causes of your feelings, whether you’re facing anxiety, stress, low mood, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, grief, or life changes. For young people, this may also include school pressures, exam stress, friendships or big emotions. These challenges can leave us struggling to cope, and together, we can make sense of your feelings and find positive ways forward.
0117 463 5025 View 0117 463 5025
Photo of Duncan E. Stafford, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Duncan E. Stafford
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Bristol BS1
Welcome. During the 25 years I've been in practice I've come to think of my way of working with individuals and couples as creating a unique space that is facilitating for recovery or growth. I draw on a wide range of techniques and approaches to fulfil this way of working. Psychotherapy and counselling with me is a confidential and non-judgemental process. I won’t tell you what to do but we will talk about whatever you need to and we will work on ways of developing a useful route through your issues, however difficult. (My practice is neurodiverse informed and kink friendly). I am the founder of Attention Allies therapist for ADHD.
Welcome. During the 25 years I've been in practice I've come to think of my way of working with individuals and couples as creating a unique space that is facilitating for recovery or growth. I draw on a wide range of techniques and approaches to fulfil this way of working. Psychotherapy and counselling with me is a confidential and non-judgemental process. I won’t tell you what to do but we will talk about whatever you need to and we will work on ways of developing a useful route through your issues, however difficult. (My practice is neurodiverse informed and kink friendly). I am the founder of Attention Allies therapist for ADHD.
0117 325 3080 View 0117 325 3080
Photo of Jane Gurney - Full Circle Counselling, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Full Circle Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS20
I achieve this by providing counselling/ hypnotherapy & ADHD support in a neutrally safe space; I listen to your concerns and customise to suit individual needs.
As a Counsellor I use techniques from the Person Centred, Gestalt & Transactional Analysis approaches within a recognised framework, I love to work creatively too. As a Hypnotherapist I offer the "Rewind/Reframe" technique for phobias, trauma & PTSD. I am also an ADHD Practitioner.
I achieve this by providing counselling/ hypnotherapy & ADHD support in a neutrally safe space; I listen to your concerns and customise to suit individual needs.
As a Counsellor I use techniques from the Person Centred, Gestalt & Transactional Analysis approaches within a recognised framework, I love to work creatively too. As a Hypnotherapist I offer the "Rewind/Reframe" technique for phobias, trauma & PTSD. I am also an ADHD Practitioner.
0117 325 2304 View 0117 325 2304
Photo of Daniel Fryer, Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Daniel Fryer
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use CBT, particularly REBT, alongside clinical hypnotherapy.
Anxiety, stress and burnout can creep up slowly — until they start to take over. You may feel constantly on edge, mentally exhausted, stuck in worry, or unable to switch off. Sleep suffers, confidence dips, work feels heavier and life feels harder than it used to. If this sounds familiar, you’re not failing — you’re overwhelmed. I specialise in helping adults manage anxiety disorders, chronic stress and burnout, and in supporting people whose physical symptoms or chronic pain are intensified by stress and anxiety. Many of my clients are capable, high-functioning people who have reached a point where coping alone no longer works.
I use CBT, particularly REBT, alongside clinical hypnotherapy.
Anxiety, stress and burnout can creep up slowly — until they start to take over. You may feel constantly on edge, mentally exhausted, stuck in worry, or unable to switch off. Sleep suffers, confidence dips, work feels heavier and life feels harder than it used to. If this sounds familiar, you’re not failing — you’re overwhelmed. I specialise in helping adults manage anxiety disorders, chronic stress and burnout, and in supporting people whose physical symptoms or chronic pain are intensified by stress and anxiety. Many of my clients are capable, high-functioning people who have reached a point where coping alone no longer works.
0117 325 6775 View 0117 325 6775
Photo of Jessica Dalgic, Psychotherapist
Jessica Dalgic
Psychotherapist
Bristol BS16
I offer hypnotherapy and integrative therapy, gently shaped around you.
Are you navigating anxiety, burnout, or feeling stuck in some way? I work alongside you with warmth, honesty, and care, offering empathy alongside gentle challenge to help bring awareness to what may feel hidden or difficult to reach. Informed by lived experience and years of working with diverse communities, I approach therapy without assumptions. My work is grounded in justice, integrity, creativity, and nurture, supporting not only personal growth but deeper connection to yourself, others, and the world around you.
I offer hypnotherapy and integrative therapy, gently shaped around you.
Are you navigating anxiety, burnout, or feeling stuck in some way? I work alongside you with warmth, honesty, and care, offering empathy alongside gentle challenge to help bring awareness to what may feel hidden or difficult to reach. Informed by lived experience and years of working with diverse communities, I approach therapy without assumptions. My work is grounded in justice, integrity, creativity, and nurture, supporting not only personal growth but deeper connection to yourself, others, and the world around you.
0117 463 8558 View 0117 463 8558
Photo of Simone Passos, Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Simone Passos
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Bristol BS2
Seeking therapy is an act of courage and self-care. You don't need a diagnosis to benefit from therapy with a psychologist; that's a common myth. Therapy isn't just for crises; it's also a powerful tool for growth, clarity, and emotional well-being. I work with people facing anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, and everyday stress. In a safe and confidential space, we explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Using evidence-based approaches, I help you gain insights, develop coping skills, and create meaningful and lasting change.
Seeking therapy is an act of courage and self-care. You don't need a diagnosis to benefit from therapy with a psychologist; that's a common myth. Therapy isn't just for crises; it's also a powerful tool for growth, clarity, and emotional well-being. I work with people facing anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, and everyday stress. In a safe and confidential space, we explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Using evidence-based approaches, I help you gain insights, develop coping skills, and create meaningful and lasting change.
0117 456 5092 View 0117 456 5092
Photo of Stuart Melvin, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Stuart Melvin
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS10
I work with adults and adolescents in the Bristol area and online, using evidenced based treatments like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy to support change with the above conditions using a solution focused approach where you will feel valued and understood.
Bristol and online Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, (CBT), Psychotherapist/Hypnotherapist. 30 years of experience working with adults and adolescents in the NHS (CAMHS) and other settings. I will make sure you feel valued and understood to address the issues you want to explore. My specialisms are working with adults and adolescents who need support with common presenting problems such as Anxiety, Trauma , Phobias, Social Anxiety, Emotionally Based School Avoidance, Depression, Stress management, Panic Attacks, OCD and Addictions amongst many other life challenges. ( ADHD and ASC support is also available when requested)
I work with adults and adolescents in the Bristol area and online, using evidenced based treatments like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy to support change with the above conditions using a solution focused approach where you will feel valued and understood.
Bristol and online Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, (CBT), Psychotherapist/Hypnotherapist. 30 years of experience working with adults and adolescents in the NHS (CAMHS) and other settings. I will make sure you feel valued and understood to address the issues you want to explore. My specialisms are working with adults and adolescents who need support with common presenting problems such as Anxiety, Trauma , Phobias, Social Anxiety, Emotionally Based School Avoidance, Depression, Stress management, Panic Attacks, OCD and Addictions amongst many other life challenges. ( ADHD and ASC support is also available when requested)
0117 463 7360 View 0117 463 7360
Photo of Monica Stanescu, Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Monica Stanescu
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Online Only
My specialized approach, blending counselling, psychotherapy, and cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy, is designed for anyone seeking significant emotional and mental transformation.
My interest in psychology and therapeutical approaches sparked about twenty years ago. Going through various adverse childhood experiences, being surrounded by unhealthy behaviours, and displaying unhealthy behaviours, understanding the mind and behaviours become something of high interest. Hence, I went to study psychology. Years later, after much academic training and personal development, I understand that growing is a process that takes time and effort. Still, we can learn to manage it if we become curious about ourselves. Feeling safe and contained with our therapist is essential for our transformative process.
My specialized approach, blending counselling, psychotherapy, and cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy, is designed for anyone seeking significant emotional and mental transformation.
My interest in psychology and therapeutical approaches sparked about twenty years ago. Going through various adverse childhood experiences, being surrounded by unhealthy behaviours, and displaying unhealthy behaviours, understanding the mind and behaviours become something of high interest. Hence, I went to study psychology. Years later, after much academic training and personal development, I understand that growing is a process that takes time and effort. Still, we can learn to manage it if we become curious about ourselves. Feeling safe and contained with our therapist is essential for our transformative process.
0117 463 9741 View 0117 463 9741
Photo of Lewis James Cooksley, Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Lewis James Cooksley
Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Bristol BS16
I am able to help clients with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety and depression, confidence, self esteem, self worth, and relationship issues. I work on a weekly basis from my home or online. I work with individual adults on a one to one basis. I offer a space free of judgement where you are put at the centre of all that we do. The process is lead by you and I join you alongside your journey, never leading, but following alongside you.
I am able to help clients with a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety and depression, confidence, self esteem, self worth, and relationship issues. I work on a weekly basis from my home or online. I work with individual adults on a one to one basis. I offer a space free of judgement where you are put at the centre of all that we do. The process is lead by you and I join you alongside your journey, never leading, but following alongside you.
01454 802788 View 01454 802788
Photo of Tracy Walker - InReach Therapy Bristol, MA
InReach Therapy Bristol
Verified Verified
Bristol BS14
I offer an integrative approach to therapy using a range of therapeutic field and techniques tailored to differing needs and preferences; no one size fits all at InReach Therapy! I work imaginatively and collaboratively with you building a therapy that honours you and your circumstances. I have experience working with addictive behaviours and thought patterns, depression, anxiety, self esteem, big life changes/transitions/stages of life issues and bereavement/loss. I offer a free 30 minute online session where we can discuss what you want from therapy and decide if we want to work together on this.
I offer an integrative approach to therapy using a range of therapeutic field and techniques tailored to differing needs and preferences; no one size fits all at InReach Therapy! I work imaginatively and collaboratively with you building a therapy that honours you and your circumstances. I have experience working with addictive behaviours and thought patterns, depression, anxiety, self esteem, big life changes/transitions/stages of life issues and bereavement/loss. I offer a free 30 minute online session where we can discuss what you want from therapy and decide if we want to work together on this.
01225 435193 View 01225 435193
Photo of Sandra Elizabeth Wilson - Sandra Wilson Clinical Hypnotherapy, MSc
Hypnotherapy is a powerful calming therapy that helps you to change how you feel about yourself and your life.
Hi, I'm Sandra, a Clinical Hypnotherapist/psychotherapist who specialises in working with women going through peri/menopause. If you are struggling with poor sleep, hot flushes, anxiety and brain fog - which is impacting your ability to do your job or care for family - do get in touch! You might not find HRT useful or prefer not to take it. Menopause symptoms can leave you feeling pretty rubbish about yourself, wishing you could recapture the energy and focus you once had. Maybe you are in a professional role that you struggle to perform in? Or you worry that you are less attractive. Maybe you are in danger of midlife burnout?
Hypnotherapy is a powerful calming therapy that helps you to change how you feel about yourself and your life.
Hi, I'm Sandra, a Clinical Hypnotherapist/psychotherapist who specialises in working with women going through peri/menopause. If you are struggling with poor sleep, hot flushes, anxiety and brain fog - which is impacting your ability to do your job or care for family - do get in touch! You might not find HRT useful or prefer not to take it. Menopause symptoms can leave you feeling pretty rubbish about yourself, wishing you could recapture the energy and focus you once had. Maybe you are in a professional role that you struggle to perform in? Or you worry that you are less attractive. Maybe you are in danger of midlife burnout?
0117 325 5737 View 0117 325 5737
Photo of Sally Ellis, Counsellor, BACP
Sally Ellis
Counsellor, BACP
Bristol BS8
Counselling Supervision as well as Face to face, Online via Zoom, or telephone Counselling and Hypnotherapy Sessions I also have a personal Therapy Room available for face to face sessions, and I can offer home visits if this is necessary, if you would like to discuss your personal requirements please message me and I will try to accomodate.
I'm a qualified counsellor, Supervisor & hypnotherapist working with individuals and couples, I work with Neurodivergence, LGBTQAI+ community, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships/Family difficulties, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Abuse, Grief, Life changes/ Transitions. I offer a confidential, safe space for you to explore a variety of issues. I aim to develop a trusting relationship which is non-judgemental and wholly accepting you and your own way of navigating life. I am an integrative counsellor working from a person centred core .
Counselling Supervision as well as Face to face, Online via Zoom, or telephone Counselling and Hypnotherapy Sessions I also have a personal Therapy Room available for face to face sessions, and I can offer home visits if this is necessary, if you would like to discuss your personal requirements please message me and I will try to accomodate.
I'm a qualified counsellor, Supervisor & hypnotherapist working with individuals and couples, I work with Neurodivergence, LGBTQAI+ community, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships/Family difficulties, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Abuse, Grief, Life changes/ Transitions. I offer a confidential, safe space for you to explore a variety of issues. I aim to develop a trusting relationship which is non-judgemental and wholly accepting you and your own way of navigating life. I am an integrative counsellor working from a person centred core .
0117 456 5379 View 0117 456 5379
Photo of Jenny Morgan, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Jenny Morgan
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS6
Hello, I'm Jenny, an accredited CBT/REBT therapist based in Bristol, working in-person and online. My approach to providing therapy is to focus on equipping my clients to achieve their goals, and I'm a big believer in people’s ability to change their own situations once they're supported in doing so. I see my job as being to help my clients see the power and agency they have over how they experience their lives, where many feel stuck, helpless, or like 'victims of circumstance'. I'm especially interested in working with anxiety, phobias, and anger.
Hello, I'm Jenny, an accredited CBT/REBT therapist based in Bristol, working in-person and online. My approach to providing therapy is to focus on equipping my clients to achieve their goals, and I'm a big believer in people’s ability to change their own situations once they're supported in doing so. I see my job as being to help my clients see the power and agency they have over how they experience their lives, where many feel stuck, helpless, or like 'victims of circumstance'. I'm especially interested in working with anxiety, phobias, and anger.
01275 402783 View 01275 402783
Photo of Lucy Kozlowski - Dr Lucy Kozlowski, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Lucy Kozlowski
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
00 Hypnotherapy: £65
I am the Service Lead for Third Wave Psychologist, a highly specialist clinical psychology & counselling practice. My specialisms are long-term health conditions (e.g. long covid, pain, fatigue, IBS, diabetes, obesity, tics/tourettes, neurological conditions, tinnitus, hyperacusis, misophonia) & supporting people undertaking elective & cosmetic surgery. I also specialise in perinatal mental health (e.g. antenatal & postnatal depression, anxiety, IVF, parental issues) & staff & student wellbeing, including common mental health issues (e.g. stress, low mood, anger, adjustment, anxiety, trauma, bereavement & self-esteem).
00 Hypnotherapy: £65
I am the Service Lead for Third Wave Psychologist, a highly specialist clinical psychology & counselling practice. My specialisms are long-term health conditions (e.g. long covid, pain, fatigue, IBS, diabetes, obesity, tics/tourettes, neurological conditions, tinnitus, hyperacusis, misophonia) & supporting people undertaking elective & cosmetic surgery. I also specialise in perinatal mental health (e.g. antenatal & postnatal depression, anxiety, IVF, parental issues) & staff & student wellbeing, including common mental health issues (e.g. stress, low mood, anger, adjustment, anxiety, trauma, bereavement & self-esteem).
0117 456 2479 View 0117 456 2479
Photo of Sarah Jane Brown, Counsellor, MA, BACP
Sarah Jane Brown
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Bristol BS8
Are you Autistic, ADHD, queer , trans or nb? I offer compassionate integrative counselling for individuals and couples and polyamorous constellations, for a range of issues. including anxiety, depression, neurodivergence,(Autism and ADHD ) As a queer, ENM-positive, autistic Counsellor and qualified Nurse with a Masters ,Im inclusive and respectful of people's lifestyle choices. I can offer face to face counselling in Bristol or zoom sessions at the private practice. I specialise in Neurodiversity, ENM, polyamory and the intersection of alt lifestyles. I have a Master's degree in contemporary relationship studies and counselling.
Are you Autistic, ADHD, queer , trans or nb? I offer compassionate integrative counselling for individuals and couples and polyamorous constellations, for a range of issues. including anxiety, depression, neurodivergence,(Autism and ADHD ) As a queer, ENM-positive, autistic Counsellor and qualified Nurse with a Masters ,Im inclusive and respectful of people's lifestyle choices. I can offer face to face counselling in Bristol or zoom sessions at the private practice. I specialise in Neurodiversity, ENM, polyamory and the intersection of alt lifestyles. I have a Master's degree in contemporary relationship studies and counselling.
0117 463 8233 View 0117 463 8233
Photo of Kate Mortimer - Mindscape Therapies Ltd, MA
Mindscape Therapies Ltd
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
I offer clinical hypnotherapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) to children, adolescents and adults.
I am passionate about both hypnotherapy and EMDR - it's truly a privilege to support people to make progress which is often life changing! I'm continually updating my skills and as a HCPC registered occupational therapist, love working holistically and creatively, supporting your wellbeing in the broadest sense, and encouraging kindness and self compassion.
I offer clinical hypnotherapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) to children, adolescents and adults.
I am passionate about both hypnotherapy and EMDR - it's truly a privilege to support people to make progress which is often life changing! I'm continually updating my skills and as a HCPC registered occupational therapist, love working holistically and creatively, supporting your wellbeing in the broadest sense, and encouraging kindness and self compassion.
0117 463 7184 View 0117 463 7184
Photo of Lindsay Hughes, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Lindsay Hughes
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Bristol BS8
Life can sometimes feel overwhelming and it can be a struggle to cope with life’s challenges...you’re not alone. I am Lindsay, a psychotherapeutic counsellor working in Bristol, Bath and online. You may have experienced a traumatic event or experienced many years of trauma and struggling to understand your emotions. You maybe trying to manage anxiety, depression or addiction. I will listen and you will feel heard. I am a warm, down to earth and empathic counsellor, offering a safe space for you to explore whatever it is that is causing you distress. I will work with you to explore you’re feelings, heal and move forward.
Life can sometimes feel overwhelming and it can be a struggle to cope with life’s challenges...you’re not alone. I am Lindsay, a psychotherapeutic counsellor working in Bristol, Bath and online. You may have experienced a traumatic event or experienced many years of trauma and struggling to understand your emotions. You maybe trying to manage anxiety, depression or addiction. I will listen and you will feel heard. I am a warm, down to earth and empathic counsellor, offering a safe space for you to explore whatever it is that is causing you distress. I will work with you to explore you’re feelings, heal and move forward.
01225 438416 View 01225 438416
Photo of Cat Taylor-Harrison, Counsellor
Hi, I’m Cat, a registered therapist with over 15-years of experience supporting people to un-hook from the difficult thoughts, feelings and behaviours that are holding them back so they can live the life they want. Perhaps you've lost your way. You feel scared, stuck or overwhelmed by anxiety and self-doubt. Everyone around you says you have so much to offer, but you’ve lost that spark of belief and don’t know how to pull yourself out of this rut. You might have tried other therapists before, but find that nothing out there seems quite right. Well, with a solution-focused approach akin to life coaching, that's where I come in!
Hi, I’m Cat, a registered therapist with over 15-years of experience supporting people to un-hook from the difficult thoughts, feelings and behaviours that are holding them back so they can live the life they want. Perhaps you've lost your way. You feel scared, stuck or overwhelmed by anxiety and self-doubt. Everyone around you says you have so much to offer, but you’ve lost that spark of belief and don’t know how to pull yourself out of this rut. You might have tried other therapists before, but find that nothing out there seems quite right. Well, with a solution-focused approach akin to life coaching, that's where I come in!
0117 463 4772 View 0117 463 4772

See more therapy options for Bristol

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.