Hypnotherapists in Chesterfield, ENG

Photo of Tracey Adams, Psychotherapist in Chesterfield, England
Tracey Adams
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield S40
Hi I am a UKCP accredited psychotherapist and clinical supervisor working in the Derby area. I have over 30 years experience working within Forensic and Mental Health Services both within the public and voluntary sector including Civil Service and the NHS. I hold an MSc in Integrative Psychotherapy however I have extensive CPD training, which I integrate within my practice including Hypnotherapy, EMDR, Group Analysis and in more recent years with the expansion in neuroscience research I have trained in Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM).
Hi I am a UKCP accredited psychotherapist and clinical supervisor working in the Derby area. I have over 30 years experience working within Forensic and Mental Health Services both within the public and voluntary sector including Civil Service and the NHS. I hold an MSc in Integrative Psychotherapy however I have extensive CPD training, which I integrate within my practice including Hypnotherapy, EMDR, Group Analysis and in more recent years with the expansion in neuroscience research I have trained in Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM).
07889 510099 View 07889 510099
Photo of Maggie Slater, Counsellor in Chesterfield, England
Maggie Slater
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield S42
Hello, my name is Maggie, I’m a qualified counsellor, and based in Derbyshire. I specialise in working with children and adolescents, also working with adults, experiencing concerns, such as depression, anxiety, bereavement and stress. I provide a safe and confidential place for you to discuss worries and concerns and find a way to move forward. Whilst working with children/adolescents, I like to work with family, incorporating this in the sessions, by one or both parents attending some of the counselling sessions, if this is appropriate. I believe working all together can and does improve the building of a healthy relationship.
Hello, my name is Maggie, I’m a qualified counsellor, and based in Derbyshire. I specialise in working with children and adolescents, also working with adults, experiencing concerns, such as depression, anxiety, bereavement and stress. I provide a safe and confidential place for you to discuss worries and concerns and find a way to move forward. Whilst working with children/adolescents, I like to work with family, incorporating this in the sessions, by one or both parents attending some of the counselling sessions, if this is appropriate. I believe working all together can and does improve the building of a healthy relationship.
01522 440482 View 01522 440482
Photo of Claire Foulstone, Psychotherapist in Chesterfield, England
Claire Foulstone
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield S43
I am a Humanistic Integrative Psychotherapist who is trained to tailor therapy to the uniqueness of your needs. I work with you in the here and now, looking at your goals so we can work together to achieve a more effective life balance. Life can become overwhelming and stress, anxiety and depression are the body and minds way of letting you know something has to change. You may be experiencing numbness or the loss of a loved one and day to day living feels challenging. Whatever your issues may be, I offer a safe space to explore free from judgement.
I am a Humanistic Integrative Psychotherapist who is trained to tailor therapy to the uniqueness of your needs. I work with you in the here and now, looking at your goals so we can work together to achieve a more effective life balance. Life can become overwhelming and stress, anxiety and depression are the body and minds way of letting you know something has to change. You may be experiencing numbness or the loss of a loved one and day to day living feels challenging. Whatever your issues may be, I offer a safe space to explore free from judgement.
01246 387439 View 01246 387439

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Susan Ellen Draper-Todkill, Counsellor in Chesterfield, England
Susan Ellen Draper-Todkill
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG17
My normal daily routine is supporting Professional Emergency Services personnel, NHS, Police, Ambulance and Paramedics, Prison Services, Fire Service, Furloughed workers, Working from Home . CMIS (Critical Incident Stress Management) response currently using Skype , Zoom etc. Counselling and Hypnotherapy for Managing and Eliminating Stress, Anxiety, Low Mood, Alcohol Reduction, Smoking Cessation, Weight Management , Low Self Esteem, Relationship issues, Divorce, Coaching. Qualified Supervisor for Counsellors and Hypnotherapists. Supporting you through challenging times in difficult circumstances. Contact me now with your concerns
My normal daily routine is supporting Professional Emergency Services personnel, NHS, Police, Ambulance and Paramedics, Prison Services, Fire Service, Furloughed workers, Working from Home . CMIS (Critical Incident Stress Management) response currently using Skype , Zoom etc. Counselling and Hypnotherapy for Managing and Eliminating Stress, Anxiety, Low Mood, Alcohol Reduction, Smoking Cessation, Weight Management , Low Self Esteem, Relationship issues, Divorce, Coaching. Qualified Supervisor for Counsellors and Hypnotherapists. Supporting you through challenging times in difficult circumstances. Contact me now with your concerns
01623 259226 View 01623 259226
Photo of Natasha Fletcher The Anxiety Therapist, Psychotherapist in Chesterfield, England
Natasha Fletcher The Anxiety Therapist
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Mansfield NG19
Welcome. I'm Natasha I help people who struggle with anxiety and or trauma. You have a good life and lots going for you. You have supportive family and friends, but anxiety, worries and overthinking are holding you back from fully enjoying them. You want to be able to say yes to opportunities that arise, knowing that anxiety isn’t going to hold you back. Perhaps you have been putting off seeking help hoping that your problems will get better on their own or you might have been trying to manage it yourself for too long. If this sounds like you and you've found yourself fighting a battle with your own mind get in touch.
Welcome. I'm Natasha I help people who struggle with anxiety and or trauma. You have a good life and lots going for you. You have supportive family and friends, but anxiety, worries and overthinking are holding you back from fully enjoying them. You want to be able to say yes to opportunities that arise, knowing that anxiety isn’t going to hold you back. Perhaps you have been putting off seeking help hoping that your problems will get better on their own or you might have been trying to manage it yourself for too long. If this sounds like you and you've found yourself fighting a battle with your own mind get in touch.
0115 697 2373 View 0115 697 2373
Photo of Jay Keep, Psychotherapist in Chesterfield, England
Jay Keep
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Mansfield NG19
Welcome! I am a fully qualified, accredited, and experienced Counsellor Psychotherapist & Wellbeing Coach. Life can be very challenging and we can feel sad lonely, anxious, angry or numb. Maybe you are suffering from trauma, a bereavement, relationship issues or are being bullied? These are some of the issues I can help with. I will work collaboratively and confidentially with you to achieve your goals. Therapy is known to improve clarity, self-awareness, self-esteem and coping skills. I offer counselling for single, short term issues or psychotherapy for more deeper rooted issues. Text me to book a complimentary phone chat.
Welcome! I am a fully qualified, accredited, and experienced Counsellor Psychotherapist & Wellbeing Coach. Life can be very challenging and we can feel sad lonely, anxious, angry or numb. Maybe you are suffering from trauma, a bereavement, relationship issues or are being bullied? These are some of the issues I can help with. I will work collaboratively and confidentially with you to achieve your goals. Therapy is known to improve clarity, self-awareness, self-esteem and coping skills. I offer counselling for single, short term issues or psychotherapy for more deeper rooted issues. Text me to book a complimentary phone chat.
01623 572243 View 01623 572243
Photo of Jo Woodman, Counsellor in Chesterfield, England
Jo Woodman
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Cromford DE4
Hello and a warm welcome to my page. You may have started looking for a therapist because you are struggling with your feelings and are looking for better ways to cope. You may be looking for a safe space to process some life events that are happening now, or perhaps happened in the past and you've realised how much they are affecting your life now. I'm here to help and to put your mind at ease about the therapeutic healing journey. I am an integrative therapist and use many models of therapy to help build a plan to support you to achieve your therapeutic goals, build coping skills and start to thrive in life.
Hello and a warm welcome to my page. You may have started looking for a therapist because you are struggling with your feelings and are looking for better ways to cope. You may be looking for a safe space to process some life events that are happening now, or perhaps happened in the past and you've realised how much they are affecting your life now. I'm here to help and to put your mind at ease about the therapeutic healing journey. I am an integrative therapist and use many models of therapy to help build a plan to support you to achieve your therapeutic goals, build coping skills and start to thrive in life.
01773 308556 View 01773 308556
Photo of Laura Jane Johnson, Counsellor in Chesterfield, England
Laura Jane Johnson
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Kirkby in Ashfield NG17
Having experienced anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, work related stress, family difficulties, loss, shame, abuse and grief myself, I understand how overwhelming these things can feel. I know how they can affect your life. I know how daunting it can feel seeking support through counselling. Whatever your reason is for seeking a support, as a friendly and approachable person, I aim to provide you with non-judgmental, empathetic and supportive space to fully explore your situation and to help you understand your thoughts and feelings so that together we can work through any difficulties you are experiencing.
Having experienced anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, work related stress, family difficulties, loss, shame, abuse and grief myself, I understand how overwhelming these things can feel. I know how they can affect your life. I know how daunting it can feel seeking support through counselling. Whatever your reason is for seeking a support, as a friendly and approachable person, I aim to provide you with non-judgmental, empathetic and supportive space to fully explore your situation and to help you understand your thoughts and feelings so that together we can work through any difficulties you are experiencing.
01623 700556 View 01623 700556
Photo of Sheffield Wellness Centre, Counsellor in Chesterfield, England
Sheffield Wellness Centre
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sheffield S7
Most people haven't had any kind of therapy before and it can be a bit daunting to know where to start. There are over 40 therapists based at the Sheffield Wellness Centre and my job as practice manager is to help you find the perfect person to help you achieve your desired outcome. The first step is to get in touch to arrange a no obligation discovery call. This is ideal if you don't even know what kind of therapy might suit you. I won't use any jargon and will talk you through the pros and cons of the different therapies so you can make an informed choice rather than selecting a therapist at random and hoping for the best.
Most people haven't had any kind of therapy before and it can be a bit daunting to know where to start. There are over 40 therapists based at the Sheffield Wellness Centre and my job as practice manager is to help you find the perfect person to help you achieve your desired outcome. The first step is to get in touch to arrange a no obligation discovery call. This is ideal if you don't even know what kind of therapy might suit you. I won't use any jargon and will talk you through the pros and cons of the different therapies so you can make an informed choice rather than selecting a therapist at random and hoping for the best.
0114 697 2974 View 0114 697 2974

Online Therapists

Photo of Great Minds Clinic, Psychotherapist in Chesterfield, England
Great Minds Clinic
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Altrincham WA15
Hello ! Thank you for viewing this profile. I provide solution focused hypnotherapy and integrative counselling, EFT & NLP, helping you with confidence, self-esteem and positivity. Tackling anxiety, phobias, depression, weight management and more. I offer a free initial consultation which can be booked at www.greatmindsclinic.co.uk and choose 'book now' from the top of the screen. .
Hello ! Thank you for viewing this profile. I provide solution focused hypnotherapy and integrative counselling, EFT & NLP, helping you with confidence, self-esteem and positivity. Tackling anxiety, phobias, depression, weight management and more. I offer a free initial consultation which can be booked at www.greatmindsclinic.co.uk and choose 'book now' from the top of the screen. .
07723 477486 View 07723 477486
Photo of Reflections Counselling, Counsellor in Chesterfield, England
Reflections Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Doncaster DN4
Are you looking for a counsellor who has experience and can provide a confidential space for you to discuss issues which are affecting your everyday life? Do you need to talk to someone who understands what you mean and where you are coming from? If you would like to be more confident, productive and motivated and want help to change some aspects of your life, I am here to help you. I am also a Lifecoach and Supervisor of other health professionals and I use hypnotherapy, relaxation and mindfulness in my sessions.
Are you looking for a counsellor who has experience and can provide a confidential space for you to discuss issues which are affecting your everyday life? Do you need to talk to someone who understands what you mean and where you are coming from? If you would like to be more confident, productive and motivated and want help to change some aspects of your life, I am here to help you. I am also a Lifecoach and Supervisor of other health professionals and I use hypnotherapy, relaxation and mindfulness in my sessions.
01302 976938 View 01302 976938
Photo of Ruthf.Therapies, Counsellor in Chesterfield, England
Ruthf.Therapies
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG8
As a trained Hypnotherapist also; along with talking therapies I can apply Hypnotherapy for issues linked to anxiety and low self-esteem.
I’m a qualified Counsellor/Psychotherapist and I aim is to provide a safe, compassionate and reflective space for you to explore issues. If you've reached a turning point or find yourself "stuck"; wondering how did I end up here; I'd like to provide an environment where we can explore those issues together, and help you work towards greater clarity and awareness. If you're feeling at a loss or have no-one to share your anxieties with; I'd like to come alongside to offer support and a reflective space.
As a trained Hypnotherapist also; along with talking therapies I can apply Hypnotherapy for issues linked to anxiety and low self-esteem.
I’m a qualified Counsellor/Psychotherapist and I aim is to provide a safe, compassionate and reflective space for you to explore issues. If you've reached a turning point or find yourself "stuck"; wondering how did I end up here; I'd like to provide an environment where we can explore those issues together, and help you work towards greater clarity and awareness. If you're feeling at a loss or have no-one to share your anxieties with; I'd like to come alongside to offer support and a reflective space.
0115 647 4503 View 0115 647 4503
Photo of Amanda Cunliffe, Psychotherapist in Chesterfield, England
Amanda Cunliffe
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Southport PR9
Perhaps something has shifted in your thoughts/feelings/behaviour that’s uncomfortable, or maybe you’ve decided to explore a long-standing issue. I help my clients achieve their therapeutic goals either by discussing their current or past issues through counselling/psychotherapy or some clients also opt to have hypnotherapy with me too (you can read about that on my website). I offer empathy, confidentiality, safety and opportunity to explore their feelings in a therapeutic relationship. I'm not here to pass judgement or advise but instead I'm here to help you navigate the highs and lows.
Perhaps something has shifted in your thoughts/feelings/behaviour that’s uncomfortable, or maybe you’ve decided to explore a long-standing issue. I help my clients achieve their therapeutic goals either by discussing their current or past issues through counselling/psychotherapy or some clients also opt to have hypnotherapy with me too (you can read about that on my website). I offer empathy, confidentiality, safety and opportunity to explore their feelings in a therapeutic relationship. I'm not here to pass judgement or advise but instead I'm here to help you navigate the highs and lows.
01704 331518 View 01704 331518
Photo of Cotswold Hypnotherapy in Chesterfield, England
Cotswold Hypnotherapy
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Clinical Hypnotherapist DHP, DSFH, AfSFH, NCH, SUP(Hyp) Watch my free consultation video series that explains exactly how hypnotherapy can help you, so you can decide if the therapy is right for you. Please visit my website for more info. Why cope when you can understand. The lesson they didn't teach you in school, how your brain works & how it naturally tries to protect you but in doing so can prove a hindrance rather than a help. I'm a experienced clinical hypnotherapist & registered supervisor. I specialise in helping people with anxiety, weight loss, depression & smoking cessation
Clinical Hypnotherapist DHP, DSFH, AfSFH, NCH, SUP(Hyp) Watch my free consultation video series that explains exactly how hypnotherapy can help you, so you can decide if the therapy is right for you. Please visit my website for more info. Why cope when you can understand. The lesson they didn't teach you in school, how your brain works & how it naturally tries to protect you but in doing so can prove a hindrance rather than a help. I'm a experienced clinical hypnotherapist & registered supervisor. I specialise in helping people with anxiety, weight loss, depression & smoking cessation
01242 395231 View 01242 395231
Photo of Lyn O'Callaghan, Counsellor in Chesterfield, England
Lyn O'Callaghan
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Luton LU3
I use Person-Centered therapy techniques, as well as incorporate other approaches, such as hypnotherapy, CBT, mindfulness, and journaling, to ensure a truly tailored experience for my client.
I know choosing an anonymous counsellor just from a few words and a photo on a screen can be unnerving and it may be difficult to feel like you are making an informed decision, so I want our initial consultation to be an opportunity for you to make sure I am the right person for you to work with and for me to make sure I have to experience and expertise to work with you. After this consultation, there is no requirement or expectation for you to book another session and I will always be guided by you, what you want and what you need.
I use Person-Centered therapy techniques, as well as incorporate other approaches, such as hypnotherapy, CBT, mindfulness, and journaling, to ensure a truly tailored experience for my client.
I know choosing an anonymous counsellor just from a few words and a photo on a screen can be unnerving and it may be difficult to feel like you are making an informed decision, so I want our initial consultation to be an opportunity for you to make sure I am the right person for you to work with and for me to make sure I have to experience and expertise to work with you. After this consultation, there is no requirement or expectation for you to book another session and I will always be guided by you, what you want and what you need.
01582 297259 View 01582 297259
Photo of Ruth Tarr, Psychotherapist in Chesterfield, England
Ruth Tarr
Psychotherapist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York YO30  (Online Only)
I use a range of psychotherapy techniques - CBT, hypnotherapy, mindfulness, meditation & coaching.
Hi! I'm Ruth, a Psychotherapist, working with clients aged 8 and up, especially families, and I'd like to help you. Are you struggling with feeling anxious, overwhelmed or uncertain about your life? Do you have a child or young person experiencing anxiety, overwhelm, or having emotional moodswings that may be negatively impacting on family life? Perhaps you feel like you don't know how best to support them? Would you like to feel (or like your child to feel) more resilient, calm and balanced? Would you like help getting comfortable with your uncomfortable feelings?
I use a range of psychotherapy techniques - CBT, hypnotherapy, mindfulness, meditation & coaching.
Hi! I'm Ruth, a Psychotherapist, working with clients aged 8 and up, especially families, and I'd like to help you. Are you struggling with feeling anxious, overwhelmed or uncertain about your life? Do you have a child or young person experiencing anxiety, overwhelm, or having emotional moodswings that may be negatively impacting on family life? Perhaps you feel like you don't know how best to support them? Would you like to feel (or like your child to feel) more resilient, calm and balanced? Would you like help getting comfortable with your uncomfortable feelings?
01347 668074 View 01347 668074
Photo of Cristina Maria Nemes, Psychologist in Chesterfield, England
Cristina Maria Nemes
Psychologist, MA, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Northampton NN6  (Online Only)
A dedicated and highly knowledgeable Psychologist, Psychotherapist and Clinical Hypnotherapist, with a Master's in “Clinical Psychology and Intervention Techniques by Counselling and Psychotherapy”, a member of the British Psychological Society (BPS), British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BaCP) and National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH).
I can help you to become the best version of yourself! I am a highly dedicated Psychotherapist and Clinical Hypnotherapist, my techniques are a mix of evidence-based treatments – cognitive therapy with mindfulness - integrating self-esteem, self-acceptance, emotional resilience, and self- development to help clients develop their skills to cope with emotional difficulties and changing irrational thinking. I help clients focus on life goals, their well-being, to see life in a more positive way, and to accept negative events and feelings so that they are more prepared for life with an increased sense of well-being.
A dedicated and highly knowledgeable Psychologist, Psychotherapist and Clinical Hypnotherapist, with a Master's in “Clinical Psychology and Intervention Techniques by Counselling and Psychotherapy”, a member of the British Psychological Society (BPS), British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BaCP) and National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH).
I can help you to become the best version of yourself! I am a highly dedicated Psychotherapist and Clinical Hypnotherapist, my techniques are a mix of evidence-based treatments – cognitive therapy with mindfulness - integrating self-esteem, self-acceptance, emotional resilience, and self- development to help clients develop their skills to cope with emotional difficulties and changing irrational thinking. I help clients focus on life goals, their well-being, to see life in a more positive way, and to accept negative events and feelings so that they are more prepared for life with an increased sense of well-being.
01604 954995 View 01604 954995
Photo of Jonathan Livingstone, Psychologist in Chesterfield, England
Jonathan Livingstone
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Stourbridge DY8
For individuals, therapies include REP to identify and resolve the biographical origins of problems; EMDR for PTSD; energy kinesiology; and hypnotherapy.
I have 25 years’ experience as a solution-focused therapist, psychologist and coach: helping couples to communicate effectively and let go of resentments; and helping individuals to overcome trauma, anxiety, childhood abuse, OCD, ADHD and other problems. I will help you to clarify your goals; identify what it is within you that is blocking achievement of your goals; find out where this comes from in your biography; and help you to process the experience to permanently resolve your problem. This person-centred therapy enables you fully to overcome your problem, not simply to understand or manage it, enabling swift transformation.
For individuals, therapies include REP to identify and resolve the biographical origins of problems; EMDR for PTSD; energy kinesiology; and hypnotherapy.
I have 25 years’ experience as a solution-focused therapist, psychologist and coach: helping couples to communicate effectively and let go of resentments; and helping individuals to overcome trauma, anxiety, childhood abuse, OCD, ADHD and other problems. I will help you to clarify your goals; identify what it is within you that is blocking achievement of your goals; find out where this comes from in your biography; and help you to process the experience to permanently resolve your problem. This person-centred therapy enables you fully to overcome your problem, not simply to understand or manage it, enabling swift transformation.
01562 543351 View 01562 543351
Photo of True Living Therapies in Chesterfield, England
True Living Therapies
Verified Verified
Manchester M2
If you're tired of battling stress, overwhelm, anxiety or if you're frustrated because you can't seem to be as productive or confident as you want, or need, to be then hypnotherapy can work amazingly well for you. Your subconscious is in the driving seat and while it tries to help you feel safe and survive, it can also hinder you too. Often we aren't entirely aware, at a conscious level, why we're struggling or stuck in self-sabotaging behaviour patterns. Hypnotherapy is able to reach your subconscious and work with it to correct course, allowing you to achieve what you want.
If you're tired of battling stress, overwhelm, anxiety or if you're frustrated because you can't seem to be as productive or confident as you want, or need, to be then hypnotherapy can work amazingly well for you. Your subconscious is in the driving seat and while it tries to help you feel safe and survive, it can also hinder you too. Often we aren't entirely aware, at a conscious level, why we're struggling or stuck in self-sabotaging behaviour patterns. Hypnotherapy is able to reach your subconscious and work with it to correct course, allowing you to achieve what you want.
0161 509 4175 View 0161 509 4175
Photo of Danielle Hutchings, Counsellor in Chesterfield, England
Danielle Hutchings
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG7
Using a blend of counselling approaches, coaching and hypnotherapy I have helped people successfully with confidence building, stress reduction, bereavement, relationship and family issues, relieving anxiety, low self esteem, low mood/depression, unwanted habits, fears, phobias, panic and issues associated with trauma in the past.
********Specialist in Anxiety and Stress!******** Hi my name is Danielle Hutchings and i am a Passionate and dedicated Psychotherapist and Hypnotherapist, I can help you to take control of your life and focus on who and where you want to be. I am an accredited registrant with the National Counselling Society NCS and National Hypnotherapy society MHS. I have experience with a wide range of issues and offer counselling to adults and young people. I believe that everyone should be able to talk freely about their feelings without fear of judgement. I specialise in Anxiety and Stress, so don't suffer anymore get in touch.
Using a blend of counselling approaches, coaching and hypnotherapy I have helped people successfully with confidence building, stress reduction, bereavement, relationship and family issues, relieving anxiety, low self esteem, low mood/depression, unwanted habits, fears, phobias, panic and issues associated with trauma in the past.
********Specialist in Anxiety and Stress!******** Hi my name is Danielle Hutchings and i am a Passionate and dedicated Psychotherapist and Hypnotherapist, I can help you to take control of your life and focus on who and where you want to be. I am an accredited registrant with the National Counselling Society NCS and National Hypnotherapy society MHS. I have experience with a wide range of issues and offer counselling to adults and young people. I believe that everyone should be able to talk freely about their feelings without fear of judgement. I specialise in Anxiety and Stress, so don't suffer anymore get in touch.
0115 697 1947 View 0115 697 1947

See more therapy options for Chesterfield

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.