Hypnotherapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Sabine Starr, ACC
Sabine Starr
ACC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I use various approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, NLP, Jungian Therapy, Relaxation methods, Visualization, Traumatherapy and others, as indicated.
Do you have free floating anxiety, feel alone and overwhelmed and/or important decisions to make? Do you desire to feel a strong belonging in your life? I can help you gain clarity and live a fulfilling life within your current situation and onward to your goals. Life will start to feel right again, as it should. My specialty is to find and offer what gets you results and empowers you.
I use various approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, NLP, Jungian Therapy, Relaxation methods, Visualization, Traumatherapy and others, as indicated.
Do you have free floating anxiety, feel alone and overwhelmed and/or important decisions to make? Do you desire to feel a strong belonging in your life? I can help you gain clarity and live a fulfilling life within your current situation and onward to your goals. Life will start to feel right again, as it should. My specialty is to find and offer what gets you results and empowers you.
(619) 373-1622 View (619) 373-1622
Photo of Ayoung Choi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Ayoung Choi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
My approach is collaborative and client-centered, using techniques like mindfulness, hypnotherapy, and solutions-focused therapy.
Do you often feel overwhelmed by persistent anxiety, social pressure, or lack the motivation and joy you used to feel? Are you struggling to navigate a major life transition, manage relationships, or simply feel like yourself? As a therapist specializing in anxiety, life transitions, and depression, I work with neurodivergent individuals, teenagers, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Together, we can develop a plan to regain balance and achieve personal growth.
My approach is collaborative and client-centered, using techniques like mindfulness, hypnotherapy, and solutions-focused therapy.
Do you often feel overwhelmed by persistent anxiety, social pressure, or lack the motivation and joy you used to feel? Are you struggling to navigate a major life transition, manage relationships, or simply feel like yourself? As a therapist specializing in anxiety, life transitions, and depression, I work with neurodivergent individuals, teenagers, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Together, we can develop a plan to regain balance and achieve personal growth.
(619) 853-2617 View (619) 853-2617
Photo of Sean Brannan, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT
Sean Brannan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Sean Brannan is a certified Cognitive Behavioral Hypnotherapist (CHt), & Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT#106207), specializing in hypnotherapy and relationship counseling.
[Due to COVID19 I will also be offering TeleMedicine.] I am trained as a CA LMFT, Cognitive Behavioral Hypnotherapist, Energy Psychology Practitioner, Domestic Violence Facilitator, and hold a Masters in Counseling Psychology. I utilize all of these methodologies in my practice to offer my clients a compassionate alliance and the best care possible.
Sean Brannan is a certified Cognitive Behavioral Hypnotherapist (CHt), & Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT#106207), specializing in hypnotherapy and relationship counseling.
[Due to COVID19 I will also be offering TeleMedicine.] I am trained as a CA LMFT, Cognitive Behavioral Hypnotherapist, Energy Psychology Practitioner, Domestic Violence Facilitator, and hold a Masters in Counseling Psychology. I utilize all of these methodologies in my practice to offer my clients a compassionate alliance and the best care possible.
(619) 717-8591 View (619) 717-8591
Photo of Asher W Allan - Professor Asher W. Allan, CCHt
Professor Asher W. Allan
CCHt
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
While different therapists may be suited to different clients, my high success rate is due to 15 years teaching college level psychology and my exceptional training in hypnotherapy by arguably some of the world's best.
My San Diego office has been open for more than 10 years and over that time I've helped clients deal with everything under the sun. Quitting Smoking, Weight Loss, Anxiety, Relationships, Sports, Career & Life Coaching, etc. Together we can get you to where you want.
While different therapists may be suited to different clients, my high success rate is due to 15 years teaching college level psychology and my exceptional training in hypnotherapy by arguably some of the world's best.
My San Diego office has been open for more than 10 years and over that time I've helped clients deal with everything under the sun. Quitting Smoking, Weight Loss, Anxiety, Relationships, Sports, Career & Life Coaching, etc. Together we can get you to where you want.
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Photo of Aleksandra Drecun - Association for Compassionate Transformation, Psychologist, PsyD
Association for Compassionate Transformation
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
My specialties include working with anxiety and depression, addiction, trauma, children and adolescents, premarital counseling, couples therapy, career coaching, hypnotherapy, hair pulling, skin picking and addressing issues unique to the LGTBTQQIA population.
Would you like to be successful emotionally, socially, spiritually and professionally? Do you need assistance directing personal growth, relationships, family life or your career? I specialize in assisting individuals to lead a productive life, a meaningful existence and reach their highest potential.
My specialties include working with anxiety and depression, addiction, trauma, children and adolescents, premarital counseling, couples therapy, career coaching, hypnotherapy, hair pulling, skin picking and addressing issues unique to the LGTBTQQIA population.
Would you like to be successful emotionally, socially, spiritually and professionally? Do you need assistance directing personal growth, relationships, family life or your career? I specialize in assisting individuals to lead a productive life, a meaningful existence and reach their highest potential.
(858) 367-3966 View (858) 367-3966
Photo of Heidi Beckenbach McGann - Heidi McGann Intuitive Healing Services, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Heidi McGann Intuitive Healing Services
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I utilize a person centered approach and I have training in hypnotherapy, energy psychology, mindfulness, somatic therapy and Rapid Resolution Therapy.
My goal as a therapist is to help you connect to the magic and potential that is already within you! I support by guiding clients to tap into their own inner resources while also teaching tools to manage symptoms. I strive to make therapy an impactful and enjoyable experience for my clients.
I utilize a person centered approach and I have training in hypnotherapy, energy psychology, mindfulness, somatic therapy and Rapid Resolution Therapy.
My goal as a therapist is to help you connect to the magic and potential that is already within you! I support by guiding clients to tap into their own inner resources while also teaching tools to manage symptoms. I strive to make therapy an impactful and enjoyable experience for my clients.
(619) 695-1712 x101 View (619) 695-1712 x101
Photo of Richard Alan Sobel, Psychologist, PhD
Richard Alan Sobel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
My special approach utilizes psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, meditation and relaxation therapy to help you to increase mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance and emotional self regulation.
Welcome to my clinical psychology practice for counseling and psychotherapy. I have over twenty years experience as a licensed Psychologist working with children, teens, adults and couples. I am committed to providing you with excellent, caring and practical help. I utilize an integrative approach to psychotherapy combining treatment techniques for body, mind, emotions and spirit. I believe that developing our real self opens us to the rich inner world of our feelings, wants and needs and empowers us to take charge of our lives. I hope to help you create more peace, calm, love and joy in your life.
My special approach utilizes psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, meditation and relaxation therapy to help you to increase mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance and emotional self regulation.
Welcome to my clinical psychology practice for counseling and psychotherapy. I have over twenty years experience as a licensed Psychologist working with children, teens, adults and couples. I am committed to providing you with excellent, caring and practical help. I utilize an integrative approach to psychotherapy combining treatment techniques for body, mind, emotions and spirit. I believe that developing our real self opens us to the rich inner world of our feelings, wants and needs and empowers us to take charge of our lives. I hope to help you create more peace, calm, love and joy in your life.
(858) 779-4927 View (858) 779-4927
Photo of Ellen Bobruff Reese, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ellen Bobruff Reese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I may choose to pull ideas from CBT, Imago, Positive parenting, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, role play, and many others depending on your own circumstances and what you want to focus on addressing.
An expert is someone who knows more and more about less and less. For over 40 years I have continued to study advances in mental health to constantly be adding more tools to my toolbox to help future clients. I now take an approach of "whatever helps you the most and as quickly as possible". I want to ensure success for you now and in the future
I may choose to pull ideas from CBT, Imago, Positive parenting, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, role play, and many others depending on your own circumstances and what you want to focus on addressing.
An expert is someone who knows more and more about less and less. For over 40 years I have continued to study advances in mental health to constantly be adding more tools to my toolbox to help future clients. I now take an approach of "whatever helps you the most and as quickly as possible". I want to ensure success for you now and in the future
(858) 240-4197 View (858) 240-4197
Photo of Miriam Torres Brinkmann, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Miriam Torres Brinkmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106
Trained in Gottman, EFT, EMDR, and hypnotherapy, I help couples rebuild trust and individuals heal from anxiety and past wounds.
Are you feeling stuck in your relationship or struggling with life’s challenges? I help couples and individuals find clarity, connection, and confidence. Whether you're facing relationship distress, anxiety, or major life decisions, I provide a supportive space for growth. I offer discernment counseling for couples unsure about their future and couples intensives for deep, transformative work. Using evidence-based approaches, I help clients heal from the past, navigate the present, and move toward a more fulfilling future.
Trained in Gottman, EFT, EMDR, and hypnotherapy, I help couples rebuild trust and individuals heal from anxiety and past wounds.
Are you feeling stuck in your relationship or struggling with life’s challenges? I help couples and individuals find clarity, connection, and confidence. Whether you're facing relationship distress, anxiety, or major life decisions, I provide a supportive space for growth. I offer discernment counseling for couples unsure about their future and couples intensives for deep, transformative work. Using evidence-based approaches, I help clients heal from the past, navigate the present, and move toward a more fulfilling future.
(619) 558-5437 View (619) 558-5437
Photo of Susan Graf-Cote, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Susan Graf-Cote
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
I also use hypnotherapy and Reiki for clients who wish to try something different.
By promoting a safe space where you can create, and recreate the you that is well. Tapping into the strengths that live in your heart, we will gain access to your ideals and understanding and build upon them. We will awaken the part of you that will teach you to become your own coach. I will introduce you to several techniques and theoretical orientations that best suit you. I will not subject you to change through somebody elses belief systems instead of your own. With my guidance, you will find the answers to change your life and find peace.
I also use hypnotherapy and Reiki for clients who wish to try something different.
By promoting a safe space where you can create, and recreate the you that is well. Tapping into the strengths that live in your heart, we will gain access to your ideals and understanding and build upon them. We will awaken the part of you that will teach you to become your own coach. I will introduce you to several techniques and theoretical orientations that best suit you. I will not subject you to change through somebody elses belief systems instead of your own. With my guidance, you will find the answers to change your life and find peace.
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Photo of Kimberly Blair, MBA
Kimberly Blair
MBA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
At The Guides Holistic Therapies, we offer a mind, body, and spirit approach using Clinical Hypnotherapy, Grief Counseling, Pet Loss Therapy, Reiki, Breathwork, and Sound Therapy.
I specialize in Clinical Hypnotherapy, Grief Counseling & Breathwork. Helping clients heal from grief, trauma, and stress by releasing emotional blockages, reprogramming the subconscious, and restoring energetic balance. I also offer a 6-session Pet Loss Therapy program, providing action-based steps to navigate the unique grief of of losing a companion.
At The Guides Holistic Therapies, we offer a mind, body, and spirit approach using Clinical Hypnotherapy, Grief Counseling, Pet Loss Therapy, Reiki, Breathwork, and Sound Therapy.
I specialize in Clinical Hypnotherapy, Grief Counseling & Breathwork. Helping clients heal from grief, trauma, and stress by releasing emotional blockages, reprogramming the subconscious, and restoring energetic balance. I also offer a 6-session Pet Loss Therapy program, providing action-based steps to navigate the unique grief of of losing a companion.
(858) 330-6233 View (858) 330-6233
Photo of Dr. Traci Moreno - Free Spirit Coaching & Psychological Services PLC, Psychologist, PsyD
Free Spirit Coaching & Psychological Services PLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92124
In addition to traditional psychotherapy (CBT, DBT & EMDR), we offer alternative treatments ( Hypnotherapy, Equine Coaching, Spiritual Coaching, Crystal Reiki & Sound Healing, Special Events and more.
We are not your average therapists! If you're looking for someone to nod their head in agreement with everything you say or for someone to just listen until "time is up," then this is not the place for you. We are an active part of your treatment. We focus on helping people find stability, life satisfaction and self-love. To do this effectively, means we offer insights and feedback, encourage you to dig deeper and challenge you. We're able to do this with care and compassion because we develop a strong therapeutic alliance built on mutual respect and trust. This is the foundation of what we do.
In addition to traditional psychotherapy (CBT, DBT & EMDR), we offer alternative treatments ( Hypnotherapy, Equine Coaching, Spiritual Coaching, Crystal Reiki & Sound Healing, Special Events and more.
We are not your average therapists! If you're looking for someone to nod their head in agreement with everything you say or for someone to just listen until "time is up," then this is not the place for you. We are an active part of your treatment. We focus on helping people find stability, life satisfaction and self-love. To do this effectively, means we offer insights and feedback, encourage you to dig deeper and challenge you. We're able to do this with care and compassion because we develop a strong therapeutic alliance built on mutual respect and trust. This is the foundation of what we do.
(520) 980-9324 View (520) 980-9324
Photo of Julie Datnow, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Julie Datnow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use CBT, communication and hypnotherapy tools to help strengthen your ability to manage anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
Perhaps you find yourself wondering "Why does everything feel so much harder for me than it does for other people?" Something feels "off" or "out of sync" in your relationships, in your energy level, your ability to focus or your motivation. You want to find more joy and meaning in life but feel like you need help developing the skills to make that hope a reality. You are willing to put in the work to create the life you desire but first you need a supportive, empathetic professional with interventions proven to improve your relationships, anxiety, grief, trauma, or depression symptoms. Reach out today to begin.
I use CBT, communication and hypnotherapy tools to help strengthen your ability to manage anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
Perhaps you find yourself wondering "Why does everything feel so much harder for me than it does for other people?" Something feels "off" or "out of sync" in your relationships, in your energy level, your ability to focus or your motivation. You want to find more joy and meaning in life but feel like you need help developing the skills to make that hope a reality. You are willing to put in the work to create the life you desire but first you need a supportive, empathetic professional with interventions proven to improve your relationships, anxiety, grief, trauma, or depression symptoms. Reach out today to begin.
(858) 251-6660 View (858) 251-6660
Photo of Nancy Ly - Be Free with Nancy Ly, CHT, CDP
Be Free with Nancy Ly
CHT, CDP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I'm a Master Coach of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) & Master Practitioner of Hypnotherapy, Timeline Therapy, and NLP.
My ideal client has an awareness of their presenting problem (unproductive thought pattern, emotions or behavior), and is ready to release it. The client realizes something is not working and ready to breakthrough their current situation. Many have often tried other traditional therapy or personal development and may even have hit a mental health crisis (anxiety, suicidal thoughts, depression, rage, etc.) Some clients simply want to level-up their mindset to further their personal, relational or career goals. Many choose to work with me with issues of self-love/confidence, emotional/relational instability, or behavioral change.
I'm a Master Coach of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) & Master Practitioner of Hypnotherapy, Timeline Therapy, and NLP.
My ideal client has an awareness of their presenting problem (unproductive thought pattern, emotions or behavior), and is ready to release it. The client realizes something is not working and ready to breakthrough their current situation. Many have often tried other traditional therapy or personal development and may even have hit a mental health crisis (anxiety, suicidal thoughts, depression, rage, etc.) Some clients simply want to level-up their mindset to further their personal, relational or career goals. Many choose to work with me with issues of self-love/confidence, emotional/relational instability, or behavioral change.
(760) 274-0658 View (760) 274-0658
Photo of Leanne Horvitz - Hypnotherapy Leanne Kiyoko Horvitz - Hypnosis, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LMHC , CCHt
Hypnotherapy Leanne Kiyoko Horvitz - Hypnosis
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LMHC , CCHt
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
That's why you're considering hypnotherapy, a potent catalyst for change in both avocational and vocational aspects of your life.
Specializing in hypnotherapy for self-improvement, I'm a licensed therapist in California & Hawaii. With a diverse background including addiction and mental health, I empower clients globally through Hypnotherapy. Using Therapeutic Imagery, I help manifest a path aligned with your values. Client-centered sessions tailored to your pace.
That's why you're considering hypnotherapy, a potent catalyst for change in both avocational and vocational aspects of your life.
Specializing in hypnotherapy for self-improvement, I'm a licensed therapist in California & Hawaii. With a diverse background including addiction and mental health, I empower clients globally through Hypnotherapy. Using Therapeutic Imagery, I help manifest a path aligned with your values. Client-centered sessions tailored to your pace.
(424) 408-1367 View (424) 408-1367
Photo of Linda Vazin, MA, MPNLP, CH, ACC, E-RYT
Linda Vazin
MA, MPNLP, CH, ACC, E-RYT
Verified Verified
Serves Area
2005-2015- Certified Life Coach, Advanced Breathwork, Certified in Trauma Release, Sound healing, NLP, Hypnotherapy, Ongoing Somatic Therapies.
When Everything You've Tried Hasn't Worked - When the mask becomes too heavy, you wake up feeling disconnected and lost, despite outward success. Past trauma, unprocessed grief, and constant people-pleasing weigh on you. Coping mechanisms like staying busy feel empty. Anxiety, chronic pain, and emotional exhaustion persist, holding back authentic joy and peace. Are you're tired of temporary solutions and medication that leaves you feeling disconnected from yourself, I don't just treat symptoms – I help you access and heal the root causes of your pain through gentle, trauma-informed practices and evidence based techniques.
2005-2015- Certified Life Coach, Advanced Breathwork, Certified in Trauma Release, Sound healing, NLP, Hypnotherapy, Ongoing Somatic Therapies.
When Everything You've Tried Hasn't Worked - When the mask becomes too heavy, you wake up feeling disconnected and lost, despite outward success. Past trauma, unprocessed grief, and constant people-pleasing weigh on you. Coping mechanisms like staying busy feel empty. Anxiety, chronic pain, and emotional exhaustion persist, holding back authentic joy and peace. Are you're tired of temporary solutions and medication that leaves you feeling disconnected from yourself, I don't just treat symptoms – I help you access and heal the root causes of your pain through gentle, trauma-informed practices and evidence based techniques.
(858) 346-6748 View (858) 346-6748
Photo of Nikoo Z Sadatrafiei, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Nikoo Z Sadatrafiei
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocess (EMDR) and hypnotherapy to facilitate change in perception.
I'm provisional certified to provide DVRP groups in level I & level II for male & female perpetrators. Through CBT, DBT & strength-based approach, I communicate with my clients as I bring empathy, mutual understanding, and unconditional positive regards to therapy. I emphasize on clear communication to help individuals overcome their relationship challenges.
I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocess (EMDR) and hypnotherapy to facilitate change in perception.
I'm provisional certified to provide DVRP groups in level I & level II for male & female perpetrators. Through CBT, DBT & strength-based approach, I communicate with my clients as I bring empathy, mutual understanding, and unconditional positive regards to therapy. I emphasize on clear communication to help individuals overcome their relationship challenges.
(858) 707-7602 View (858) 707-7602
Photo of Megan Rhoads, Psychologist, PsyD
Megan Rhoads
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I use a combination of CBT, Re-Decision Therapy, and hypnotherapy to help you address the root of the problem while teaching and practicing practical skills to use every day.
People who come to me for help often report feeling drastically different and more in-control of their daily lives after just a few sessions. My approach brings about lasting change and empowers my patients to make decisions that are in their own best interest. In each meeting, we will work collaboratively to establish a path toward clearly-defined goals. If you often find yourself reacting to a situation in an unseemly manner, then wonder "Why did I just do that?" I believe you have the answer, and I can help you find it. See my TEDx Talk to get a better idea of my personality! Search "Jingle All the Way" and my name.
I use a combination of CBT, Re-Decision Therapy, and hypnotherapy to help you address the root of the problem while teaching and practicing practical skills to use every day.
People who come to me for help often report feeling drastically different and more in-control of their daily lives after just a few sessions. My approach brings about lasting change and empowers my patients to make decisions that are in their own best interest. In each meeting, we will work collaboratively to establish a path toward clearly-defined goals. If you often find yourself reacting to a situation in an unseemly manner, then wonder "Why did I just do that?" I believe you have the answer, and I can help you find it. See my TEDx Talk to get a better idea of my personality! Search "Jingle All the Way" and my name.
(530) 584-4253 View (530) 584-4253
Photo of Wendy Hill, Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Wendy Hill
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hypnotherapy and psychotherapy.
Self-defeating core beliefs are formed early in life and have a lasting impact until transformed. Check out my website and read Your Original Programming on the Home Page. Learn why you do and feel the way you do. Learn how you can experience real happiness and peace of mind.
Hypnotherapy and psychotherapy.
Self-defeating core beliefs are formed early in life and have a lasting impact until transformed. Check out my website and read Your Original Programming on the Home Page. Learn why you do and feel the way you do. Learn how you can experience real happiness and peace of mind.
(760) 563-5268 View (760) 563-5268
Photo of Charlotte S Taylor, Psychologist, PsyD
Charlotte S Taylor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I take an eclectic approach to therapy, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Hypnotherapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
I am a Psychologist who is passionate about helping clients break free from the cycles of frustration and dissatisfaction that keep them feeling stuck. Many of the individuals with whom I have worked have reached a point where they feel trapped in their emotions—whether that’s anxiety, depression, anger, or self-destructive behaviors like addiction or suicidal ideation. They often experience a sense of isolation, whether from social anxiety or the deep belief that nothing will help them. For these individuals, simply reaching out for help is an act of courage and I deeply honor that.
I take an eclectic approach to therapy, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Hypnotherapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
I am a Psychologist who is passionate about helping clients break free from the cycles of frustration and dissatisfaction that keep them feeling stuck. Many of the individuals with whom I have worked have reached a point where they feel trapped in their emotions—whether that’s anxiety, depression, anger, or self-destructive behaviors like addiction or suicidal ideation. They often experience a sense of isolation, whether from social anxiety or the deep belief that nothing will help them. For these individuals, simply reaching out for help is an act of courage and I deeply honor that.
(805) 410-1196 View (805) 410-1196
1
HypnoTherapy

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 movie, 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 behavior change or better manage psychological concerns. Therapy sessions may involve guiding you through recognizing 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 hypnotized?

The most common challenge of hypnotherapy is that as many as one in four people cannot be hypnotized. 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 hypnotized may not respond to the technique because of their skepticism 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 behaviors 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.