Hypnotherapists in Lakewood, CO

Photo of Zina Ortiz, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR, Certifi
Zina Ortiz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR, Certifi
3 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80232
I am a Licened Psychotherapist, trained in depth psychology, behavioral therapies, clinical hypnotherapy and EMDR Certified, to help, adolescents and adults.
I now offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Check out my website for more information. Talking about painful childhood memories doesn't nearly resolve those long lasting wounds. I use non traditional and holistic methods. It is not talk therapy! It is a multimodal approach to help people resolve strong emotional reactions such as Anxiety and Depression. The processing of  memories is best done in connection with others. You are not alone. I have been there! This is my number one credential.
I am a Licened Psychotherapist, trained in depth psychology, behavioral therapies, clinical hypnotherapy and EMDR Certified, to help, adolescents and adults.
I now offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Check out my website for more information. Talking about painful childhood memories doesn't nearly resolve those long lasting wounds. I use non traditional and holistic methods. It is not talk therapy! It is a multimodal approach to help people resolve strong emotional reactions such as Anxiety and Depression. The processing of  memories is best done in connection with others. You are not alone. I have been there! This is my number one credential.
(888) 902-5943 View (888) 902-5943
Photo of Zina Ortiz - Elephant In The Room LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW
Elephant In The Room LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW
Lakewood, CO 80232
You’re holding a lot — anxiety, depression, trauma, or a sense that something just isn’t right. Maybe you’ve tried therapy before, but it didn’t get to the root. We specialize in complex trauma, PTSD, and emotional overwhelm using a multimodal approach: EMDR, somatic therapy, and parts work. At Elephant in the Room, we don’t just treat symptoms — we help you feel safe in your body again. With offices in Evergreen, Golden, and Lakewood, plus telehealth across Colorado, we’ll meet you where you are. Healing starts here.
You’re holding a lot — anxiety, depression, trauma, or a sense that something just isn’t right. Maybe you’ve tried therapy before, but it didn’t get to the root. We specialize in complex trauma, PTSD, and emotional overwhelm using a multimodal approach: EMDR, somatic therapy, and parts work. At Elephant in the Room, we don’t just treat symptoms — we help you feel safe in your body again. With offices in Evergreen, Golden, and Lakewood, plus telehealth across Colorado, we’ll meet you where you are. Healing starts here.
(720) 310-6713 View (720) 310-6713
Photo of David Mallo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
David Mallo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lakewood, CO 80228
I use a cognitive-behavioral, person-centered approach. I have experience in clinical hypnosis and various types of psychotherapeutic approaches. The type of intervention is dependant upon the client’s willingness to engage in that particular modality and appropriateness of that modality for your needs. I try to be solution-focused and give my clients tools they can use for a lifetime. I am skilled in working with the following conditions: Addictions Adjustment Problems Anger Management Anxiety Bipolar I and Bipolar II Disorders Depression Grief and Loss
I use a cognitive-behavioral, person-centered approach. I have experience in clinical hypnosis and various types of psychotherapeutic approaches. The type of intervention is dependant upon the client’s willingness to engage in that particular modality and appropriateness of that modality for your needs. I try to be solution-focused and give my clients tools they can use for a lifetime. I am skilled in working with the following conditions: Addictions Adjustment Problems Anger Management Anxiety Bipolar I and Bipolar II Disorders Depression Grief and Loss
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Photo of Mavis Salazar - Mavis Salazar - Holistic Curandera, Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Mavis Salazar - Holistic Curandera
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Lakewood, CO 80226
Treatment specialization includes: *Therapy for Depression and Anxiety * Family Counseling * Parenting Support * Grief Counseling *Work and Career issues * Stress Management * Addiction & Recovery *Conflict Resolution *Trauma Release * Anger Release *Curanderismo *Talking Circles *Traditional Medicine * Hypnotherapy *Timeline Therapy * Transitional Therapy *Platicas.
Mavis Salazar is an interactive, solution-focused registered physiotherapist. Using traditional methods her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Using traditional and transitional methods, I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression, grief counseling, trauma release to parenting support, adolescent support, domestic relationships, and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for.
Treatment specialization includes: *Therapy for Depression and Anxiety * Family Counseling * Parenting Support * Grief Counseling *Work and Career issues * Stress Management * Addiction & Recovery *Conflict Resolution *Trauma Release * Anger Release *Curanderismo *Talking Circles *Traditional Medicine * Hypnotherapy *Timeline Therapy * Transitional Therapy *Platicas.
Mavis Salazar is an interactive, solution-focused registered physiotherapist. Using traditional methods her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Using traditional and transitional methods, I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression, grief counseling, trauma release to parenting support, adolescent support, domestic relationships, and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for.
(720) 613-2286 View (720) 613-2286
Photo of Jani Tomski, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Jani Tomski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80228
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! Every one of my clients is unique. What I specialize in is trauma, learned/experienced relationship patterns, adoption, family challenges, neuro-diversity and am LGBTQ+ friendly. . My focus is on using the (sometimes unrecognized) strengths of clients to overcome even severe obstacles to success. My 41 years of experience includes individual, family, and group psychotherapy, teaching at the Master's level at Regis University and DU, elementary school counseling, local and national educational presentations, and animal assisted therapy. I am also a birth, foster and adoptive parent.
Hello! Every one of my clients is unique. What I specialize in is trauma, learned/experienced relationship patterns, adoption, family challenges, neuro-diversity and am LGBTQ+ friendly. . My focus is on using the (sometimes unrecognized) strengths of clients to overcome even severe obstacles to success. My 41 years of experience includes individual, family, and group psychotherapy, teaching at the Master's level at Regis University and DU, elementary school counseling, local and national educational presentations, and animal assisted therapy. I am also a birth, foster and adoptive parent.
(720) 903-4631 View (720) 903-4631
Photo of Sonya Som, MA, LMFT, LPCC, EMDR, CHT
Sonya Som
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80228
The treatment types I primarily use are EMDR, Brainspotting, hypnotherapy, ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP), and Acceptance & Committment Therapy (ACT) to help clients achieve the deep healing they are looking for.
I work with individuals using psychotherapy, EMDR, Brainspotting, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), ketamine and oxytocin assisted psychotherapy, and an accelerated KAP & EMDR combined treatment model. Clients come to me for help working through myriad issues, such as resolving trauma (including complex trauma & childhood wounds), spiritual awakenings, identifying triggers, developing wise mind, tapping into intuition, trusting oneself, resilience building, relational skills, distress tolerance, disrupting cognitive distortions, and restructuring patterns of behavior. I accept Kaiser as well as Enthea.
The treatment types I primarily use are EMDR, Brainspotting, hypnotherapy, ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP), and Acceptance & Committment Therapy (ACT) to help clients achieve the deep healing they are looking for.
I work with individuals using psychotherapy, EMDR, Brainspotting, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), ketamine and oxytocin assisted psychotherapy, and an accelerated KAP & EMDR combined treatment model. Clients come to me for help working through myriad issues, such as resolving trauma (including complex trauma & childhood wounds), spiritual awakenings, identifying triggers, developing wise mind, tapping into intuition, trusting oneself, resilience building, relational skills, distress tolerance, disrupting cognitive distortions, and restructuring patterns of behavior. I accept Kaiser as well as Enthea.
(720) 807-1588 View (720) 807-1588
Photo of Angela Tapp, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CHT, EMDR
Angela Tapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CHT, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80228
Care to embark on a journey of transcendence and holistic healing? As a trauma-informed, humor-infused, transpersonal psychotherapist, I specialize in guiding individuals and couples to “let go”, to rise above the ego, explore the depths of human consciousness, and to embark on profound journeys of self-discovery. My approach focuses on navigating various states of consciousness and awareness to promote healing, growth, ego dissolution and self-transcendence. "Some changes look negative on the surface but you will soon realize that space is being created in your life for something new to emerge." - E. Tolle
Care to embark on a journey of transcendence and holistic healing? As a trauma-informed, humor-infused, transpersonal psychotherapist, I specialize in guiding individuals and couples to “let go”, to rise above the ego, explore the depths of human consciousness, and to embark on profound journeys of self-discovery. My approach focuses on navigating various states of consciousness and awareness to promote healing, growth, ego dissolution and self-transcendence. "Some changes look negative on the surface but you will soon realize that space is being created in your life for something new to emerge." - E. Tolle
(720) 650-7748 View (720) 650-7748
Photo of Valerie Schuster, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Valerie Schuster
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Manifest transformation in your life by: Removing the blocks and releasing the past. Feeling better about yourself, your relationships and your career. Finding satisfaction and health within yourself. Creating the life you want to live!
Manifest transformation in your life by: Removing the blocks and releasing the past. Feeling better about yourself, your relationships and your career. Finding satisfaction and health within yourself. Creating the life you want to live!
(720) 802-8533 View (720) 802-8533
Photo of Rachael Meadows, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Rachael Meadows
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed, alone, or stuck in life? Do anxiety, depression, trauma, or family issues seem insurmountable? I'm here to help you navigate these challenges. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths and work towards creating a life filled with joy and purpose.
Feeling overwhelmed, alone, or stuck in life? Do anxiety, depression, trauma, or family issues seem insurmountable? I'm here to help you navigate these challenges. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths and work towards creating a life filled with joy and purpose.
(720) 573-0561 View (720) 573-0561
Photo of Thomas Giles - Westside Behavioral Care - Therapists in Lakewood, Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW
Westside Behavioral Care - Therapists in Lakewood
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
Westside Behavioral Care can help you find a therapist who is just right for you or your family. Our qualified and compassionate counselors provide outstanding mental health services in-person and online across the entire Greater Denver Area. For an appointment, please call 303-986-4197 to speak with our receptionist M-F 8:30am-5pm. Alternatively, our website allows you to self-schedule with one of our multi-award-winning therapists 24/7. Our network includes licensed psychologists, clinical social workers, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, couples counselors, and certified alcohol and drug counselors.
Westside Behavioral Care can help you find a therapist who is just right for you or your family. Our qualified and compassionate counselors provide outstanding mental health services in-person and online across the entire Greater Denver Area. For an appointment, please call 303-986-4197 to speak with our receptionist M-F 8:30am-5pm. Alternatively, our website allows you to self-schedule with one of our multi-award-winning therapists 24/7. Our network includes licensed psychologists, clinical social workers, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, couples counselors, and certified alcohol and drug counselors.
(720) 927-9493 View (720) 927-9493
Photo of Lori Ellen Poland, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, RRT
Lori Ellen Poland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, RRT
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
Your happiness and intended goal is my priority. It is a true honor to help clients seeking support in relationships, personal growth/healing, trauma, attachment, addiction, relationships, children, adolescents, couples, family, divorce, step family-ing, co-parenting, adoption, and emotional development. It's my privilege to support and nurture clients through their journeys and arrive at a place where they are happy and joyous.
Your happiness and intended goal is my priority. It is a true honor to help clients seeking support in relationships, personal growth/healing, trauma, attachment, addiction, relationships, children, adolescents, couples, family, divorce, step family-ing, co-parenting, adoption, and emotional development. It's my privilege to support and nurture clients through their journeys and arrive at a place where they are happy and joyous.
(720) 815-3958 View (720) 815-3958
Photo of Dr. Ginny Trierweiler, Psychologist, PhD, BCC
Dr. Ginny Trierweiler
Psychologist, PhD, BCC
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80226
If you wish, I may offer you hypnotherapy tapes to support changing mindsets.
If you’re a smart, thoughtful woman over 50 who’s frustrated with eating or weight—and nothing seems to be working anymore—I’ve got you. Many of the women I work with have tried to eat “healthy” for years, yet their body isn’t responding the way it used to. You may be eating less but gaining weight, or feeling like you’ve lost your rhythm with food, energy, or confidence. It doesn’t have to be this hard. With a wiser, abundance-based approach, most of my clients not only lose weight, but also sleep better, feel calmer, and get peace with food again.
If you wish, I may offer you hypnotherapy tapes to support changing mindsets.
If you’re a smart, thoughtful woman over 50 who’s frustrated with eating or weight—and nothing seems to be working anymore—I’ve got you. Many of the women I work with have tried to eat “healthy” for years, yet their body isn’t responding the way it used to. You may be eating less but gaining weight, or feeling like you’ve lost your rhythm with food, energy, or confidence. It doesn’t have to be this hard. With a wiser, abundance-based approach, most of my clients not only lose weight, but also sleep better, feel calmer, and get peace with food again.
(720) 615-4005 View (720) 615-4005
Photo of Maury Winter, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC, LAC
Maury Winter
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC, LAC
5 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80214
My name is Maury, and I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, and grief/loss. My therapeutic style is collaborative, exploratory, and deeply existential. In our work together, we check morality at the door - right and wrong have no business in our work together. My goal is to help you reconnect with your inner world, help you to tell the truth (to yourself) about your deeply complicated life and rediscover meaning. In our sessions, we bring to light the deeper questions that quietly shape how you live. What happened to you? What matters to you? What gives your life purpose? What are you REALLY afraid of?
My name is Maury, and I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, and grief/loss. My therapeutic style is collaborative, exploratory, and deeply existential. In our work together, we check morality at the door - right and wrong have no business in our work together. My goal is to help you reconnect with your inner world, help you to tell the truth (to yourself) about your deeply complicated life and rediscover meaning. In our sessions, we bring to light the deeper questions that quietly shape how you live. What happened to you? What matters to you? What gives your life purpose? What are you REALLY afraid of?
(888) 906-8891 View (888) 906-8891
Photo of Eli Schaugh, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFTC
Eli Schaugh
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFTC
Lakewood, CO 80215
I earned my Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University and have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques (Tapping), Solution Focused Therapy, Success Coaching, Neurolinguistic Programming, DISC /Motives, and Negotiation.
If you are struggling in your relationship with others or with yourself, I am here to help you find safety, security, and a deeper level of connection. I work with couples and individuals with a special focus on clients who are dealing with cancer. I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), an evidence-based method for working with couples to de-escalate negative patterns and increase closeness through new ways of relating to one another. When people feel safe and secure in their relationships, emotional healing becomes a much easier process. This inevitably includes the relationship you have with yourself.
I earned my Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University and have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques (Tapping), Solution Focused Therapy, Success Coaching, Neurolinguistic Programming, DISC /Motives, and Negotiation.
If you are struggling in your relationship with others or with yourself, I am here to help you find safety, security, and a deeper level of connection. I work with couples and individuals with a special focus on clients who are dealing with cancer. I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), an evidence-based method for working with couples to de-escalate negative patterns and increase closeness through new ways of relating to one another. When people feel safe and secure in their relationships, emotional healing becomes a much easier process. This inevitably includes the relationship you have with yourself.
(720) 776-2378 View (720) 776-2378
Photo of Allison Bratsch, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC, MFTC
Allison Bratsch
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC, MFTC
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with anxious, driven, high-achieving types with significant stress, who are seeking balance personally and professionally. Also as a couple and family-trained therapist, I have expertise in relationship challenges and communication. If your goal is to find balance and inner peace while continuing to thrive and excel, and you need someone to help you make big changes, you've found your therapist.
I specialize in working with anxious, driven, high-achieving types with significant stress, who are seeking balance personally and professionally. Also as a couple and family-trained therapist, I have expertise in relationship challenges and communication. If your goal is to find balance and inner peace while continuing to thrive and excel, and you need someone to help you make big changes, you've found your therapist.
(507) 763-4410 View (507) 763-4410
Photo of David W Donaldson, Psychologist, PhD
David W Donaldson
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
Looking for a Psychologist who is effective in rapid treatment techniques such as EMDR? I am experienced in working with couples with marital issues and with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, guilt or trauma. I will hear you and help you in a compassionate and patient manner. If it important to you to work with someone who can integrate spiritual and psychological treatment, I have training in both areas.
Looking for a Psychologist who is effective in rapid treatment techniques such as EMDR? I am experienced in working with couples with marital issues and with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, guilt or trauma. I will hear you and help you in a compassionate and patient manner. If it important to you to work with someone who can integrate spiritual and psychological treatment, I have training in both areas.
(720) 943-7518 View (720) 943-7518
Photo of Eva L Cruz-Maldonado, MS, LPC, EMDR
Eva L Cruz-Maldonado
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you are going through difficulty in your life after suffering from traumatic events, I am here to help you learn to gain control over the pain, regulate your emotional and somatic symptoms, overcome the past and live the present fully. I'm a bilingual therapist dedicated to supporting women, children, adolescents, and couples through life’s challenges. Si estás atravesando dificultades en tu vida después de sufrir eventos traumáticos, estoy aquí para ayudarte a aprender a controlar el dolor, regular tus síntomas emocionales y somáticos, superar el pasado y vivir el presente con plenitud.
If you are going through difficulty in your life after suffering from traumatic events, I am here to help you learn to gain control over the pain, regulate your emotional and somatic symptoms, overcome the past and live the present fully. I'm a bilingual therapist dedicated to supporting women, children, adolescents, and couples through life’s challenges. Si estás atravesando dificultades en tu vida después de sufrir eventos traumáticos, estoy aquí para ayudarte a aprender a controlar el dolor, regular tus síntomas emocionales y somáticos, superar el pasado y vivir el presente con plenitud.
(720) 547-2628 View (720) 547-2628
Photo of Michele Ater, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, TFT, CCHt
Michele Ater
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, TFT, CCHt
Serves Area
I utilize a toolbox of hypnotherapy (clinical and 'past live' regressions), trauma tapping, mindfulness, meditation, spirituality, Reiki, CBT, EMDR and IFS.
Let's DO the WORK! With over 30 years guiding holistic and spiritual healing, I blend spirit with clinical. EMDR-C. I supervise skilled Master’s-level interns offering reduced-cost sessions, ensuring accessible, high-quality care. I also provide KAT (Ketamine Assisted Therapy) enhanced with hypnosis and meditative practices to support deep transformation, helping clients connect with their CORE self of well-being, focus, and empowered inner strength. Free 20 minute intake....make your shift to feeling good.
I utilize a toolbox of hypnotherapy (clinical and 'past live' regressions), trauma tapping, mindfulness, meditation, spirituality, Reiki, CBT, EMDR and IFS.
Let's DO the WORK! With over 30 years guiding holistic and spiritual healing, I blend spirit with clinical. EMDR-C. I supervise skilled Master’s-level interns offering reduced-cost sessions, ensuring accessible, high-quality care. I also provide KAT (Ketamine Assisted Therapy) enhanced with hypnosis and meditative practices to support deep transformation, helping clients connect with their CORE self of well-being, focus, and empowered inner strength. Free 20 minute intake....make your shift to feeling good.
(720) 903-3830 View (720) 903-3830
Photo of Veronica Dieda - People House
People House
Not Verified Not Verified
Serves Area
People House offers affordable, accessible counseling for all who are empowered to better their lives, with services offered on an income-based sliding scale. This program is intended for clients who have a need for counseling services but lack the resources for full-priced psychotherapy. Fees start at $25/session. Lead by volunteer directorship and supervision from expert mental health professionals, the ACP is staffed by graduate and post-graduate interns who are gaining clinical hours for the completion of master's degrees or state licensing. Call our admin office and speak with one of our intake volunteers: (303) 480-5130
People House offers affordable, accessible counseling for all who are empowered to better their lives, with services offered on an income-based sliding scale. This program is intended for clients who have a need for counseling services but lack the resources for full-priced psychotherapy. Fees start at $25/session. Lead by volunteer directorship and supervision from expert mental health professionals, the ACP is staffed by graduate and post-graduate interns who are gaining clinical hours for the completion of master's degrees or state licensing. Call our admin office and speak with one of our intake volunteers: (303) 480-5130
(303) 536-3347 View (303) 536-3347
Photo of Kristina Syta - Kristina Syta Healthy Minds Counseling LLC , Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAS, ACHT
Kristina Syta Healthy Minds Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAS, ACHT
Serves Area
Through hypnotherapy, parts work, CBT, and mind–body approaches, I help clients access deeper patterns, shift subconscious drivers, and build real-life change — not just symptom management.
Tired of just talk therapy? Ready for real change? You look like you’re functioning — but inside you feel anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. You’re self-aware, motivated, and ready to do deeper work. You don’t want surface-level coping anymore. You want root-cause healing, real tools, and lasting change.
Through hypnotherapy, parts work, CBT, and mind–body approaches, I help clients access deeper patterns, shift subconscious drivers, and build real-life change — not just symptom management.
Tired of just talk therapy? Ready for real change? You look like you’re functioning — but inside you feel anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. You’re self-aware, motivated, and ready to do deeper work. You don’t want surface-level coping anymore. You want root-cause healing, real tools, and lasting change.
(303) 327-9181 View (303) 327-9181

See more therapy options for Lakewood

Hypnotherapy Therapists
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.