Hypnotherapists in Cicero, IL
Dr. Erick Arguello
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cicero, IL 60804 (Online Only)
Feeling gaslighted or manipulated? Anxious about how emotional abuse affects your relationships? I can help! I specialize in helping couples and individuals navigate complex emotions, heal from manipulation, and build stronger connections. Together, we'll untangle confusion and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Don't let challenges define you. Invest in your well-being and create a happier, healthier future. Couples therapy, individual counseling – I'm here to support you.
Feeling gaslighted or manipulated? Anxious about how emotional abuse affects your relationships? I can help! I specialize in helping couples and individuals navigate complex emotions, heal from manipulation, and build stronger connections. Together, we'll untangle confusion and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Don't let challenges define you. Invest in your well-being and create a happier, healthier future. Couples therapy, individual counseling – I'm here to support you.
More Therapists Nearby
Vicki Keough
CHT, BHS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Incorporating hypnotherapy and NLP into the counseling process allows Vicki's patients to fully integrate change using both parts of their brain.
Vicki Keough, Behavioral Health Specialist, develops strategies and tools for each patient to address their presenting concerns. Collaborating together we explore new approaches to create positive sustainable change. Incorporating the subconscious mind through the use of hypnotherapy allows issues to be addressed at their root. Vicki studies the thoughts and triggers that create undesirable patterns and consequences in your life. To address these patterns she combines neuro linguistic programming, therapeutic hypnotherapy and coaching developing a counseling relationship that fits your needs and supports you in actualizing your goals. To learn more about Vicki and how she can help you visit vickikeough.com
Incorporating hypnotherapy and NLP into the counseling process allows Vicki's patients to fully integrate change using both parts of their brain.
Vicki Keough, Behavioral Health Specialist, develops strategies and tools for each patient to address their presenting concerns. Collaborating together we explore new approaches to create positive sustainable change. Incorporating the subconscious mind through the use of hypnotherapy allows issues to be addressed at their root. Vicki studies the thoughts and triggers that create undesirable patterns and consequences in your life. To address these patterns she combines neuro linguistic programming, therapeutic hypnotherapy and coaching developing a counseling relationship that fits your needs and supports you in actualizing your goals. To learn more about Vicki and how she can help you visit vickikeough.com
Steve Thorpe
Counselor, LCPC, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
We integrate traditional psychotherapy with Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Breathwork, Somatic work, Emotionally Focused Therapy, coaching, and other evidence-based approaches through teletherapy.
My approach to psychotherapy is to create a safe space where you can explore and heal the difficult and painful issues that are showing up in your life. Together we will move beyond problem-solving into releasing the deeply held mistaken beliefs and core unresolved issues behind your symptoms. My body-centered and somatic approach allows me to work directly with your nervous system to address symptoms like anxiety, racing thoughts, and irrational fears as well as feeling stuck, depressed and unavailable or unresponsive to life and relationships.
We integrate traditional psychotherapy with Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Breathwork, Somatic work, Emotionally Focused Therapy, coaching, and other evidence-based approaches through teletherapy.
My approach to psychotherapy is to create a safe space where you can explore and heal the difficult and painful issues that are showing up in your life. Together we will move beyond problem-solving into releasing the deeply held mistaken beliefs and core unresolved issues behind your symptoms. My body-centered and somatic approach allows me to work directly with your nervous system to address symptoms like anxiety, racing thoughts, and irrational fears as well as feeling stuck, depressed and unavailable or unresponsive to life and relationships.
Eileen H Glenn
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Utilizing Psychodynamic Therapy, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Breathwork, Rohun, or Healing Touch, I offer many approaches based on the individual needs of my clients.
My primary goal for my clients is to achieve healing on the deepest level. As an Adlerian trained therapist, I utilize psychodynamic as well as alternative modalities to explore, transform and heal those perceptions and beliefs that may be negatively impacting their lives. Whether it's one on one, couples, or group therapy, I am actively participating, encouraging, and guiding my clients so they feel safe and supported to examine and process their deepest emotional wounds.
Utilizing Psychodynamic Therapy, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Breathwork, Rohun, or Healing Touch, I offer many approaches based on the individual needs of my clients.
My primary goal for my clients is to achieve healing on the deepest level. As an Adlerian trained therapist, I utilize psychodynamic as well as alternative modalities to explore, transform and heal those perceptions and beliefs that may be negatively impacting their lives. Whether it's one on one, couples, or group therapy, I am actively participating, encouraging, and guiding my clients so they feel safe and supported to examine and process their deepest emotional wounds.
Jeanette Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and hypnotherapy - these modalities are especially helpful when clients feel stuck.
I support individuals, couples, and families under stress. Together, we uncover contexts and patterns of thoughts and behaviors that are causing challenges. Often, you as the client may already know the answers but could use support in living those answers out. The end goal is growth; the client should be able to look back at our work together and see a difference.
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and hypnotherapy - these modalities are especially helpful when clients feel stuck.
I support individuals, couples, and families under stress. Together, we uncover contexts and patterns of thoughts and behaviors that are causing challenges. Often, you as the client may already know the answers but could use support in living those answers out. The end goal is growth; the client should be able to look back at our work together and see a difference.
Starla R Sholl, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
Waitlist for new clients
I've trained in Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy, EMDR, various energy therapies, transpersonal psychology, Shamanism, the connections between mind and body, and how to integrate the current neuroscience research in healing.
In today's world, it is easy to feel alone, even when surrounded by people. Between current life stressors and issues carried from our childhoods, life can feel overwhelming. Feelings can come up which are confusing, uncomfortable, or cause anxiety. Transitions and aging often bring about questions like "am I really happy?" or "who am I really?" Sometimes you just need a place where you can relax, explore, and be heard. Sometimes you need a place where you can integrate all that you are. And sometimes you need a skilled, established therapist to walk with you on your journey.
I've trained in Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy, EMDR, various energy therapies, transpersonal psychology, Shamanism, the connections between mind and body, and how to integrate the current neuroscience research in healing.
In today's world, it is easy to feel alone, even when surrounded by people. Between current life stressors and issues carried from our childhoods, life can feel overwhelming. Feelings can come up which are confusing, uncomfortable, or cause anxiety. Transitions and aging often bring about questions like "am I really happy?" or "who am I really?" Sometimes you just need a place where you can relax, explore, and be heard. Sometimes you need a place where you can integrate all that you are. And sometimes you need a skilled, established therapist to walk with you on your journey.
John D Moore
Counselor, PhD, MBA, CADC, CHT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Feeling stuck? Having career problems? Struggling with self-esteem? If so, I'd like to help. I'm an interactive therapist and coach in Chicago who guides people to a place of change. Using a collaborative approach, I empower clients with anxiety, trauma, phobias and stress to create balance. Cognitive behavior therapy, hypnotherapy, and coaching are used as tools of transformation - and healing. Homework is often given at the end of sessions to reinforce learning concepts. Click on "Website" to learn more about my background.
Feeling stuck? Having career problems? Struggling with self-esteem? If so, I'd like to help. I'm an interactive therapist and coach in Chicago who guides people to a place of change. Using a collaborative approach, I empower clients with anxiety, trauma, phobias and stress to create balance. Cognitive behavior therapy, hypnotherapy, and coaching are used as tools of transformation - and healing. Homework is often given at the end of sessions to reinforce learning concepts. Click on "Website" to learn more about my background.
Dr. Sonia Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LSW, RYT-500, CCHT, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615 (Online Only)
Life can be a maze of decisions, but sometimes our emotions leave us overwhelmed and paralyzed, unable to take steps towards the life we want. Feeling anxious or stressed? Operating like you are on auto-pilot? Struggling w/Performance Issues? Confidence Issues? Relationship/dating struggles? Work Issues? Going through a divorce? Emotional Trauma? I work with clients to challenge their inner critic, gain control over their lives, and get emotionally healthy. Your self-care is important! I work with Veterans & Athletes! Ask me about ADHD Screenings, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques, Yoga, & Meditation sessions!
Life can be a maze of decisions, but sometimes our emotions leave us overwhelmed and paralyzed, unable to take steps towards the life we want. Feeling anxious or stressed? Operating like you are on auto-pilot? Struggling w/Performance Issues? Confidence Issues? Relationship/dating struggles? Work Issues? Going through a divorce? Emotional Trauma? I work with clients to challenge their inner critic, gain control over their lives, and get emotionally healthy. Your self-care is important! I work with Veterans & Athletes! Ask me about ADHD Screenings, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques, Yoga, & Meditation sessions!
Kerry F Ito
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
Despite what Thoreau says, we do not have to live lives of quiet desperation. Through mindfulness and hypnotherapy, you can find freedom from the negative thoughts and beliefs underlying the fear and anger, that is, the stress. I helped stressed out professionals find balance, freedom and joy. Often they try to manage their stress by having a drink, working out, or going out on the town. While these provide some relief, the problem is, they do not get to the source. One day the stress has taken over and there's little or no joy left.
Despite what Thoreau says, we do not have to live lives of quiet desperation. Through mindfulness and hypnotherapy, you can find freedom from the negative thoughts and beliefs underlying the fear and anger, that is, the stress. I helped stressed out professionals find balance, freedom and joy. Often they try to manage their stress by having a drink, working out, or going out on the town. While these provide some relief, the problem is, they do not get to the source. One day the stress has taken over and there's little or no joy left.
Patrice Nerone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC, ACHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60606 (Online Only)
She received advanced clinical training in hypnotherapy, trauma-informed counseling, & spiritual direction.
When the stress of daily living threatens to overwhelm, sharing your story can be a healing and empowering experience. Positive mental health allows us to + Realize our full potential, + Cope with the stresses of daily life, + Be productive, + Make meaningful contributions to our communities, + Improve relationships and Strengthen bonds. Patrice is an integrative counselor & psychotherapist who wants to help you identify and remove obstacles that diminish your sense of well-being. She will work with you to resolve problems, understand yourself better, discover opportunities for growth, and find purpose and meaning in life.
She received advanced clinical training in hypnotherapy, trauma-informed counseling, & spiritual direction.
When the stress of daily living threatens to overwhelm, sharing your story can be a healing and empowering experience. Positive mental health allows us to + Realize our full potential, + Cope with the stresses of daily life, + Be productive, + Make meaningful contributions to our communities, + Improve relationships and Strengthen bonds. Patrice is an integrative counselor & psychotherapist who wants to help you identify and remove obstacles that diminish your sense of well-being. She will work with you to resolve problems, understand yourself better, discover opportunities for growth, and find purpose and meaning in life.
Dr. Eleanor D Laser
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I specialize in hypnotherapy, which offers rapid results.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
I specialize in hypnotherapy, which offers rapid results.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
Eleni Clavijo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, Reiki, Master
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I will guide you on subconsciously accepting a positive self concept applying a holistic, transpersonal, and mindfulness-based cognitive approach while integrating somatic work, reiki &hypnotherapy.
What circumstances shifted you into this specific moment in time...to bring this bio into your awareness? Was it the guilt that has consumed you since morning of how you didn’t show up exactly how you envisioned being the best parent...or that you have become conscious to the burden of unrealistic expectations upon self and have decided to courageously dive into the depths of your shadows? Perhaps you have questions about self you never have had before and feeling like no one can relate. All you would like is for someone to hold space while you allow emotions like sadness or anger to flow and feel you are able to cry without shame!
I will guide you on subconsciously accepting a positive self concept applying a holistic, transpersonal, and mindfulness-based cognitive approach while integrating somatic work, reiki &hypnotherapy.
What circumstances shifted you into this specific moment in time...to bring this bio into your awareness? Was it the guilt that has consumed you since morning of how you didn’t show up exactly how you envisioned being the best parent...or that you have become conscious to the burden of unrealistic expectations upon self and have decided to courageously dive into the depths of your shadows? Perhaps you have questions about self you never have had before and feeling like no one can relate. All you would like is for someone to hold space while you allow emotions like sadness or anger to flow and feel you are able to cry without shame!
Nicole Bartecki
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Hypnotherapy can also be used to access deeper parts of the psyche, if desired.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious or overwhelmed, be it in social settings, at your workplace, or navigating through the challenges of everyday life? Are you grappling with the burdens of past or recent relationship breakdowns, losses, or circumstances that seem beyond your control? Are you yearning for change and seeking a path towards peace and stability? Together, we can work towards forging that path. We can aim to transform your life into one marked by tranquility, enriched by meaningful relationships, and underpinned by self-confidence.
Hypnotherapy can also be used to access deeper parts of the psyche, if desired.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious or overwhelmed, be it in social settings, at your workplace, or navigating through the challenges of everyday life? Are you grappling with the burdens of past or recent relationship breakdowns, losses, or circumstances that seem beyond your control? Are you yearning for change and seeking a path towards peace and stability? Together, we can work towards forging that path. We can aim to transform your life into one marked by tranquility, enriched by meaningful relationships, and underpinned by self-confidence.
Pat Bardenett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, ACH, RYT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I blend traditional talk therapy with heart-centered hypnotherapy, creative visualization, yoga, meditation, breath work, and structured group therapy.
We often find ourselves unable to move forward due to the enormity of the situations that are presented to us. We may feel stuck, tired, and at times, hopeless. So we armour ourselves to face the world. This armouring occurs in the form of addictions such as overeating; using drugs and alcohol; isolating and repeating patterns of toxic relationships. As a result our hearts become numb. We move through life with an armored exterior, fearful of experiencing our feelings and emotions. By creating a safe environment, I help unlock and release pain.
I blend traditional talk therapy with heart-centered hypnotherapy, creative visualization, yoga, meditation, breath work, and structured group therapy.
We often find ourselves unable to move forward due to the enormity of the situations that are presented to us. We may feel stuck, tired, and at times, hopeless. So we armour ourselves to face the world. This armouring occurs in the form of addictions such as overeating; using drugs and alcohol; isolating and repeating patterns of toxic relationships. As a result our hearts become numb. We move through life with an armored exterior, fearful of experiencing our feelings and emotions. By creating a safe environment, I help unlock and release pain.
Christina Matthews LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCH/I
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
Waitlist for new clients
Are you an adult/young adult with ADHD? I can help you! A teacher or parent dealing with a child or teen who struggles with symptoms of ADHD? I can help you help them too! Need to learn assertive communication with a boss, coworker, spouse? I offer traditional, scientific therapies like Clinical Hypnotherapy and NLP and creative science-based approaches. Trying to find your voice? Habits to break? Learn to express yourself with art, creative writing & meditative therapies. Try out the Amethyst Biomat or Esogetic Colorpuncture infrared, ultraviolet, and spectral light therapies for health, emotions, pain relief and sugar cravings.
Are you an adult/young adult with ADHD? I can help you! A teacher or parent dealing with a child or teen who struggles with symptoms of ADHD? I can help you help them too! Need to learn assertive communication with a boss, coworker, spouse? I offer traditional, scientific therapies like Clinical Hypnotherapy and NLP and creative science-based approaches. Trying to find your voice? Habits to break? Learn to express yourself with art, creative writing & meditative therapies. Try out the Amethyst Biomat or Esogetic Colorpuncture infrared, ultraviolet, and spectral light therapies for health, emotions, pain relief and sugar cravings.
Brittany Radziwon
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611 (Online Only)
I practice from a Psychodynamic perspective, utilizing traditional and innovative therapies including CBT, DBT, IFS, Polyvagal, Jungian and Hypnotherapy, to foster a collaborative process of self-exploration and discovery.
My work supports individuals in areas of depression, anxiety, ocd, mood disorders, difficult life transitions, narcissistic abuse, intergenerational trauma, religious abuse, and PTSD/cPTSD.
I practice from a Psychodynamic perspective, utilizing traditional and innovative therapies including CBT, DBT, IFS, Polyvagal, Jungian and Hypnotherapy, to foster a collaborative process of self-exploration and discovery.
My work supports individuals in areas of depression, anxiety, ocd, mood disorders, difficult life transitions, narcissistic abuse, intergenerational trauma, religious abuse, and PTSD/cPTSD.
Aline Defiglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I draw from a wide body of therapeutic and coaching techniques including EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique or "tapping"), Clinical Hypnotherapy, DBT skills, mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal neurobiology, non-violent communication, and holistic/integrative health practices.
I own a dynamic group practice in Chattanooga called Ascend Coaching and Therapy. We work with clients in-person at our office in downtown Chattanooga, virtually via phone or video, and outside in the beautiful forests of TN via ecotherapy sessions. I offer Life Coaching, Clinical Hypnotherapy and Integrative Psychotherapy to help you make and keep personal and professional changes, fulfill your potential, improve your health, and heal from the negative experiences and beliefs that hold you back.
I draw from a wide body of therapeutic and coaching techniques including EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique or "tapping"), Clinical Hypnotherapy, DBT skills, mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal neurobiology, non-violent communication, and holistic/integrative health practices.
I own a dynamic group practice in Chattanooga called Ascend Coaching and Therapy. We work with clients in-person at our office in downtown Chattanooga, virtually via phone or video, and outside in the beautiful forests of TN via ecotherapy sessions. I offer Life Coaching, Clinical Hypnotherapy and Integrative Psychotherapy to help you make and keep personal and professional changes, fulfill your potential, improve your health, and heal from the negative experiences and beliefs that hold you back.
Deborah E Barile
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CH, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
The things that make my practice unique are the use of Hypnotherapy,a
Safe and Creative atmosphere,
Practical Solutions and Problem Solving,use of a variety of different theories of Psychology.
During the past 20 plus years of helping others,regain their ability to live happy and productive lives. I design unique treatment plans for each client, guiding them towards identifying how their belief systems have not served them. With the goal to create new beliefs that could empower them to solve problems and have fulfilling lives.
My practice is focused on Helping Couples improve their relationships, Working with individuals with Addictions,and using Hypnotherapy to change bothersome habits or explore their subconscious mind.
I earned my Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology at the University of Dayton.
The things that make my practice unique are the use of Hypnotherapy,a
Safe and Creative atmosphere,
Practical Solutions and Problem Solving,use of a variety of different theories of Psychology.
During the past 20 plus years of helping others,regain their ability to live happy and productive lives. I design unique treatment plans for each client, guiding them towards identifying how their belief systems have not served them. With the goal to create new beliefs that could empower them to solve problems and have fulfilling lives.
My practice is focused on Helping Couples improve their relationships, Working with individuals with Addictions,and using Hypnotherapy to change bothersome habits or explore their subconscious mind.
I earned my Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology at the University of Dayton.
Sabra Maurice
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCH, RM
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I incorporate a wide variety of holistic counseling techniques into traditional therapy including yet not limited to hypnotherapy, energy psychology, Reiki energy healing, sound healing, oracle readings, essential oils, crystals, and EFT.
You may want to make changes, yet feel beaten down by worry. A part of you may be aware that difficult experiences you’ve faced throughout your life could be connected to your current struggles. As an intuitive holistic counselor I believe we can change by healing from the inside out. What shows up in our outer life through negative thoughts, unwanted behaviors, body discomfort or difficult feelings can be a signal or sign we are ready for change. I believe the present symptoms or conditions give us clues to what is going on inside, possibly connected to past difficult experiences that need attention, understanding and healing.
I incorporate a wide variety of holistic counseling techniques into traditional therapy including yet not limited to hypnotherapy, energy psychology, Reiki energy healing, sound healing, oracle readings, essential oils, crystals, and EFT.
You may want to make changes, yet feel beaten down by worry. A part of you may be aware that difficult experiences you’ve faced throughout your life could be connected to your current struggles. As an intuitive holistic counselor I believe we can change by healing from the inside out. What shows up in our outer life through negative thoughts, unwanted behaviors, body discomfort or difficult feelings can be a signal or sign we are ready for change. I believe the present symptoms or conditions give us clues to what is going on inside, possibly connected to past difficult experiences that need attention, understanding and healing.
Emily Edlynn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
Clinicians at Oak Park Behavioral Medicine have received training and certification in medical hypnotherapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training in pediatric health psychology. In my therapy approach, I draw from evidence-based practice, while collaboratively tailoring therapy to individual needs and symptoms. The goal is always to improve daily functioning and each person's quality of life regardless of their disease status. I have extensive experience working with a variety of illnesses and symptoms (eg, chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders, seizures, diabetes, obesity, epilepsy, cancer) by using a combination of cognitive behavioral approaches, mindfulness, and stress management strategies. I have a special interest in youth managing grief and loss.
Clinicians at Oak Park Behavioral Medicine have received training and certification in medical hypnotherapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training in pediatric health psychology. In my therapy approach, I draw from evidence-based practice, while collaboratively tailoring therapy to individual needs and symptoms. The goal is always to improve daily functioning and each person's quality of life regardless of their disease status. I have extensive experience working with a variety of illnesses and symptoms (eg, chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders, seizures, diabetes, obesity, epilepsy, cancer) by using a combination of cognitive behavioral approaches, mindfulness, and stress management strategies. I have a special interest in youth managing grief and loss.
See more therapy options for Cicero
Nearby HypnoTherapy Searches for Cicero
- Chicago
- Elmhurst
- Evergreen Park
- Hinsdale
- La Grange
- Morton Grove
- Oak Brook
- Oak Lawn
- Oak Park
- Palos Heights
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- Skokie
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.