Photo of Deborah E Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ocala, FL
Deborah E Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
I provide a variety of experiential techniques, including EMDR, guided visualization, Somatic Experiencing, hypnotherapy, Brainspotting, mindfulness practices and spiritual processes to guide you back to your intuitive knowing and soul-wisdom.
If you feel unfulfilled in your relationships and find loss and change difficult, and if you want to get to the source of the patterns and blocks keeping you stuck in worry, anxiety, emotional eating, lost sleep, and a lack of purpose, then I can help. I especially enjoy working with couples and individuals longing for a connection to their "soul's wisdom" so they can feel more balance, joy, and fulfillment. I am an integrative, holistic mind-body-spirit psychotherapist. I offer techniques that will help you tune into your deepest self, the part of you that has your best wisdom and answers for what you are seeking in your life.
I provide a variety of experiential techniques, including EMDR, guided visualization, Somatic Experiencing, hypnotherapy, Brainspotting, mindfulness practices and spiritual processes to guide you back to your intuitive knowing and soul-wisdom.
If you feel unfulfilled in your relationships and find loss and change difficult, and if you want to get to the source of the patterns and blocks keeping you stuck in worry, anxiety, emotional eating, lost sleep, and a lack of purpose, then I can help. I especially enjoy working with couples and individuals longing for a connection to their "soul's wisdom" so they can feel more balance, joy, and fulfillment. I am an integrative, holistic mind-body-spirit psychotherapist. I offer techniques that will help you tune into your deepest self, the part of you that has your best wisdom and answers for what you are seeking in your life.
(916) 251-9983 View (916) 251-9983
Photo of Wendy Pugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ocala, FL
Wendy Pugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-S, ACHT
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults ages 12+ who deal with depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQIA issues, insomnia, sexual intimacy and other relationship issues through individual, couples, and hypnotherapy counseling. My practice, FreelyMe Psychotherapy, is a judgment-free zone where everyone can feel comfortable being themself.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults ages 12+ who deal with depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQIA issues, insomnia, sexual intimacy and other relationship issues through individual, couples, and hypnotherapy counseling. My practice, FreelyMe Psychotherapy, is a judgment-free zone where everyone can feel comfortable being themself.
(407) 512-9375 View (407) 512-9375
Photo of Spirit2Spirit Healing, Counselor in Ocala, FL
Spirit2Spirit Healing
Counselor, LMHC, CSAT, CAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471
When I was little, I had big dreams but life circumstances took me on a different much harder path. My primary purpose through the 60's70's&80's was my addiction. I was widowed by 27, left with 3 children and still using. I became sober in 1987, went back to school & started in the addiction field. I discovered most chronic relapsers struggled with emotional traumas and PTSD. I founded The Refuge & 10 years later, sold it and focused on Spirit2Spirit teaching professionals how to help trauma survivors. Today, I am the Executive Director and co-Founder of the Guest House Ocala where we treat trauma and the self defeating behaviors.
When I was little, I had big dreams but life circumstances took me on a different much harder path. My primary purpose through the 60's70's&80's was my addiction. I was widowed by 27, left with 3 children and still using. I became sober in 1987, went back to school & started in the addiction field. I discovered most chronic relapsers struggled with emotional traumas and PTSD. I founded The Refuge & 10 years later, sold it and focused on Spirit2Spirit teaching professionals how to help trauma survivors. Today, I am the Executive Director and co-Founder of the Guest House Ocala where we treat trauma and the self defeating behaviors.
(352) 354-4147 View (352) 354-4147
Photo of Stephanie Kuhlman, Counselor in Ocala, FL
Stephanie Kuhlman
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34471
I like to say that I specialize in “stuckness.” Over the years, I have been moved by my clients and their willingness to tolerate suffering and do everything in their power to recover, to heal, and move closer to others. I have also noticed that sometimes, despite their best efforts, something seems to stand in their way. This something has nothing to do with motivation. There are answers and I want to help clients overcome these mysterious barriers and break free of confusing, involuntary, and frustrating symptoms.
I like to say that I specialize in “stuckness.” Over the years, I have been moved by my clients and their willingness to tolerate suffering and do everything in their power to recover, to heal, and move closer to others. I have also noticed that sometimes, despite their best efforts, something seems to stand in their way. This something has nothing to do with motivation. There are answers and I want to help clients overcome these mysterious barriers and break free of confusing, involuntary, and frustrating symptoms.
(352) 280-3792 View (352) 280-3792
Photo of Dr. Alexis Mercado, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ocala, FL
Dr. Alexis Mercado
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34481  (Online Only)
Dr. Alexis is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist originally from the Bronx, NY. She received her Masters from Long Island University in 2009 and her doctoral degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2019 in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Dr. Alexis is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist originally from the Bronx, NY. She received her Masters from Long Island University in 2009 and her doctoral degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2019 in Marriage and Family Therapy.
(561) 559-7108 View (561) 559-7108
Photo of Jennifer Murray, Counselor in Ocala, FL
Jennifer Murray
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34481
You deserve a life of self-love, compassion, and healing. I specialize in working with people experiencing major life changes (new career, new family configuration, losing a loved one, romantic relationship ending or beginning), depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and adjustment issues. I encourage you to show up as your full-self and be seen. I view therapy as a partnership. You are the expert in your own experience, and I have expertise in mental health and healing.
You deserve a life of self-love, compassion, and healing. I specialize in working with people experiencing major life changes (new career, new family configuration, losing a loved one, romantic relationship ending or beginning), depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and adjustment issues. I encourage you to show up as your full-self and be seen. I view therapy as a partnership. You are the expert in your own experience, and I have expertise in mental health and healing.
(727) 334-8275 View (727) 334-8275
Photo of Dr. JD Wright, Psychologist in Ocala, FL
Dr. JD Wright
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocala, FL 34478
Healing is more than fixing what's broken—it's about creating a life that truly resonates with you. If you're someone who's spent hours thinking through your struggles, maybe even doing the "right things", and still feels stuck, you're not alone. Let's navigate a fresh perspective together. Whether it's exploring your history, envisioning future goals, or tuning into the wisdom of your body and emotions, I understand your journey is unique. Join me as we work towards unlocking a more meaningful and purposeful life tailored just for you.
Healing is more than fixing what's broken—it's about creating a life that truly resonates with you. If you're someone who's spent hours thinking through your struggles, maybe even doing the "right things", and still feels stuck, you're not alone. Let's navigate a fresh perspective together. Whether it's exploring your history, envisioning future goals, or tuning into the wisdom of your body and emotions, I understand your journey is unique. Join me as we work towards unlocking a more meaningful and purposeful life tailored just for you.
(352) 499-1507 View (352) 499-1507
Photo of Sue Frazier Morrow, Counselor in Ocala, FL
Sue Frazier Morrow
Counselor, LMHC, ACHT, CRT
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34470  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Blending conventional wisdom and alternative approaches, such as hypnotherapy/trance work, I draw on a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client.
As a compassionate, interactive, and experiential therapist, my treatment approach is to provide therapeutic experiences and practical feedback in a safe and supportive setting to help clients resolve current issues and long-standing patterns of thinking, feeling, and doing that interrupt the flow of their lives. With sensitivity and care, I assist clients in reaching for inner wholeness and healing. I place a strong emphasis on the mind-body connection and incorporate aspects of spirituality and transpersonal development into the healing process.
Blending conventional wisdom and alternative approaches, such as hypnotherapy/trance work, I draw on a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client.
As a compassionate, interactive, and experiential therapist, my treatment approach is to provide therapeutic experiences and practical feedback in a safe and supportive setting to help clients resolve current issues and long-standing patterns of thinking, feeling, and doing that interrupt the flow of their lives. With sensitivity and care, I assist clients in reaching for inner wholeness and healing. I place a strong emphasis on the mind-body connection and incorporate aspects of spirituality and transpersonal development into the healing process.
(386) 388-6605 View (386) 388-6605

Online Therapists

Photo of Molly Terry, Counselor in Ocala, FL
Molly Terry
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33763
I have been extensively trained in Cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, hypnotherapy, and provide trauma-informed care.
I specialize in offering dedicated support to navigate the complexities of stress, anxiety, trauma, and relationship difficulties. To address immediate concerns; while arming you with the insights and tools necessary for a lifetime of resilience and growth. In our therapeutic journey, you can trust that I'll provide a secure and welcoming haven where you can explore your inner self with the utmost honesty and compassion. This is a space where the healing process unfolds, where personal growth takes root, and where you're free to become the best version of yourself without the weight of judgment.
I have been extensively trained in Cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, hypnotherapy, and provide trauma-informed care.
I specialize in offering dedicated support to navigate the complexities of stress, anxiety, trauma, and relationship difficulties. To address immediate concerns; while arming you with the insights and tools necessary for a lifetime of resilience and growth. In our therapeutic journey, you can trust that I'll provide a secure and welcoming haven where you can explore your inner self with the utmost honesty and compassion. This is a space where the healing process unfolds, where personal growth takes root, and where you're free to become the best version of yourself without the weight of judgment.
(727) 268-8814 View (727) 268-8814
Photo of The Holistic Mental Health Clinic, Counselor in Ocala, FL
The Holistic Mental Health Clinic
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33703
At the Holistic Mental Health Clinic we specialize in natural treatments for mental health. Along with traditional psychotherapy we provide natural evidenced based treatments such as EMDR, clinical hypnotherapy and the Amen Clinics Method of understanding how your brain uniquely works. Specializations include depression, anxiety, substance abuse, ADHD and behavioral issues for children, individual and couples. This is the time it helps to speak with someone who can help you experience your life, your children and relationships from a new perspective. With this far more targeted treatment there is hope.
At the Holistic Mental Health Clinic we specialize in natural treatments for mental health. Along with traditional psychotherapy we provide natural evidenced based treatments such as EMDR, clinical hypnotherapy and the Amen Clinics Method of understanding how your brain uniquely works. Specializations include depression, anxiety, substance abuse, ADHD and behavioral issues for children, individual and couples. This is the time it helps to speak with someone who can help you experience your life, your children and relationships from a new perspective. With this far more targeted treatment there is hope.
(727) 800-4928 View (727) 800-4928
Photo of Yvette Tucholski-Dekeles, Counselor in Ocala, FL
Yvette Tucholski-Dekeles
Counselor, LMHC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33629
I will provide the latest treatments in health science, CBT, EMDR, & Hypnotherapy to address issues, such as trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Do regrets, guilt, and shame consume your ability to feel happy? Does anxiety and stress effect your work or relationships? If this sounds like you, relief is available. I have been a licensed counselor since 1998; combine my extensive experience with the latest treatments to help you bring about real and lasting change to your life. You deserve personalized and comprehensive treatment, which is why we will develop a treatment plan that will act as our road-map to your goals. Together we will target the areas you are seeking to change with measurable results, bringing you clarity, and maximize your success.
I will provide the latest treatments in health science, CBT, EMDR, & Hypnotherapy to address issues, such as trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Do regrets, guilt, and shame consume your ability to feel happy? Does anxiety and stress effect your work or relationships? If this sounds like you, relief is available. I have been a licensed counselor since 1998; combine my extensive experience with the latest treatments to help you bring about real and lasting change to your life. You deserve personalized and comprehensive treatment, which is why we will develop a treatment plan that will act as our road-map to your goals. Together we will target the areas you are seeking to change with measurable results, bringing you clarity, and maximize your success.
(813) 328-7715 View (813) 328-7715
Photo of Kenneth D. Koffer, Counselor in Ocala, FL
Kenneth D. Koffer
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Mary, FL 32746
Together we can use my formal training in hypnotherapy to shift your focus from narrow and unhelpful solutions, break down your inner barriers, and access that resourceful, creative side of you that intuitively knows what you need to move forward.
To the outside world, it seems like you have it all together. But inside you struggle with the frequent suspicion that you are not good enough. In an effort to prove it wrong, you overextend yourself with being the perfect employee, partner, or parent. Because when your mind is unoccupied, the inner critic who lives rent-free in your head can be relentless So you keep yourself distracted by setting near impossible goals for yourself over and over, and then attacking yourself for not reaching them. And it has become exhausting.
Together we can use my formal training in hypnotherapy to shift your focus from narrow and unhelpful solutions, break down your inner barriers, and access that resourceful, creative side of you that intuitively knows what you need to move forward.
To the outside world, it seems like you have it all together. But inside you struggle with the frequent suspicion that you are not good enough. In an effort to prove it wrong, you overextend yourself with being the perfect employee, partner, or parent. Because when your mind is unoccupied, the inner critic who lives rent-free in your head can be relentless So you keep yourself distracted by setting near impossible goals for yourself over and over, and then attacking yourself for not reaching them. And it has become exhausting.
(407) 449-1418 View (407) 449-1418
Photo of Cynthia Torres, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ocala, FL
Cynthia Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801
Hypnotherapy works directly with the subconscious which is the source of limiting beliefs that keep us from accomplishing our goals or locked into negative habitual behavioral/relational patterns.
I find great joy in helping individuals and families find theirs again. If you're feeling stuck or struggle to find time for self care- I offer online therapeutic support to make getting the help you need easily accessible. I have been a therapist for the last 10 years helping people to find joy in their journeys while healing their minds and relationships. I offer hypnotherapy which helps us get to the root of issues fairly quickly, so one does not feel the need to be in years of therapy. Rather we work on healing the source of the issue, so you can move forward to creating the productive and abundant life you deserve!
Hypnotherapy works directly with the subconscious which is the source of limiting beliefs that keep us from accomplishing our goals or locked into negative habitual behavioral/relational patterns.
I find great joy in helping individuals and families find theirs again. If you're feeling stuck or struggle to find time for self care- I offer online therapeutic support to make getting the help you need easily accessible. I have been a therapist for the last 10 years helping people to find joy in their journeys while healing their minds and relationships. I offer hypnotherapy which helps us get to the root of issues fairly quickly, so one does not feel the need to be in years of therapy. Rather we work on healing the source of the issue, so you can move forward to creating the productive and abundant life you deserve!
(561) 250-7160 View (561) 250-7160
Photo of Rebecca Weidler- Integrated Journey Llc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ocala, FL
Rebecca Weidler- Integrated Journey Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LBS, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Port Orange, FL 32129  (Online Only)
Specializing in trauma treatment, hypnotherapy, play therapy, behavioral consulting for adults, children & families.
Facing & accepting experiences in life is a process that is often challenging & requires time & an emotional & mental investment. It is also an empowering journey that promises healing and growth to those who choose to engage in an evidence-based, facilitated approach from the effects of trauma &/or developmental impairments. I combine elements of social skills training, psychoeducational & psychodynamic techniques, & emphasize support.
Specializing in trauma treatment, hypnotherapy, play therapy, behavioral consulting for adults, children & families.
Facing & accepting experiences in life is a process that is often challenging & requires time & an emotional & mental investment. It is also an empowering journey that promises healing and growth to those who choose to engage in an evidence-based, facilitated approach from the effects of trauma &/or developmental impairments. I combine elements of social skills training, psychoeducational & psychodynamic techniques, & emphasize support.
(386) 272-7931 View (386) 272-7931
Photo of Jason Hosch, Counselor in Ocala, FL
Jason Hosch
Counselor, PhD, LCCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
I am also trained in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Clinical Hypnotherapy.
My ideal clients value honesty, responsibility, respect, and personal growth. They are self-motivated and ready to make lasting changes in their lives for their own benefit. They understand that counseling is a process - a journey - and that they will get out of it what they put into it. They understand that it may be uncomfortable at times, and that things may temporarily get worse before they get better, but they understand the need to stay committed to their own healing and recovery because by doing so, they will find freedom from bondage. Website: www.lifetransitions.cc
I am also trained in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Clinical Hypnotherapy.
My ideal clients value honesty, responsibility, respect, and personal growth. They are self-motivated and ready to make lasting changes in their lives for their own benefit. They understand that counseling is a process - a journey - and that they will get out of it what they put into it. They understand that it may be uncomfortable at times, and that things may temporarily get worse before they get better, but they understand the need to stay committed to their own healing and recovery because by doing so, they will find freedom from bondage. Website: www.lifetransitions.cc
(904) 386-9518 View (904) 386-9518
Photo of Liz Carey in Ocala, FL
Liz Carey
MS, CCHT
Verified Verified
Maitland, FL 32751
I’m Liz Carey, Founder of Liz Carey Clinical Hypnotherapy. I started this extension of my personal and leadership development business because I saw a missing piece in the world today. Real, sustainable help in relieving life’s struggles in a way that is practical and makes sense for real people, in their real lives. Everyone has some or a few life struggles that limit them in some way. And, more than likely they have tried many things to resolve these issues. I promise you this combination of coaching, counseling and clinical hypnotherapy will work and fast! Insomnia, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, OCD are a few of my specialties!
I’m Liz Carey, Founder of Liz Carey Clinical Hypnotherapy. I started this extension of my personal and leadership development business because I saw a missing piece in the world today. Real, sustainable help in relieving life’s struggles in a way that is practical and makes sense for real people, in their real lives. Everyone has some or a few life struggles that limit them in some way. And, more than likely they have tried many things to resolve these issues. I promise you this combination of coaching, counseling and clinical hypnotherapy will work and fast! Insomnia, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, OCD are a few of my specialties!
(407) 565-7428 View (407) 565-7428
Photo of Farida K. Stino, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ocala, FL
Farida K. Stino
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
I'm here to support you as you reach for your goal of happiness and health. I am a Certified Practitioner of EMDR as well Clinical Hypnotherapy. Through Face to Face or Virtual Therapy, you can have access to help from the comfort of your home. Now that's Bliss!
I'm here to support you as you reach for your goal of happiness and health. I am a Certified Practitioner of EMDR as well Clinical Hypnotherapy. Through Face to Face or Virtual Therapy, you can have access to help from the comfort of your home. Now that's Bliss!
(813) 328-5474 View (813) 328-5474
Photo of Dr. Laura C Franco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ocala, FL
Dr. Laura C Franco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511
We only use scientifically based approaches like EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am the owner of Life Solutions Services, a practice focused on providing a wide range of services including psychotherapy, hypnoyherapy, medication management and outpatient opioid detox, provided by skilled and experienced clinicians. I often say to our new clients that it takes a lot of courage to reach out and begin their journey towards better mental health. When you finally make the decision to contact a therapist and schedule your first appointment, you are beginning to regain some control over your life. I am proud of you for starting your journey by researching a clinician you feel you will be able to trust.
We only use scientifically based approaches like EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am the owner of Life Solutions Services, a practice focused on providing a wide range of services including psychotherapy, hypnoyherapy, medication management and outpatient opioid detox, provided by skilled and experienced clinicians. I often say to our new clients that it takes a lot of courage to reach out and begin their journey towards better mental health. When you finally make the decision to contact a therapist and schedule your first appointment, you are beginning to regain some control over your life. I am proud of you for starting your journey by researching a clinician you feel you will be able to trust.
(954) 280-1966 View (954) 280-1966
Photo of Cheryl Ann D' La Rotta, Counselor in Ocala, FL
Cheryl Ann D' La Rotta
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33716
As an LMHC, I am a Certified Trauma Professional, Couples Counselor, CBT, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, DBT/REBT, Sports depression, Grief/Recovery, Mindfulness, Inner Child, Artist/musician anxiety, somatic, and LGBTQ issues.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Supervisor for the State of Florida. I am very sensitive to the issues of diversity, oppression, and discrimination. I am a Certified Trauma Professional with the ITAP and advocate in the issues of the LGBT, sexual assault survivors, childhood sexual abuse survivors, elderly abuse, intimate partner violence and many other types of trauma. I have created a safe and secure environment for my clients to unveil their lived experiences, as I help guide them towards their goals and a better way of life. My own lived experiences allow me to be vulnerable, empathetic, and non-judgmental
As an LMHC, I am a Certified Trauma Professional, Couples Counselor, CBT, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, DBT/REBT, Sports depression, Grief/Recovery, Mindfulness, Inner Child, Artist/musician anxiety, somatic, and LGBTQ issues.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Supervisor for the State of Florida. I am very sensitive to the issues of diversity, oppression, and discrimination. I am a Certified Trauma Professional with the ITAP and advocate in the issues of the LGBT, sexual assault survivors, childhood sexual abuse survivors, elderly abuse, intimate partner violence and many other types of trauma. I have created a safe and secure environment for my clients to unveil their lived experiences, as I help guide them towards their goals and a better way of life. My own lived experiences allow me to be vulnerable, empathetic, and non-judgmental
(786) 565-4802 View (786) 565-4802
Photo of Annette L Becklund, MSW, LCSW & Assoc LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ocala, FL
Annette L Becklund, MSW, LCSW & Assoc LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, FL 34611
Hello, I look forward to working with you, no matter what you are going through. I specialize in Autism & Asperger's & Unique Ways of Being. I hold an EMDR level 2 certificate, a certification in Heart Centered Hypnotherapy; I am a licensed Trim Life provider and I am trained in sand play. If you are ready to do the work and prefer deep, meaningful discoveries within yourself, then feel free to call today and set up an appointment. I work with very young children through to age 99. Autism evaluations for teens through Adults. Familiar with NPEs MPEs (Not Parent Expected/Misattributed Parentage) from DNA testing, etc.
Hello, I look forward to working with you, no matter what you are going through. I specialize in Autism & Asperger's & Unique Ways of Being. I hold an EMDR level 2 certificate, a certification in Heart Centered Hypnotherapy; I am a licensed Trim Life provider and I am trained in sand play. If you are ready to do the work and prefer deep, meaningful discoveries within yourself, then feel free to call today and set up an appointment. I work with very young children through to age 99. Autism evaluations for teens through Adults. Familiar with NPEs MPEs (Not Parent Expected/Misattributed Parentage) from DNA testing, etc.
(727) 201-0639 View (727) 201-0639

Nearby HypnoTherapy Searches for Ocala

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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.