Photo of Deborah E Barile, Counselor in Chicago, IL
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.
(312) 882-1229 View (312) 882-1229
Photo of Pat Bardenett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
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.
(312) 789-5428 View (312) 789-5428
Photo of Kerry F Ito, Counselor in Chicago, IL
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.
(773) 985-7634 View (773) 985-7634
Photo of Dr. Sonia Kennedy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Sonia Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LSW, RYT-500, CCHT
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 tired or stressed? Operating like you are on auto-pilot? Anxious? Poor Confidence? Low-Self Esteem? 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 offer in person & online therapy. Ask me about 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 tired or stressed? Operating like you are on auto-pilot? Anxious? Poor Confidence? Low-Self Esteem? 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 offer in person & online therapy. Ask me about Clinical Hypnotherapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques, Yoga, & Meditation sessions!
(312) 647-2403 View (312) 647-2403
Photo of Patrice Nerone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
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.
(224) 268-8096 View (224) 268-8096
Photo of Dr. Eleanor D Laser, Counselor in Chicago, IL
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.
(312) 465-4993 View (312) 465-4993
Photo of Eileen H Glenn, Counselor in Chicago, IL
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.
(847) 457-0145 View (847) 457-0145
Photo of Aline Defiglia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
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 am part of a dynamic group practice in Chattanooga called Ascend Coaching and Therapy. We work with clients in-person at our office in East Brainerd, virtually via phone or video, and outside in the beautiful forests of TN via ecotherapy sessions. I offer Life/Career 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 am part of a dynamic group practice in Chattanooga called Ascend Coaching and Therapy. We work with clients in-person at our office in East Brainerd, virtually via phone or video, and outside in the beautiful forests of TN via ecotherapy sessions. I offer Life/Career 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.
(773) 888-2713 View (773) 888-2713
Photo of David H. Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
David H. Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60660
David H. Johnson, L.C.S.W. Are you in pain either emotionally or relationally or both? Psychotherapy is a way to stop the suffering and live life more fully both personally and relationally. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and am certified and have training in the following disciplines: Addictions, Hypnotherapy, and Gestalt Therapy. I hold a M.A. degree in Social Work from the University of Chicago. For over 20 years, I have been counseling with individuals, couples, and has a specialty in mixed gender groups. I utilize a holistic approach, emphasizing healing of mind, body, spirit.
David H. Johnson, L.C.S.W. Are you in pain either emotionally or relationally or both? Psychotherapy is a way to stop the suffering and live life more fully both personally and relationally. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and am certified and have training in the following disciplines: Addictions, Hypnotherapy, and Gestalt Therapy. I hold a M.A. degree in Social Work from the University of Chicago. For over 20 years, I have been counseling with individuals, couples, and has a specialty in mixed gender groups. I utilize a holistic approach, emphasizing healing of mind, body, spirit.
(224) 334-3104 View (224) 334-3104
Photo of Nina Pernecke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Nina Pernecke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
Are you ready for peace? A hallmark of my work is the quickness of the process. What is possible for you? Discover your unshakable core, replacing anxiety, depression and self criticism. Practicing in IL and in WI, and coaching globally, I work with adults who experience panic, esteem, boundary, life, relationship, or performance challenges. Together, we discover how your experience impacts you and to turn it around through the use of powerful methods, which can include hypnosis therapy, and traditional counseling. These methods are also helpful with college students and in my Peaceful Power(tm) Program.
Are you ready for peace? A hallmark of my work is the quickness of the process. What is possible for you? Discover your unshakable core, replacing anxiety, depression and self criticism. Practicing in IL and in WI, and coaching globally, I work with adults who experience panic, esteem, boundary, life, relationship, or performance challenges. Together, we discover how your experience impacts you and to turn it around through the use of powerful methods, which can include hypnosis therapy, and traditional counseling. These methods are also helpful with college students and in my Peaceful Power(tm) Program.
(312) 626-3871 View (312) 626-3871
Photo of Monika Sharma, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Monika Sharma
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling "out of sync," unmotivated, confused, lethargic, anxious, depressed? Are your relationships suffering? Your productivity at work? Your belief in yourself? When one area of your life is depleted, it can create imbalance in other areas of your life. This can include areas of emotional health, physical health, nutrition, sleep, relationships, work, money, and spirituality. My holistic approach addresses clients as a "whole" person...all aspects within yourself (biology, thoughts, feelings) and outside yourself (work, culture, relationships, finances, etc.). As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Certified Holistic Health Coach, I facilitate your body's own natural healing process.
Are you feeling "out of sync," unmotivated, confused, lethargic, anxious, depressed? Are your relationships suffering? Your productivity at work? Your belief in yourself? When one area of your life is depleted, it can create imbalance in other areas of your life. This can include areas of emotional health, physical health, nutrition, sleep, relationships, work, money, and spirituality. My holistic approach addresses clients as a "whole" person...all aspects within yourself (biology, thoughts, feelings) and outside yourself (work, culture, relationships, finances, etc.). As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Certified Holistic Health Coach, I facilitate your body's own natural healing process.
(312) 955-1212 View (312) 955-1212
Photo of Steve Farmilant, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Steve Farmilant
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60660
My personal approach to therapy and assessment utilizes a compassionate, non-judgmental, encouraging style. I work with clients to clarify their values, goals, and the meanings they create in their lives with a focus on how they address the five tasks of life: love, work, friendship, self-care, and spirituality. Treatment planning consists of developing strategies and skills to master these life tasks. Assessment includes Fitness, Sanity, and Mitigation Evaluations, Damages Assessment, USCIS N-648 evaluations and more.
My personal approach to therapy and assessment utilizes a compassionate, non-judgmental, encouraging style. I work with clients to clarify their values, goals, and the meanings they create in their lives with a focus on how they address the five tasks of life: love, work, friendship, self-care, and spirituality. Treatment planning consists of developing strategies and skills to master these life tasks. Assessment includes Fitness, Sanity, and Mitigation Evaluations, Damages Assessment, USCIS N-648 evaluations and more.
(872) 213-7522 View (872) 213-7522
Photo of Carolyn Cole, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Carolyn Cole
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
How do you treat yourself? Can you say you treat yourself with the same compassion and care you show your family? Your friends? Your partner? Are you your best supporter or your biggest critic? We should talk! My passion is working with adults who are not satisfied with their relationships - with friends, family, or significant others. You deserve to feel loved and important, I want to help you identify and remove the barriers keeping you from realizing the life you want.
How do you treat yourself? Can you say you treat yourself with the same compassion and care you show your family? Your friends? Your partner? Are you your best supporter or your biggest critic? We should talk! My passion is working with adults who are not satisfied with their relationships - with friends, family, or significant others. You deserve to feel loved and important, I want to help you identify and remove the barriers keeping you from realizing the life you want.
(312) 647-2407 View (312) 647-2407
Photo of Beverly Therapists, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Beverly Therapists
Counselor, LCSW, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
The way you feel today, no matter how bad, is just this day in time. Yet, times of crisis and struggle are powerful opportunities for change. We are here to help you through the difficult phases of your life. We strive to empower you to identify and use your strengths, and to manifest inner and outer changes resulting in greater happiness, self-assurance, and choices in your life. We are committed to support and help you achieve meaningful and lasting positive transformation tailored uniquely to you.
The way you feel today, no matter how bad, is just this day in time. Yet, times of crisis and struggle are powerful opportunities for change. We are here to help you through the difficult phases of your life. We strive to empower you to identify and use your strengths, and to manifest inner and outer changes resulting in greater happiness, self-assurance, and choices in your life. We are committed to support and help you achieve meaningful and lasting positive transformation tailored uniquely to you.
(773) 717-2934 View (773) 717-2934
Photo of Head/Heart Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Head/Heart Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCPC, LMFT, CADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
"The longest journey that a man must take in his lifetime is the 18 inches from his head to his heart." This is the basis of Head/Heart Therapy. Utilizing various therapeutic methods, each client is treated as a unique individual to facilitate healing. Head/Heart Therapy is a private therapy practice where clients can experience non-judgmental, open, and authentic therapy. We value working with unique people from diverse backgrounds, life styles, and points of view.
"The longest journey that a man must take in his lifetime is the 18 inches from his head to his heart." This is the basis of Head/Heart Therapy. Utilizing various therapeutic methods, each client is treated as a unique individual to facilitate healing. Head/Heart Therapy is a private therapy practice where clients can experience non-judgmental, open, and authentic therapy. We value working with unique people from diverse backgrounds, life styles, and points of view.
(773) 966-2298 x504 View (773) 966-2298 x504
Photo of Nitaya Chawla, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Nitaya Chawla
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Change is never easy,but with the assistance of a therapist, you can start to learn skills to move towards your goals. Some of these skills include effective communication, mindfulness, relaxation, and changing negative thought patterns. In my work with couples, I focus on teaching communication skills and understanding underlying issues that effect the relationship.
Change is never easy,but with the assistance of a therapist, you can start to learn skills to move towards your goals. Some of these skills include effective communication, mindfulness, relaxation, and changing negative thought patterns. In my work with couples, I focus on teaching communication skills and understanding underlying issues that effect the relationship.
(630) 796-0890 View (630) 796-0890
Photo of Christiaan Raftery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Christiaan Raftery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, AM, MSc
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
You're looking for a therapist, that's great! That means that you are ready to make some changes. Maybe you've been struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships or many of the other problems that bring us down. You can let go of old habits that are holding you back. If you want a life filled with joy, happiness and energy I'm with you! We all want that. Imagine the triumph of waking up every day feeling more secure, confident, and successful! Let's look into the magic of learning those skills and tools that will lead you directly to your life's goals and achievements. I can help you get there.
You're looking for a therapist, that's great! That means that you are ready to make some changes. Maybe you've been struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships or many of the other problems that bring us down. You can let go of old habits that are holding you back. If you want a life filled with joy, happiness and energy I'm with you! We all want that. Imagine the triumph of waking up every day feeling more secure, confident, and successful! Let's look into the magic of learning those skills and tools that will lead you directly to your life's goals and achievements. I can help you get there.
(312) 646-4669 View (312) 646-4669
Photo of Mason L Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Mason L Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, NBCCH, CSOTS, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615  (Online Only)
Do you ever wonder why you keep experiencing the same kind of problem over and over again? Do you keep feeling defeated even before you begin? Ever wonder sometimes what's it all for and why you're still living? Many people ask themselves these questions everyday, but do nothing about it. You are not alone! There is help. You've come to the right place! People sometimes develop unhealthy ways of living due to their past experiences of being abused, hurt or traumatized. I specialize in helping those people suffering from the pain of life's disappointments, hurts or tragedies.
Do you ever wonder why you keep experiencing the same kind of problem over and over again? Do you keep feeling defeated even before you begin? Ever wonder sometimes what's it all for and why you're still living? Many people ask themselves these questions everyday, but do nothing about it. You are not alone! There is help. You've come to the right place! People sometimes develop unhealthy ways of living due to their past experiences of being abused, hurt or traumatized. I specialize in helping those people suffering from the pain of life's disappointments, hurts or tragedies.
(773) 270-8292 View (773) 270-8292
Photo of Erica Stone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Erica Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
Relationship issues can hijack your life. Dysfunctional romantic and family relationships, demanding bosses, inappropriate coworkers, weird friends, or complicated roommates can all be the kinds of relationships that isolate us; affect our sleep, appetites, and focus; and stir up BIG feelings. Breaking up, even if it's the right thing to do, can turn our lives upside down while we feel pressure on us to “just move on already,” when we are grieving. Sometimes we are having a hard time grieving loved ones who have died. Difficult relationships can also cause collateral damage to your relationship with yourself.
Relationship issues can hijack your life. Dysfunctional romantic and family relationships, demanding bosses, inappropriate coworkers, weird friends, or complicated roommates can all be the kinds of relationships that isolate us; affect our sleep, appetites, and focus; and stir up BIG feelings. Breaking up, even if it's the right thing to do, can turn our lives upside down while we feel pressure on us to “just move on already,” when we are grieving. Sometimes we are having a hard time grieving loved ones who have died. Difficult relationships can also cause collateral damage to your relationship with yourself.
(773) 232-4899 View (773) 232-4899
Photo of Jessica Backus, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jessica Backus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
I’m a warmhearted therapist dedicated to fostering deep connections and emotional safety. My approach will empower you to embrace your authentic self, navigate diverse emotions, and face challenges with courage and compassion. I’ll create a comfortable environment for us to work collaboratively, empowering you to make lasting changes aligned with your values and principles, leading to a more fulfilling life. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, empathetic, radically compassionate, playful, strength-based and non-judgmental.
I’m a warmhearted therapist dedicated to fostering deep connections and emotional safety. My approach will empower you to embrace your authentic self, navigate diverse emotions, and face challenges with courage and compassion. I’ll create a comfortable environment for us to work collaboratively, empowering you to make lasting changes aligned with your values and principles, leading to a more fulfilling life. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, empathetic, radically compassionate, playful, strength-based and non-judgmental.
(872) 204-1489 View (872) 204-1489
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.