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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Huilin Lai, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Irvington, NJ
Huilin Lai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CST, EMDR-C, SIFI
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07302
I have expertise in sex therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Hypnotherapy, Mindfulness and Attachment based therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family therapy and Couples counseling.
Contact me if you are struggling with relationship difficulties, sex, sexuality concerns, trauma, losses of loved ones, ADHD, depression or anxiety. I will help you better understand and accept yourself, and use your own insights and strengths to change and grow. I am also passionate about working with individuals, families and groups with cross-cultural/immigration background. Coming to United States as an international student myself, I deeply understand the challenges in the international community, the painful process of loss and separation from home countries, and difficulties to fit in due to language and cultural barriers.
I have expertise in sex therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Hypnotherapy, Mindfulness and Attachment based therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family therapy and Couples counseling.
Contact me if you are struggling with relationship difficulties, sex, sexuality concerns, trauma, losses of loved ones, ADHD, depression or anxiety. I will help you better understand and accept yourself, and use your own insights and strengths to change and grow. I am also passionate about working with individuals, families and groups with cross-cultural/immigration background. Coming to United States as an international student myself, I deeply understand the challenges in the international community, the painful process of loss and separation from home countries, and difficulties to fit in due to language and cultural barriers.
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Photo of Linda Libby Charlaff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Irvington, NJ
Linda Libby Charlaff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, LCADC
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07012
My approach offers a unique blend of therapy that includes: CBT and DBT, Mindfulness , and Hypnotherapy.
Right now, you may feel confused or scared or a mix of emotions that you can’t understand. That’s okay, you’re only human, and we all need some help sometimes to deal with the challenges that life throws at us. The hardest part of healing is often making that first admission that you need help, and then accepting it when it is offered. I'm here to tell you that you are not alone... Hi, I'm Linda, and I'm here to help you. As a clinical social worker, I have spent 30 years treating clients with challenges such as mental illness, addictions, personality disorders and rebuilding relationships.
My approach offers a unique blend of therapy that includes: CBT and DBT, Mindfulness , and Hypnotherapy.
Right now, you may feel confused or scared or a mix of emotions that you can’t understand. That’s okay, you’re only human, and we all need some help sometimes to deal with the challenges that life throws at us. The hardest part of healing is often making that first admission that you need help, and then accepting it when it is offered. I'm here to tell you that you are not alone... Hi, I'm Linda, and I'm here to help you. As a clinical social worker, I have spent 30 years treating clients with challenges such as mental illness, addictions, personality disorders and rebuilding relationships.
(347) 970-7264 View (347) 970-7264
Photo of Tricia-Leigh Best, Counselor in Irvington, NJ
Tricia-Leigh Best
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
I am a relationship expert specializing in individual and couples therapy, focusing in Imago Therapy. I've helped numerous couples reconnect, build healthy marriages and work through the challenges of divorce and finding love again. At the core of my work is an integrative approach that helps women and men accept themselves more and connect to others in meaningful ways. My experience in private practice and community mental health settings provides individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship issues with a collaborative approach for growth and healing.
I am a relationship expert specializing in individual and couples therapy, focusing in Imago Therapy. I've helped numerous couples reconnect, build healthy marriages and work through the challenges of divorce and finding love again. At the core of my work is an integrative approach that helps women and men accept themselves more and connect to others in meaningful ways. My experience in private practice and community mental health settings provides individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship issues with a collaborative approach for growth and healing.
(973) 556-4054 View (973) 556-4054
Photo of Allison Gaydos: EMDR, Trauma, Smoking Cessation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Irvington, NJ
Allison Gaydos: EMDR, Trauma, Smoking Cessation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Hoboken, NJ 07030
I'm an experienced EMDR trauma specialist & I love to support adult children of emotionally immature parents, adults, college students, and post-college grads navigating early adulthood. My clients come to therapy to heal from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, reduce traumatic memories, and get to know their healthier adult self. We'll work on boundary setting and building rewarding relationships. I offer talk therapy as well as treatments like EMDR, smoking cessation, and clinical hypnosis that can have a bigger impact and faster results. Book a free 20 min consultation to learn more: cultivatetherapyteam.clientsecure.me
I'm an experienced EMDR trauma specialist & I love to support adult children of emotionally immature parents, adults, college students, and post-college grads navigating early adulthood. My clients come to therapy to heal from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, reduce traumatic memories, and get to know their healthier adult self. We'll work on boundary setting and building rewarding relationships. I offer talk therapy as well as treatments like EMDR, smoking cessation, and clinical hypnosis that can have a bigger impact and faster results. Book a free 20 min consultation to learn more: cultivatetherapyteam.clientsecure.me
(201) 862-4707 View (201) 862-4707
Photo of Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist, Counselor in Irvington, NJ
Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist
Counselor, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Is there a disconnect between you & your partner(s) when it comes to your sex life? If so, please don't wait to get support! Because we're taught so little about sex, many of us shy away from the topic, but that just worsens things. Sex can start to feel like a chore and lack of sex can become the elephant in the room. It can even cause the end of your relationship if left unaddressed long enough. Before I became a sex therapist, I also found myself in this situation in my long-term relationship. But after 10,000 hours of coaching and counseling clients and becoming an AASECT certified sex therapist, I am confident I can help!
Is there a disconnect between you & your partner(s) when it comes to your sex life? If so, please don't wait to get support! Because we're taught so little about sex, many of us shy away from the topic, but that just worsens things. Sex can start to feel like a chore and lack of sex can become the elephant in the room. It can even cause the end of your relationship if left unaddressed long enough. Before I became a sex therapist, I also found myself in this situation in my long-term relationship. But after 10,000 hours of coaching and counseling clients and becoming an AASECT certified sex therapist, I am confident I can help!
(508) 545-9639 View (508) 545-9639
Photo of Medina Colaku, Counselor in Irvington, NJ
Medina Colaku
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Glen Ridge, NJ 07028  (Online Only)
Learning how to hold space for yourself and your emotions can be difficult. You deserve a space to slow down, take a breath, and connect with what matters most to you - I'm here to hold that safe space for you. I enjoy working with humans who are experiencing anxiety, depression, burnout, or are in the midst of pivotal life shifts. I also work with those healing from trauma, specifically the type of trauma that’s made you feel unseen, unheard or if you've felt unloved. We'll access a place inside you that allows you to become more curious and aware of the processes currently running your life.
Learning how to hold space for yourself and your emotions can be difficult. You deserve a space to slow down, take a breath, and connect with what matters most to you - I'm here to hold that safe space for you. I enjoy working with humans who are experiencing anxiety, depression, burnout, or are in the midst of pivotal life shifts. I also work with those healing from trauma, specifically the type of trauma that’s made you feel unseen, unheard or if you've felt unloved. We'll access a place inside you that allows you to become more curious and aware of the processes currently running your life.
(862) 225-6527 View (862) 225-6527
Photo of Institute for Personal Growth - LGBTQ Community, Psychologist in Irvington, NJ
Institute for Personal Growth - LGBTQ Community
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07302
Thinking of therapy? Ask us for the first session free. IPG paved the way for other Queer-affirmative therapists. Founded in 1983 specifically to serve the LGBTQ+ community, back when most practitioners viewed it as a mental illness, we are still trailblazers, working with trans/GNC folks, bi/pansexuals, the kink/BDSM community, consensual nonmonogamists, and others who make up the "Q+" in LGBTQ+. You may not want therapy because you are gay, but you likely want a therapist who is not only affirming but knowledgeable. We understand the special issues of LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families, and we provide sex therapy as well.
Thinking of therapy? Ask us for the first session free. IPG paved the way for other Queer-affirmative therapists. Founded in 1983 specifically to serve the LGBTQ+ community, back when most practitioners viewed it as a mental illness, we are still trailblazers, working with trans/GNC folks, bi/pansexuals, the kink/BDSM community, consensual nonmonogamists, and others who make up the "Q+" in LGBTQ+. You may not want therapy because you are gay, but you likely want a therapist who is not only affirming but knowledgeable. We understand the special issues of LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families, and we provide sex therapy as well.
(800) 379-9220 View (800) 379-9220
Photo of Footprints to Feel Better, Licensed Professional Counselor in Irvington, NJ
Footprints to Feel Better
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07013
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Olga Balakova, Licensed Professional Counselor in Irvington, NJ
Olga Balakova
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Rutherford, NJ 07070  (Online Only)
Living a fulfilling life often requires addressing unspoken traumas, letting go of silent resentments and getting passed the early discomfort of making lifelong changes. My goal is to help adults, couples, and families work through the hurdles of depression, anxiety, codependency, self-esteem issues, and imbalances of power. I have worked for over 10 years with clients diagnosed with a variety of mental health issues and especially talented with the full spectrum of addiction (drugs, sex, porn, gambling).... may it be your own, or helping you manage the addiction of someone you love. I use my extensive experience and training to
Living a fulfilling life often requires addressing unspoken traumas, letting go of silent resentments and getting passed the early discomfort of making lifelong changes. My goal is to help adults, couples, and families work through the hurdles of depression, anxiety, codependency, self-esteem issues, and imbalances of power. I have worked for over 10 years with clients diagnosed with a variety of mental health issues and especially talented with the full spectrum of addiction (drugs, sex, porn, gambling).... may it be your own, or helping you manage the addiction of someone you love. I use my extensive experience and training to
(862) 378-3393 View (862) 378-3393

Online Therapists

Photo of Englewood Therapy Associates, Psychologist in Irvington, NJ
Englewood Therapy Associates
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631
Our therapists have advanced training in evidence-based modalities, including EMDR, Marriage and Family Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play Therapy, and Hypnotherapy.
We are a multi-disciplinary team of clinicians located in the heart of East Hill Englewood in Bergen County, NJ. We offer in-person and virtual therapy to children, teens, adults, couples and families. We treat stress, anxiety, burnout, relationship difficulties, depression and anger. We specialize in reluctant therapy-seekers and have a strong track record in creating and maintaining lasting working relationships with a solutions-focused approach.
Our therapists have advanced training in evidence-based modalities, including EMDR, Marriage and Family Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play Therapy, and Hypnotherapy.
We are a multi-disciplinary team of clinicians located in the heart of East Hill Englewood in Bergen County, NJ. We offer in-person and virtual therapy to children, teens, adults, couples and families. We treat stress, anxiety, burnout, relationship difficulties, depression and anger. We specialize in reluctant therapy-seekers and have a strong track record in creating and maintaining lasting working relationships with a solutions-focused approach.
(551) 282-1829 View (551) 282-1829
Photo of Dr. S. Yeliz Orhan in Irvington, NJ
Dr. S. Yeliz Orhan
PhD, CMH, CHT, MA
Verified Verified
Totowa, NJ 07512
I use Psychotheraphy,Hypnotherapy,EMDR for treatments.
I am a psychologist (Ph.D.), I have over 19 years of experience and have worked with a diverse population on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, Post-traumatic stress disorder, marital/family conflict and stress,ADHD in childs and adults,adolescent mental health,neurotic dieseases and psychotic disorders,traumatic events,phobias. Specialized on chronic stress-related psychological and problems like vaginismus,sexual problems and physiological illnesses like cardio-vascular. I have training in working with children and adolescents and their parents.I also have significant experience in working older adults/
I use Psychotheraphy,Hypnotherapy,EMDR for treatments.
I am a psychologist (Ph.D.), I have over 19 years of experience and have worked with a diverse population on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, Post-traumatic stress disorder, marital/family conflict and stress,ADHD in childs and adults,adolescent mental health,neurotic dieseases and psychotic disorders,traumatic events,phobias. Specialized on chronic stress-related psychological and problems like vaginismus,sexual problems and physiological illnesses like cardio-vascular. I have training in working with children and adolescents and their parents.I also have significant experience in working older adults/
(551) 278-8728 View (551) 278-8728
Photo of Paula L Ryan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Irvington, NJ
Paula L Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Merchantville, NJ 08109
Life transitions, anxiety, & trauma affect each person differently. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, 1984), Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy practitioner (2004), and 3-time breast cancer survivor it is my goal to guide and support each person's potential. Each day I feel honored, grateful and blessed to listen and participate in each personal story on your healing journey. As an e-RYT expert-Registered Yoga Teacher (teaching since 1972), A body-mind-spirit orientation and the person-in-environment all inform a holistic perspective. I am using Sue Johnson's EFT (Emotionally-Focused Therapy), to work with couples .
Life transitions, anxiety, & trauma affect each person differently. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, 1984), Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy practitioner (2004), and 3-time breast cancer survivor it is my goal to guide and support each person's potential. Each day I feel honored, grateful and blessed to listen and participate in each personal story on your healing journey. As an e-RYT expert-Registered Yoga Teacher (teaching since 1972), A body-mind-spirit orientation and the person-in-environment all inform a holistic perspective. I am using Sue Johnson's EFT (Emotionally-Focused Therapy), to work with couples .
(856) 979-6103 View (856) 979-6103
Photo of Robert LoPresti, Psychologist in Irvington, NJ
Robert LoPresti
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fair Haven, NJ 07704
In Imago Relationship therapy I coach the partners into giving and receiving love. Love is the healing force. Imago Therapy is the guiding model along with cognitive behavioral therapy, somatic experiencing, body centered approaches and mindfulness. In individual therapy the focus is on finding clients' strengths and using those strengths for healing of symptoms including insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD and others using cognitive behavioral, somatic experiencing, hypnotherapy, mindfulness,imagery, brainspotting, EMDR, TFT, EFT, and others. Mindfulness is taught in all sessions
In Imago Relationship therapy I coach the partners into giving and receiving love. Love is the healing force. Imago Therapy is the guiding model along with cognitive behavioral therapy, somatic experiencing, body centered approaches and mindfulness. In individual therapy the focus is on finding clients' strengths and using those strengths for healing of symptoms including insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD and others using cognitive behavioral, somatic experiencing, hypnotherapy, mindfulness,imagery, brainspotting, EMDR, TFT, EFT, and others. Mindfulness is taught in all sessions
(732) 842-4553 View (732) 842-4553
Photo of Advanced Learning Behavioral Center, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Irvington, NJ
Advanced Learning Behavioral Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCBA, PhD, BBS
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
We offer Hypnotherapy, PE, CBT and other therapies such as Behavior Therapy to help you heal.
Thank you for contacting us for your counseling needs, we are glad you have reached out for us to help you. Our focus is to better understand how we can help our clients heal from depression, anxiety, PTSD, developmental trauma, couples' relationships and marriage issues, self esteem, smoking cessation, executive skills and social skills deficiencies. Menashe East, LCSW is a therapist with us treating: sexual issues, couples, grief, spiritual, and family issues. We use evidence-based therapies for children, adults, and couples. Please visit our website for an appointment with one of our therapists at: www.advancedlearningddb.net
We offer Hypnotherapy, PE, CBT and other therapies such as Behavior Therapy to help you heal.
Thank you for contacting us for your counseling needs, we are glad you have reached out for us to help you. Our focus is to better understand how we can help our clients heal from depression, anxiety, PTSD, developmental trauma, couples' relationships and marriage issues, self esteem, smoking cessation, executive skills and social skills deficiencies. Menashe East, LCSW is a therapist with us treating: sexual issues, couples, grief, spiritual, and family issues. We use evidence-based therapies for children, adults, and couples. Please visit our website for an appointment with one of our therapists at: www.advancedlearningddb.net
(862) 260-8700 View (862) 260-8700
Photo of Joon Eui Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Irvington, NJ
Joon Eui Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS, MPA
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
I am a Korean and English speaking Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, relationship and parenting children. In my practice I work with individuals, couples, and families.
I am a Korean and English speaking Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, relationship and parenting children. In my practice I work with individuals, couples, and families.
(201) 425-0889 View (201) 425-0889
We Level Up NJ Addiction Rehab & Detox Therapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08618
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by Joint Commission's Accreditation pending held by top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual-diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood, & thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-based modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling.
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by Joint Commission's Accreditation pending held by top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual-diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood, & thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-based modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling.
(609) 418-4013 View (609) 418-4013
Photo of Lauren Pearl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Irvington, NJ
Lauren Pearl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Thank you for your interest in my services. There are many different layers to our lives and relationships. Sometimes we experience stressors, life transitions, and interpersonal issues which can be challenging to deal with on our own. Seeking help takes strength and is the first step. I am here to help you through such difficulties, and to give you comfort, support, effective techniques, and professional guidance where you feel you need it most. Clients have experienced great success and relief whether it's been through learning to reconnect with a partner, improving self-esteem, managing difficult family relationships, etc.
Thank you for your interest in my services. There are many different layers to our lives and relationships. Sometimes we experience stressors, life transitions, and interpersonal issues which can be challenging to deal with on our own. Seeking help takes strength and is the first step. I am here to help you through such difficulties, and to give you comfort, support, effective techniques, and professional guidance where you feel you need it most. Clients have experienced great success and relief whether it's been through learning to reconnect with a partner, improving self-esteem, managing difficult family relationships, etc.
(201) 389-8268 View (201) 389-8268
Photo of Babita Spinelli, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Irvington, NJ
Babita Spinelli
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LP
Not Verified Not Verified
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920  (Online Only)
Babita has a waitlist until May 2022. You feel stuck and frustrated that you can't control the chaos or balance it all. You just feel so exhausted from trying so hard to make all the pieces in your life "fit" and you are not sure how to feel happier. You may even have noticed some depression or increased anxiety. You know you need to do something, but just not sure where to begin. I get it! As a team, we will move you forward to a healthier, more balanced and empowered space. You do not need to manage this alone.
Babita has a waitlist until May 2022. You feel stuck and frustrated that you can't control the chaos or balance it all. You just feel so exhausted from trying so hard to make all the pieces in your life "fit" and you are not sure how to feel happier. You may even have noticed some depression or increased anxiety. You know you need to do something, but just not sure where to begin. I get it! As a team, we will move you forward to a healthier, more balanced and empowered space. You do not need to manage this alone.
(347) 884-7316 View (347) 884-7316
Photo of Sarah A Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Irvington, NJ
Sarah A Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Glassboro, NJ 08028  (Online Only)
Are you yearning for a transformative shift in your perspective? Are you seeking support to navigate life's transitions with grace or overcome medical challenges with resilience? Maybe a recent diagnosis has left you reeling. Perhaps you simply feel overwhelmed and lost. No matter the challenge, you deserve to find support and ignite hope. Every situation, even the most difficult, holds the potential for profound growth and healing. I'm here to guide you on this transformative journey, helping you unlock your potential and build a stronger, more fulfilling life.
Are you yearning for a transformative shift in your perspective? Are you seeking support to navigate life's transitions with grace or overcome medical challenges with resilience? Maybe a recent diagnosis has left you reeling. Perhaps you simply feel overwhelmed and lost. No matter the challenge, you deserve to find support and ignite hope. Every situation, even the most difficult, holds the potential for profound growth and healing. I'm here to guide you on this transformative journey, helping you unlock your potential and build a stronger, more fulfilling life.
(609) 564-5297 View (609) 564-5297
Photo of Rebecca Sizer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Irvington, NJ
Rebecca Sizer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, NCC, CCMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Little Silver, NJ 07739  (Online Only)
Often people struggle with anxiety, depression, unresolved issues, relationship problems, trauma, anger outbursts, addiction, and overwhelming stress. Others come to process their grief from losses through death, divorce, job loss, estrangement. COVID-19 has intensified and spawned depression, trauma, anxiety, and existential angst. Most clients come for relief and release from the issues that have them stuck. They want insight, understanding, and coping skills that work.
Often people struggle with anxiety, depression, unresolved issues, relationship problems, trauma, anger outbursts, addiction, and overwhelming stress. Others come to process their grief from losses through death, divorce, job loss, estrangement. COVID-19 has intensified and spawned depression, trauma, anxiety, and existential angst. Most clients come for relief and release from the issues that have them stuck. They want insight, understanding, and coping skills that work.
(732) 592-2660 View (732) 592-2660

See more therapy options for Irvington


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.