Photo of Thom Thornsberry Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Thom Thornsberry Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Not accepting new clients
We are truly living in troubled times, globally and personally. Many of us find ourselves fluctuating between feelings of anxiety and/or depression. At 67 years old, I’ve spent nearly half my life – 35 years – as a Marriage and Family Therapist/Psychotherapist. Adding Hypnotherapy to my practice has been a game changer, and that, along with friends, colleagues, and many clients, I’ve learned ways of managing my thinking and thereby managing my emotions. This is what I do in my private practice and I can help you to do the same.
We are truly living in troubled times, globally and personally. Many of us find ourselves fluctuating between feelings of anxiety and/or depression. At 67 years old, I’ve spent nearly half my life – 35 years – as a Marriage and Family Therapist/Psychotherapist. Adding Hypnotherapy to my practice has been a game changer, and that, along with friends, colleagues, and many clients, I’ve learned ways of managing my thinking and thereby managing my emotions. This is what I do in my private practice and I can help you to do the same.
(206) 207-3006 View (206) 207-3006

Online Therapists

Photo of Daniel Franklin Cummings PS, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Daniel Franklin Cummings PS
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070  (Online Only)
The tools that I use include talk therapy, narrative, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Heart Centered Hypnotherapy.
I work with my clients to make sense and meaning out of their life experiences. The search for meaning is a powerful tool for dealing with trauma, loss, pain, anxiety and depression. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients make meaning of the moments in life in order to live a reach and meaningful life.
The tools that I use include talk therapy, narrative, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Heart Centered Hypnotherapy.
I work with my clients to make sense and meaning out of their life experiences. The search for meaning is a powerful tool for dealing with trauma, loss, pain, anxiety and depression. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients make meaning of the moments in life in order to live a reach and meaningful life.
(206) 504-2824 View (206) 504-2824
Photo of Drue Larson, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Drue Larson
Counselor, MA-ABS, CC, ACHt
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Take your next step. Experience what Counseling and Hypnotherapy can do for you. Life often demands more than we are able to handle on our own. Although we do our best, we may reach a point where we feel emotionally overwhelmed, spiritually adrift; stuck in the past, afraid of the future; unable to resolve our issues or move forward in life. If this sounds familiar, recognizing this is the first step. Reaching out for help starts your journey toward healing and creating the life you desire.
Take your next step. Experience what Counseling and Hypnotherapy can do for you. Life often demands more than we are able to handle on our own. Although we do our best, we may reach a point where we feel emotionally overwhelmed, spiritually adrift; stuck in the past, afraid of the future; unable to resolve our issues or move forward in life. If this sounds familiar, recognizing this is the first step. Reaching out for help starts your journey toward healing and creating the life you desire.
(425) 406-3843 View (425) 406-3843
Photo of Nadia Ahrens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Nadia Ahrens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACHT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Using a blend of clinical expertise with healing modalities such as hypnotherapy, soul work, and the chakra system, she teaches women how to understand their gifts and release fears so they can live empowered, authentic lives.
Are you ready to move beyond therapy and find your soul's purpose? Have you ever asked yourself, "Why am I here?" "Is there a purpose to my life?" You've found the right place. A blend of psychotherapy, soul soaching & hypnotherapy help you heal on a deeper, more profound level, so you can understand your soul's purpose. I'm dedicated to helping women empower, transform and fulfill their lives.
Using a blend of clinical expertise with healing modalities such as hypnotherapy, soul work, and the chakra system, she teaches women how to understand their gifts and release fears so they can live empowered, authentic lives.
Are you ready to move beyond therapy and find your soul's purpose? Have you ever asked yourself, "Why am I here?" "Is there a purpose to my life?" You've found the right place. A blend of psychotherapy, soul soaching & hypnotherapy help you heal on a deeper, more profound level, so you can understand your soul's purpose. I'm dedicated to helping women empower, transform and fulfill their lives.
(206) 483-0361 View (206) 483-0361
Photo of Bonny L Snyder, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Bonny L Snyder
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Fircrest, WA 98466  (Online Only)
I specialize in what is sometimes referred to as “Energy Psychology”- processing trauma with EMDR and Hypnotherapy and EFT (Tapping) as well as CBT, CBT-Mindfulness, MI and Solution-Focused therapy.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety, fear, depression, shame, guilt and worthlessness? Have you experienced trauma and continue to be triggered? Want a change? Embrace the grace, power and strength that enabled you to survive challenging circumstances in the past! If you are ready for some transformative work, then I am happy and excited to help guide you on your inner journey of exploration and transformation! I will support you and provide a safe place for this journey to unfold.
I specialize in what is sometimes referred to as “Energy Psychology”- processing trauma with EMDR and Hypnotherapy and EFT (Tapping) as well as CBT, CBT-Mindfulness, MI and Solution-Focused therapy.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety, fear, depression, shame, guilt and worthlessness? Have you experienced trauma and continue to be triggered? Want a change? Embrace the grace, power and strength that enabled you to survive challenging circumstances in the past! If you are ready for some transformative work, then I am happy and excited to help guide you on your inner journey of exploration and transformation! I will support you and provide a safe place for this journey to unfold.
(253) 264-0859 View (253) 264-0859
Photo of Bronwyn Wrobel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Bronwyn Wrobel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
Some of the methods utilized include mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, internal family systems, attachment theory, hypnotherapy, etc.
As a Transpersonal Psychotherapist I offer mental, physical, social, emotional, and intellectual support. Transpersonal psychology emphasizes the importance of a healthy spirit in healing and wholeness. I utilize my empathic skills & intensive training to integrate all life experiences with modern psychology. My unique approach to healing focuses on how we achieve meaning & purpose through personal empowerment & expansion.
Some of the methods utilized include mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, internal family systems, attachment theory, hypnotherapy, etc.
As a Transpersonal Psychotherapist I offer mental, physical, social, emotional, and intellectual support. Transpersonal psychology emphasizes the importance of a healthy spirit in healing and wholeness. I utilize my empathic skills & intensive training to integrate all life experiences with modern psychology. My unique approach to healing focuses on how we achieve meaning & purpose through personal empowerment & expansion.
(310) 905-8625 View (310) 905-8625
Photo of Francesca Licciardi, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Francesca Licciardi
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
Individual therapy is comprised of somatic, cognitive/behavioral therapies and hypnotherapy.
This time has been isolating and life alternating to say the least. Many of us are left with a feeling of overwhelm as we are separated from one another and cannot participate in the lifestyle routines that once helped us to feel grounded. I have been working with many clients this year to find a source of balance and inner peace when so much of the world has shut down and become unavailable to us. From anxiety, depression and Pandemic PTSD to low motivation and deflation. Feelings of isolation, loneliness and despondency are a few of the many issues I work with in my clients at the moment. Let me help you build your new world!
Individual therapy is comprised of somatic, cognitive/behavioral therapies and hypnotherapy.
This time has been isolating and life alternating to say the least. Many of us are left with a feeling of overwhelm as we are separated from one another and cannot participate in the lifestyle routines that once helped us to feel grounded. I have been working with many clients this year to find a source of balance and inner peace when so much of the world has shut down and become unavailable to us. From anxiety, depression and Pandemic PTSD to low motivation and deflation. Feelings of isolation, loneliness and despondency are a few of the many issues I work with in my clients at the moment. Let me help you build your new world!
(425) 967-8748 View (425) 967-8748
Photo of Patricia Eslava Vessey in Anacortes, WA
Patricia Eslava Vessey
CHT, BA
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Seatac, WA 98188  (Online Only)
With over 30 years’ experience in social work, coaching, NLP, hypnotherapy and others, I will support you in healing those past pains and traumas while helping you build inner strength and confidence so you can face anything.
Are you struggling with unhealthy habits and lack of motivation? Is pain and trauma from the past interfering with your life today? Are you struggling with anxiety, fears, shame, or depression and nothing has helped? Do you just want to feel worthy, confident, productive, empowered, and successful? If you are ready to heal your past, love yourself, and gain control of your thoughts, feelings, and behavior, I can help. Even though I don't accept insurance, you'll discover quicker, more effective, and longer-lasting results with the services I provide with fewer sessions Contact me and let's talk, so you can begin feeling better now.
With over 30 years’ experience in social work, coaching, NLP, hypnotherapy and others, I will support you in healing those past pains and traumas while helping you build inner strength and confidence so you can face anything.
Are you struggling with unhealthy habits and lack of motivation? Is pain and trauma from the past interfering with your life today? Are you struggling with anxiety, fears, shame, or depression and nothing has helped? Do you just want to feel worthy, confident, productive, empowered, and successful? If you are ready to heal your past, love yourself, and gain control of your thoughts, feelings, and behavior, I can help. Even though I don't accept insurance, you'll discover quicker, more effective, and longer-lasting results with the services I provide with fewer sessions Contact me and let's talk, so you can begin feeling better now.
(206) 900-8511 View (206) 900-8511
Photo of Cassie Salewske, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Cassie Salewske
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ACHt
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bremerton, WA 98310
Doing deep personal work (be it through therapy, coaching, or hypnotherapy) is a journey of recovery and discovery.
As a transpersonal therapist and coach, the bulk of my work is holistic in nature. This means that we are working with your whole being (light and shadow, seen and unseen, conscious and unconscious, mind and soul) with the intention of healing old wounds and patterns—personally, ancestrally, collectively.
Doing deep personal work (be it through therapy, coaching, or hypnotherapy) is a journey of recovery and discovery.
As a transpersonal therapist and coach, the bulk of my work is holistic in nature. This means that we are working with your whole being (light and shadow, seen and unseen, conscious and unconscious, mind and soul) with the intention of healing old wounds and patterns—personally, ancestrally, collectively.
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Photo of Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027
We practice EMDR, Couples EFT, Gottman, Lifespan Integration, Carnes 30 Task Model, CBT, Hypnotherapy, Christian Counseling.
Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching is group practice of therapists and coaches who specialize in addiction including alcohol and drug addiction, sex addiction, pornography addiction, love addiction and partner betrayal trauma. All of the therapists and coaches at Fourth Dimension are in long term substance abuse recovery themselves and are experts in the field of addiction. They also have extensive training in couples therapy, infidelity, codependency, family of origin, women's issues, domestic violence, trauma and life transitions. We offer individual, couples and group therapy and coaching for both men and women.
We practice EMDR, Couples EFT, Gottman, Lifespan Integration, Carnes 30 Task Model, CBT, Hypnotherapy, Christian Counseling.
Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching is group practice of therapists and coaches who specialize in addiction including alcohol and drug addiction, sex addiction, pornography addiction, love addiction and partner betrayal trauma. All of the therapists and coaches at Fourth Dimension are in long term substance abuse recovery themselves and are experts in the field of addiction. They also have extensive training in couples therapy, infidelity, codependency, family of origin, women's issues, domestic violence, trauma and life transitions. We offer individual, couples and group therapy and coaching for both men and women.
(425) 652-1690 View (425) 652-1690
Photo of Brenda Ruttenberg, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Brenda Ruttenberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Snohomish, WA 98290
Use of hypnotherapy, visualization, and art therapy, in addition to, Interpersonal, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Transpersonal and Humanistic techniques.
My clients seek counseling, guidance, support and new skills to resolve issues. We work together to explore personal and family relationships which can include work-related problems and trauma. A deeper understanding results. We work on improving communication skills, perspectives and attitudes. With therapy, self confidence and depressive states show improvement. I specialize in the treatment of depression and mood disorders, anxiety, panic, trauma, PTSD, and chronic health issues in a safe and comfortable environment. I work mainly with adults of all ages and orientations.
Use of hypnotherapy, visualization, and art therapy, in addition to, Interpersonal, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Transpersonal and Humanistic techniques.
My clients seek counseling, guidance, support and new skills to resolve issues. We work together to explore personal and family relationships which can include work-related problems and trauma. A deeper understanding results. We work on improving communication skills, perspectives and attitudes. With therapy, self confidence and depressive states show improvement. I specialize in the treatment of depression and mood disorders, anxiety, panic, trauma, PTSD, and chronic health issues in a safe and comfortable environment. I work mainly with adults of all ages and orientations.
(206) 745-0939 View (206) 745-0939
Photo of Anchor Light Therapy Collective, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Anchor Light Therapy Collective
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
We work with individuals, couples, families, teens, and children. Our therapists are trained in various psychotherapy modalities such as EMDR, The Gott man Method, EFT, Hypnotherapy, and Cognitive Behavioral therapy. We help clients address issues related to relationships, self-esteem/confidence, anxiety, depression, trauma, and improving overall mental health and well-being.
We work with individuals, couples, families, teens, and children. Our therapists are trained in various psychotherapy modalities such as EMDR, The Gott man Method, EFT, Hypnotherapy, and Cognitive Behavioral therapy. We help clients address issues related to relationships, self-esteem/confidence, anxiety, depression, trauma, and improving overall mental health and well-being.
(206) 207-5485 View (206) 207-5485
Photo of Victoria Lopez, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Victoria Lopez
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMT
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I utilize several evidence-based therapeutic techniques: EMDR, hypnotherapy, guided visualization, and Lifespan Integration.
Seeking help says a lot about you - that you value your life, your health, and relationships. Perhaps you want to beat depression, manage anxiety, create change in your relationships, or find meaningful work. Or maybe you are suffering a loss, have relocated, or are struggling with chronic health issues. I have a deep passion for counseling, for supporting you in your courageous steps toward fulfillment and well being.
I utilize several evidence-based therapeutic techniques: EMDR, hypnotherapy, guided visualization, and Lifespan Integration.
Seeking help says a lot about you - that you value your life, your health, and relationships. Perhaps you want to beat depression, manage anxiety, create change in your relationships, or find meaningful work. Or maybe you are suffering a loss, have relocated, or are struggling with chronic health issues. I have a deep passion for counseling, for supporting you in your courageous steps toward fulfillment and well being.
(206) 966-6663 View (206) 966-6663
Photo of Robin Noel - Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, Reiki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Robin Noel - Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, Reiki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98133
I am a licensed clinical social worker skilled at heart-centered hypnotherapy, similar to ego-state therapy.
I am a spiritually-oriented psychotherapist who brings energetic depth and heart-felt attunement to each client. If you struggle with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, problems with authority, parenting issues, difficulty with intimacy, perfectionism, addictions, feelings of isolation, rage/anger, numbness, or "living like a zombie," I invite you to contact me so you can begin to rekindle and conduct the force of your inner light. I am comfortable with your fullest expression of difficult emotions and will help you to experience yourself as inherently worthy of safety, respect, and intimacy with others.
I am a licensed clinical social worker skilled at heart-centered hypnotherapy, similar to ego-state therapy.
I am a spiritually-oriented psychotherapist who brings energetic depth and heart-felt attunement to each client. If you struggle with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, problems with authority, parenting issues, difficulty with intimacy, perfectionism, addictions, feelings of isolation, rage/anger, numbness, or "living like a zombie," I invite you to contact me so you can begin to rekindle and conduct the force of your inner light. I am comfortable with your fullest expression of difficult emotions and will help you to experience yourself as inherently worthy of safety, respect, and intimacy with others.
(206) 339-6273 View (206) 339-6273
Photo of Marcie Klevens, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Marcie Klevens
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, WA 98273  (Online Only)
I am trained in both EMDR and clinical hypnotherapy, which provide me with excellent tools to help you to discover the deeper meanings of the issues you are currently dealing with. These modalities enable my clients to see the bigger picture and are excellent tools for releasing trauma, desensitizing old pain and triggers and envisioning a new future. Real and lasting change can only happen when you heal the wound at its source, which can sometimes be deep inside the unconscious mind.
I am trained in both EMDR and clinical hypnotherapy, which provide me with excellent tools to help you to discover the deeper meanings of the issues you are currently dealing with. These modalities enable my clients to see the bigger picture and are excellent tools for releasing trauma, desensitizing old pain and triggers and envisioning a new future. Real and lasting change can only happen when you heal the wound at its source, which can sometimes be deep inside the unconscious mind.
(206) 607-2709 View (206) 607-2709
Photo of Justine Joslyn in Anacortes, WA
Justine Joslyn
MA
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
Hello! Since 2007, I have helped couples & families with communication and connection, using coaching, mediation & reconciliation. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll learn skills that re-connect you with your wise inner guidance, creating steady, calm confidence & energizing you to make smart, bold moves towards your life, career & creative goals.
Hello! Since 2007, I have helped couples & families with communication and connection, using coaching, mediation & reconciliation. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll learn skills that re-connect you with your wise inner guidance, creating steady, calm confidence & energizing you to make smart, bold moves towards your life, career & creative goals.
(360) 946-0941 View (360) 946-0941
Photo of Jenelle Strine | Psychotherapist in Anacortes, WA
Jenelle Strine | Psychotherapist
MA, LMHC, SUDP, LPC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I partner with clients to create a trusting relationship that fosters healing, personal growth and positive life change. I approach therapy from a relational model allowing the counseling relationship to be a healing vessel for the therapeutic process. Our work is to develop a vision for your life, set clear and meaningful goals, and together move towards personal growth and through healing process. We’ll develop the tools you need to make progress sustainable and transcend challenges standing in your way.
As a therapist, I partner with clients to create a trusting relationship that fosters healing, personal growth and positive life change. I approach therapy from a relational model allowing the counseling relationship to be a healing vessel for the therapeutic process. Our work is to develop a vision for your life, set clear and meaningful goals, and together move towards personal growth and through healing process. We’ll develop the tools you need to make progress sustainable and transcend challenges standing in your way.
(206) 312-8204 View (206) 312-8204
Photo of Amanda Rausch LMFT, PLLC NoStressNoStigma.com, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Amanda Rausch LMFT, PLLC NoStressNoStigma.com
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AAMFT , RYT, BH-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116
No matter what you are going through, know that I am here to listen, support you and help you figure it all out! Welcome to the newest generation of self care and mental health- this is easy, accessible, no-stress, stigma free help for whatever you are going through. Feel free to wear your sweatpants, sit on the couch and have a session on your phone or lap top. Prefer in person? No problem, come visit my office in a charming 1900's Craftsman home near the Junction in West Seattle! Check out www.nostressnostigma.com for details!
No matter what you are going through, know that I am here to listen, support you and help you figure it all out! Welcome to the newest generation of self care and mental health- this is easy, accessible, no-stress, stigma free help for whatever you are going through. Feel free to wear your sweatpants, sit on the couch and have a session on your phone or lap top. Prefer in person? No problem, come visit my office in a charming 1900's Craftsman home near the Junction in West Seattle! Check out www.nostressnostigma.com for details!
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Photo of Stephanie J Eldringhoff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Stephanie J Eldringhoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, DCEP, TFTdx
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027
I became a therapist so that I could support people in making life changes to find more satisfaction in their lives, whether that area was relationships to self and others; work; spiritual pursuits; or their areas of creativity and play. That means that I often work with individuals and couples to resolve anxiety, despair and blocks to new actions. Finding the right therapist is an important quest and I encourage you to call me to see if we would be a good fit.
I became a therapist so that I could support people in making life changes to find more satisfaction in their lives, whether that area was relationships to self and others; work; spiritual pursuits; or their areas of creativity and play. That means that I often work with individuals and couples to resolve anxiety, despair and blocks to new actions. Finding the right therapist is an important quest and I encourage you to call me to see if we would be a good fit.
(425) 312-6346 View (425) 312-6346
Photo of Rachel Elizabeth Chase in Anacortes, WA
Rachel Elizabeth Chase
MA, CYT
Verified Verified
Hoodsport, WA 98548
I hold safe space for you to move through difficulties and challenges. In my presence you will feel seen, understood, validated and empowered. My unique style of healing, coaching, and counseling meets you right where you are. The journey of life is sometimes joyful and sometimes painful. I do not see you as a diagnosis to be solved, but a whole being doing the work of reconnecting with yourself so you can move forward with a clear sense of self awareness and inner strength. We are all souls living a human experience. You are a unique being worthy of love and happiness. Your needs matter. Your desires matter. You matter.
I hold safe space for you to move through difficulties and challenges. In my presence you will feel seen, understood, validated and empowered. My unique style of healing, coaching, and counseling meets you right where you are. The journey of life is sometimes joyful and sometimes painful. I do not see you as a diagnosis to be solved, but a whole being doing the work of reconnecting with yourself so you can move forward with a clear sense of self awareness and inner strength. We are all souls living a human experience. You are a unique being worthy of love and happiness. Your needs matter. Your desires matter. You matter.
(360) 997-5488 View (360) 997-5488
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.