Hypnotherapists in Jefferson County, WA

Photo of Katerina Lamola - Harmony Hypnotherapy and Counseling, LICSW, ACHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Harmony Hypnotherapy and Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACHT
Verified Verified
Quilcene, WA 98376
I use a combination of psychodynamic therapy, psychedelic-assisted therapy and hypnotherapy to create a deeply healing experience.
Accepting New Clients. Whether your goal is to achieve greater self awareness, build stronger personal relationships, heal past wounds, or just feel better about yourself, a therapeutic relationship can help meet that goal. I would like to join you on your journey of self discovery as an advocate and guide. My particular approach is help you discover your own natural resources by tapping into your subconscious to uncover blockages to healing and actualizing your fullest potential.
I use a combination of psychodynamic therapy, psychedelic-assisted therapy and hypnotherapy to create a deeply healing experience.
Accepting New Clients. Whether your goal is to achieve greater self awareness, build stronger personal relationships, heal past wounds, or just feel better about yourself, a therapeutic relationship can help meet that goal. I would like to join you on your journey of self discovery as an advocate and guide. My particular approach is help you discover your own natural resources by tapping into your subconscious to uncover blockages to healing and actualizing your fullest potential.
(206) 693-4339 View (206) 693-4339
Photo of Lynn B Gilman - Lynn Gilman, Psychedelic Assisted Therapy, MA, LMHC, CCHT, Counselor
Lynn Gilman, Psychedelic Assisted Therapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCHT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
I have a lot of tools in my "tool belt," and use traditional and psychedelic assisted counseling along with other modalities such as hypnotherapy, ancestor work, EFT and mindfulness.
I offer psychedelic microdosing education and support, and journey preparation and integration. Microdosing can help rewire your brain to create new patterns; heal unresolved trauma; heal anxiety and depression; increase creativity and productivity; release emotional blocks; regulate the nervous system, and feel more connected to self and others.
I have a lot of tools in my "tool belt," and use traditional and psychedelic assisted counseling along with other modalities such as hypnotherapy, ancestor work, EFT and mindfulness.
I offer psychedelic microdosing education and support, and journey preparation and integration. Microdosing can help rewire your brain to create new patterns; heal unresolved trauma; heal anxiety and depression; increase creativity and productivity; release emotional blocks; regulate the nervous system, and feel more connected to self and others.
(360) 233-8218 View (360) 233-8218
Photo of Esther Fredholm Conway, PhD, Psychologist
Esther Fredholm Conway
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
In my 40 years as a psychologist my goal has been to provide the safe nurturing environment that creates a productive client/therapist relationship. I have never forgotten my early experiences in seeking help from a therapist, wondering what it would be like, and if it would really help. I appreciated the understanding and insight I received then, and throughout my life, sometimes with my husband, I have found different kinds of therapy that were helpful to me and to my clients.
In my 40 years as a psychologist my goal has been to provide the safe nurturing environment that creates a productive client/therapist relationship. I have never forgotten my early experiences in seeking help from a therapist, wondering what it would be like, and if it would really help. I appreciated the understanding and insight I received then, and throughout my life, sometimes with my husband, I have found different kinds of therapy that were helpful to me and to my clients.
(360) 301-4564 View (360) 301-4564
Photo of Julia Eakes - Inner Wisdom HLC, LLC, LMFT
Inner Wisdom HLC, LLC
LMFT
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Are you ready to free yourself from limiting beliefs that contribute to social, emotional, physical issues or behaviors? I would love to work with you, to help you gain back your freedom. What's holding you back? Are you feeling not enough? Is your weight holding you back? Are you anxious in any way or depressed? If you want to succeed in the most important aspects of your life - in relationships, your job and how you feel about yourself, I can help you be truly happy and free you from self-destructive thoughts and behaviors, living a confident, motivated and happier life. I can help you let go of the past that is holding you back.
Are you ready to free yourself from limiting beliefs that contribute to social, emotional, physical issues or behaviors? I would love to work with you, to help you gain back your freedom. What's holding you back? Are you feeling not enough? Is your weight holding you back? Are you anxious in any way or depressed? If you want to succeed in the most important aspects of your life - in relationships, your job and how you feel about yourself, I can help you be truly happy and free you from self-destructive thoughts and behaviors, living a confident, motivated and happier life. I can help you let go of the past that is holding you back.
(360) 821-9901 View (360) 821-9901
Photo of Leslie Fleming, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Leslie Fleming
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chimacum, WA 98325
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a unique, holistic approach to transformational healing and growth through a weaving of shamanism, psychotherapy, and coaching. I am direct, compassionate, and intuitive in working with clients, offering deep integrity, fortitude, and over 3 decades of shamanic practice supporting journeys of healing, personal mastery, and authenticity. The transformational work of embodying who you truly are and why you are here is a beautiful, challenging journey of embracing and integrating all of who you are with deep compassion and fierce love. A journey I invite you to take and am honored to support.
I offer a unique, holistic approach to transformational healing and growth through a weaving of shamanism, psychotherapy, and coaching. I am direct, compassionate, and intuitive in working with clients, offering deep integrity, fortitude, and over 3 decades of shamanic practice supporting journeys of healing, personal mastery, and authenticity. The transformational work of embodying who you truly are and why you are here is a beautiful, challenging journey of embracing and integrating all of who you are with deep compassion and fierce love. A journey I invite you to take and am honored to support.
(206) 745-6238 View (206) 745-6238
Photo of Laila Josephine Ayyoub, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laila Josephine Ayyoub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Not accepting new clients
All people are one of a kind, but here's where we're all alike: All of us come from a personal history and context: A past that got us through to where we are now. And "Right Now" is where all the choices and opportunities are. Some things we may want to change, other things we may choose to accept as they are. Therapy can be helpful in understanding yourself well enough to know which is which. And therapy can offer some things you may need to go forward with your choices: Hope, perspective and someone who believes in you while you practice believing in yourself.
All people are one of a kind, but here's where we're all alike: All of us come from a personal history and context: A past that got us through to where we are now. And "Right Now" is where all the choices and opportunities are. Some things we may want to change, other things we may choose to accept as they are. Therapy can be helpful in understanding yourself well enough to know which is which. And therapy can offer some things you may need to go forward with your choices: Hope, perspective and someone who believes in you while you practice believing in yourself.
(458) 207-2062 View (458) 207-2062

Online Therapists

Photo of James Harrison Follman - Follman Counseling Agency, PhD, LMHC, CDP, Counselor
Follman Counseling Agency
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CDP
Verified Verified
Burlington, WA 98233
With additional specialized training in hypnotherapy we can work on problems with depression, anxiety and pain.
If you are experiencing problems with any or a combination of the following issues; anxiety,depression, alcohol/drug use, gambling, anger, internet addiction, sex addiction, please consider calling us and setting up a free consultation to discuss your situation. For over 20 years I have had the privelage of helping clients develop the necesary skills to overcome mental health and alcohol/drug use disorders in a safe, confidential, outpatient setting. Our facility is able to provide individual or group counseling for adults and teens. You can visit our website at follmanagency.com to learn more about our treatment services.
With additional specialized training in hypnotherapy we can work on problems with depression, anxiety and pain.
If you are experiencing problems with any or a combination of the following issues; anxiety,depression, alcohol/drug use, gambling, anger, internet addiction, sex addiction, please consider calling us and setting up a free consultation to discuss your situation. For over 20 years I have had the privelage of helping clients develop the necesary skills to overcome mental health and alcohol/drug use disorders in a safe, confidential, outpatient setting. Our facility is able to provide individual or group counseling for adults and teens. You can visit our website at follmanagency.com to learn more about our treatment services.
(360) 529-3107 View (360) 529-3107
Photo of Nadine Paschzella - Dr. Nadine Paschzella, PhD, MD, Counselor
Dr. Nadine Paschzella
Counselor, PhD, MD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
For over 25 years I work with adults, couples, children, and families on their journey to healing and developing coping strategies for leading fulfilling lives. My therapeutic approach draws from a diverse range of modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), hypnotherapy, and mindfulness techniques, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual or group I work with.
For over 25 years I work with adults, couples, children, and families on their journey to healing and developing coping strategies for leading fulfilling lives. My therapeutic approach draws from a diverse range of modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), hypnotherapy, and mindfulness techniques, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual or group I work with.
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Photo of Kelly Granite Enck, CHT, BA, RRT
Kelly Granite Enck
CHT, BA, RRT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125
Kelly was Voted Rated Best Hypnotherapy in Seattle in 2023 and 2024! Kelly offers In-Office and Virtual Hypnotherapy Sessions.
Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT) is a cutting-edge hypnotherapy technique that helps individuals overcome anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), quit smoking, manage grief, insomnia, lose weight, enhance sports performance, and build confidence. Book your Online or In-Office RRT Therapy Session with Kelly on her website, clicking the "Book Now" button www.DoylestownHypnosis.com.
Kelly was Voted Rated Best Hypnotherapy in Seattle in 2023 and 2024! Kelly offers In-Office and Virtual Hypnotherapy Sessions.
Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT) is a cutting-edge hypnotherapy technique that helps individuals overcome anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), quit smoking, manage grief, insomnia, lose weight, enhance sports performance, and build confidence. Book your Online or In-Office RRT Therapy Session with Kelly on her website, clicking the "Book Now" button www.DoylestownHypnosis.com.
(206) 507-3203 View (206) 507-3203
Photo of Tony Reyna, MA, CCHt, MHyp
Tony Reyna
MA, CCHt, MHyp
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98058  (Online Only)
As a hypnotherapist, I believe each client is unique, and their issues and goals are specific to their circumstances. However, ideal clients seeking hypnotherapy may have various issues, such as anxiety, depression, phobias, addiction, insomnia, or chronic pain. You may need to overcome limiting beliefs, improve self-esteem, or manage stress. Your goals may include achieving better health, increasing confidence, enhancing performance, or attaining inner peace. Ultimately, You want to improve your quality of life and find solutions to your challenges.
As a hypnotherapist, I believe each client is unique, and their issues and goals are specific to their circumstances. However, ideal clients seeking hypnotherapy may have various issues, such as anxiety, depression, phobias, addiction, insomnia, or chronic pain. You may need to overcome limiting beliefs, improve self-esteem, or manage stress. Your goals may include achieving better health, increasing confidence, enhancing performance, or attaining inner peace. Ultimately, You want to improve your quality of life and find solutions to your challenges.
(206) 984-6313 View (206) 984-6313
Photo of Lou Hallie, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lou Hallie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98403
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Neuro Linguistic Programming, DBT, EMDR,Utilizing Neuroplasticity,Mindfullness) to overcome: * Stress * Anxiety * Depression * Unhappiness with body/mind/emotions * Trauma/PTSD.
Life is worth living well. Our biggest obstacle to living a life we love is the constant and habitual ramblings of our minds: the judgments, the doubt, the dwelling in past suffering and the negative predictions of what the future will bring. True freedom comes when we break free from the thoughts that create pain, dissatisfaction and frustration. There are also situations where we have negative feelings that seem to "come out of nowhere". This is due to unconscious processes that trigger painful emotions. I provide tools that effectively work with the unconscious and direct it toward healthy outcomes.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Neuro Linguistic Programming, DBT, EMDR,Utilizing Neuroplasticity,Mindfullness) to overcome: * Stress * Anxiety * Depression * Unhappiness with body/mind/emotions * Trauma/PTSD.
Life is worth living well. Our biggest obstacle to living a life we love is the constant and habitual ramblings of our minds: the judgments, the doubt, the dwelling in past suffering and the negative predictions of what the future will bring. True freedom comes when we break free from the thoughts that create pain, dissatisfaction and frustration. There are also situations where we have negative feelings that seem to "come out of nowhere". This is due to unconscious processes that trigger painful emotions. I provide tools that effectively work with the unconscious and direct it toward healthy outcomes.
(253) 498-7654 View (253) 498-7654
Photo of Dawn Resvick, MSW, LICSW, ACHt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Resvick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, ACHt
Verified Verified
Spanaway, WA 98387  (Online Only)
I am currently taking new Video clients from anywhere in Washington! I believe that good therapy is a journey that I accompany my clients on. I feel that each person is unique and the course of therapy is tailored to their needs and comfort level. My ideal client wants something different, better or more in their life and they are ready to work for it. I use both traditional therapeutic styles and hypnotherapy to help my clients find the change they are looking for. I am honored to work with my clients on depression, anxiety, stress, medical noncompliance, health issues, abuse, anger, trauma and other life issues.
I am currently taking new Video clients from anywhere in Washington! I believe that good therapy is a journey that I accompany my clients on. I feel that each person is unique and the course of therapy is tailored to their needs and comfort level. My ideal client wants something different, better or more in their life and they are ready to work for it. I use both traditional therapeutic styles and hypnotherapy to help my clients find the change they are looking for. I am honored to work with my clients on depression, anxiety, stress, medical noncompliance, health issues, abuse, anger, trauma and other life issues.
(253) 271-4967 View (253) 271-4967
Photo of Rebecca Ohler - Revolution Therapy, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Revolution Therapy
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98405
We have clinicians trained in hypnotherapy, EMDR, Parts Work, Relational Cultural Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and more.
If you have a trauma history that is relational, long-lasting and complex you likely have a number of issues occurring in your life making it hard to fully experience a joyful life. Maybe you are struggling in relationships to fully connect and grow, or to navigate conflict successfully. Perhaps you have tried a bunch of therapists and it feels like no one really gets you or you have struggled to find someone you trust or connect with.
We have clinicians trained in hypnotherapy, EMDR, Parts Work, Relational Cultural Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and more.
If you have a trauma history that is relational, long-lasting and complex you likely have a number of issues occurring in your life making it hard to fully experience a joyful life. Maybe you are struggling in relationships to fully connect and grow, or to navigate conflict successfully. Perhaps you have tried a bunch of therapists and it feels like no one really gets you or you have struggled to find someone you trust or connect with.
(504) 608-2801 View (504) 608-2801
Photo of Kathie Stratmeyer - Fountaingate Wellness, LMHC, LMFT, LMT, HP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fountaingate Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, LMFT, LMT, HP
Verified Verified
Marysville, WA 98270
Fountaingate Wellness offers trauma informed mental health services through traditional methods (cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered) and alternative methods such as neurofeedback and hypnotherapy to address a wide variety of concerns.
Do you feel overwhelmed, lost, or burned out? Maybe you are stuck in an unsuccessful and unfulfilling place and you need tools and encouragement to set and achieve your goals. Fountaingate is ready to assist you in recognizing and managing the obstacles preventing you from walking in that place of confidence and security.
Fountaingate Wellness offers trauma informed mental health services through traditional methods (cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered) and alternative methods such as neurofeedback and hypnotherapy to address a wide variety of concerns.
Do you feel overwhelmed, lost, or burned out? Maybe you are stuck in an unsuccessful and unfulfilling place and you need tools and encouragement to set and achieve your goals. Fountaingate is ready to assist you in recognizing and managing the obstacles preventing you from walking in that place of confidence and security.
(360) 854-3581 View (360) 854-3581
Photo of Dr. Maria E Moore, PhD, LMFT, LMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Maria E Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98208  (Online Only)
Welcome to Liberty Counseling, where we believe in empowering individuals to achieve emotional freedom and personal growth. I employ an integrative approach, drawing from diverse therapies, including EMDR, IFS, DBT, CBT, Hypnotherapy, family systems, the Gottman Method, and EFT. We are committed to guiding you through your journey towards healing and self-discovery, fostering resilience and harmony in your life and relationships. Take the first step towards a brighter future with Liberty Counseling.
Welcome to Liberty Counseling, where we believe in empowering individuals to achieve emotional freedom and personal growth. I employ an integrative approach, drawing from diverse therapies, including EMDR, IFS, DBT, CBT, Hypnotherapy, family systems, the Gottman Method, and EFT. We are committed to guiding you through your journey towards healing and self-discovery, fostering resilience and harmony in your life and relationships. Take the first step towards a brighter future with Liberty Counseling.
(425) 842-0523 View (425) 842-0523
Photo of Bronwyn Wrobel, LMFT, LMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bronwyn Wrobel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98133  (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 spiritual support. I teach you to Love & Accept yourself unconditionally. When you Trust yourself to handle whatever life presents you, you tap into limitless power. You begin to see how every life experience has value and growth potential. Your perspective shifts and life begins to work for you instead of against you. Check out my website for more information www.wizetherapy.com
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 spiritual support. I teach you to Love & Accept yourself unconditionally. When you Trust yourself to handle whatever life presents you, you tap into limitless power. You begin to see how every life experience has value and growth potential. Your perspective shifts and life begins to work for you instead of against you. Check out my website for more information www.wizetherapy.com
(310) 905-8625 View (310) 905-8625
Photo of Patricia Eslava Vessey, CHT, BA
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 Bronwyn Wrobel - Wize Therapy, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor
Wize Therapy
Counselor, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98134  (Online Only)
Wize Therapy is a Transpersonal Psychotherapy practice offering mental, physical, social, emotional, creative and intellectual guidance. Transpersonal psychotherapy is shown to improve anxiety, depression, stress management, relationships & the lasting effects of trauma. This style of therapy guides you in transcending your current view of yourself & opening your mind to new ways of approaching challenges in your life. Some of the methods utilized include talk therapy, CBT, Narrative therapy, mindfulness, guided visualization, hypnotherapy, dream work, expressive arts, journaling, movement & breathwork. www.wizetherapy.com
Wize Therapy is a Transpersonal Psychotherapy practice offering mental, physical, social, emotional, creative and intellectual guidance. Transpersonal psychotherapy is shown to improve anxiety, depression, stress management, relationships & the lasting effects of trauma. This style of therapy guides you in transcending your current view of yourself & opening your mind to new ways of approaching challenges in your life. Some of the methods utilized include talk therapy, CBT, Narrative therapy, mindfulness, guided visualization, hypnotherapy, dream work, expressive arts, journaling, movement & breathwork. www.wizetherapy.com
(253) 398-8073 View (253) 398-8073
Photo of Dr. Ivy Loney, DBH, LSWAIC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Ivy Loney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LSWAIC, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I'm a therapist who believes healing goes beyond just talking about your struggles. I offer a unique approach that integrates mind, body, and experience to help you move through life's transitions and create lasting change. I'm trained in Somatic Experiencing (SE), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), CBT, Mindfulness, Meditation, Hypnotherapy and Sound Therapy. These powerful tools help us access and release the physical sensations and emotions held within the body, making space for safety and nervous system regulation. Laughter is great medicine and I offer compassion and levity to work through dense challenges.
I'm a therapist who believes healing goes beyond just talking about your struggles. I offer a unique approach that integrates mind, body, and experience to help you move through life's transitions and create lasting change. I'm trained in Somatic Experiencing (SE), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), CBT, Mindfulness, Meditation, Hypnotherapy and Sound Therapy. These powerful tools help us access and release the physical sensations and emotions held within the body, making space for safety and nervous system regulation. Laughter is great medicine and I offer compassion and levity to work through dense challenges.
(425) 640-7009 x1 View (425) 640-7009 x1
Photo of Robert L Neumann - A Vital Connection - Hypnotherapy, BCH
Hypnotherapy and natural medicines can all be part of that process.
Hypnosis is a powerful tool that can transform your life! I've been a WA State Licensed Hypnotherapist and Board Certified Hypnotist for well over thirty years. I have helped thousands of individuals change their lives by connecting them with the power lying dormant within their subconscious mind. My mission is, to listen to you, so that I have a thorough understanding of exactly what your needs are. Then to help you overcome any obstacle that is blocking your well-being, happiness, and success using hypnotherapy. The question most commonly asked is, can I be hypnotized. The answer is always, you already are.
Hypnotherapy and natural medicines can all be part of that process.
Hypnosis is a powerful tool that can transform your life! I've been a WA State Licensed Hypnotherapist and Board Certified Hypnotist for well over thirty years. I have helped thousands of individuals change their lives by connecting them with the power lying dormant within their subconscious mind. My mission is, to listen to you, so that I have a thorough understanding of exactly what your needs are. Then to help you overcome any obstacle that is blocking your well-being, happiness, and success using hypnotherapy. The question most commonly asked is, can I be hypnotized. The answer is always, you already are.
(253) 201-3474 View (253) 201-3474

See more therapy options for Jefferson County

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.