Hypnotherapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Sabra Maurice, LCPC, CCH, RM
Sabra Maurice
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCH, RM
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I incorporate a wide variety of holistic counseling techniques into traditional therapy including yet not limited to hypnotherapy, energy psychology, Reiki energy healing, sound healing, oracle readings, essential oils, crystals, and EFT.
You may want to make changes, yet feel beaten down by worry. A part of you may be aware that difficult experiences you’ve faced throughout your life could be connected to your current struggles. As an intuitive holistic counselor I believe we can change by healing from the inside out. What shows up in our outer life through negative thoughts, unwanted behaviors, body discomfort or difficult feelings can be a signal or sign we are ready for change. I believe the present symptoms or conditions give us clues to what is going on inside, possibly connected to past difficult experiences that need attention, understanding and healing.
I incorporate a wide variety of holistic counseling techniques into traditional therapy including yet not limited to hypnotherapy, energy psychology, Reiki energy healing, sound healing, oracle readings, essential oils, crystals, and EFT.
You may want to make changes, yet feel beaten down by worry. A part of you may be aware that difficult experiences you’ve faced throughout your life could be connected to your current struggles. As an intuitive holistic counselor I believe we can change by healing from the inside out. What shows up in our outer life through negative thoughts, unwanted behaviors, body discomfort or difficult feelings can be a signal or sign we are ready for change. I believe the present symptoms or conditions give us clues to what is going on inside, possibly connected to past difficult experiences that need attention, understanding and healing.
(312) 374-6568 View (312) 374-6568
Photo of Amber Bouda, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Bouda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
In my less traditional practice, I offer hypnotherapy and past life regression therapy for transformational healing and exploration in physical, emotional, and spiritual ways.
I have 14 years of experience working with individuals who are bogged down by anxiety, grief and relationship transitions. I am certified in hypnotherapy, which is a fantastic method for deep, transformational healing.
In my less traditional practice, I offer hypnotherapy and past life regression therapy for transformational healing and exploration in physical, emotional, and spiritual ways.
I have 14 years of experience working with individuals who are bogged down by anxiety, grief and relationship transitions. I am certified in hypnotherapy, which is a fantastic method for deep, transformational healing.
(630) 405-5601 View (630) 405-5601
Photo of Nicole Bartecki, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Bartecki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Hypnotherapy can also be used to access deeper parts of the psyche, if desired.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious or overwhelmed, be it in social settings, at your workplace, or navigating through the challenges of everyday life? Are you grappling with the burdens of past or recent relationship breakdowns, losses, or circumstances that seem beyond your control? Are you yearning for change and seeking a path towards peace and stability? Together, we can work towards forging that path. We can aim to transform your life into one marked by tranquility, enriched by meaningful relationships, and underpinned by self-confidence.
Hypnotherapy can also be used to access deeper parts of the psyche, if desired.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious or overwhelmed, be it in social settings, at your workplace, or navigating through the challenges of everyday life? Are you grappling with the burdens of past or recent relationship breakdowns, losses, or circumstances that seem beyond your control? Are you yearning for change and seeking a path towards peace and stability? Together, we can work towards forging that path. We can aim to transform your life into one marked by tranquility, enriched by meaningful relationships, and underpinned by self-confidence.
(872) 266-9715 View (872) 266-9715
Photo of Jacques Gourguechon - Whole Hearted Psychotherapy, LCPC, Counselor
Whole Hearted Psychotherapy
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
For those with cravings they want to stop or calm down, I offer hypnotherapy that has proven to be very effective.
I offer individual, couples counseling and career counseling for people of all ages. As a professional businessman and now a psychotherapist, I bring life experience to therapy that gives me practical and insightful perspective on the challenges people face at home, the workplace and in their relationships. I enjoy working with couples and have extended training in the Gottman Therapy method. Couples issues can rack relationships especially those struggling fidelity and trauma issues. I am keenly aware of each of these and have worked with these tough issues as a therapist and husband.
For those with cravings they want to stop or calm down, I offer hypnotherapy that has proven to be very effective.
I offer individual, couples counseling and career counseling for people of all ages. As a professional businessman and now a psychotherapist, I bring life experience to therapy that gives me practical and insightful perspective on the challenges people face at home, the workplace and in their relationships. I enjoy working with couples and have extended training in the Gottman Therapy method. Couples issues can rack relationships especially those struggling fidelity and trauma issues. I am keenly aware of each of these and have worked with these tough issues as a therapist and husband.
(312) 985-9222 View (312) 985-9222
Photo of Michael J Banks, PhD, Psychologist
Michael J Banks
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60626
My approach is informed by a number of therapeutic models (Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Health Psychology, NLP, Positive Psychology, & Solution-Oriented Brief Therapy) as well as research on neuroscience, social & emotional intelligence.
Are you feeling stuck? Does your life seem to be on hold? Are you struggling with worries & anxiety or sadness & depression? Are you facing a relationship challenge with your spouse, your child, a collegue or friend? Or do you have health concerns such as allergies, stress, weight, etc? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then Health & Life Coaching offers you an effective method for resolving your problems & realizing your goals. In helping you, my focus will be on bridging the gap between where you are now and where you hope to be in the future.
My approach is informed by a number of therapeutic models (Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Health Psychology, NLP, Positive Psychology, & Solution-Oriented Brief Therapy) as well as research on neuroscience, social & emotional intelligence.
Are you feeling stuck? Does your life seem to be on hold? Are you struggling with worries & anxiety or sadness & depression? Are you facing a relationship challenge with your spouse, your child, a collegue or friend? Or do you have health concerns such as allergies, stress, weight, etc? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then Health & Life Coaching offers you an effective method for resolving your problems & realizing your goals. In helping you, my focus will be on bridging the gap between where you are now and where you hope to be in the future.
(773) 312-3462 View (773) 312-3462
Photo of Jamie D Pellar - Jamie D. Pellar LCSW,BCD,CYT, LCSW, BCD, CYT, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie D. Pellar LCSW,BCD,CYT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, CYT, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I provide a safe, nurturing & compassionate environment that promotes healing & growth through different expressions besides just talking including hypnotherapy, yoga & meditation, when appropriate .
Divorce, Betrayal, Loss & Adolescence share a common thread. These situations can turn our world upside down presenting challenges which require learning new ways of coping and adapting to traumatic events. I specialize in working with clients to help alleviate sadness, anxiety and depression by working with other modalities when talk therapy alone is not enough.
I provide a safe, nurturing & compassionate environment that promotes healing & growth through different expressions besides just talking including hypnotherapy, yoga & meditation, when appropriate .
Divorce, Betrayal, Loss & Adolescence share a common thread. These situations can turn our world upside down presenting challenges which require learning new ways of coping and adapting to traumatic events. I specialize in working with clients to help alleviate sadness, anxiety and depression by working with other modalities when talk therapy alone is not enough.
(773) 839-0168 View (773) 839-0168
Photo of Pat Bardenett, LCSW, CADC, ACH, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pat Bardenett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, ACH, RYT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I blend traditional talk therapy with heart-centered hypnotherapy, creative visualization, yoga, meditation, breath work, and structured group therapy.
We often find ourselves unable to move forward due to the enormity of the situations that are presented to us. We may feel stuck, tired, and at times, hopeless. So we armour ourselves to face the world. This armouring occurs in the form of addictions such as overeating; using drugs and alcohol; isolating and repeating patterns of toxic relationships. As a result our hearts become numb. We move through life with an armored exterior, fearful of experiencing our feelings and emotions. By creating a safe environment, I help unlock and release pain.
I blend traditional talk therapy with heart-centered hypnotherapy, creative visualization, yoga, meditation, breath work, and structured group therapy.
We often find ourselves unable to move forward due to the enormity of the situations that are presented to us. We may feel stuck, tired, and at times, hopeless. So we armour ourselves to face the world. This armouring occurs in the form of addictions such as overeating; using drugs and alcohol; isolating and repeating patterns of toxic relationships. As a result our hearts become numb. We move through life with an armored exterior, fearful of experiencing our feelings and emotions. By creating a safe environment, I help unlock and release pain.
(312) 789-5428 View (312) 789-5428
Photo of Eleni Clavijo, MA, LPC, Reiki, Master, Teacher, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eleni Clavijo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, Reiki, Master, Teacher
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I will guide you on subconsciously accepting a positive self concept applying a holistic, transpersonal, and mindfulness-based cognitive approach while integrating somatic work, reiki & hypnotherapy.
What circumstances shifted you into this specific moment in time...to bring this bio into your awareness? Was it the guilt that has consumed you since morning of how you didn’t show up exactly how you envisioned being the best parent...or that you have become conscious to the burden of unrealistic expectations upon self and have decided to courageously dive into the depths of your shadows? Perhaps you have questions about self you never have had before and feeling like no one can relate. All you would like is for someone to hold space while you allow emotions like sadness or anger to flow and feel you are able to cry without shame!
I will guide you on subconsciously accepting a positive self concept applying a holistic, transpersonal, and mindfulness-based cognitive approach while integrating somatic work, reiki & hypnotherapy.
What circumstances shifted you into this specific moment in time...to bring this bio into your awareness? Was it the guilt that has consumed you since morning of how you didn’t show up exactly how you envisioned being the best parent...or that you have become conscious to the burden of unrealistic expectations upon self and have decided to courageously dive into the depths of your shadows? Perhaps you have questions about self you never have had before and feeling like no one can relate. All you would like is for someone to hold space while you allow emotions like sadness or anger to flow and feel you are able to cry without shame!
(872) 241-2564 View (872) 241-2564
Photo of Deborah E Barile, MS, LCPC, CH, CADC, NCC, Counselor
Deborah E Barile
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CH, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My practice is focused on Helping Couples improve their relationships, Working with individuals with Addictions,and using Hypnotherapy to change bothersome habits or explore their subconscious mind.
Through my educational training as a psychotherapist, I have helped my clients with; relationship issues, depression, low self esteem, eating disorders, anxiety, life transitions, addictions, trauma and abuse.
My practice is focused on Helping Couples improve their relationships, Working with individuals with Addictions,and using Hypnotherapy to change bothersome habits or explore their subconscious mind.
Through my educational training as a psychotherapist, I have helped my clients with; relationship issues, depression, low self esteem, eating disorders, anxiety, life transitions, addictions, trauma and abuse.
(312) 882-1229 View (312) 882-1229
Photo of Kerry F Ito, LCPC, MA, Counselor
Kerry F Ito
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Her approach blends mindfulness and hypnotherapy with a range of powerful healing modalities, including soul retrieval, past life clearing, and energetic cord cutting.
Through practices like meditation, energy management, and intuitive development, Kerry fosters a deep reconnection to the self, enabling clients to "call their soul home" and embrace a life of purpose and abundance. Her work is rooted in the belief that true freedom comes from addressing the underlying causes of stress and cultivating spiritual alignment.
Her approach blends mindfulness and hypnotherapy with a range of powerful healing modalities, including soul retrieval, past life clearing, and energetic cord cutting.
Through practices like meditation, energy management, and intuitive development, Kerry fosters a deep reconnection to the self, enabling clients to "call their soul home" and embrace a life of purpose and abundance. Her work is rooted in the belief that true freedom comes from addressing the underlying causes of stress and cultivating spiritual alignment.
(773) 985-7634 View (773) 985-7634
Photo of Dr. Sonia Kennedy, PhD, LSW, RYT-500, CCHT, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Sonia Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LSW, RYT-500, CCHT, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Your self-care is important! I work with Veterans & Athletes! Ask me about ADHD Screenings, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques, Yoga, & Meditation sessions!.
I work with you to provide a safe space that uses empowerment, mindfulness, holistic healing, wellness, and body/self care practices to help you break down the patterns that block you. I help you challenge your limiting beliefs and liberate your mindset/emotional freedom to build an identity that allows you to manage problems and reach your full potential.
Your self-care is important! I work with Veterans & Athletes! Ask me about ADHD Screenings, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques, Yoga, & Meditation sessions!.
I work with you to provide a safe space that uses empowerment, mindfulness, holistic healing, wellness, and body/self care practices to help you break down the patterns that block you. I help you challenge your limiting beliefs and liberate your mindset/emotional freedom to build an identity that allows you to manage problems and reach your full potential.
(312) 647-2403 View (312) 647-2403
Photo of Dr. Eleanor D Laser, PhD, Counselor
Dr. Eleanor D Laser
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I specialize in hypnotherapy, which offers rapid results.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
I specialize in hypnotherapy, which offers rapid results.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
(312) 465-4993 View (312) 465-4993
Photo of Brittany Radziwon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Radziwon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I practice from a Psychodynamic perspective, utilizing traditional and innovative therapies including CBT, DBT, IFS, Polyvagal, Jungian and Hypnotherapy, to foster a collaborative process of self-exploration and discovery.
My work supports individuals in areas of depression, anxiety, ocd, mood disorders, difficult life transitions, narcissistic abuse, intergenerational trauma, religious abuse, and PTSD/cPTSD.
I practice from a Psychodynamic perspective, utilizing traditional and innovative therapies including CBT, DBT, IFS, Polyvagal, Jungian and Hypnotherapy, to foster a collaborative process of self-exploration and discovery.
My work supports individuals in areas of depression, anxiety, ocd, mood disorders, difficult life transitions, narcissistic abuse, intergenerational trauma, religious abuse, and PTSD/cPTSD.
View
Photo of Eileen H Glenn, MA, LCPC, LLC, Counselor
Eileen H Glenn
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Utilizing Psychodynamic Therapy, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Breathwork, Rohun, or Healing Touch, I offer many approaches based on the individual needs of my clients.
My primary goal for my clients is to achieve healing on the deepest level. As an Adlerian trained therapist, I utilize psychodynamic as well as alternative modalities to explore, transform and heal those perceptions and beliefs that may be negatively impacting their lives. Whether it's one on one, couples, or group therapy, I am actively participating, encouraging, and guiding my clients so they feel safe and supported to examine and process their deepest emotional wounds.
Utilizing Psychodynamic Therapy, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Breathwork, Rohun, or Healing Touch, I offer many approaches based on the individual needs of my clients.
My primary goal for my clients is to achieve healing on the deepest level. As an Adlerian trained therapist, I utilize psychodynamic as well as alternative modalities to explore, transform and heal those perceptions and beliefs that may be negatively impacting their lives. Whether it's one on one, couples, or group therapy, I am actively participating, encouraging, and guiding my clients so they feel safe and supported to examine and process their deepest emotional wounds.
(847) 457-0145 View (847) 457-0145
Photo of Janell McGruder, LCPC, MSEd
Janell McGruder
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
Online Only
Utilizing EMDR, Hypnotherapy, and traditional talk therapy methods, individuals get an insight into ways they can heal and make changes to their current life in order to be a success.
Life has a lot of ups and downs. Things that happen to us are not always in our control, but healing from them are. If you're new to therapy or are looking for a holistic way of healing from a highly trained therapist who knows you are more than what you may feel you are, I'm the right therapist for you.
Utilizing EMDR, Hypnotherapy, and traditional talk therapy methods, individuals get an insight into ways they can heal and make changes to their current life in order to be a success.
Life has a lot of ups and downs. Things that happen to us are not always in our control, but healing from them are. If you're new to therapy or are looking for a holistic way of healing from a highly trained therapist who knows you are more than what you may feel you are, I'm the right therapist for you.
(309) 857-0413 View (309) 857-0413
Photo of Vicki Keough, CHT, BHS
Vicki Keough
CHT, BHS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Incorporating the subconscious mind through the use of hypnotherapy allows issues to be addressed at their root.
Incorporating hypnotherapy and NLP into the counseling process allows Vicki's patients to fully integrate change using both parts of their brain. Aligning the conscious mind with the subconscious removes habitual patterns and provides the structure to create a new thought system. New thoughts provide a new, improved reality.
Incorporating the subconscious mind through the use of hypnotherapy allows issues to be addressed at their root.
Incorporating hypnotherapy and NLP into the counseling process allows Vicki's patients to fully integrate change using both parts of their brain. Aligning the conscious mind with the subconscious removes habitual patterns and provides the structure to create a new thought system. New thoughts provide a new, improved reality.
(206) 866-6227 View (206) 866-6227
Photo of Catherine Boyce - Evanston Counseling, PLLC, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evanston Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
We use counseling, CBT, and hypnotherapy, to help you understand and conquer anxiety, pain, and loneliness, to empower you to feel happier and stronger in your pursuits and relationships.
You’ve been carrying the anxiety and pain for far too long. No one really knows what it's like to be you. It feels utterly lonely. But you are at the point, where you want to find hope again and see if there is a chance that it doesn’t have to be this way. You are navigating relationships with your intimate partner and friends, and experiencing difficult lonely feelings about your life, family, health, and career. Whether you have a relationship or are starting a new one, planning a family or maintaining one, struggling at college, battling chronic pain or IBS, or moving into the empty nest syndrome, there is so much to worry about.
We use counseling, CBT, and hypnotherapy, to help you understand and conquer anxiety, pain, and loneliness, to empower you to feel happier and stronger in your pursuits and relationships.
You’ve been carrying the anxiety and pain for far too long. No one really knows what it's like to be you. It feels utterly lonely. But you are at the point, where you want to find hope again and see if there is a chance that it doesn’t have to be this way. You are navigating relationships with your intimate partner and friends, and experiencing difficult lonely feelings about your life, family, health, and career. Whether you have a relationship or are starting a new one, planning a family or maintaining one, struggling at college, battling chronic pain or IBS, or moving into the empty nest syndrome, there is so much to worry about.
(847) 440-1345 View (847) 440-1345
Photo of Mikki Guerra- Trauma Therapist- Emotional Processing Work, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mikki Guerra- Trauma Therapist- Emotional Processing Work
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a speciality in substance and behavioral addictions and trained in hypnotherapy, mindfulness, somatic interventions, REBT, and compassionate inquiry.
I support women, men, and non-binary people ages 30 and up to understand & release the debris of their emotional pain. My clients have healed from wounds of: chronic worrying, perfectionistic people-pleasing, childhood emotional abuse/neglect, and other stressful experiences such as sexual assault and domestic violence.
I have a speciality in substance and behavioral addictions and trained in hypnotherapy, mindfulness, somatic interventions, REBT, and compassionate inquiry.
I support women, men, and non-binary people ages 30 and up to understand & release the debris of their emotional pain. My clients have healed from wounds of: chronic worrying, perfectionistic people-pleasing, childhood emotional abuse/neglect, and other stressful experiences such as sexual assault and domestic violence.
(715) 260-3098 View (715) 260-3098
Photo of Amanda Emerson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Emerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Using EMDR, hypnotherapy, and Internal Family Systems, I help clients build resilience.
My ideal client is someone facing anxiety, self-esteem struggles, or relationship challenges who feels stuck or overwhelmed. They need support in managing emotions, breaking unhelpful patterns, and building resilience. Their goals are to gain self-awareness, set healthy boundaries, and live more authentically. Ultimately, they seek healing and balance to lead a fulfilling, empowered life.
Using EMDR, hypnotherapy, and Internal Family Systems, I help clients build resilience.
My ideal client is someone facing anxiety, self-esteem struggles, or relationship challenges who feels stuck or overwhelmed. They need support in managing emotions, breaking unhelpful patterns, and building resilience. Their goals are to gain self-awareness, set healthy boundaries, and live more authentically. Ultimately, they seek healing and balance to lead a fulfilling, empowered life.
(501) 443-4751 View (501) 443-4751
Photo of David H. Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David H. Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and am certified and have training in the following disciplines: Addictions, Hypnotherapy, and Gestalt Therapy.
My unique style, simply called Self-Acceptance, is applied in the areas of addictions and recovery work, identify issues, life transitions, and spirituality. I also address codependency issues, including self-care and all types of relational issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and am certified and have training in the following disciplines: Addictions, Hypnotherapy, and Gestalt Therapy.
My unique style, simply called Self-Acceptance, is applied in the areas of addictions and recovery work, identify issues, life transitions, and spirituality. I also address codependency issues, including self-care and all types of relational issues.
(224) 334-3104 View (224) 334-3104
1
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.