Hypnotherapists in Australian Capital Territory

Photo of Karen Lisa Freedman - Start Anew Life Coaching, MSc
Start Anew Life Coaching
MSc
Verified Verified
Ainslie, ACT 2602
You have typically strived to get the most out of life. You love a challenge and until now felt pretty satisfied with life. Things are starting to look grey. You may be going through a difficult life transition or event such as divorce, grief, retirement, facing redundancy, bullying in the workplace, career change or aging? You have lost the energy and confidence you once had and may even feel depressed and anxious at times. This is effecting your interpersonal and family relationships, health, and effectiveness at work. You feel "stuck".
You have typically strived to get the most out of life. You love a challenge and until now felt pretty satisfied with life. Things are starting to look grey. You may be going through a difficult life transition or event such as divorce, grief, retirement, facing redundancy, bullying in the workplace, career change or aging? You have lost the energy and confidence you once had and may even feel depressed and anxious at times. This is effecting your interpersonal and family relationships, health, and effectiveness at work. You feel "stuck".
(02) 6188 7367 View (02) 6188 7367
Photo of Valentina Dragicevic, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Valentina Dragicevic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Deakin, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
Hey there, I'm Valentina, the face and heart behind Soul Soothing Psychology! My passion is utilising the powerful benefits of EMDR and schema therapy with clients who are curious, reflective and recognize that painful experiences affect every aspect of their being. I believe that painful experiences can break us, leaving us with shattered fragments, and affecting our hearts, mind, body, and soul. Together, we embark on a journey towards more joy, meaningful moments, and a deeper connection to yourself and your loved ones.
Hey there, I'm Valentina, the face and heart behind Soul Soothing Psychology! My passion is utilising the powerful benefits of EMDR and schema therapy with clients who are curious, reflective and recognize that painful experiences affect every aspect of their being. I believe that painful experiences can break us, leaving us with shattered fragments, and affecting our hearts, mind, body, and soul. Together, we embark on a journey towards more joy, meaningful moments, and a deeper connection to yourself and your loved ones.
(07) 3132 1936 View (07) 3132 1936
Photo of Elena Beutel, MPsych
Elena Beutel
MPsych
Verified Verified
Greenway, ACT 2900  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! No GP referral is required. Psychotherapist and Certified Coach focused on empowering clients to achieve sound mental health, fulfilling relationships and careers. My clients typically experience some of these challenges: low mood, low self-esteem, narcissistic abuse, emotional swings, irritability, anxiety, social relationship difficulties, addictions, psychosomatic symptoms, family and work conflict, lack of energy. I am a wife, a mother of two, an immigrant, a professional, a Christian... I am here to build you up, there is nothing you can tell me that will discourage me from helping you.
Accepting new clients! No GP referral is required. Psychotherapist and Certified Coach focused on empowering clients to achieve sound mental health, fulfilling relationships and careers. My clients typically experience some of these challenges: low mood, low self-esteem, narcissistic abuse, emotional swings, irritability, anxiety, social relationship difficulties, addictions, psychosomatic symptoms, family and work conflict, lack of energy. I am a wife, a mother of two, an immigrant, a professional, a Christian... I am here to build you up, there is nothing you can tell me that will discourage me from helping you.
(02) 5950 6462 View (02) 5950 6462
Photo of Delphine Marina - Delphine Marina, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Delphine Marina
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600
Hello, I am an experienced Clinical Psychotherapist, Counsellor, and Coach with a profound commitment to guiding individuals on their transformative journeys. Trained in the intricacies of Soul Centred Psychotherapy (SCP), a Jungian-based modality, I specialise in fostering a vital connection with the whole self. In the realm of SCP, I can orchestrate a delicate dance between the everyday sense of self and the myriad layers of consciousness. This therapeutic approach illuminates the internal dynamics that shape our thoughts, moods, and behaviours in both personal and interpersonal realms.
Hello, I am an experienced Clinical Psychotherapist, Counsellor, and Coach with a profound commitment to guiding individuals on their transformative journeys. Trained in the intricacies of Soul Centred Psychotherapy (SCP), a Jungian-based modality, I specialise in fostering a vital connection with the whole self. In the realm of SCP, I can orchestrate a delicate dance between the everyday sense of self and the myriad layers of consciousness. This therapeutic approach illuminates the internal dynamics that shape our thoughts, moods, and behaviours in both personal and interpersonal realms.
(03) 9111 2668 View (03) 9111 2668
Photo of Andrea Middling: Living Free Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Andrea Middling: Living Free Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability! “I offer trauma informed therapy in a safe and non- judgemental space, so you can work through whatever difficulties you are experiencing, live more mindfully and embrace your inner strengths & resources.” My style is warm and empathic, though I can challenge respectfully when needed. I regard the therapeutic relationship as team work and appreciate that it takes significant courage to reach for counselling.
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability! “I offer trauma informed therapy in a safe and non- judgemental space, so you can work through whatever difficulties you are experiencing, live more mindfully and embrace your inner strengths & resources.” My style is warm and empathic, though I can challenge respectfully when needed. I regard the therapeutic relationship as team work and appreciate that it takes significant courage to reach for counselling.
(07) 3214 3678 View (07) 3214 3678
Photo of Elizabeth Fuentes: Living Free Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Elizabeth Fuentes: Living Free Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability "I am passionate about helping people live more purposeful lives. I use a warm and empathic therapist style, with a practical focus on collaboratively helping my clients move towards meaningful and achievable goals" Areas I am passionate to work with: Anxiety Disorders such as Social Phobia & Panic Disorder, Depression and Low self-esteem, Trauma and PTSD, Work/Life stressors, Self- improvement, Assertiveness and effective communication skills, Adjustment issues, Grief and loss, Interpersonal and family difficulties.
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability "I am passionate about helping people live more purposeful lives. I use a warm and empathic therapist style, with a practical focus on collaboratively helping my clients move towards meaningful and achievable goals" Areas I am passionate to work with: Anxiety Disorders such as Social Phobia & Panic Disorder, Depression and Low self-esteem, Trauma and PTSD, Work/Life stressors, Self- improvement, Assertiveness and effective communication skills, Adjustment issues, Grief and loss, Interpersonal and family difficulties.
0468 887 908 View 0468 887 908
Photo of Luigi C Romanelli, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luigi C Romanelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Canberra, ACT 2600
Struggling with emotional pain and looking for support? I’m Luigi C. Romanelli, an experienced counsellor. Client "Jaxon" feared discussing his struggles with his partner due to past rejection, but through our work together, he rebuilt trust in intimacy by identifying and unlearning harmful patterns. He bravely shared his deepest fears, and we practised open dialogues that built trust, reduced anxiety, and improved his self-esteem and communication skills. His inspiring progress shows the power of focused support. If you are seeking compassionate counselling in Launceston or across Australia via Telehealth - book today!
Struggling with emotional pain and looking for support? I’m Luigi C. Romanelli, an experienced counsellor. Client "Jaxon" feared discussing his struggles with his partner due to past rejection, but through our work together, he rebuilt trust in intimacy by identifying and unlearning harmful patterns. He bravely shared his deepest fears, and we practised open dialogues that built trust, reduced anxiety, and improved his self-esteem and communication skills. His inspiring progress shows the power of focused support. If you are seeking compassionate counselling in Launceston or across Australia via Telehealth - book today!
(03) 6315 9073 View (03) 6315 9073
Photo of Toni Knight
Toni Knight
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
You're a busy, highly achieving professional and you're getting tired. Possibly burning out. You're feeling more negative these days and you're struggling sometimes to bring your usual 'A game' to what you do. You've tried holidays, 'self care' and self-help, but nothing seems to do much to move you out of the gloom. You feel stuck. And you're worried, because this can't continue. You want to get your mojo back, continue to achieve greatly, and keep bringing the good stuff to your people. Joyfully. Your work matters, and you want to be all you can be. You want to thrive. But how do you even begin to get back to who you truly are?
You're a busy, highly achieving professional and you're getting tired. Possibly burning out. You're feeling more negative these days and you're struggling sometimes to bring your usual 'A game' to what you do. You've tried holidays, 'self care' and self-help, but nothing seems to do much to move you out of the gloom. You feel stuck. And you're worried, because this can't continue. You want to get your mojo back, continue to achieve greatly, and keep bringing the good stuff to your people. Joyfully. Your work matters, and you want to be all you can be. You want to thrive. But how do you even begin to get back to who you truly are?
(02) 4077 2834 View (02) 4077 2834
Photo of Jessica Connell, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jessica Connell
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Canberra, ACT 2600  (Online Only)
Psychologist with 16 yrs plus experience in broad range of areas. I'm an easy going, direct, non-judgemental, empathetic, calm practitioner with a sense of humor. I'm great at getting to the bottom of problems quickly & will work hard to make my clients feel at ease. I can help you navigate difficult life decisions or issues, process past or current issues and reconnect with yourself. I work in a client centered holistic manner, taking your entire wellbeing into consideration, to meet your individual needs & goals.I have a special interest in working with women, ADHD, spiritual issues, helping clients find direction and meaning.
Psychologist with 16 yrs plus experience in broad range of areas. I'm an easy going, direct, non-judgemental, empathetic, calm practitioner with a sense of humor. I'm great at getting to the bottom of problems quickly & will work hard to make my clients feel at ease. I can help you navigate difficult life decisions or issues, process past or current issues and reconnect with yourself. I work in a client centered holistic manner, taking your entire wellbeing into consideration, to meet your individual needs & goals.I have a special interest in working with women, ADHD, spiritual issues, helping clients find direction and meaning.
(03) 7003 2233 View (03) 7003 2233

Online Therapists

Photo of Alicja Weidner - H-L Therapy, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
H-L Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Modbury, SA 5092
H-L Therapy offers a wide range of person centered, psychosocial therapy services, including counselling, therapeutic skill development, mindfulness, relaxation therapy, clinical hypnotherapy and artistic exploration. All H-L Therapy staff are DHS and Police cleared, qualified allied health clinicians. Our services are customised to specific situations and our mission is to support people in being happy and confident. NDIS, Medicare and Private Health Insurance rebates are available. We are compassionate, responsive and offer valuable, convenient support services -because all people matter.
H-L Therapy offers a wide range of person centered, psychosocial therapy services, including counselling, therapeutic skill development, mindfulness, relaxation therapy, clinical hypnotherapy and artistic exploration. All H-L Therapy staff are DHS and Police cleared, qualified allied health clinicians. Our services are customised to specific situations and our mission is to support people in being happy and confident. NDIS, Medicare and Private Health Insurance rebates are available. We are compassionate, responsive and offer valuable, convenient support services -because all people matter.
(08) 7078 7648 View (08) 7078 7648
Photo of Bel Masterman, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Bel Masterman
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Helens, TAS 7216
I use a combination of counselling, mindfulness, hypnotherapy and breathwork to gently and compassionately unhook the subconscious patterns in the brain and body to clear the path, so you are free to live as your true self.
Have you ever tried to change and felt like your brain is fighting you every step of the way? Perhaps your brain has been caught in a loop of anxiety, trauma response, anger or flatlining in depression? Neuroscientists estimate that 90% of our decisions and behaviours are subconscious and that's why it's so hard to consciously change. The good news is that there is hope. The latest neuroscience shows ways to unhook our subconscious patterns from the past, behaviours and thoughts. Our brains weren't evolved to deal with the stressors of the modern world, but we can teach the brain the cues of safety to open up the path of healing.
I use a combination of counselling, mindfulness, hypnotherapy and breathwork to gently and compassionately unhook the subconscious patterns in the brain and body to clear the path, so you are free to live as your true self.
Have you ever tried to change and felt like your brain is fighting you every step of the way? Perhaps your brain has been caught in a loop of anxiety, trauma response, anger or flatlining in depression? Neuroscientists estimate that 90% of our decisions and behaviours are subconscious and that's why it's so hard to consciously change. The good news is that there is hope. The latest neuroscience shows ways to unhook our subconscious patterns from the past, behaviours and thoughts. Our brains weren't evolved to deal with the stressors of the modern world, but we can teach the brain the cues of safety to open up the path of healing.
(03) 4427 9862 View (03) 4427 9862
Photo of Stacey Wallace, PACFA, Counsellor
Stacey Wallace
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
I also have done studies in Counselling, NLP, Hypnotherapy, Reiki, Access Bars, Regression.
Any client is an ideal client. Someone who is in need of finding themselves. I have no boundaries when it comes to clients.
I also have done studies in Counselling, NLP, Hypnotherapy, Reiki, Access Bars, Regression.
Any client is an ideal client. Someone who is in need of finding themselves. I have no boundaries when it comes to clients.
(08) 7111 3967 View (08) 7111 3967
Photo of Vicki Trewin - WildFlowers Holistic Counselling, ACA-L1, Counsellor
WildFlowers Holistic Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Sandhurst, VIC 3977
Our range of services include: Person-Centred Counselling, Empowerment Coaching, Hypnotherapy, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Time-Line Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy & Reiki Healing.
Here at WildFlowers Counselling, we take a holistic, person-centred approach to supporting & empowering women to discover & access their own inner wisdom enabling them to re-define their identity & live life to the fullest. Each woman is whole & complete & that all they need is within them right now. With compassion, care & little bit of fun, we encourage women to shine. We understand the importance of harnessing the connection between mind, body and spirit to achieve a sense of wholeness, purpose, abundance, resourcefulness & emotional wellness. Our aim is to ignite a new passion, energy & vitality into the lives of women.
Our range of services include: Person-Centred Counselling, Empowerment Coaching, Hypnotherapy, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Time-Line Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy & Reiki Healing.
Here at WildFlowers Counselling, we take a holistic, person-centred approach to supporting & empowering women to discover & access their own inner wisdom enabling them to re-define their identity & live life to the fullest. Each woman is whole & complete & that all they need is within them right now. With compassion, care & little bit of fun, we encourage women to shine. We understand the importance of harnessing the connection between mind, body and spirit to achieve a sense of wholeness, purpose, abundance, resourcefulness & emotional wellness. Our aim is to ignite a new passion, energy & vitality into the lives of women.
(03) 5909 9302 View (03) 5909 9302
Photo of Deborah Ann Hilton
Deborah Ann Hilton
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westminster, WA 6061
Clinical Hypnotherapy, Strategic Psychotherapy, and NLP can help you develop new mental processes.
Welcome! I'm Deb. Have you just had enough and want to change, to move forward, to be calm? Do you often feel overwhelmed by anxiety, as if it's happening to you and beyond your control? You're not alone—many people experience these thoughts. Anxiety is at the core of many issues and is a learned response generated from within, whether on a conscious or subconscious level. Understanding its origins isn't necessary for effective treatment. Solution-focused Clinical Hypnotherapy can help you reconnect with your unique inner resources, enabling you to leave past problems behind and embrace a more empowered future.
Clinical Hypnotherapy, Strategic Psychotherapy, and NLP can help you develop new mental processes.
Welcome! I'm Deb. Have you just had enough and want to change, to move forward, to be calm? Do you often feel overwhelmed by anxiety, as if it's happening to you and beyond your control? You're not alone—many people experience these thoughts. Anxiety is at the core of many issues and is a learned response generated from within, whether on a conscious or subconscious level. Understanding its origins isn't necessary for effective treatment. Solution-focused Clinical Hypnotherapy can help you reconnect with your unique inner resources, enabling you to leave past problems behind and embrace a more empowered future.
(08) 6206 8535 View (08) 6206 8535
Photo of Tammy M Hatherill, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Tammy M Hatherill
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Darwin City, NT 0800
I offer a range of therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Clinical Hypnosis ( Hypnotherapy), to assist clients in overcoming their traumas.
I have had the opportunity to work in various diverse settings prior to becoming a psychologist. I firmly believe that my experiences enable me to assist individuals from all walks of life. I have previously worked as a prison officer and have a particular interest in assisting correctional officers, police force members, and emergency service workers as a whole. In addition, being of Aboriginal descent and having grown up in a remote Aboriginal community, I am passionate about providing support to First Nation Australians. My expertise lies in assisting individuals who have undergone traumatic experiences.
I offer a range of therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Clinical Hypnosis ( Hypnotherapy), to assist clients in overcoming their traumas.
I have had the opportunity to work in various diverse settings prior to becoming a psychologist. I firmly believe that my experiences enable me to assist individuals from all walks of life. I have previously worked as a prison officer and have a particular interest in assisting correctional officers, police force members, and emergency service workers as a whole. In addition, being of Aboriginal descent and having grown up in a remote Aboriginal community, I am passionate about providing support to First Nation Australians. My expertise lies in assisting individuals who have undergone traumatic experiences.
(08) 7948 3794 View (08) 7948 3794
Photo of Kim Shade - Sydney Strategic Therapy-Hypnotherapy/Counselling, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Sydney Strategic Therapy-Hypnotherapy/Counselling
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Kareela, NSW 2232
I also incorporate Clinical Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy techniques to enhance results .
Clinical Hypnotherapy/Counselling/Psychotherapy can help you manage a busy life by facilitating effective strategies that support you. I treat issues with phobia's, addiction, weight loss, sleep, relationship issues, performance, grief, anxiety, stress within a warm, relaxed, non-judgemental environment I will provide guidance to assist you to: Develop new insights into the nature and origins of your current difficulties. Identify & challenge the behaviours, thoughts & beliefs that are creating distress. You will discover new ways of thinking and behaving that enhance well-being and allow you to achieve your full potential.
I also incorporate Clinical Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy techniques to enhance results .
Clinical Hypnotherapy/Counselling/Psychotherapy can help you manage a busy life by facilitating effective strategies that support you. I treat issues with phobia's, addiction, weight loss, sleep, relationship issues, performance, grief, anxiety, stress within a warm, relaxed, non-judgemental environment I will provide guidance to assist you to: Develop new insights into the nature and origins of your current difficulties. Identify & challenge the behaviours, thoughts & beliefs that are creating distress. You will discover new ways of thinking and behaving that enhance well-being and allow you to achieve your full potential.
(02) 9159 6172 View (02) 9159 6172
Photo of Deborah Ann Petlueng - Empowered Lives Psychotherapy
Empowered Lives Psychotherapy
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450  (Online Only)
Are you a woman over 50 who realises there are things holding you back from creating the life you desire? My unique approach using hypnotherapy & psychotherapy is specifically designed for women 50+. I offer personalized online sessions that fit your schedule. You may have tried traditional counseling or psychology sessions, but found that even after months there is not much change in your life. Or, you may have found traditional therapy confronting and tiring. Psychotherapy and hypnotherapy delivers deep change within 3 sessions in a safe and relaxing way. Let’s work together to create the vibrant, fulfilling life you deserve.
Are you a woman over 50 who realises there are things holding you back from creating the life you desire? My unique approach using hypnotherapy & psychotherapy is specifically designed for women 50+. I offer personalized online sessions that fit your schedule. You may have tried traditional counseling or psychology sessions, but found that even after months there is not much change in your life. Or, you may have found traditional therapy confronting and tiring. Psychotherapy and hypnotherapy delivers deep change within 3 sessions in a safe and relaxing way. Let’s work together to create the vibrant, fulfilling life you deserve.
(02) 5604 8653 View (02) 5604 8653
Photo of Jessica Purssell, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jessica Purssell
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Mons, QLD 4556  (Online Only)
I'm also trained in hypnotherapy and EMDR.
Welcome to My Peaceful Mind! I'm passionate about helping people learn how to reconnect with their minds and foster self-connection safely, learn how to retrain their minds to navigate their challenges and for long-term sustainable change, while taking a holistic approach.
I'm also trained in hypnotherapy and EMDR.
Welcome to My Peaceful Mind! I'm passionate about helping people learn how to reconnect with their minds and foster self-connection safely, learn how to retrain their minds to navigate their challenges and for long-term sustainable change, while taking a holistic approach.
(07) 5240 0001 View (07) 5240 0001
Photo of Astrid Southey, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Astrid Southey
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Malvern, VIC 3144
From a holistic perspective, my therapy incorporates evidence-based approaches including Talk therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Utilization Theory, Attachment Repair work & Hypnotherapy.
Few sail through life without encountering obstacles of one sort or another. For the most part we adjust to challenges or emotional upset using our own internal healing systems. Occasionally though, we just can't find a way through the pain and can't understand what went wrong. At these times it is really helpful to talk with someone who is trained to notice the emotions behind your words, and it is by noticing these emotions solutions to your troubles can be found.
From a holistic perspective, my therapy incorporates evidence-based approaches including Talk therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Utilization Theory, Attachment Repair work & Hypnotherapy.
Few sail through life without encountering obstacles of one sort or another. For the most part we adjust to challenges or emotional upset using our own internal healing systems. Occasionally though, we just can't find a way through the pain and can't understand what went wrong. At these times it is really helpful to talk with someone who is trained to notice the emotions behind your words, and it is by noticing these emotions solutions to your troubles can be found.
(03) 4416 2322 View (03) 4416 2322
Photo of Hannah Myall, MSc, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Hannah Myall
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Dee Why, NSW 2099
This includes CBT-E, ACT, EMDR, Cognitive Hypnotherapy and Coaching.
Hannah specialises in working with individuals of all ages with Eating Disorders to achieve full recovery. This includes Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, Orthorexia, disordered eating, body image concerns and related issues. Hannah also offers support and guidance to parents, carers and families of those struggling with an eating disorder. Hannah, who has also recovered from an eating disorder believes that full recovery is possible with the right support and guidance to help you feel like you are not alone in your struggles.
This includes CBT-E, ACT, EMDR, Cognitive Hypnotherapy and Coaching.
Hannah specialises in working with individuals of all ages with Eating Disorders to achieve full recovery. This includes Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, Orthorexia, disordered eating, body image concerns and related issues. Hannah also offers support and guidance to parents, carers and families of those struggling with an eating disorder. Hannah, who has also recovered from an eating disorder believes that full recovery is possible with the right support and guidance to help you feel like you are not alone in your struggles.
(02) 9100 0047 View (02) 9100 0047

See more therapy options for Australian Capital Territory

Hypnotherapy Counsellors

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 film, 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 behaviour change or better manage psychological concerns. Therapy sessions may involve guiding you through recognising 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 hypnotised?

The most common challenge of hypnotherapy is that as many as one in four people cannot be hypnotised. 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 hypnotised may not respond to the technique because of their scepticism 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 behaviours 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.