Hypnotherapists in Woollahra, NSW

Photo of Wilfred Lax, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Wilfred Lax
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Woollahra, NSW 2025
I have been a Clinical Psychologist for many years, I have worked with individuals, couples and families who present with a variety of needs. I have trained in Hypnotherapy worked with clients with complex trauma, and across the lifespan. I don't believe that any one is 'broken' but do believe that everyone can be fixed. Optimism and humour are central to my practice as are warmth and empathy. Courage is important both for you and me.
I have been a Clinical Psychologist for many years, I have worked with individuals, couples and families who present with a variety of needs. I have trained in Hypnotherapy worked with clients with complex trauma, and across the lifespan. I don't believe that any one is 'broken' but do believe that everyone can be fixed. Optimism and humour are central to my practice as are warmth and empathy. Courage is important both for you and me.
(02) 9100 0797 View (02) 9100 0797
Photo of Amanda Dounis - Positive Thinking Clinic, ACA-L4, Psychotherapist
Positive Thinking Clinic
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woollahra, NSW 2025
Focus, Concentration, Performance, Job skills, Self-esteem, Relationships, Grief & loss, Body image/ weight, Health, Addictions, Stress, Anxiety, Panic, Depression, Phobias, Sleep Disorders, Mental Health, Suicidal Thoughts, Neuro Linguistic Programming, Hypnotherapy, Goal Setting, Study, Beliefs.
“Everybody is important; everybody deserves to live their best life. I am here to help you connect with yourself and others, to solve your requests as quickly and effectively as possible, in a way that is long lasting and sustainable”. Her approach is unique. She integrates therapies and customises them to suit the needs of the client. She aims to work with clients to co-create individually tailored and sustainable solutions. Amanda’s interventions aim to address the important relationship between the mind and body. She enjoys helping clients attain a greater wellbeing.
Focus, Concentration, Performance, Job skills, Self-esteem, Relationships, Grief & loss, Body image/ weight, Health, Addictions, Stress, Anxiety, Panic, Depression, Phobias, Sleep Disorders, Mental Health, Suicidal Thoughts, Neuro Linguistic Programming, Hypnotherapy, Goal Setting, Study, Beliefs.
“Everybody is important; everybody deserves to live their best life. I am here to help you connect with yourself and others, to solve your requests as quickly and effectively as possible, in a way that is long lasting and sustainable”. Her approach is unique. She integrates therapies and customises them to suit the needs of the client. She aims to work with clients to co-create individually tailored and sustainable solutions. Amanda’s interventions aim to address the important relationship between the mind and body. She enjoys helping clients attain a greater wellbeing.
(02) 8294 5710 View (02) 8294 5710
Photo of Gregory Poll - Growing Heart Psychotherapy by Gregory Poll, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Growing Heart Psychotherapy by Gregory Poll
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Woollahra, NSW 2025
I provide support for individuals experiencing personal difficulties and different trauma-related symptoms like anxiety and depression, addictions or relationship problems. Using a holistic approach, I tap into personal awareness, freedom and self-direction using a blend of different modalities.
I provide support for individuals experiencing personal difficulties and different trauma-related symptoms like anxiety and depression, addictions or relationship problems. Using a holistic approach, I tap into personal awareness, freedom and self-direction using a blend of different modalities.
(02) 9100 0524 View (02) 9100 0524
Photo of James Norman O'Connor, MPsych, ACA-L4, Psychotherapist
James Norman O'Connor
Psychotherapist, MPsych, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Woollahra, NSW 2025
Hi I'm Jim O'Connor clinical psychotherapist and relationship therapist. I help people overcome the challenges they face in their relationships. If you're someone who is single and wishing to get into a relationship but you don't know how to find the right person, then I can help. If your in a relationship and you want to create more connection, I can show you how. If you're in an abusive relationship and you don't know if you should leave or stay I can help you decide and I will support you what ever you decide. If it has anything to do with dating or relating in the modern world I can help.
Hi I'm Jim O'Connor clinical psychotherapist and relationship therapist. I help people overcome the challenges they face in their relationships. If you're someone who is single and wishing to get into a relationship but you don't know how to find the right person, then I can help. If your in a relationship and you want to create more connection, I can show you how. If you're in an abusive relationship and you don't know if you should leave or stay I can help you decide and I will support you what ever you decide. If it has anything to do with dating or relating in the modern world I can help.
(02) 9100 0073 View (02) 9100 0073

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tamika Dwight-Scott, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Tamika Dwight-Scott
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
Using an integrative and holistic approach utilising Gestalt Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, Resource Therapy, mindfulness, awareness, somatic work, art therapy, guided visualisation and metaphors, enables you to gain connection between your mind, body and emotions.
I am a Wellbeing Coach, Facilitator and Trainer who is passionate about supporting you to become the best version of YOU. I have many years experience in supporting people to reduce stress, chaos and angst in life and educating them towards a life where they can experience peace, balance and calmness, no matter what is happening around them. I feel much gratitude to work on faculty as resident Facilitator with the Petrea King, Quest for Life Foundation. I am passionate about my work and living my life to my full potential, so therefore love passing on my knowledge, wisdom and life experience to others.
Using an integrative and holistic approach utilising Gestalt Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, Resource Therapy, mindfulness, awareness, somatic work, art therapy, guided visualisation and metaphors, enables you to gain connection between your mind, body and emotions.
I am a Wellbeing Coach, Facilitator and Trainer who is passionate about supporting you to become the best version of YOU. I have many years experience in supporting people to reduce stress, chaos and angst in life and educating them towards a life where they can experience peace, balance and calmness, no matter what is happening around them. I feel much gratitude to work on faculty as resident Facilitator with the Petrea King, Quest for Life Foundation. I am passionate about my work and living my life to my full potential, so therefore love passing on my knowledge, wisdom and life experience to others.
(07) 3184 4537 View (07) 3184 4537
Photo of Dr Tracie O'Keefe, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Dr Tracie O'Keefe
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
I use clinical hypnotherapy and psychotherapy to help you solve your problems - fast. When you are stressed, addicted, have behavioural problems, phobias, sexual issues, traumatised, high anxiety or depression, you may have tried many avenues without success but I can help you fix things fast. The work we do is very in-depth and always positive as I help you build the skills you need to avoid those problems in the future and feel better quickly. From the first session we start to change what you are doing and experiencing. You want therapy to be empowering. I know your time and money are precious.
I use clinical hypnotherapy and psychotherapy to help you solve your problems - fast. When you are stressed, addicted, have behavioural problems, phobias, sexual issues, traumatised, high anxiety or depression, you may have tried many avenues without success but I can help you fix things fast. The work we do is very in-depth and always positive as I help you build the skills you need to avoid those problems in the future and feel better quickly. From the first session we start to change what you are doing and experiencing. You want therapy to be empowering. I know your time and money are precious.
0403 398 808 View 0403 398 808
Photo of Lauren Reiners - Thrive Holistic Therapies, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thrive Holistic Therapies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Are you at a crossroads in your career or emotional life? Do you want to change your negative patterns or habits permanently? Ready for deep healing of old hurts or letting go of past issues? I not only provide a safe space for you to uncover and heal but also can help you release any physical, mental and spiritual blocks in your life through counselling, trauma recovery, hypnotherapy and reiki. I believe that you have the strength not just to survive, but to truly thrive, let me support you in taking your power back and transforming your life.
Are you at a crossroads in your career or emotional life? Do you want to change your negative patterns or habits permanently? Ready for deep healing of old hurts or letting go of past issues? I not only provide a safe space for you to uncover and heal but also can help you release any physical, mental and spiritual blocks in your life through counselling, trauma recovery, hypnotherapy and reiki. I believe that you have the strength not just to survive, but to truly thrive, let me support you in taking your power back and transforming your life.
(02) 4214 4922 View (02) 4214 4922
Photo of Kim Shade - Sydney Strategic Therapy-Hypnotherapy/Counselling, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Sydney Strategic Therapy-Hypnotherapy/Counselling
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
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.
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
Sydney, NSW 2000  (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 Leigh Milne - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Leigh Milne - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Double Bay, NSW 2028
Leigh has over 15 years experience in CBT- based Clinical Hypnotherapy / Psychotherapy and more.
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
Leigh has over 15 years experience in CBT- based Clinical Hypnotherapy / Psychotherapy and more.
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
(03) 7003 2164 View (03) 7003 2164
Photo of Paige Linegar, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Paige Linegar
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Techniques include nutrition and a range of psychological (including CBT, ACT, Hypnotherapy, Art Therapy, Guided visualisations and EMDR).
Medicare Registered Psychologist. Please email or call me for details and to see if we are a good fit, with years in the field I work with a range of psychological and physical issues. My promise is to help you authentically, for long term change. I am also a clinical Nutritionist, and one of the only practitioners in Australia with years of experience in what is now widely recognised body-mind approach. As an athlete I also work in sports for mindset and nutrition for performance. I provide a unique integrative approach which involves counselling and physical integrative mental health strategy.
Techniques include nutrition and a range of psychological (including CBT, ACT, Hypnotherapy, Art Therapy, Guided visualisations and EMDR).
Medicare Registered Psychologist. Please email or call me for details and to see if we are a good fit, with years in the field I work with a range of psychological and physical issues. My promise is to help you authentically, for long term change. I am also a clinical Nutritionist, and one of the only practitioners in Australia with years of experience in what is now widely recognised body-mind approach. As an athlete I also work in sports for mindset and nutrition for performance. I provide a unique integrative approach which involves counselling and physical integrative mental health strategy.
(02) 9100 0691 View (02) 9100 0691
Photo of Tammy M Hatherill, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Tammy M Hatherill
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
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 Hannah Myall, MSc, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Hannah Myall
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
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
Photo of Anita Bonollo - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Anita Bonollo - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Double Bay, NSW 2028
Hypnotherapy can be a very effective treatment for involuntary and compulsive behaviours.
Anita works with clients of all ages and diverse backgrounds including individuals, couples and adolescents. She has extensive experience counselling clients and can help you with anxiety, stress, panic attacks, or depression; coping with pain, post-trauma (PTSD), OCD, or workplace issues; managing weight loss; couples therapy and sports psychology. How can Anita help you? Whether you need support, guidance, motivation, or counselling, she can assist you in your journey. Please feel free to book an initial consultation with her.
Hypnotherapy can be a very effective treatment for involuntary and compulsive behaviours.
Anita works with clients of all ages and diverse backgrounds including individuals, couples and adolescents. She has extensive experience counselling clients and can help you with anxiety, stress, panic attacks, or depression; coping with pain, post-trauma (PTSD), OCD, or workplace issues; managing weight loss; couples therapy and sports psychology. How can Anita help you? Whether you need support, guidance, motivation, or counselling, she can assist you in your journey. Please feel free to book an initial consultation with her.
(03) 9068 5232 View (03) 9068 5232
Photo of Errol Madder, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Errol Madder
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, NSW 2010  (Online Only)
Hi, My name is Errol and I work at Mind Therapy Australia. I have training in Gestalt psychotherapy, NLP, counselling and hypnotherapy. My clients at the heat of everything I do and I pride myself on working in a safe, supportive and judgement free way.
Hi, My name is Errol and I work at Mind Therapy Australia. I have training in Gestalt psychotherapy, NLP, counselling and hypnotherapy. My clients at the heat of everything I do and I pride myself on working in a safe, supportive and judgement free way.
(02) 8355 9769 View (02) 8355 9769
Photo of Veronica Engel - Veronica Engel, MAPS, Psychologist
Veronica Engel
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I am guided by you but particularly interested in cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused therapy, clinical and gut-directed hypnotherapy.
Owner/Director of the Engel Clinic - I have been privileged to work with clients for over 15 years using mindfulness based CBT, ACT, FBT, gut-directed hypnosis, and clinical hypnosis. I work extensively with all kinds of anxiety and stress conditions, gut-brain disorders, and eating disorders (including obesity and ARFID).
I am guided by you but particularly interested in cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused therapy, clinical and gut-directed hypnotherapy.
Owner/Director of the Engel Clinic - I have been privileged to work with clients for over 15 years using mindfulness based CBT, ACT, FBT, gut-directed hypnosis, and clinical hypnosis. I work extensively with all kinds of anxiety and stress conditions, gut-brain disorders, and eating disorders (including obesity and ARFID).
(02) 8203 8780 View (02) 8203 8780
Photo of Menaka Iyengar Cooke M.app.psych, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Menaka Iyengar Cooke M.app.psych
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I use mindfulness, hypnotherapy, somatic (body-based) approach, psychodynamics (what has happened in a person's developmental years), and family constellations work (patterns or issues over generations).
Clients want help with managing stress and anxiety over life matters such as workplace issues, relationships including marriage ups-and-downs, divorce and separation; death including grief and loss; personal development from being assertive to managing health and personal wellbeing; assistance in being better parents; personal trauma incuding sexual assault or bodily harm or migration difficulties
I use mindfulness, hypnotherapy, somatic (body-based) approach, psychodynamics (what has happened in a person's developmental years), and family constellations work (patterns or issues over generations).
Clients want help with managing stress and anxiety over life matters such as workplace issues, relationships including marriage ups-and-downs, divorce and separation; death including grief and loss; personal development from being assertive to managing health and personal wellbeing; assistance in being better parents; personal trauma incuding sexual assault or bodily harm or migration difficulties
(02) 8069 5431 View (02) 8069 5431
Photo of Dr Arthur David Stabolidis - Dr Arthur Stabolidis: The Psychology Suite, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Dr Arthur Stabolidis: The Psychology Suite
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
You have come here with a concern you want some help with. Understanding that concern, its impact on your life, and its place within the story of your life is an integral part of the therapy process. My specialty clinical interests include adult ADHD assessment and treatment, anxiety, depression, stress management, and helping clients navigate significant life changes. I am also trained in clinical hypnotherapy which I utilise in the management of chronic pain conditions such as endometriosis, fibro neuralgia and IBS.
You have come here with a concern you want some help with. Understanding that concern, its impact on your life, and its place within the story of your life is an integral part of the therapy process. My specialty clinical interests include adult ADHD assessment and treatment, anxiety, depression, stress management, and helping clients navigate significant life changes. I am also trained in clinical hypnotherapy which I utilise in the management of chronic pain conditions such as endometriosis, fibro neuralgia and IBS.
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Photo of Dr Frank Sattler, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Frank Sattler
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
Hi! I'm a clinical psychologist working with individuals and couples. With individuals, I use CBT, relational therapy, LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, exposure therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, and ethical consultation among others. I work with adults, children and adolescents. I'm a Certified Gottman Therapist and in couples therapy, I mix Gottman therapy and systemic approaches. I also offer discernment counselling to married couples with divorce ambivalence.
Hi! I'm a clinical psychologist working with individuals and couples. With individuals, I use CBT, relational therapy, LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, exposure therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, and ethical consultation among others. I work with adults, children and adolescents. I'm a Certified Gottman Therapist and in couples therapy, I mix Gottman therapy and systemic approaches. I also offer discernment counselling to married couples with divorce ambivalence.
0402 554 491 View 0402 554 491
Photo of Sandra Scott, MAPS, Psychologist
Sandra Scott
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
With a wide knowledge and 20 years clinical experience I use evidence-based therapies personalised to your treatment goals. I work with clients of all ages on all manner of complex concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, troubled relationships, grief, loss & infertility. I provide psychological assessment and diagnostic services to those seeking to understand the nuances of ADHD, ASD, LD (dyslexia) and other developmental difficulties. My specialised training in mind body connection, hypnosis and nutrition complements treatment for those seeking a holistic approach.
With a wide knowledge and 20 years clinical experience I use evidence-based therapies personalised to your treatment goals. I work with clients of all ages on all manner of complex concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, troubled relationships, grief, loss & infertility. I provide psychological assessment and diagnostic services to those seeking to understand the nuances of ADHD, ASD, LD (dyslexia) and other developmental difficulties. My specialised training in mind body connection, hypnosis and nutrition complements treatment for those seeking a holistic approach.
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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.