Hypnotherapists in Preston, VIC
![Photo of Julie Donnelly, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2273d02-efb0-4503-b371-6054fa38caba/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work in a Holistic way (the whole of the person, not just the symptoms), using varied treatment methods of CBT, Mindfulness, NLP and Hypnotherapy based meditations, honouring each persons uniqueness and individual needs.
If you are looking for support for life's challenges due to change, transition or trauma, I welcome your enquiry and contact. I am an experienced Counsellor who loves working with individuals to support changes in their lives. Whether you are coping with bereavement, grief and loss, anxiety or depression, relationship issues or simply feel stuck in life, we will work together to find new insights and identify your strengths and coping skills.
I work in a Holistic way (the whole of the person, not just the symptoms), using varied treatment methods of CBT, Mindfulness, NLP and Hypnotherapy based meditations, honouring each persons uniqueness and individual needs.
If you are looking for support for life's challenges due to change, transition or trauma, I welcome your enquiry and contact. I am an experienced Counsellor who loves working with individuals to support changes in their lives. Whether you are coping with bereavement, grief and loss, anxiety or depression, relationship issues or simply feel stuck in life, we will work together to find new insights and identify your strengths and coping skills.
![Photo of Helen Killmier - Guidestar, MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e51ec8cb-953a-480a-badb-30c00b181ea0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychological counselling focuses on emotional and psychological wellbeing and is designed to help people gain insight, clarity and perspective and find solutions using their own personal strengths. Guidestar provides a safe space for confidential psychology, counselling, assessment and support services for children, adolescents and adults. We are neurodiverse affirming and Rainbow Tick accredited. Our psychologists are registered with the AHPRA and are members of the APS or AAPi. Each psychologist has a different focus and approach; review the profiles of our psychologists on our website.
Psychological counselling focuses on emotional and psychological wellbeing and is designed to help people gain insight, clarity and perspective and find solutions using their own personal strengths. Guidestar provides a safe space for confidential psychology, counselling, assessment and support services for children, adolescents and adults. We are neurodiverse affirming and Rainbow Tick accredited. Our psychologists are registered with the AHPRA and are members of the APS or AAPi. Each psychologist has a different focus and approach; review the profiles of our psychologists on our website.
![Photo of Josh Sasai - Josh Sasai - Wisdom Psychotherapy, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd846454-d13e-4a0e-a544-a31c292e470a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Josh Sasai - Wisdom Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Hi, my name is Josh. I specialise in working with clients with trauma (C/PTSD), anxiety, depression and chronic conditions by facilitating Body-Mind Processing practices. I use Buddhist Psychotherapy as my therapeutic framework. Buddhist Psychotherapy is a non-religious, brain science-focused and compassion-oriented framework, which can combine evidence-based counselling methods with body-mind integrative practices for a restored sense of wellbeing. My practice focuses on the body’s innate wisdom to work out solutions to the presented issues, as well as working with emotions as the vehicles to connect body-and-mind.
Hi, my name is Josh. I specialise in working with clients with trauma (C/PTSD), anxiety, depression and chronic conditions by facilitating Body-Mind Processing practices. I use Buddhist Psychotherapy as my therapeutic framework. Buddhist Psychotherapy is a non-religious, brain science-focused and compassion-oriented framework, which can combine evidence-based counselling methods with body-mind integrative practices for a restored sense of wellbeing. My practice focuses on the body’s innate wisdom to work out solutions to the presented issues, as well as working with emotions as the vehicles to connect body-and-mind.
![Photo of Dash Russell, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f52021be-edb1-4eb1-880b-41826d690e6b/4/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there! I work as an Integrative Psychotherapist, and absolutely love this process of helping fellow humans. Within a safe and welcoming space, together we embark on a transformative journey - with intentions to grow through whatever has become stuck, and to heal what is too much to cope with alone. My approach is rooted in honesty, empathy, and a non-judgmental perspective. Clients often describe me as warm, open-minded, humorous, and genuinely caring.
Hello there! I work as an Integrative Psychotherapist, and absolutely love this process of helping fellow humans. Within a safe and welcoming space, together we embark on a transformative journey - with intentions to grow through whatever has become stuck, and to heal what is too much to cope with alone. My approach is rooted in honesty, empathy, and a non-judgmental perspective. Clients often describe me as warm, open-minded, humorous, and genuinely caring.
![Photo of Erica Patrick - Melbourne Mindbody Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50348306-d082-491c-a69d-9bc842c40667/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melbourne Mindbody Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
Learn to let go of the past through Innovative psychology for the mind and body. Using an integrative approach of Acceptance Commitment Therapy, (ACT) Inner child work, and Eye Movement Desensitisation (EMDR) to resolve the past in the present and be free in the future. Erica is also a naturopath and hypnotherapist, working to resolve IBS and physical ailments which are triggered through stress, and nutritional requirements. Naturopathic appointments are separate to psychology appointments. MMBP is a multi-modality clinic that offers additional services for a holistic approach to overall health, melbournemindbodypsychology.com.
Learn to let go of the past through Innovative psychology for the mind and body. Using an integrative approach of Acceptance Commitment Therapy, (ACT) Inner child work, and Eye Movement Desensitisation (EMDR) to resolve the past in the present and be free in the future. Erica is also a naturopath and hypnotherapist, working to resolve IBS and physical ailments which are triggered through stress, and nutritional requirements. Naturopathic appointments are separate to psychology appointments. MMBP is a multi-modality clinic that offers additional services for a holistic approach to overall health, melbournemindbodypsychology.com.
![Photo of Lindita Muaremi - Rebellion Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d77e56d4-fe3b-4ae1-b621-6e1537b6634d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a registered psychologist interested in working with individuals on a deep core level, assisting them with their journey in self-discovery and inner growth. I am passionate about helping sensitive people from diverse backgrounds who are devoted in manifesting change; letting go of habits which are self-defeating and exhausting. My main objective is teaching people about the mind-body-soul connection, supporting them through their life lesson. My unique approach will help you face your own thoughts, emotions and fulfilling your wishes.
I am a registered psychologist interested in working with individuals on a deep core level, assisting them with their journey in self-discovery and inner growth. I am passionate about helping sensitive people from diverse backgrounds who are devoted in manifesting change; letting go of habits which are self-defeating and exhausting. My main objective is teaching people about the mind-body-soul connection, supporting them through their life lesson. My unique approach will help you face your own thoughts, emotions and fulfilling your wishes.
![Photo of Lee Beaton, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a88b6a85-1e64-4435-b397-d92d5f8aa608/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lee is a Gestalt Psychotherapist specialising in healing relationships. She works with both couples and individuals but specialise in attachment-focused couples work. She describes her therapeutic approach as person-centred, warm, effective, and compassionate. This allows her to help you unlock deep relational healing. The way we orientate to life is directly influenced by the multiple challenges we have faced in our upbringing, our environment, and our life circumstances. Lee believes the way we handle our and other’s emotions is what makes the difference to us living a connected and happy life by forming healthy relationships.
Lee is a Gestalt Psychotherapist specialising in healing relationships. She works with both couples and individuals but specialise in attachment-focused couples work. She describes her therapeutic approach as person-centred, warm, effective, and compassionate. This allows her to help you unlock deep relational healing. The way we orientate to life is directly influenced by the multiple challenges we have faced in our upbringing, our environment, and our life circumstances. Lee believes the way we handle our and other’s emotions is what makes the difference to us living a connected and happy life by forming healthy relationships.
![Photo of Dr Hana Guo, PsychD, MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ac312d8-b3be-4d2d-9dd6-f39900a07d8f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Anxiety Management Hub or AMH Psychology, a premier Telehealth psychology clinic in Melbourne! My name is Dr Hana Guo, and I am an EMDR, CBT and psychodynamic psychotherapist who is dedicated to helping my clients break free from unhealthy patterns that keep on repeating. I support both individuals who warrant a mental health diagnosis as well as professionals without any diagnosis (ie., health and mental health practitioners, lawyers, engineers) who are seeking coaching or self improvement to be happier better adjusted individuals.
Welcome to Anxiety Management Hub or AMH Psychology, a premier Telehealth psychology clinic in Melbourne! My name is Dr Hana Guo, and I am an EMDR, CBT and psychodynamic psychotherapist who is dedicated to helping my clients break free from unhealthy patterns that keep on repeating. I support both individuals who warrant a mental health diagnosis as well as professionals without any diagnosis (ie., health and mental health practitioners, lawyers, engineers) who are seeking coaching or self improvement to be happier better adjusted individuals.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Anita Bonollo - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59f6e76f-414f-494d-9fa9-c55e6615edbd/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Joe Busuttil - Equator Therapies - Joe Busuttil, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a407c81-1e96-4f5c-b212-1773e03ec2b7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Equator Therapies - Joe Busuttil
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3004
Welcome to Equator Hypnotherapy & Counselling. My name is Joe Busuttil and I am a qualified and registered Clinical Hypnotherapist, Counsellor and Life Coach based in Melbourne, Australia. I will help you discover the root cause of your anxiety and personal issues, and will help you overcome the limiting, disruptive or negative thoughts that are holding you back. I will help you create the life that you most desire through techniques like Hypnotherapy, NLP, Counselling, Meditation, Energy healing and other powerful modalities so you can clear limiting belief systems and emotions that aren’t serving you anymore.
Welcome to Equator Hypnotherapy & Counselling. My name is Joe Busuttil and I am a qualified and registered Clinical Hypnotherapist, Counsellor and Life Coach based in Melbourne, Australia. I will help you discover the root cause of your anxiety and personal issues, and will help you overcome the limiting, disruptive or negative thoughts that are holding you back. I will help you create the life that you most desire through techniques like Hypnotherapy, NLP, Counselling, Meditation, Energy healing and other powerful modalities so you can clear limiting belief systems and emotions that aren’t serving you anymore.
![Photo of Heidi Glynn - GlynnMIND clinic, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e6e8678-97ed-4989-9f11-582806fa60dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
At GlynnMIND clinic, our mission is to heal bodies and minds across all gut and mind conditions. We understand the intricate link between the brain and the gut and this is pivotal to our treatment approach. We offer a tailored Gut-Directed hypnotherapy service to individuals with IBS and IBD aimed at reducing gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms.
At GlynnMIND clinic, our mission is to heal bodies and minds across all gut and mind conditions. We understand the intricate link between the brain and the gut and this is pivotal to our treatment approach. We offer a tailored Gut-Directed hypnotherapy service to individuals with IBS and IBD aimed at reducing gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms.
![Photo of Belinda Tune, MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4be6315b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Belinda Tune
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Templestowe Lower, VIC 3107
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in a wide range of therapies, including hypnotherapy, mindfulness therapies, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Neurofeedback and EMDR.
I have been a practising Psychologist since 1991, working in the community sector (NGOs) and running my own practice - providing counselling and psychotherapy to individuals and couples.
I have training in a wide range of therapies, including hypnotherapy, mindfulness therapies, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Neurofeedback and EMDR.
I have been a practising Psychologist since 1991, working in the community sector (NGOs) and running my own practice - providing counselling and psychotherapy to individuals and couples.
![Photo of Touraj Afshar, MSc, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55361b35-e19e-4a13-b399-81950a80d6bf/1/320x400.png)
Touraj is bilingual (English & Farsi) and the founder of Yarra Holistic Healing Centre in Melbourne. For over two decades, Touraj has been providing psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, EFT, Family and Couples and Marriage consultations at his centre. Touraj can provide the support you need to eliminate unwanted behaviour and unhealthy feelings in order to achieve your goals. He will offer a 30-minute complimentary consultation so you can decide if he is the right therapist for you. He has presented workshops on a variety of topics including ‘How to Improve Relationships' and ‘Understanding and managing psychological trauma’.
Touraj is bilingual (English & Farsi) and the founder of Yarra Holistic Healing Centre in Melbourne. For over two decades, Touraj has been providing psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, EFT, Family and Couples and Marriage consultations at his centre. Touraj can provide the support you need to eliminate unwanted behaviour and unhealthy feelings in order to achieve your goals. He will offer a 30-minute complimentary consultation so you can decide if he is the right therapist for you. He has presented workshops on a variety of topics including ‘How to Improve Relationships' and ‘Understanding and managing psychological trauma’.
![Photo of Leigh Milne - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1625a006-f2d1-4c07-8f45-84500c40cca4/1/320x400.png)
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
![Photo of Belinda Hulstrom, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a6fe537-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My additional specialist training in Clinical Hypnotherapy enables me to offer clients the opportunity to use hypnosis as well as more traditional counselling methods in our sessions often with more rapid and lasting outcomes.
I have trained in a variety of counselling methods and tend to favour brief, solution-focused approaches designed to help you move forward so that you can lead a life that works. Over the years I have worked with a wide range of people of all ages from 8 to 80 and from all walks of life and I can probably help you with just about any personal, lifestyle or professional issue that is troubling you.
My additional specialist training in Clinical Hypnotherapy enables me to offer clients the opportunity to use hypnosis as well as more traditional counselling methods in our sessions often with more rapid and lasting outcomes.
I have trained in a variety of counselling methods and tend to favour brief, solution-focused approaches designed to help you move forward so that you can lead a life that works. Over the years I have worked with a wide range of people of all ages from 8 to 80 and from all walks of life and I can probably help you with just about any personal, lifestyle or professional issue that is troubling you.
![Photo of Shariann Girgis, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5d05766-e31f-42fd-961d-9f275e1fd59c/1/320x400.jpeg)
With 20+ years of experience in mental health, you will receive the care and guidance you need. I specialise in Depression, Anxiety, Complex Trauma, Fears, Phobias & Significant Life Transitions. I provide you the support that you need to unburden yourself from emotional pain and difficult memories of the past. You will learn skills for a deep sense of Safety and Well-being. I integrate Clinical Hypnotherapy, Mindfulness, Nervous System Regulation, Emotional Awareness and Deep Nature Connection. My approach is gentle and holistic. I work collaboratively with other specialists and Allied Health Practitioners. NDIS welcomed
With 20+ years of experience in mental health, you will receive the care and guidance you need. I specialise in Depression, Anxiety, Complex Trauma, Fears, Phobias & Significant Life Transitions. I provide you the support that you need to unburden yourself from emotional pain and difficult memories of the past. You will learn skills for a deep sense of Safety and Well-being. I integrate Clinical Hypnotherapy, Mindfulness, Nervous System Regulation, Emotional Awareness and Deep Nature Connection. My approach is gentle and holistic. I work collaboratively with other specialists and Allied Health Practitioners. NDIS welcomed
![Photo of Chris Franck, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25c33e23-710f-4e2f-9f82-d7e45ea04e99/2/320x400.jpeg)
I follow an eclectic therapeutic approach, working with Schemas, using EMDR, CBT, ACT underpinned by hypnotherapy.
I am passionate in helping people of all genders and standing in life, with a focus on men in need of direction in life, recover from traumatic events and adjustment to life challenges and changes, struggling with high prevalence disorders and AOD / changes related to addictions. Being a Veteran myself, I strongly align practices for people in active or former services.
I follow an eclectic therapeutic approach, working with Schemas, using EMDR, CBT, ACT underpinned by hypnotherapy.
I am passionate in helping people of all genders and standing in life, with a focus on men in need of direction in life, recover from traumatic events and adjustment to life challenges and changes, struggling with high prevalence disorders and AOD / changes related to addictions. Being a Veteran myself, I strongly align practices for people in active or former services.
![Photo of Monika Polemicos](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1c1fb7b-21ee-4b0e-8dc7-aa49c452eed2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Our Programs have won us awards for Clinical Hypnotherapy & Psychotherapy Practice of the Year 2024 - Victoria, and Most Transformative Hypnotherapist Melbourne.
Has traditional ‘talk therapy’ not completely worked? Maybe you have an understanding of anxiety triggers but lack the strategy for stopping it. Frustrated with feelings of dread, edginess, lack deep sleep, worry, panic coming out of nowhere, exhaustion, reduced productivity at work, irritability, emotional outbursts, crying, anger, feeling inadequate. Thankfully you dont have to put up with it. You can work with an award winning Anxiety Relief S.P.E.C.I.A.L.I.S.T who will take you through a step by step process, teaching you the tools to be free from anxiety and panic.
Our Programs have won us awards for Clinical Hypnotherapy & Psychotherapy Practice of the Year 2024 - Victoria, and Most Transformative Hypnotherapist Melbourne.
Has traditional ‘talk therapy’ not completely worked? Maybe you have an understanding of anxiety triggers but lack the strategy for stopping it. Frustrated with feelings of dread, edginess, lack deep sleep, worry, panic coming out of nowhere, exhaustion, reduced productivity at work, irritability, emotional outbursts, crying, anger, feeling inadequate. Thankfully you dont have to put up with it. You can work with an award winning Anxiety Relief S.P.E.C.I.A.L.I.S.T who will take you through a step by step process, teaching you the tools to be free from anxiety and panic.
![Photo of Arti Mayan, PACFA, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/926ca09d-c2a9-4161-919c-960df371421c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Through counselling and hypnotherapy, I support clients to develop emotional intelligence by resolving the issues causing emotional disturbance, manage maladaptive emotions, regain self-control in areas associated to mental health, personal, cultural or social issues.
Close your eyes for a moment and ask yourself. How am I really feeling today? I wonder what emotion comes forward. Now what would you do with this or these emotions? In my experience clients who experience emotional disturbance, often do not know what to do with difficult emotional experience, so it is either avoided or suppressed, later causing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, stress etc. By focusing on our feelings, I believe we learn how emotions influence our choices/actions, and if we change the way we feel, we can change the way we think and behave.
Through counselling and hypnotherapy, I support clients to develop emotional intelligence by resolving the issues causing emotional disturbance, manage maladaptive emotions, regain self-control in areas associated to mental health, personal, cultural or social issues.
Close your eyes for a moment and ask yourself. How am I really feeling today? I wonder what emotion comes forward. Now what would you do with this or these emotions? In my experience clients who experience emotional disturbance, often do not know what to do with difficult emotional experience, so it is either avoided or suppressed, later causing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, stress etc. By focusing on our feelings, I believe we learn how emotions influence our choices/actions, and if we change the way we feel, we can change the way we think and behave.
![Photo of Bruce Alexander, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ff4d773-2c2d-4c00-bb71-bf61aacce691/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hypnotherapy is a quick way to achieve a relaxed and focused state of consciousness which is similar to that experienced during meditation.
Dr Bruce Alexander has devoted his life to the improvement of physical and psychological health. With over 20 years experience, Melbourne Hypnotherapist, Bruce offers private hypnotherapy consultations at his clinic in Kew. After working for 10 years as a medical researcher, Bruce was seeking a new career where he could support people more directly to improve their own lives. He was inspired to train as a hypnotherapist based on his own successful experience using hypnotherapy to gain control over exam anxiety while he was at university.
Hypnotherapy is a quick way to achieve a relaxed and focused state of consciousness which is similar to that experienced during meditation.
Dr Bruce Alexander has devoted his life to the improvement of physical and psychological health. With over 20 years experience, Melbourne Hypnotherapist, Bruce offers private hypnotherapy consultations at his clinic in Kew. After working for 10 years as a medical researcher, Bruce was seeking a new career where he could support people more directly to improve their own lives. He was inspired to train as a hypnotherapist based on his own successful experience using hypnotherapy to gain control over exam anxiety while he was at university.
See more therapy options for Preston
Nearby Hypnotherapy Counsellors Searches for Preston
- Brunswick
- Bulleen
- Carlton
- Coburg
- Collingwood
- East Melbourne
- Fitzroy North
- Kew
- Moonee Ponds
- North Melbourne
- Northcote
- Thornbury
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.