Hypnotherapists in Borehamwood, ENG

Photo of Jacqueline Samuel, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Jacqueline Samuel
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Borehamwood WD6  (Online Only)
Whether you feel weighted down by depression, or churn with anxiety at the thought of everyday activities; or you are grieving the loss of a loved one or beloved pet, or you are grappling with your sexuality or religion, trauma or a life-stage concern, many clients over the last 20 years found attachment therapy with hypnotherapy enormously effective.
If you find yourself stuck in repetitive patterns, and your relationships, (at home or work) are falling into the "same old, same old" self-defeating groove, attachment-based therapy may help make the difference in your life that you are looking for. Together, in the safe, empathic space of an attachment therapy, we look "under the bonnet" of your life, to help you gain more self-awareness and a stronger sense of self. We will make meaning out of your story and help you get unstuck and find ways to start living in a more personally fulfilling way.
Whether you feel weighted down by depression, or churn with anxiety at the thought of everyday activities; or you are grieving the loss of a loved one or beloved pet, or you are grappling with your sexuality or religion, trauma or a life-stage concern, many clients over the last 20 years found attachment therapy with hypnotherapy enormously effective.
If you find yourself stuck in repetitive patterns, and your relationships, (at home or work) are falling into the "same old, same old" self-defeating groove, attachment-based therapy may help make the difference in your life that you are looking for. Together, in the safe, empathic space of an attachment therapy, we look "under the bonnet" of your life, to help you gain more self-awareness and a stronger sense of self. We will make meaning out of your story and help you get unstuck and find ways to start living in a more personally fulfilling way.
020 3973 9259 View 020 3973 9259
Photo of Bernie Wooder, DCounsPsych, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Bernie Wooder
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Borehamwood WD6  (Online Only)
My focus is to truly understand your problem and we work together as a team to end your suffering. To do that I use my 30 years of professional experience to help you get peace of mind and heart. I am a qualified Psychotherapist and Counsellor registered with the UKCP, with 30 years of experience which has included counselling and training therapists at Guys to Hospital, London. I am also a trained Hypnotherapist - specialising in confidence, self esteem, setting goals for your future and dealing with any kind of fear or failure.
My focus is to truly understand your problem and we work together as a team to end your suffering. To do that I use my 30 years of professional experience to help you get peace of mind and heart. I am a qualified Psychotherapist and Counsellor registered with the UKCP, with 30 years of experience which has included counselling and training therapists at Guys to Hospital, London. I am also a trained Hypnotherapist - specialising in confidence, self esteem, setting goals for your future and dealing with any kind of fear or failure.
020 3974 2065 View 020 3974 2065
Photo of Karen Bland - Snakes and Ladders Therapy & Coaching, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Snakes and Ladders Therapy & Coaching
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Borehamwood WD6
A trusting relationship is crucial to successful therapy so I always endeavor to provide a welcoming caring, confidential, and, non-judgemental space to express and explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences without the worry of how others may feel or react. I believe you are your own expert and will encourage you to reflect and find your own answers. Together we will work to find the root of your challenges by exploring repeating patterns in your life, your beliefs, emotional attachments, and anything that may have stopped you from being your best self and living a life of satisfaction and contentment.
A trusting relationship is crucial to successful therapy so I always endeavor to provide a welcoming caring, confidential, and, non-judgemental space to express and explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences without the worry of how others may feel or react. I believe you are your own expert and will encourage you to reflect and find your own answers. Together we will work to find the root of your challenges by exploring repeating patterns in your life, your beliefs, emotional attachments, and anything that may have stopped you from being your best self and living a life of satisfaction and contentment.
07480 486829 View 07480 486829
Photo of Gabriela Macauley, MBACP, Counsellor
Gabriela Macauley
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Borehamwood WD6
17 Oct - 30 Nov 2024 - Not available for appointments or new clients. Welcome, I am a humanistic integrative counsellor offering trauma informed therapy for adults experiencing Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Depression, PTSD or who want to unburden from the weights of daily life. Appointments Monday-Saturday / 7am-10pm / 60mins - £50 / free 15min intro conversation available. I welcome you to browse around my website www.actioncounsellingtherapy.co.uk.
17 Oct - 30 Nov 2024 - Not available for appointments or new clients. Welcome, I am a humanistic integrative counsellor offering trauma informed therapy for adults experiencing Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Depression, PTSD or who want to unburden from the weights of daily life. Appointments Monday-Saturday / 7am-10pm / 60mins - £50 / free 15min intro conversation available. I welcome you to browse around my website www.actioncounsellingtherapy.co.uk.
01202 125149 View 01202 125149

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Allan Willis - Dr Allan Willis, HCPC - Ed. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Allan Willis
Psychologist, HCPC - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N20
These include hypnotherapy, Narrative therapy, EFT and solution-focused therapy.
I work as a psychologist, psychotherapist and hypnotherapist to help people with life challenges make lasting change. My clients come to me with life issues such as anxiety, depression and anger and these are limiting their lives. I help them to identify the barriers in their life and support them to develop positive, effective change.
These include hypnotherapy, Narrative therapy, EFT and solution-focused therapy.
I work as a psychologist, psychotherapist and hypnotherapist to help people with life challenges make lasting change. My clients come to me with life issues such as anxiety, depression and anger and these are limiting their lives. I help them to identify the barriers in their life and support them to develop positive, effective change.
020 3962 2347 View 020 3962 2347
Photo of Aziz Yaghoubi Anzabi - Dr. Aziz Anzabi, PhD, ACC-AC, Counsellor
Dr. Aziz Anzabi
Counsellor, PhD, ACC-AC
Verified Verified
London NW11
Through the use of various techniques such as CBT, NLP, BCT, acupuncture, hypnotherapy, and family counselling, I have successfully helped all of my clients reduce their problems or fully recover.
I have spent several years working with couples therapy, bipolar, depression ,anxiety disorders, addiction, PMS ,infant loss and OCD .I'm committed to providing counselling with the most up-to-date techniques to build a healing and therapeutic relationship with clients. I will help my client to recover from stress, anxiety, trauma and loss. During the sessions I ensure that the relationship between me and the client is a safe and supportive, one in order to allow the client to freely express their problems. Each session will be fully effective in order to help my patients solve or overcome their problem.
Through the use of various techniques such as CBT, NLP, BCT, acupuncture, hypnotherapy, and family counselling, I have successfully helped all of my clients reduce their problems or fully recover.
I have spent several years working with couples therapy, bipolar, depression ,anxiety disorders, addiction, PMS ,infant loss and OCD .I'm committed to providing counselling with the most up-to-date techniques to build a healing and therapeutic relationship with clients. I will help my client to recover from stress, anxiety, trauma and loss. During the sessions I ensure that the relationship between me and the client is a safe and supportive, one in order to allow the client to freely express their problems. Each session will be fully effective in order to help my patients solve or overcome their problem.
07446 500016 View 07446 500016
Photo of Dr Belynder Walia - Dr Belynder Walia - Serene Lifestyles, GMBPsS, Psychotherapist
Dr Belynder Walia - Serene Lifestyles
Psychotherapist, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
London N20  (Online Only)
Services I provide: therapy, hypnotherapy, DBT, CBT, NLP, psychotherapy, self-reflective therapy, Mindfulness Coaching, relational therapy,  and transformational therapy.
I am the founder of Serene Lifestyles, an online psychotherapy practice. I am accepting new clients and offering virtual appointments. I help people feel less anxiety or stress by transforming their mind to build confidence and self-esteem, so they feel amazing in their professional and personal relationships. I am passionate about helping people with their mental and emotional well-being.
Services I provide: therapy, hypnotherapy, DBT, CBT, NLP, psychotherapy, self-reflective therapy, Mindfulness Coaching, relational therapy,  and transformational therapy.
I am the founder of Serene Lifestyles, an online psychotherapy practice. I am accepting new clients and offering virtual appointments. I help people feel less anxiety or stress by transforming their mind to build confidence and self-esteem, so they feel amazing in their professional and personal relationships. I am passionate about helping people with their mental and emotional well-being.
020 3870 2993 View 020 3870 2993
Photo of Musa Roxan Madden - MRM Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
MRM Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Northwood HA6
Person Centred counselling is client led, my role is to provide empathy, transparency and a non judgemental environment, by focusing on the 'here and now' and the feelings you experience, clarity and become increasingly self aware. Analytical hypnotherapy uses relaxation and visualisation to assist you in looking at past trauma and unresolved conflicts. In a relaxed state you are able to work subconsciously to investigate and resolve past issues, irrational thinking, eliminating negative habits and behaviour, enabling healing to occur.
Person Centred counselling is client led, my role is to provide empathy, transparency and a non judgemental environment, by focusing on the 'here and now' and the feelings you experience, clarity and become increasingly self aware. Analytical hypnotherapy uses relaxation and visualisation to assist you in looking at past trauma and unresolved conflicts. In a relaxed state you are able to work subconsciously to investigate and resolve past issues, irrational thinking, eliminating negative habits and behaviour, enabling healing to occur.
01628 200406 View 01628 200406
Photo of Soraya Mansour - Limitless Self Ltd
Limitless Self Ltd
Verified Verified
London W10
I specialize in Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) and Hypnotherapy.
Are you tired of feeling stuck, constantly battling self-doubt and anxiety? Do you find yourself trapped in patterns of negative self-talk or struggling with unhealthy relationships - be it with food, substances, or people? Have you tried to set boundaries, only to fall back into old habits? What if you could break free from these limiting beliefs? Perhaps you've tried traditional methods without success. Are you open to a potentially faster, more profound approach? One that addresses root causes and creates lasting change?
I specialize in Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) and Hypnotherapy.
Are you tired of feeling stuck, constantly battling self-doubt and anxiety? Do you find yourself trapped in patterns of negative self-talk or struggling with unhealthy relationships - be it with food, substances, or people? Have you tried to set boundaries, only to fall back into old habits? What if you could break free from these limiting beliefs? Perhaps you've tried traditional methods without success. Are you open to a potentially faster, more profound approach? One that addresses root causes and creates lasting change?
020 7046 0402 View 020 7046 0402
Photo of Nelly Lukava
Nelly Lukava
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London NW5
I am a fully qualified integrative therapist, which means I am equipped with the wealth of different approaches ( Hypnotherapy, Psychotherapy, Counselling, Emotional Freedom Technique, NLP, Systemic Family Constellations Therapy etc.
Do you feel stuck in your life? Do you have a need to prove to others that you are good enough? Do you depend on the opinions of other people? Do you have repetitive scenarios in your relationships? Are you fed up with your old habits? Whatever challenges you have it is very important to understand that we are all learning and nobody is perfect, otherwise we would not be here on the planet Earth. I invite you to explore and release what is on the way to the real You, what is holding you back. Imagine what it would feel like to have a true freedom in your life. What would it look like? What would it sound like?
I am a fully qualified integrative therapist, which means I am equipped with the wealth of different approaches ( Hypnotherapy, Psychotherapy, Counselling, Emotional Freedom Technique, NLP, Systemic Family Constellations Therapy etc.
Do you feel stuck in your life? Do you have a need to prove to others that you are good enough? Do you depend on the opinions of other people? Do you have repetitive scenarios in your relationships? Are you fed up with your old habits? Whatever challenges you have it is very important to understand that we are all learning and nobody is perfect, otherwise we would not be here on the planet Earth. I invite you to explore and release what is on the way to the real You, what is holding you back. Imagine what it would feel like to have a true freedom in your life. What would it look like? What would it sound like?
020 3322 9025 View 020 3322 9025
Photo of Sonalle LaMariposa - Sonalle Coaching & Creative Therapies, MHGI, Psychotherapist
Sonalle Coaching & Creative Therapies
Psychotherapist, MHGI
Verified Verified
London NW8  (Online Only)
It incorporates Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Human Givens Psychotherapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, IFS, DBT, CBT, Bodynamic, Neuro-Linguistic Programming & Hypnotherapy.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, stress or trauma? Or do you feel that something is missing, or just isn't quite right? Do you want a fast & effective embodied solution from your home/office without a lifetime of therapy? Then email me... Online sessions only. For a limited time only, I am offering new psychotherapy clients a free 15 min clarity telephone call to see how it feels to work together.
It incorporates Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Human Givens Psychotherapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, IFS, DBT, CBT, Bodynamic, Neuro-Linguistic Programming & Hypnotherapy.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, stress or trauma? Or do you feel that something is missing, or just isn't quite right? Do you want a fast & effective embodied solution from your home/office without a lifetime of therapy? Then email me... Online sessions only. For a limited time only, I am offering new psychotherapy clients a free 15 min clarity telephone call to see how it feels to work together.
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Photo of Serhan Avci, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Serhan Avci
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
London N9
I aim to work as a team to help, guide, and empower clients, whilst I bring my own experiences that may aid the process further. I currently specialise in Low Self-Esteem, Depression, Anxiety/Stress, Grief and Trauma. I have worked with a range of ages (11-60+) and utilised many different approaches depending on my client's needs including Person-Centred, Somatic, Solution-Focused & Hypnotherapy. I aim to alleviate the weight of these challenges with a compassionate and safe environment whilst I empower my clients with the tools to better manage, explore and heal through these issues.
I aim to work as a team to help, guide, and empower clients, whilst I bring my own experiences that may aid the process further. I currently specialise in Low Self-Esteem, Depression, Anxiety/Stress, Grief and Trauma. I have worked with a range of ages (11-60+) and utilised many different approaches depending on my client's needs including Person-Centred, Somatic, Solution-Focused & Hypnotherapy. I aim to alleviate the weight of these challenges with a compassionate and safe environment whilst I empower my clients with the tools to better manage, explore and heal through these issues.
01355 201358 View 01355 201358
Photo of Nicholas James King - Nicholas King Counselling & Psychotherapy (CBT), MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Nicholas King Counselling & Psychotherapy (CBT)
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Pinner HA5
(Counselling, CBT psychotherapy and hypnotherapy for adults (18+ individuals and couples) for Pinner, Northwood, Ruislip, Eastcote, Stanmore, NW London, Watford).
Thank you for reading my profile here on Psychology Today. I am a Couples/Relationship Counsellor and CBT Psychotherapist working in private practice in Pinner, NW London. I am an Accredited practitioner with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I am also an NHS trained, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) accredited with the British Association for Behavioural & Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP). I am a registered Hypnotherapist with the General Hypnotherapy Register (GHR).
(Counselling, CBT psychotherapy and hypnotherapy for adults (18+ individuals and couples) for Pinner, Northwood, Ruislip, Eastcote, Stanmore, NW London, Watford).
Thank you for reading my profile here on Psychology Today. I am a Couples/Relationship Counsellor and CBT Psychotherapist working in private practice in Pinner, NW London. I am an Accredited practitioner with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I am also an NHS trained, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) accredited with the British Association for Behavioural & Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP). I am a registered Hypnotherapist with the General Hypnotherapy Register (GHR).
01895 545164 View 01895 545164
Photo of Lydia Jane Johnson - London Clinic Of Hypnotherapy
London Clinic Of Hypnotherapy
Not Verified Not Verified
London NW3
These unhealthy cycles and systems we often create, such as emotional eating, binge drinking, restrictive behaviours and isolation, conflict and anxiety can be alleviated with Hypnotherapy.
‘Best Hypnotherapist for the whole family' Evening Standard
These unhealthy cycles and systems we often create, such as emotional eating, binge drinking, restrictive behaviours and isolation, conflict and anxiety can be alleviated with Hypnotherapy.
‘Best Hypnotherapist for the whole family' Evening Standard
020 3909 8996 View 020 3909 8996
Photo of Daniel Fryer, MSc, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Daniel Fryer
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London NW3  (Online Only)
People often value the clear, concise framework offered by both REBT & hypnotherapy.
Hello there, I'm a mental health and wellbeing consultant and have been in practicefor nearly 20 years now. I've worked in a variety of settings, including private practice (in both London and Bristol), the NHS, occupational health, private healthcare and The Priory Hospital. I also develop workshops, webinars and live presentations and am the author of two pop psych self-help titles. I bring wit, wisdom and experience into the room. If you need help with your anxiety and stress, including work stress, life stress and burnout, if you want help with your confidence, or in overcoming a life challenge, I can help
People often value the clear, concise framework offered by both REBT & hypnotherapy.
Hello there, I'm a mental health and wellbeing consultant and have been in practicefor nearly 20 years now. I've worked in a variety of settings, including private practice (in both London and Bristol), the NHS, occupational health, private healthcare and The Priory Hospital. I also develop workshops, webinars and live presentations and am the author of two pop psych self-help titles. I bring wit, wisdom and experience into the room. If you need help with your anxiety and stress, including work stress, life stress and burnout, if you want help with your confidence, or in overcoming a life challenge, I can help
0117 325 6775 View 0117 325 6775
Photo of Tijen Enver, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Tijen Enver
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London N13
As an integrated therapist, I often incorporate talking therapy with hypnotherapy, parts work and mind-body techniques to make sense of your thoughts and behaviours using your conscious/ rational mind as well as bring to awareness the learned patterns of behaviour which reside in your unconscious/ emotional mind.
Hello, my name is Tijen and I'm an integrated therapist and clinical hypnotherapist specialising in anxiety and confidence issues. You have your own reasons for wanting therapy right now and I recognise that you are a unique individual with your own story that has brought you here. My priority is to build a collaborative relationship with you, tailoring a plan which is suited to your needs as well as offering you a safe and confidential space to help you find the outcome you're looking for.
As an integrated therapist, I often incorporate talking therapy with hypnotherapy, parts work and mind-body techniques to make sense of your thoughts and behaviours using your conscious/ rational mind as well as bring to awareness the learned patterns of behaviour which reside in your unconscious/ emotional mind.
Hello, my name is Tijen and I'm an integrated therapist and clinical hypnotherapist specialising in anxiety and confidence issues. You have your own reasons for wanting therapy right now and I recognise that you are a unique individual with your own story that has brought you here. My priority is to build a collaborative relationship with you, tailoring a plan which is suited to your needs as well as offering you a safe and confidential space to help you find the outcome you're looking for.
020 3889 1466 View 020 3889 1466
Photo of Gareth Sammer - London Counselling & Psychotherapy Services, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
London Counselling & Psychotherapy Services
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London W5
Our modern world has become a very tough place for many people. With the Covid-19 pandemic, uncertainty and fear around the Ukraine war, the cost of living crisis and numerous other personal struggles have left many people battling with their mental health and well being. But how has it affected you? Here at West London Counselling, Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy Services, we have a highly experienced team of therapists who are here to help you through whatever you're struggling with. Your wellbeing and happiness will always be our number one priority.
Our modern world has become a very tough place for many people. With the Covid-19 pandemic, uncertainty and fear around the Ukraine war, the cost of living crisis and numerous other personal struggles have left many people battling with their mental health and well being. But how has it affected you? Here at West London Counselling, Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy Services, we have a highly experienced team of therapists who are here to help you through whatever you're struggling with. Your wellbeing and happiness will always be our number one priority.
01895 547540 View 01895 547540
Photo of Tiffany May Fuller - Tiffany Fuller (DipCBH) Therapist & Coach, MSc
Tiffany Fuller (DipCBH) Therapist & Coach
MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London N4
I provide cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy (CBH) integrating CBT, hypnotherapy, mindfulness, coaching, and some art therapy.
Hello! I'm Tiffany, a CBT hypnotherapist and coach. Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming, so I offer a complimentary 15mins consultation, obligation-free. I specialise in helping individuals address and manage issues they are facing such as anxiety, stress, sleep, confidence, self-esteem, and purpose. My approach focuses on creating a supportive and encouraging environment, where you'll learn and develop tools, skills, and strategies such as self-hypnosis, mindfulness, and psychoeducation to help you overcome the hurdles holding you back. Gaining clarity and a better understanding of yourself in the process.
I provide cognitive behavioural hypnotherapy (CBH) integrating CBT, hypnotherapy, mindfulness, coaching, and some art therapy.
Hello! I'm Tiffany, a CBT hypnotherapist and coach. Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming, so I offer a complimentary 15mins consultation, obligation-free. I specialise in helping individuals address and manage issues they are facing such as anxiety, stress, sleep, confidence, self-esteem, and purpose. My approach focuses on creating a supportive and encouraging environment, where you'll learn and develop tools, skills, and strategies such as self-hypnosis, mindfulness, and psychoeducation to help you overcome the hurdles holding you back. Gaining clarity and a better understanding of yourself in the process.
View
Photo of Kirsty Birnstiel - Kirsty Birnstiel,  RTT Therapist, Hypnotherapist, MBACP, Counsellor
Kirsty Birnstiel, RTT Therapist, Hypnotherapist
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London W5
Hello, Are you feeling stuck? Do you suffer with anxiety, depression, procrastination or confidence issues? I am a Marisa Peer trained RTT (Rapid Transformational Therapy) therapist and I work with adults on a short term basis on all variety of issues. I deal with anything from the problems listed above to fears and phobias, sleep issues, health issues, exam nerves and public speaking to name a few. What is RTT? It is a therapy method that combines all the most effective techniques from NLP, CBT, EMDR, psychotherapy and hypnotherapy.
Hello, Are you feeling stuck? Do you suffer with anxiety, depression, procrastination or confidence issues? I am a Marisa Peer trained RTT (Rapid Transformational Therapy) therapist and I work with adults on a short term basis on all variety of issues. I deal with anything from the problems listed above to fears and phobias, sleep issues, health issues, exam nerves and public speaking to name a few. What is RTT? It is a therapy method that combines all the most effective techniques from NLP, CBT, EMDR, psychotherapy and hypnotherapy.
020 3816 0342 View 020 3816 0342
Photo of Saboor Sirat - Master Counselling Centre (MCC), MA, CPsychol, Psychologist
Master Counselling Centre (MCC)
Psychologist, MA, CPsychol
Verified Verified
London NW4
I have two master's degrees and more than ten years of experience in psychotherapy, counseling, and hypnotherapy, I speak seven languages and I am the author of three published books.
My name is Saboor, effective therapy requires a good professional relationship between therapist and client. It can also be a difficult process to start therapy. I, therefore, offer a FREE initial telephone consultation to help us both diagnose if I am the right therapist for you. I am flexible in my treatment, I try to create a space of openness and safety to allow my clients to explore. I work within the humanistic models as well as using techniques from CBT, DBT, PTSD, ADHD, and PHOBIA.
I have two master's degrees and more than ten years of experience in psychotherapy, counseling, and hypnotherapy, I speak seven languages and I am the author of three published books.
My name is Saboor, effective therapy requires a good professional relationship between therapist and client. It can also be a difficult process to start therapy. I, therefore, offer a FREE initial telephone consultation to help us both diagnose if I am the right therapist for you. I am flexible in my treatment, I try to create a space of openness and safety to allow my clients to explore. I work within the humanistic models as well as using techniques from CBT, DBT, PTSD, ADHD, and PHOBIA.
020 3826 8947 View 020 3826 8947

See more therapy options for Borehamwood

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.