Hypnotherapists in Exeter, ENG

Photo of Shem Lopez - Progressive Psychotherapy , UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Progressive Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
I use a wide range of interventions to achieve this including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), clinical hypnotherapy and mindfulness based interventions.
As an integrative psychotherapist I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and interventions to support my clients to achieve their goals. I meet each client as the unique individual they are. My focus is on finding the most beneficial way for you to achieve your outcomes I am here to help you get results not just to listen. I offer a safe, comfortable and protective environment in which we can explore concerns to do with your future, past or present that are affecting you. Therapy is about making sense of your internal world and to develop a greater self-awareness which allows you to form more meaningful connections.
I use a wide range of interventions to achieve this including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), clinical hypnotherapy and mindfulness based interventions.
As an integrative psychotherapist I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and interventions to support my clients to achieve their goals. I meet each client as the unique individual they are. My focus is on finding the most beneficial way for you to achieve your outcomes I am here to help you get results not just to listen. I offer a safe, comfortable and protective environment in which we can explore concerns to do with your future, past or present that are affecting you. Therapy is about making sense of your internal world and to develop a greater self-awareness which allows you to form more meaningful connections.
01392 321421 View 01392 321421
Photo of James Seal, MBACP, Counsellor
James Seal
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
My own experiences of therapy have taught me that my own change and growth became possible when i could open and relax into a felt sense of trust and safety. I appreciate that if you are struggling now or have suffered in the past- to open yourself up to- and risk trusting another might bring mixed feelings of hope and fear. Yet, to take a step into the unknown is the invitation and challenge of therapy. I have been a client; in my experience the risk i took set out upon the adventure of counselling has been an acceptable one and the rewards are great.
My own experiences of therapy have taught me that my own change and growth became possible when i could open and relax into a felt sense of trust and safety. I appreciate that if you are struggling now or have suffered in the past- to open yourself up to- and risk trusting another might bring mixed feelings of hope and fear. Yet, to take a step into the unknown is the invitation and challenge of therapy. I have been a client; in my experience the risk i took set out upon the adventure of counselling has been an acceptable one and the rewards are great.
01392 321235 View 01392 321235
Photo of Renee Norris - Renee Norris Counselling, 1-2-1, Couples & 13+, MBACP, Counsellor
Renee Norris Counselling, 1-2-1, Couples & 13+
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX5
Clients generally come to me when they are struggling with some aspect of their emotions, thoughts or behaviour. My aim is to help my client with accepting or changing some aspect of these three areas. Every client comes with unique issues and from my seat I view the issues as one, "a block in the road to wellness". I am keenly aware that all clients come with individual goals and I am here to help. Many of my clients use the phrase “I just want to feel better". This is my hope for everyone who engages with me in therapy. “TO FEEL BETTER” I offer confidentiality, openness and transparency at all times.
Clients generally come to me when they are struggling with some aspect of their emotions, thoughts or behaviour. My aim is to help my client with accepting or changing some aspect of these three areas. Every client comes with unique issues and from my seat I view the issues as one, "a block in the road to wellness". I am keenly aware that all clients come with individual goals and I am here to help. Many of my clients use the phrase “I just want to feel better". This is my hope for everyone who engages with me in therapy. “TO FEEL BETTER” I offer confidentiality, openness and transparency at all times.
01392 531578 View 01392 531578
Photo of Jade Flowers, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Jade Flowers
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
If you're currently navigating through anxiety, depression, anger management, the aftermath of a painful breakup, grief, trauma, domestic violence, sexual or physical assault, emotional abuse, or any other personal struggle, I want you to know that I'm here to offer my heartfelt support. It's completely understandable if you yearn for a profound change in your life—a transformation that encompasses your relationships, thoughts, and behaviours. While the path ahead may feel overwhelming, I want you to remember that together we can break down these challenges into smaller, more manageable pieces.
If you're currently navigating through anxiety, depression, anger management, the aftermath of a painful breakup, grief, trauma, domestic violence, sexual or physical assault, emotional abuse, or any other personal struggle, I want you to know that I'm here to offer my heartfelt support. It's completely understandable if you yearn for a profound change in your life—a transformation that encompasses your relationships, thoughts, and behaviours. While the path ahead may feel overwhelming, I want you to remember that together we can break down these challenges into smaller, more manageable pieces.
01392 321950 View 01392 321950
Photo of Gavin Weir-Jones, MA, PNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Gavin Weir-Jones
Psychotherapist, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
My work deals universally with the reduction of suffering, your suffering. Specifically this may include Depression, Anxiety, Low Mood, Loss of purpose, Grief, Relationship issues, managing change and family problems. Often we can be lost in our thinking and we can swing, like a pendulum, between worries of the past and anxieties of the future, never really pausing to be present now. This is normal, we all have these times. However sometimes, some of us get stuck in these places and need some guidance to bring us into balance and offer us support,at difficult times in our lives.
My work deals universally with the reduction of suffering, your suffering. Specifically this may include Depression, Anxiety, Low Mood, Loss of purpose, Grief, Relationship issues, managing change and family problems. Often we can be lost in our thinking and we can swing, like a pendulum, between worries of the past and anxieties of the future, never really pausing to be present now. This is normal, we all have these times. However sometimes, some of us get stuck in these places and need some guidance to bring us into balance and offer us support,at difficult times in our lives.
01392 531589 View 01392 531589
Photo of Lynda Almond, BACP, Counsellor
Lynda Almond
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
Hello and welcome, I am qualified counsellor/psychotherapist and registered member of the BACP as well as being an Accredited Member of the NCS. I am also a hypnotherapist, life coach and offer meditation and mindfulness as a part of my work. I am currently undertaking a MSc in Contemporary Psychosexual Therapy and work with clients with sexual dysfunction and issues. Currently I offer these sessions at a reduced rate whilst I am completing my MSc. In addition I am undertaking a CPCAB approved Level 5 in Sex Addiction or complusive sexual behaviours, focusing on sex, porn and love addition.
Hello and welcome, I am qualified counsellor/psychotherapist and registered member of the BACP as well as being an Accredited Member of the NCS. I am also a hypnotherapist, life coach and offer meditation and mindfulness as a part of my work. I am currently undertaking a MSc in Contemporary Psychosexual Therapy and work with clients with sexual dysfunction and issues. Currently I offer these sessions at a reduced rate whilst I am completing my MSc. In addition I am undertaking a CPCAB approved Level 5 in Sex Addiction or complusive sexual behaviours, focusing on sex, porn and love addition.
01572 494658 View 01572 494658
Photo of Dr Zai Edworthy, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Zai Edworthy
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX3  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome, my name is Zai. Are you a parent or carer? Are you worried about your child and need to speak with a clinical psychologist? At certain points in our lives, we could all benefit from the support and guidance of a therapist. I have over 20 years experience working with children and young people. Please contact me to help you decide if I am the right therapist for you and your child. Together we will discuss helpful strategies that you can start to implement and if we both agree that the young person needs direct work/therapy, we can arrange this. Please visit my website to learn more about me.
Hello and welcome, my name is Zai. Are you a parent or carer? Are you worried about your child and need to speak with a clinical psychologist? At certain points in our lives, we could all benefit from the support and guidance of a therapist. I have over 20 years experience working with children and young people. Please contact me to help you decide if I am the right therapist for you and your child. Together we will discuss helpful strategies that you can start to implement and if we both agree that the young person needs direct work/therapy, we can arrange this. Please visit my website to learn more about me.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Josie Seydel, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Josie Seydel
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Crediton EX17
Hello! Are you longing to connect more deeply with who you really are? To discover authenticity and acceptance in your relationship to yourself, others and the with the world around you? Perhaps you have specific mental health difficulties or maybe just a sense that things don't feel quite right. I can offer you the opportunity to explore and resolve unhelpful patterns of behaviour, develop new insights, or to enhance your mindfulness, self-compassion, emotion regulation and psychological resilience, leading you to a life that feels more fulfilling, meaningful, worthwhile, connected and hopeful.
Hello! Are you longing to connect more deeply with who you really are? To discover authenticity and acceptance in your relationship to yourself, others and the with the world around you? Perhaps you have specific mental health difficulties or maybe just a sense that things don't feel quite right. I can offer you the opportunity to explore and resolve unhelpful patterns of behaviour, develop new insights, or to enhance your mindfulness, self-compassion, emotion regulation and psychological resilience, leading you to a life that feels more fulfilling, meaningful, worthwhile, connected and hopeful.
01489 358659 View 01489 358659

Online Therapists

Photo of Daniel Fryer, MSc, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Daniel Fryer
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS1  (Online Only)
I use a highly effective form of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) known as rational emotive behaviour therapy (REBT) as well as clinical hypnotherapy (either separately or combined) to help you with a variety of issues including all forms of anxiety, as well as work stress, life stress, anger management, insomnia, IBS, confidence issues and more.
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
I use a highly effective form of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) known as rational emotive behaviour therapy (REBT) as well as clinical hypnotherapy (either separately or combined) to help you with a variety of issues including all forms of anxiety, as well as work stress, life stress, anger management, insomnia, IBS, confidence issues and more.
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 Carole Claire Clifford, MBACP Snr. Accred, Counsellor
Carole Claire Clifford
Counsellor, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Southampton SO16
Talk therapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR for trauma & PTSD.
I welcome working with anyone who is troubled by specific issues, family, work, loss, addiction relationship & sexual issues. There are times in most of our lives when we need some help to make sense of happening to us, to find directions to deal with a specific issues. Often stress, anxiety, loss of confidence, loss of any kind. Talking our issues through with an experienced therapist, confidentially, can help us to resolve the issues, deal with emotions/situations and help us see more clearly, understand feelings & find solutions
Talk therapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR for trauma & PTSD.
I welcome working with anyone who is troubled by specific issues, family, work, loss, addiction relationship & sexual issues. There are times in most of our lives when we need some help to make sense of happening to us, to find directions to deal with a specific issues. Often stress, anxiety, loss of confidence, loss of any kind. Talking our issues through with an experienced therapist, confidentially, can help us to resolve the issues, deal with emotions/situations and help us see more clearly, understand feelings & find solutions
023 8235 7288 View 023 8235 7288
Photo of Syed Ahmed Adnan Hasan, MSc, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Syed Ahmed Adnan Hasan
Psychotherapist, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Pontyclun CF72
combination of counselling and hypnotherapy) to be of immense benefit to the client.
I know what it is like to have mental health issue. I am wounded healer myself. I have a grown up daughter who had suffered severe depression in her life. I am really keen to work with BAME community. Being an Asian, I totally empathise with current trauma that is being experienced within the community.
combination of counselling and hypnotherapy) to be of immense benefit to the client.
I know what it is like to have mental health issue. I am wounded healer myself. I have a grown up daughter who had suffered severe depression in her life. I am really keen to work with BAME community. Being an Asian, I totally empathise with current trauma that is being experienced within the community.
01443 706489 View 01443 706489
Photo of Sally Ellis, BACP, Counsellor
Sally Ellis
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS16
Counselling Supervision as well as Face to face, Online via Zoom, or telephone Counselling and Hypnotherapy Sessions I also have a personal Therapy Room available for face to face sessions, and I can offer home visits if this is necessary, if you would like to discuss your personal requirements please message me and I will try to accomodate.
I'm a qualified counsellor, Supervisor & hypnotherapist working with individuals and couples, I work with Neurodiversity, LGBTQAI+ community, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships/Family difficulties, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Abuse, Grief, Life changes/ Transitions. I offer a confidential, safe space for you to explore a variety of issues. I aim to develop a trusting relationship which is non-judgemental and wholly accepting you and your own way of navigating life. I am an integrative counsellor working from a person centered core .
Counselling Supervision as well as Face to face, Online via Zoom, or telephone Counselling and Hypnotherapy Sessions I also have a personal Therapy Room available for face to face sessions, and I can offer home visits if this is necessary, if you would like to discuss your personal requirements please message me and I will try to accomodate.
I'm a qualified counsellor, Supervisor & hypnotherapist working with individuals and couples, I work with Neurodiversity, LGBTQAI+ community, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships/Family difficulties, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Abuse, Grief, Life changes/ Transitions. I offer a confidential, safe space for you to explore a variety of issues. I aim to develop a trusting relationship which is non-judgemental and wholly accepting you and your own way of navigating life. I am an integrative counsellor working from a person centered core .
0117 456 5379 View 0117 456 5379
Photo of Benjamin Dryer - Assisi Therapy, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Assisi Therapy
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Salisbury SP1
Integrative Hypno-Psychotherapy means I am trained in a range of Psychotherapeutic techniques, Counselling and the use of Clinical Hypnotherapy when it is right for you.
As an Integrative Therapist I understand that the thought of finding help can be daunting. It may be that you have a name for your problem, or maybe you just know that something needs to change. My aim is to make our next steps together as positive and stress-free as they can be.  At Assisi Therapy, I have created a peaceful and private environment for us to focus on your issue without  interference from the outside world.  Whether we are working face to face or online, I will always offer you a safe, therapeutic space full of understanding and free from judgement.
Integrative Hypno-Psychotherapy means I am trained in a range of Psychotherapeutic techniques, Counselling and the use of Clinical Hypnotherapy when it is right for you.
As an Integrative Therapist I understand that the thought of finding help can be daunting. It may be that you have a name for your problem, or maybe you just know that something needs to change. My aim is to make our next steps together as positive and stress-free as they can be.  At Assisi Therapy, I have created a peaceful and private environment for us to focus on your issue without  interference from the outside world.  Whether we are working face to face or online, I will always offer you a safe, therapeutic space full of understanding and free from judgement.
01722 548536 View 01722 548536
Photo of Sonalle LaMariposa - Sonalle Coaching & Creative Therapies, MHGI, Psychotherapist
Sonalle Coaching & Creative Therapies
Psychotherapist, MHGI
Verified Verified
Cardiff CF24  (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 Dean John Gaylard, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Dean John Gaylard
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Frome BA11  (Online Only)
My approach is sensitive, compassionate and intuitive, drawing on my experience in Reiki and Hypnotherapy and often focusing on how we can foster self acceptance through nurturing care and understanding.
Hello! Are you struggling with emotional overwhelm, low self esteem, anxiety or depression and struggling to recognise your own worth? If so I’d love to offer you a space where you can begin to share your experiences without fear of judgment, expectation or pressure to be anything other than your natural self. My goal is to help you feel as safe, supported and comfortable as possible in our sessions, so we can begin to explore the origins of any difficulties you may be experiencing and find ways to empower and support you moving forwards.
My approach is sensitive, compassionate and intuitive, drawing on my experience in Reiki and Hypnotherapy and often focusing on how we can foster self acceptance through nurturing care and understanding.
Hello! Are you struggling with emotional overwhelm, low self esteem, anxiety or depression and struggling to recognise your own worth? If so I’d love to offer you a space where you can begin to share your experiences without fear of judgment, expectation or pressure to be anything other than your natural self. My goal is to help you feel as safe, supported and comfortable as possible in our sessions, so we can begin to explore the origins of any difficulties you may be experiencing and find ways to empower and support you moving forwards.
01373 485158 View 01373 485158
Photo of Jane Gurney - Full Circle Counselling, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Full Circle Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS20
With no waiting list and sessions available I can offer counselling & hypnotherapy to help you recover from depression, fear and anxiety through motivation & perspective thus finding the joy that you once had in your life. Anxiety, fear & hopelessness are some emotions that can linger post traumatic events, again I can help you overcome these symptoms. Loss of a loved one or diagnoses of a life limiting condition are devastating events & the pain of this sometimes unbearable. Feelings of guilt, anger & grief can become apparent & each individual responds differently. I am here to help you through your concerns of the future.
With no waiting list and sessions available I can offer counselling & hypnotherapy to help you recover from depression, fear and anxiety through motivation & perspective thus finding the joy that you once had in your life. Anxiety, fear & hopelessness are some emotions that can linger post traumatic events, again I can help you overcome these symptoms. Loss of a loved one or diagnoses of a life limiting condition are devastating events & the pain of this sometimes unbearable. Feelings of guilt, anger & grief can become apparent & each individual responds differently. I am here to help you through your concerns of the future.
0117 325 2304 View 0117 325 2304
Photo of Karina Legumi, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Karina Legumi
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Bath BA1
My methods include Internal Family Systems, Somatic IFS, Brainspotting, EMDR, Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy.
I work with adults from all backgrounds looking for the confidence to build a life with flow, purpose and meaning. As we work together, my approach helps you to find yourself, and gain clarity, giving you the opportunity to explore and release limitations.
My methods include Internal Family Systems, Somatic IFS, Brainspotting, EMDR, Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy.
I work with adults from all backgrounds looking for the confidence to build a life with flow, purpose and meaning. As we work together, my approach helps you to find yourself, and gain clarity, giving you the opportunity to explore and release limitations.
01225 697231 View 01225 697231
Photo of Francesca Sciandra, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Francesca Sciandra
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Bristol BS8
My approach blends therapeutic modalities, including hypnotherapy, somatic methods, humanistic counselling, psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness practices, and inner child work.
I provide integrative therapy and counselling for anxiety, relationship challenges, and sexual issues. I specialise in helping people process and heal anxiety and other difficulties affecting their adult relationships and sex lives. Challenges I help people with include healing from childhood abuse and neglect, exploring and resolving relationship issues, resolving sexual issues, exploring attachment issues, including anxious, avoidant, and disorganised patterns, and overcoming anger and jealousy. You deserve an authentic and joyful life.
My approach blends therapeutic modalities, including hypnotherapy, somatic methods, humanistic counselling, psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness practices, and inner child work.
I provide integrative therapy and counselling for anxiety, relationship challenges, and sexual issues. I specialise in helping people process and heal anxiety and other difficulties affecting their adult relationships and sex lives. Challenges I help people with include healing from childhood abuse and neglect, exploring and resolving relationship issues, resolving sexual issues, exploring attachment issues, including anxious, avoidant, and disorganised patterns, and overcoming anger and jealousy. You deserve an authentic and joyful life.
020 3838 0861 View 020 3838 0861
Photo of Nichola Jean, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Nichola Jean
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Plymouth PL3
I use an integrated approach of counselling, coaching and hypnotherapy.
Learn from your past - access your wisdom - allow yourself to move forward and transform your life. Let me help you figure out how you can live life as your authentic self. My blend of counselling, coaching and guided self imagery with relaxation can help you work on the issues that are holding you back. As an Accredited Counsellor and qualified Coach and Hypnotherapist I can offer you a safe, confidential and therapeutic space in which you can explore, develop and challenge yourself in as much emotional depth as feels right for you. Believe in yourself - you can do this....
I use an integrated approach of counselling, coaching and hypnotherapy.
Learn from your past - access your wisdom - allow yourself to move forward and transform your life. Let me help you figure out how you can live life as your authentic self. My blend of counselling, coaching and guided self imagery with relaxation can help you work on the issues that are holding you back. As an Accredited Counsellor and qualified Coach and Hypnotherapist I can offer you a safe, confidential and therapeutic space in which you can explore, develop and challenge yourself in as much emotional depth as feels right for you. Believe in yourself - you can do this....
07572 989543 View 07572 989543
Photo of Heather Thomas, MBACP, Counsellor
Heather Thomas
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wadebridge PL27
Hi, I am an intuitive, warm hearted and empathetic psychotherapist, offering sessions where we will work together to make sense of; life changes, bereavement, loss, negative feelings, stress triggers, thought processes, behavioural issues and issues that have triggered anxiety, depression and a lack of purpose. I offer Hypnotherapy, NLP and Energy Psychology within my sessions to support emotional release, resulting in a greater sense of well-being and emotional balance.
Hi, I am an intuitive, warm hearted and empathetic psychotherapist, offering sessions where we will work together to make sense of; life changes, bereavement, loss, negative feelings, stress triggers, thought processes, behavioural issues and issues that have triggered anxiety, depression and a lack of purpose. I offer Hypnotherapy, NLP and Energy Psychology within my sessions to support emotional release, resulting in a greater sense of well-being and emotional balance.
01663 790549 View 01663 790549

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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.