Hypnotherapists in Petersfield, ENG

Photo of Jenny Hunter-Phillips, MA
Jenny Hunter-Phillips
MA
Verified Verified
Petersfield GU31
I hold a Master's level Certificate in Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy, with distinction, and I am a member of the NSTT and the CNHC.
When things are challenging, asking for help can be one of the hardest yet bravest things you can do. I'm Jenny and my role is to make the process as easy as possible for you, by offering a warm and supportive environment from which you can explore the challenges that you are facing, the symptoms that you are struggling with, and the causes of these issues. Anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, depression, habits or fears do not define you; they can be temporary problems that you can learn to solve, with the right support in place. My approach to therapy allows you to find a way forward as quickly as possible.
I hold a Master's level Certificate in Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy, with distinction, and I am a member of the NSTT and the CNHC.
When things are challenging, asking for help can be one of the hardest yet bravest things you can do. I'm Jenny and my role is to make the process as easy as possible for you, by offering a warm and supportive environment from which you can explore the challenges that you are facing, the symptoms that you are struggling with, and the causes of these issues. Anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, depression, habits or fears do not define you; they can be temporary problems that you can learn to solve, with the right support in place. My approach to therapy allows you to find a way forward as quickly as possible.
01730 771474 View 01730 771474
Photo of Janet Anne Smith - Janet Smith Emotional Wellness Coaching, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Janet Smith Emotional Wellness Coaching
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Petersfield GU31
If you are at a crossroads or struggling with your mental health and know that you need to make a change. I can help. Some of the key areas I work in are:- Depression Loss & Bereavement Stress & Anxiety Relationship issues Trauma/PTSD Emotional Eating/Eating Disorders & Weight Loss, Abuse, Addictions, Work/life balance, Senior Executive Coaching. I combine psychodynamic counselling, clinical hypnotherapy, NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), Senior Executive Coaching & Mentoring, Mindfulness and Relaxation techniques to help clients who are experiencing emotional distress and want to make positive change in their life
If you are at a crossroads or struggling with your mental health and know that you need to make a change. I can help. Some of the key areas I work in are:- Depression Loss & Bereavement Stress & Anxiety Relationship issues Trauma/PTSD Emotional Eating/Eating Disorders & Weight Loss, Abuse, Addictions, Work/life balance, Senior Executive Coaching. I combine psychodynamic counselling, clinical hypnotherapy, NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), Senior Executive Coaching & Mentoring, Mindfulness and Relaxation techniques to help clients who are experiencing emotional distress and want to make positive change in their life
023 8235 2065 View 023 8235 2065
Photo of Naomi Light, Counsellor
Naomi Light
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Petersfield GU31
Should I talk to someone about this? If you have found yourself on this page, it is likely that you have had this thought. Perhaps you have experienced a distressing event or betrayal or have lost the passion in your relationship. Perhaps you are looking for help as a couple or as an individual. Whatever the reason you are seeking help, reaching out is always a brave step. It is helpful to know what to expect.
Should I talk to someone about this? If you have found yourself on this page, it is likely that you have had this thought. Perhaps you have experienced a distressing event or betrayal or have lost the passion in your relationship. Perhaps you are looking for help as a couple or as an individual. Whatever the reason you are seeking help, reaching out is always a brave step. It is helpful to know what to expect.
01730 776641 View 01730 776641
Photo of Nigel Newman, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Nigel Newman
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Petersfield GU31
I have become aware after 30 years, that with the right approach it is possible to bring healing, freedom and peace of mind to anyone -  whatever the problem. The uniqueness of each and every one of us should always be reflected in the chosen therapy. That's why, here at Solutions, I draw on a wide range of therapies to enable me to tailor my approach to your individual needs. My desire is to enable you to find greater freedom in your life, and an understanding of who you are and the best you can be.
I have become aware after 30 years, that with the right approach it is possible to bring healing, freedom and peace of mind to anyone -  whatever the problem. The uniqueness of each and every one of us should always be reflected in the chosen therapy. That's why, here at Solutions, I draw on a wide range of therapies to enable me to tailor my approach to your individual needs. My desire is to enable you to find greater freedom in your life, and an understanding of who you are and the best you can be.
01730 777564 View 01730 777564

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hermione Bailey - Hermione B Therapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Hermione B Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Havant PO9
Are you struggling with OCD, Anxiety, depression, or feeling like a shadow of yourself? Would you like to be able to express your feelings and emotions and learn how to change unhealthy emotions of anxiety, depression, hurt, anger, guilt, etc and those unhealthy beliefs that are keeping you stuck. Would you like to quieten that inner critical voice and learn a new philosophy for life, that will enable you to maintain your wellbeing. If so I offer one to one's, either face to face, zoom, or telephone sessions, whichever suits you best. In a safe, confidential space to talk and work through your problem. I work with 18 years plus.
Are you struggling with OCD, Anxiety, depression, or feeling like a shadow of yourself? Would you like to be able to express your feelings and emotions and learn how to change unhealthy emotions of anxiety, depression, hurt, anger, guilt, etc and those unhealthy beliefs that are keeping you stuck. Would you like to quieten that inner critical voice and learn a new philosophy for life, that will enable you to maintain your wellbeing. If so I offer one to one's, either face to face, zoom, or telephone sessions, whichever suits you best. In a safe, confidential space to talk and work through your problem. I work with 18 years plus.
023 8254 4522 View 023 8254 4522
Photo of Dawn Henley - Eos counselling and psychotherapy , MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Eos counselling and psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Alton GU34
Feeling overwhelmed by life? Struggling with anxiety, anger, depression, grief, or troubled relationships? I'm Dawn Henley, an experienced and accredited counsellor and psychotherapist. I help individuals and couples navigate life's challenges. Whether you're facing emotional difficulties, communication issues, or unhealthy patterns, I can support you in finding peace, connection, and fulfilment. Together, we can create a personalised plan for your healing journey, drawing on a range of evidence-based therapies. Let's silence your inner critic and empower you to build stronger, healthier relationships.
Feeling overwhelmed by life? Struggling with anxiety, anger, depression, grief, or troubled relationships? I'm Dawn Henley, an experienced and accredited counsellor and psychotherapist. I help individuals and couples navigate life's challenges. Whether you're facing emotional difficulties, communication issues, or unhealthy patterns, I can support you in finding peace, connection, and fulfilment. Together, we can create a personalised plan for your healing journey, drawing on a range of evidence-based therapies. Let's silence your inner critic and empower you to build stronger, healthier relationships.
01252 412926 View 01252 412926

Online Therapists

Photo of Joanne Lindsay, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Joanne Lindsay
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Taunton TA1
I also offer Hypnotherapy and Holistic therapies, so that I can help you think not only about your mind but body & spirit too if you want to? As well as working in Private practice; since 2010, I have worked in the field of Substance misuse and addictions, as a counsellor and Recovery Worker.
Hi, I'm Jo and thank you for taking the time to stop by my profile. So you've decided to take what feels like a scary yet very important step towards making a difference in your life and are looking for the right help with this - yes? Finding a safe, trustworthy and comfortable place is so important when it comes to therapy and I strive to offer this, either in my therapy room, via video link or over the phone, so that you can get help where ever you are. I'm trained in a variety of Counselling Theories so we can make the therapy fit you, rather than to try to fit you in to a 'therapy box' of one theory fits all.
I also offer Hypnotherapy and Holistic therapies, so that I can help you think not only about your mind but body & spirit too if you want to? As well as working in Private practice; since 2010, I have worked in the field of Substance misuse and addictions, as a counsellor and Recovery Worker.
Hi, I'm Jo and thank you for taking the time to stop by my profile. So you've decided to take what feels like a scary yet very important step towards making a difference in your life and are looking for the right help with this - yes? Finding a safe, trustworthy and comfortable place is so important when it comes to therapy and I strive to offer this, either in my therapy room, via video link or over the phone, so that you can get help where ever you are. I'm trained in a variety of Counselling Theories so we can make the therapy fit you, rather than to try to fit you in to a 'therapy box' of one theory fits all.
01823 792947 View 01823 792947
Photo of Heather King, MHGI, Psychotherapist
Heather King
Psychotherapist, MHGI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton BN1
I may also use Guided Imagery (Hypnotherapy) to further embed our work.
Do you feel like something needs to change? Although everyone has their own unique reasons for deciding to see a therapist, most people will be driven by a feeling that something in their life needs to change. Maybe you have been struggling with anxiety or depression, or an addiction or addictive behaviour has started to dominate your days? Perhaps you are struggling to let go of a bad experience from your past? Maybe low self-esteem is limiting your potential? Or it could be that you just don’t feel like ‘you’ anymore…. Whatever you are facing, I can help.
I may also use Guided Imagery (Hypnotherapy) to further embed our work.
Do you feel like something needs to change? Although everyone has their own unique reasons for deciding to see a therapist, most people will be driven by a feeling that something in their life needs to change. Maybe you have been struggling with anxiety or depression, or an addiction or addictive behaviour has started to dominate your days? Perhaps you are struggling to let go of a bad experience from your past? Maybe low self-esteem is limiting your potential? Or it could be that you just don’t feel like ‘you’ anymore…. Whatever you are facing, I can help.
01273 092090 View 01273 092090
Photo of Tina Deas - A Time For You, Counselling and Reiki (Tina Deas), MBACP Accred, Counsellor
A Time For You, Counselling and Reiki (Tina Deas)
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Swindon SN5
Whilst counselling is at the heart of my therapeutic work my unique combination of Reiki, Hypnotherapy, EFT, Matrix Reimprinting can facilitate healing at a deeper level.
I help Individuals and Couples with many different concerns. They often want to be able to feel and cope better, to improve their relationships, their wellbeing and their lives. Perhaps you are trying to cope with a bereavement or have suffered another loss such as the breakdown of a relationship. You may feel that with support, you are ready to tackle some trauma you have suffered or you may need help with your current situation. Or maybe you just feel a little lost and need some help to get yourself back on track or you don't really know where to start and feel anxious about talking to someone about your problems. I can help.
Whilst counselling is at the heart of my therapeutic work my unique combination of Reiki, Hypnotherapy, EFT, Matrix Reimprinting can facilitate healing at a deeper level.
I help Individuals and Couples with many different concerns. They often want to be able to feel and cope better, to improve their relationships, their wellbeing and their lives. Perhaps you are trying to cope with a bereavement or have suffered another loss such as the breakdown of a relationship. You may feel that with support, you are ready to tackle some trauma you have suffered or you may need help with your current situation. Or maybe you just feel a little lost and need some help to get yourself back on track or you don't really know where to start and feel anxious about talking to someone about your problems. I can help.
01793 540333 View 01793 540333
Photo of Lydia Jane Johnson - London Clinic Of Hypnotherapy
London Clinic Of Hypnotherapy
Not Verified Not Verified
London W1F
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 Giovanna Giustino, CPsychol, Psychologist
Giovanna Giustino
Psychologist, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Windsor SL4
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic model, Humanistic models, EMDR, Hypnotherapy).
I am a psychologist practitioner with many years experience in both private practice and mental health organisations such as the NHS and MIND. I have considerable experience working typically, but not exclusively, with anxiety disorders (e.g. panic disorders, post traumatic stress, phobias), self esteem issues, mood disorders, guilt and shame, bereavement, life transitions, anger management, life adjustment, life coaching, emotional regulations.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic model, Humanistic models, EMDR, Hypnotherapy).
I am a psychologist practitioner with many years experience in both private practice and mental health organisations such as the NHS and MIND. I have considerable experience working typically, but not exclusively, with anxiety disorders (e.g. panic disorders, post traumatic stress, phobias), self esteem issues, mood disorders, guilt and shame, bereavement, life transitions, anger management, life adjustment, life coaching, emotional regulations.
01753 944360 View 01753 944360
Photo of Gloria Prest, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Gloria Prest
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Windsor SL4
hypnotherapy and somatic therapy) tailored to the individual client, because everyone is unique.
Reduction and control of Anxiety is my main speciality. I help people to clear their minds from thoughts, believes or habits that are an obstacle to fully enjoy their life and have peace of mind. Whether it is excessive, unnecessary worrying, depression, phobias, low self-esteem, relationship or family problems I help you to gain a wider perspective of the problem and find your way forward with a clearer more calm and productive mind.
hypnotherapy and somatic therapy) tailored to the individual client, because everyone is unique.
Reduction and control of Anxiety is my main speciality. I help people to clear their minds from thoughts, believes or habits that are an obstacle to fully enjoy their life and have peace of mind. Whether it is excessive, unnecessary worrying, depression, phobias, low self-esteem, relationship or family problems I help you to gain a wider perspective of the problem and find your way forward with a clearer more calm and productive mind.
01753 907673 View 01753 907673
Photo of Kate Mortimer - Mindscape Therapies Ltd, MA
Mindscape Therapies Ltd
MA
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
Hi, I'm Kate, a skilled, inclusive, creative, warm, empathic and well qualified HCPC registered therapist. I offer clinical hypnotherapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) to children, adolescents and adults. If life events have contributed to you experiencing PTSD, anxiety, or depression, and you want to honour the past while moving forward, please do call me. I also support people to develop a healthy relationship with their body and with food. I was an NHS practitioner for 22 years in CAMHS and adult mental health, and have also practised privately for 18 years! LGBT+ and neurodivergent friendly.
Hi, I'm Kate, a skilled, inclusive, creative, warm, empathic and well qualified HCPC registered therapist. I offer clinical hypnotherapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) to children, adolescents and adults. If life events have contributed to you experiencing PTSD, anxiety, or depression, and you want to honour the past while moving forward, please do call me. I also support people to develop a healthy relationship with their body and with food. I was an NHS practitioner for 22 years in CAMHS and adult mental health, and have also practised privately for 18 years! LGBT+ and neurodivergent friendly.
0117 463 7184 View 0117 463 7184
Photo of Hendrina Sterling Rodriguez - Mind Empower Therapy, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Mind Empower Therapy
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Street BA16  (Online Only)
Specialising in hypnotherapy, RTT, NLP, CBT, counselling and psychotherapy, I support clients in releasing negative patterns fostering change and improving mental well-being. I help individuals overcome challenges and achieve goals through personalised therapy.
Specialising in hypnotherapy, RTT, NLP, CBT, counselling and psychotherapy, I support clients in releasing negative patterns fostering change and improving mental well-being. I help individuals overcome challenges and achieve goals through personalised therapy.
07436 847203 View 07436 847203
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 Wendy Borrett, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist
Wendy Borrett
Psychotherapist, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Sidcup DA14
My private practice is located in a lovely Edwardian house, in a comfortable room dedicated to providing hypnotherapy and counselling.
I am a BACP Senior Accredited Counsellor and Accredited Supervisor and provide counselling and supervision to individuals and couples. I have helped people with many issues including: anxiety, stress, phobias, panic attacks, low self esteem, depression, bereavement, sexual abuse, sleep disorders, anger, weight management, smoking and past life regression. I am also a Clinical Hypnotherapist and provide Clinical Hypnotherapy from my private practice in Sidcup, Kent where I have worked as a therapist for 23 years.
My private practice is located in a lovely Edwardian house, in a comfortable room dedicated to providing hypnotherapy and counselling.
I am a BACP Senior Accredited Counsellor and Accredited Supervisor and provide counselling and supervision to individuals and couples. I have helped people with many issues including: anxiety, stress, phobias, panic attacks, low self esteem, depression, bereavement, sexual abuse, sleep disorders, anger, weight management, smoking and past life regression. I am also a Clinical Hypnotherapist and provide Clinical Hypnotherapy from my private practice in Sidcup, Kent where I have worked as a therapist for 23 years.
01322 927706 View 01322 927706
Photo of Lauren Jacobs, MA
Lauren Jacobs
MA
Verified Verified
London SW6
Sessions with me are a unique fusion of hypnotherapy, psychotherapy and mind-body techniques, tailored to your needs.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed by anxiety and worry, no matter what you do? Are you low in confidence, paralysed by fears about the future, and frustrated that others seem to have it all together while you’re constantly living in fear and panic? You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But now you’re ready to resolve your difficulties so you can be free of fear, stress and worry. You’re ready to learn practical skills and tools, so you can handle whatever life throws at you without overwhelm. Most of all, you’re ready to feel calm, confident to face life’s challenges and comfortable in your own skin.
Sessions with me are a unique fusion of hypnotherapy, psychotherapy and mind-body techniques, tailored to your needs.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed by anxiety and worry, no matter what you do? Are you low in confidence, paralysed by fears about the future, and frustrated that others seem to have it all together while you’re constantly living in fear and panic? You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But now you’re ready to resolve your difficulties so you can be free of fear, stress and worry. You’re ready to learn practical skills and tools, so you can handle whatever life throws at you without overwhelm. Most of all, you’re ready to feel calm, confident to face life’s challenges and comfortable in your own skin.
020 3893 2672 View 020 3893 2672
Photo of Lyn O'Callaghan, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Lyn O'Callaghan
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Luton LU3
I use Person-Centered therapy techniques, as well as incorporate other approaches, such as hypnotherapy, CBT, mindfulness, and journaling, to ensure a truly tailored experience for my client.
As an Integrative Counsellor, I tailor therapy to each client, as well as talking therapy, I draw from a diverse toolbox of techniques, such as CBT, EMDR and hypnosis. Having completed training specific to trauma and trauma-informed approaches, I am confident in my skills to scaffold clients while they learn ways to overcome obstacles, develop coping skills, and enhance their overall well-being. Through collaboration with my clients, they are able to explore concerns, build resilience and cultivate positive lasting change.
I use Person-Centered therapy techniques, as well as incorporate other approaches, such as hypnotherapy, CBT, mindfulness, and journaling, to ensure a truly tailored experience for my client.
As an Integrative Counsellor, I tailor therapy to each client, as well as talking therapy, I draw from a diverse toolbox of techniques, such as CBT, EMDR and hypnosis. Having completed training specific to trauma and trauma-informed approaches, I am confident in my skills to scaffold clients while they learn ways to overcome obstacles, develop coping skills, and enhance their overall well-being. Through collaboration with my clients, they are able to explore concerns, build resilience and cultivate positive lasting change.
01582 297259 View 01582 297259
Photo of Karol Kosinski - Zen Mind, UKCP Trainee, Counsellor
Zen Mind
Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Worcester WR2
My approach blends coaching, hypnotherapy, and psychotherapy.
I bring over a decade of experience to guide you through self-discovery. There is a difference between pain and suffering. There is a difference in feeling anxious for 12 seconds or 12 hours. These differences can help unveil who you truly are. Although many of us yearn for a life filled with purpose and meaning but find it challenging to release the past. Together, we can delve into what really matters and chart a course toward your ideal life. Don't let stress, burnout or previous struggles deter you. I believe that everyone has the capacity to craft a fulfilling future. Discomfort is temporary, regret is forever, contact me now.
My approach blends coaching, hypnotherapy, and psychotherapy.
I bring over a decade of experience to guide you through self-discovery. There is a difference between pain and suffering. There is a difference in feeling anxious for 12 seconds or 12 hours. These differences can help unveil who you truly are. Although many of us yearn for a life filled with purpose and meaning but find it challenging to release the past. Together, we can delve into what really matters and chart a course toward your ideal life. Don't let stress, burnout or previous struggles deter you. I believe that everyone has the capacity to craft a fulfilling future. Discomfort is temporary, regret is forever, contact me now.
01905 673189 View 01905 673189
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

See more therapy options for Petersfield

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.