Hypnotherapists in Teddington, ENG

Photo of Joanna Louise, DCounsPsych, Psychotherapist
Joanna Louise
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Teddington TW11
Within my approach, I draw from; Attachment Theory, Person-Centred, Polyvagal theory, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, Flash Technique, & more.
If you're reading this profile, you may be ready for a shift in your life. I work with individuals and couples. I specialise in Trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, Coping Skills, Self-Esteem & More. Together, we can create a calm, safe and relaxing environment to self discover without judgement. This is what helps bring clarity and awareness to my clients. Many people feel 'broken' when they have experienced and lived with trauma. I work with people to help those fractured parts, heal. I provide a space for those parts to be heard, and to move towards a sense of wholeness in time. I help clients to find themselves, sometimes for the first time.
Within my approach, I draw from; Attachment Theory, Person-Centred, Polyvagal theory, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, Flash Technique, & more.
If you're reading this profile, you may be ready for a shift in your life. I work with individuals and couples. I specialise in Trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, Coping Skills, Self-Esteem & More. Together, we can create a calm, safe and relaxing environment to self discover without judgement. This is what helps bring clarity and awareness to my clients. Many people feel 'broken' when they have experienced and lived with trauma. I work with people to help those fractured parts, heal. I provide a space for those parts to be heard, and to move towards a sense of wholeness in time. I help clients to find themselves, sometimes for the first time.
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Photo of Lina Elijose
Lina Elijose
Verified Verified
Teddington TW11
I specialise in Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapy, QHHT, EFT, and EMDR to address deep emotional pain and trauma.
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, or emotional struggles, you're not alone. You may feel trapped in negative thought patterns, burdened by painful memories, or unsure of your self-worth. An example in nature is the lovely lotus, which grows from a bed of mud and muddy water, yet blooms in purity and beauty. Like the lotus and the pearl, you too can transform from difficult circumstances into something beautiful. Just as an oyster turns a piece of dirt into a pearl, you have the power to grow, heal, and reclaim your inner strength, ultimately reconnecting with your authentic self.
I specialise in Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapy, QHHT, EFT, and EMDR to address deep emotional pain and trauma.
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, or emotional struggles, you're not alone. You may feel trapped in negative thought patterns, burdened by painful memories, or unsure of your self-worth. An example in nature is the lovely lotus, which grows from a bed of mud and muddy water, yet blooms in purity and beauty. Like the lotus and the pearl, you too can transform from difficult circumstances into something beautiful. Just as an oyster turns a piece of dirt into a pearl, you have the power to grow, heal, and reclaim your inner strength, ultimately reconnecting with your authentic self.
01372 677213 View 01372 677213
Photo of Dr Robert Owen, PhD, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Dr Robert Owen
Psychotherapist, PhD, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teddington TW11
I'm here to help you get different results. Whether you're experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, anger or low self-esteem, we can work it out - sometimes within just 4 to 6 sessions. ​Maybe you've already identified some repeating patterns in your life that lead you where you don't want - or like - to be; maybe you feel like a puppet on strings, knowing unseen forces are pulling you but unable to identify quite what they are and thus break free? I'll work with you on your behavioural patterns, starting with identifying them (either you can explain them to me or we can identify them together) then looking at their sources and identifying ways of breaking free of them.
I'm here to help you get different results. Whether you're experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, anger or low self-esteem, we can work it out - sometimes within just 4 to 6 sessions. ​Maybe you've already identified some repeating patterns in your life that lead you where you don't want - or like - to be; maybe you feel like a puppet on strings, knowing unseen forces are pulling you but unable to identify quite what they are and thus break free? I'll work with you on your behavioural patterns, starting with identifying them (either you can explain them to me or we can identify them together) then looking at their sources and identifying ways of breaking free of them.
01748 902219 View 01748 902219
Photo of Karen Francis - Retrain Your Brain, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Retrain Your Brain
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Teddington TW11
Whether you are an adolescent, adult, sports person or busy executive there are some common themes that resonate with my clients: Finding it hard to make decisions - fear of getting it wrong and constantly worrying/Being less tolerant, irritable over things that wouldn't normally bother you/Needing to do everything perfectly and setting high unrealistic expectations resulting in procrastination/Never feeling you have done enough/A very critical internal voice - Exhausting! Most of my clients want to quieten that negative voice and find ways to achieve and live life without the gnawing anxiety and self-doubt
Whether you are an adolescent, adult, sports person or busy executive there are some common themes that resonate with my clients: Finding it hard to make decisions - fear of getting it wrong and constantly worrying/Being less tolerant, irritable over things that wouldn't normally bother you/Needing to do everything perfectly and setting high unrealistic expectations resulting in procrastination/Never feeling you have done enough/A very critical internal voice - Exhausting! Most of my clients want to quieten that negative voice and find ways to achieve and live life without the gnawing anxiety and self-doubt
01372 679022 View 01372 679022
Photo of Ramona Proti, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Ramona Proti
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Teddington TW11
Living with unresolved trauma it is like living with a constant energy leak. We are not living only with the emotions, but also with the perceptions and beliefs that formed as a result of what happened to us. Trauma is a result of unprocessed past or present events or experiences and it can happen to anyone. it shows up in our body, emotions, reactions, patterns of behaviour, habits. It may manifest as anxiety/depression, people pleasing, procrastinating, impostor syndrome, hard time saying No; burn out, feeling, lonely, hard time putting yourself first; not asking for help, feeling unworthy, guilty or ashamed, hypervigilance, etc.
Living with unresolved trauma it is like living with a constant energy leak. We are not living only with the emotions, but also with the perceptions and beliefs that formed as a result of what happened to us. Trauma is a result of unprocessed past or present events or experiences and it can happen to anyone. it shows up in our body, emotions, reactions, patterns of behaviour, habits. It may manifest as anxiety/depression, people pleasing, procrastinating, impostor syndrome, hard time saying No; burn out, feeling, lonely, hard time putting yourself first; not asking for help, feeling unworthy, guilty or ashamed, hypervigilance, etc.
020 3319 5201 View 020 3319 5201
Photo of Samina Latif, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Samina Latif
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teddington TW11
I wonder if you have been feeling sad, stressed or anxious? Have these feelings been with you for a long time? Are you wondering when they will reappear? It’s like dreading what is around the corner and finding it hard to enjoy or feel good in the present. Other people look like they’re having fun but your world is a shade of grey. Things that you loved doing no longer give you happiness and it's hard to concentrate. At times it takes lots of energy to go out or spend time with people who care about you. Your confidence and ability to cope disappear as you become stuck and the people around you become as worn down as you feel.
I wonder if you have been feeling sad, stressed or anxious? Have these feelings been with you for a long time? Are you wondering when they will reappear? It’s like dreading what is around the corner and finding it hard to enjoy or feel good in the present. Other people look like they’re having fun but your world is a shade of grey. Things that you loved doing no longer give you happiness and it's hard to concentrate. At times it takes lots of energy to go out or spend time with people who care about you. Your confidence and ability to cope disappear as you become stuck and the people around you become as worn down as you feel.
01748 902463 View 01748 902463

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jenny Hunter-Phillips, MA
Jenny Hunter-Phillips
MA
Verified Verified
Surbiton KT5
Sometimes, people choose hypnotherapy because another form of therapy hasn't worked for them and sometimes they're just curious about its possibilities.
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.
Sometimes, people choose hypnotherapy because another form of therapy hasn't worked for them and sometimes they're just curious about its possibilities.
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 Isabelle Kirsch, PsychD, Counsellor
Isabelle Kirsch
Counsellor, PsychD
Verified Verified
London SW18  (Online Only)
Working with the subconscious mind, I have powerful techniques which include coaching, NLP, hypnotherapy and mind-body connection.
Taking the first step to solve intimacy issues can often feel intimidating but from our first call I will help you feel as comfortable as I can. Through a positive-oriented approach, I help you get to the root cause of the problem and guide you to implement practical solutions. I work extensively with clients struggling with sexual issues such as low sexual desire, anxiety, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus and sex/porn addiction as well as couples looking to fix relationship problems which include communication difficulties, mismatched libido, conflict and betrayal.
Working with the subconscious mind, I have powerful techniques which include coaching, NLP, hypnotherapy and mind-body connection.
Taking the first step to solve intimacy issues can often feel intimidating but from our first call I will help you feel as comfortable as I can. Through a positive-oriented approach, I help you get to the root cause of the problem and guide you to implement practical solutions. I work extensively with clients struggling with sexual issues such as low sexual desire, anxiety, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus and sex/porn addiction as well as couples looking to fix relationship problems which include communication difficulties, mismatched libido, conflict and betrayal.
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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 Lauretta Wilson, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Lauretta Wilson
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Worcester Park KT4
I effectively combine CBT, NLP, ACT and clinical hypnotherapy to help you get closer to the life you need to live.
I am a counselling psychologist with over 20 years experience working with children, adults, couples and families. I use solution focused, positive therapies that get you closer to your goals and values, teaching you tools and techniques to manage your life better and live life as you need to. I work with mental health conditions - anxieties/OCD, depression, phobias, confidence issues, relationship breakdowns, smoking cessation and weight loss, just to name a few!
I effectively combine CBT, NLP, ACT and clinical hypnotherapy to help you get closer to the life you need to live.
I am a counselling psychologist with over 20 years experience working with children, adults, couples and families. I use solution focused, positive therapies that get you closer to your goals and values, teaching you tools and techniques to manage your life better and live life as you need to. I work with mental health conditions - anxieties/OCD, depression, phobias, confidence issues, relationship breakdowns, smoking cessation and weight loss, just to name a few!
01260 545133 View 01260 545133
Photo of John Halker - The Grove Clinic, MHGI, Psychotherapist
The Grove Clinic
Psychotherapist, MHGI
Verified Verified
London SW10
John uses brief solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and clinical hypnotherapy, and his daily practice is informed by the Human Givens approach to mental health and wellbeing.
How long would you like to be in the dark, telling me how dark it is? When shall we look for the light? Each of us is born with a powerful set of tools which we use to seek out and satisfy our needs for emotional nourishment. If those needs are being met in healthy, balanced and sustainable ways it is very much easier to maintain good emotional health. However, if that guidance system is not properly programmed, or if it has been damaged in some way, perhaps through trauma or poor skills development, it will be difficult to build a firm foundation for emotional well-being. Really good therapy will address those issues, quickly.
John uses brief solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and clinical hypnotherapy, and his daily practice is informed by the Human Givens approach to mental health and wellbeing.
How long would you like to be in the dark, telling me how dark it is? When shall we look for the light? Each of us is born with a powerful set of tools which we use to seek out and satisfy our needs for emotional nourishment. If those needs are being met in healthy, balanced and sustainable ways it is very much easier to maintain good emotional health. However, if that guidance system is not properly programmed, or if it has been damaged in some way, perhaps through trauma or poor skills development, it will be difficult to build a firm foundation for emotional well-being. Really good therapy will address those issues, quickly.
020 3667 7278 View 020 3667 7278
Photo of Lydia Jane Johnson - London Clinic Of Hypnotherapy
London Clinic Of Hypnotherapy
Not Verified Not Verified
London W2
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 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 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 Dr Evgenia Volkovyskaya, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Evgenia Volkovyskaya
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
London W5  (Online Only)
I use Clinical Hypnotherapy in combination with Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT).
The areas of expertise are anxiety and anxiety related issues (e.g. panic attacks, phobias and/or obsessions). Also, I work with clients who expereinced trauma and mild depression, or would like to learn how to manage their emotions in a healthy way.
I use Clinical Hypnotherapy in combination with Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT).
The areas of expertise are anxiety and anxiety related issues (e.g. panic attacks, phobias and/or obsessions). Also, I work with clients who expereinced trauma and mild depression, or would like to learn how to manage their emotions in a healthy way.
01748 902537 View 01748 902537
Photo of David Flavin, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
David Flavin
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London SW11  (Online Only)
I specialise in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) along side other integrative therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Mindfulness and hypnotherapy. The framework my approach is built on is REBT, yet as each of us are different, I integrate the other therapies to suit each individual. Some clients benefit more from rationalising thoughts and beliefs, while some need help getting over the past, and some need help with moving forward. I work with my clients to address issues, create and reach goals, and to help them make the most of everyday life, without the struggles.
I specialise in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) along side other integrative therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Mindfulness and hypnotherapy. The framework my approach is built on is REBT, yet as each of us are different, I integrate the other therapies to suit each individual. Some clients benefit more from rationalising thoughts and beliefs, while some need help getting over the past, and some need help with moving forward. I work with my clients to address issues, create and reach goals, and to help them make the most of everyday life, without the struggles.
01823 795083 View 01823 795083
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 Denise Creasey, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Denise Creasey
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
London SW5
I also also offer hypnotherapy.
I believe life can present situations to us that we don't know how to deal with and talking with a counsellor can be just what is needed. Sometimes things happen out of the blue or are ongoing and its okay with any situation to reach out and ask for help. As your counsellor, I will support you in looking at your thoughts, feelings, emotions and behaviours that may be holding you back from making the positive changes you want. I can help with a number of issues including anxiety, phobias, empty nest syndrome, weight loss, self-esteem, confidence, bereavement including loss (job, relationships).
I also also offer hypnotherapy.
I believe life can present situations to us that we don't know how to deal with and talking with a counsellor can be just what is needed. Sometimes things happen out of the blue or are ongoing and its okay with any situation to reach out and ask for help. As your counsellor, I will support you in looking at your thoughts, feelings, emotions and behaviours that may be holding you back from making the positive changes you want. I can help with a number of issues including anxiety, phobias, empty nest syndrome, weight loss, self-esteem, confidence, bereavement including loss (job, relationships).
01992 662320 View 01992 662320
Photo of Alma Mary Griffith - Mindserenity, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Mindserenity
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Epsom KT17
When working together I offer a number of different therapies such as: Psychotherapy Counselling, Hypnotherapy, NLP life coaching, IEMT and Time Line therapy.
Are you experiencing anxiety right now, social or otherwise? Are you finding it difficult to make decisions or overwhelmed by a problem that you can't seemed to find answers to? You are not alone and sometimes with the support of a counsellor it can help you to find the solutions that you need to move on with your life. Counselling, hypnotherapy and life coaching can help with many types of problems such as: Physical or Psychological abuse, Alcohol or Drug abuse, Self-harming or eating disorders, Relationship or Marriage problems, Bereavement/Grief/Loss Anxiety or Depression
When working together I offer a number of different therapies such as: Psychotherapy Counselling, Hypnotherapy, NLP life coaching, IEMT and Time Line therapy.
Are you experiencing anxiety right now, social or otherwise? Are you finding it difficult to make decisions or overwhelmed by a problem that you can't seemed to find answers to? You are not alone and sometimes with the support of a counsellor it can help you to find the solutions that you need to move on with your life. Counselling, hypnotherapy and life coaching can help with many types of problems such as: Physical or Psychological abuse, Alcohol or Drug abuse, Self-harming or eating disorders, Relationship or Marriage problems, Bereavement/Grief/Loss Anxiety or Depression
01737 812498 View 01737 812498
Photo of Mimi Fakhri, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Mimi Fakhri
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Kingston upon Thames KT2
I'm also trained in hypnotherapy, which works really well with CBT, so do let me know if that's of interest to you.
I help people with anxiety, stress and worry (including phobias and insomnia). I understand how debilitating anxiety & worry can be - often physically and mentally draining. It can feel as if anxiety is starting to rule your life. My aim is to help you learn skills to break free from your anxiety and worry, and reclaim your life. I want to work WITH you, rather than doing therapy TO you - after all, you are the expert in you! I'm also passionate about helping you develop the skills to become your own therapist, not reliant on me or tied into long-term therapy.
I'm also trained in hypnotherapy, which works really well with CBT, so do let me know if that's of interest to you.
I help people with anxiety, stress and worry (including phobias and insomnia). I understand how debilitating anxiety & worry can be - often physically and mentally draining. It can feel as if anxiety is starting to rule your life. My aim is to help you learn skills to break free from your anxiety and worry, and reclaim your life. I want to work WITH you, rather than doing therapy TO you - after all, you are the expert in you! I'm also passionate about helping you develop the skills to become your own therapist, not reliant on me or tied into long-term therapy.
020 3835 4539 View 020 3835 4539

See more therapy options for Teddington

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.