Hypnotherapists in Alameda, CA

Photo of Leonard Ferrara, PhD, Psychologist
Leonard Ferrara
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
I am also certified in Hypnotherapy and have completed additional training in EMDR and Stress Reduction Training.
Who Should Help the Very Special You? Interview several therapists either in person or by phone. Ask them how they've helped other people. Ask them how they will approach your specific needs. A Little Bit About Me! My life's work is dedicated to guiding individuals towards personal transformation and fulfillment of their ultimate potential. The most important thing is today. Are you unhappy today and hoping tomorrow will be better? Only you can make the changes today that will make you happy tomorrow - don't wait.
I am also certified in Hypnotherapy and have completed additional training in EMDR and Stress Reduction Training.
Who Should Help the Very Special You? Interview several therapists either in person or by phone. Ask them how they've helped other people. Ask them how they will approach your specific needs. A Little Bit About Me! My life's work is dedicated to guiding individuals towards personal transformation and fulfillment of their ultimate potential. The most important thing is today. Are you unhappy today and hoping tomorrow will be better? Only you can make the changes today that will make you happy tomorrow - don't wait.
(510) 599-8392 View (510) 599-8392
Photo of Cindy A Mayne, APCC, NCAC, NAADAC, CHT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cindy A Mayne
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, NCAC, NAADAC, CHT
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
I specialize in using hypnotherapy to help with addictions.
Having issues with anxiety, sleep, weight loss or addictions? I am a clinical hypnotherapist and can help with many issues. With the help of therapy, and hypnosis, many issues can be alleviated quickly.
I specialize in using hypnotherapy to help with addictions.
Having issues with anxiety, sleep, weight loss or addictions? I am a clinical hypnotherapist and can help with many issues. With the help of therapy, and hypnosis, many issues can be alleviated quickly.
(707) 981-0317 View (707) 981-0317
Photo of Deborah Lee Fishman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Lee Fishman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
After being a therapist for over 20 years, I have learned that each person is unique. I can help you foster that aspect of yourself and grow to be your authentic self and make decisions that support your best interest and growth. By clearing the path, relieving you from your pains and wounds, detaching you from the stories that harm you and are not true, you can make the decisions that will empower you to live your life in the way that brings you the most pleasure and happiness. After years of experience and healing my own wounds, I have found that talk therapy alone may not suffice. That is why I specialize IFS and EMDR.
After being a therapist for over 20 years, I have learned that each person is unique. I can help you foster that aspect of yourself and grow to be your authentic self and make decisions that support your best interest and growth. By clearing the path, relieving you from your pains and wounds, detaching you from the stories that harm you and are not true, you can make the decisions that will empower you to live your life in the way that brings you the most pleasure and happiness. After years of experience and healing my own wounds, I have found that talk therapy alone may not suffice. That is why I specialize IFS and EMDR.
(628) 227-5983 View (628) 227-5983
Photo of Sophie Soltani, PsyD, Psychologist
Sophie Soltani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
I strongly believe in an individual's ability to change and improve the quality of his or her life. I view my role as a catalyst for transformation, and work to create a safe collaborative environment of mutual trust, where any issue can be discussed and explored in depth: www.drsophiesoltani.com
I strongly believe in an individual's ability to change and improve the quality of his or her life. I view my role as a catalyst for transformation, and work to create a safe collaborative environment of mutual trust, where any issue can be discussed and explored in depth: www.drsophiesoltani.com
(510) 431-2835 View (510) 431-2835
Leemore Federman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94502
For therapy to be effective, it is important that you feel safe to express your most vulnerable thoughts and feelings as well as be committed to putting in the work. As a therapist, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can feel seen and heard. From that place, and employing the most effective evidence-based therapies along with integrative and holistic modalities, we work together to uncover and shift negative subconscious beliefs and blocks to create lasting change. I love helping my clients live more fulfilled and meaningful lives in alignment with their values and purpose.
For therapy to be effective, it is important that you feel safe to express your most vulnerable thoughts and feelings as well as be committed to putting in the work. As a therapist, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can feel seen and heard. From that place, and employing the most effective evidence-based therapies along with integrative and holistic modalities, we work together to uncover and shift negative subconscious beliefs and blocks to create lasting change. I love helping my clients live more fulfilled and meaningful lives in alignment with their values and purpose.
(408) 549-8613 View (408) 549-8613
Photo of Troy DuFrene, PhD, BCBA, Psychologist
Troy DuFrene
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
What do you want to accomplish in therapy? A lot of people want to have less of something: anxiety, depression, anger, relationship conflict, and so forth. This is understandable. When things hurt us and get in our way, even if those things come from inside us, it’s very reasonable to want them to go away. But what if making thing go away has been the problem all along? Can you remember a time in your life when you felt strong, resilient, and resourceful? During this time, was your life free from problems? I’m guessing not. Bu you were probably were moving your feet in the direction of things that mattered to you at the time.
What do you want to accomplish in therapy? A lot of people want to have less of something: anxiety, depression, anger, relationship conflict, and so forth. This is understandable. When things hurt us and get in our way, even if those things come from inside us, it’s very reasonable to want them to go away. But what if making thing go away has been the problem all along? Can you remember a time in your life when you felt strong, resilient, and resourceful? During this time, was your life free from problems? I’m guessing not. Bu you were probably were moving your feet in the direction of things that mattered to you at the time.
(628) 265-6980 View (628) 265-6980

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alex Theberge, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alex Theberge
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
Thank for your interest in my therapy practice. I’m a trauma-focused therapist who specializes in helping people heal from childhood trauma, PTSD, and psycho-emotional wounds. I see healing as a deeply personal and meaningful journey to recover our authentic wholeness and unique gifts for the world. It often involves reconnecting to and integrating split-off parts of ourselves, clearing traumatic memories, and releasing blockages and old patterns that no longer serve us. I work with a variety of healing modalities that are particularly helpful for healing trauma, including EMDR, journey work, parts work, and hypnotherapy.
Thank for your interest in my therapy practice. I’m a trauma-focused therapist who specializes in helping people heal from childhood trauma, PTSD, and psycho-emotional wounds. I see healing as a deeply personal and meaningful journey to recover our authentic wholeness and unique gifts for the world. It often involves reconnecting to and integrating split-off parts of ourselves, clearing traumatic memories, and releasing blockages and old patterns that no longer serve us. I work with a variety of healing modalities that are particularly helpful for healing trauma, including EMDR, journey work, parts work, and hypnotherapy.
(415) 797-0197 View (415) 797-0197
Photo of Molly Gales, LMFT, MA, MAed, Marriage & Family Therapist
Molly Gales
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MAed
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
My therapeutic interventions include ACT, CBT, hypnotherapy family systems, animal assisted therapy, and attachment therapy.
These uncertain times can feel overwhelming. The world can seem frightening. Many folks feel isolated and exhausted. Others may feel anxious, depressed, or both. Now is a great time to seek therapy and find a safe place to connect, mine resources, discover tools and explore ways to help you manage challenges. I provide a warm, practical and comfortable practice where you can expect to be treated with respect, kindness, a sense of humor, compassion and over 25 years of experience with teens and families. I have a diverse practice and experience working with a variety of folx. Please contact me, I'm here to help.
My therapeutic interventions include ACT, CBT, hypnotherapy family systems, animal assisted therapy, and attachment therapy.
These uncertain times can feel overwhelming. The world can seem frightening. Many folks feel isolated and exhausted. Others may feel anxious, depressed, or both. Now is a great time to seek therapy and find a safe place to connect, mine resources, discover tools and explore ways to help you manage challenges. I provide a warm, practical and comfortable practice where you can expect to be treated with respect, kindness, a sense of humor, compassion and over 25 years of experience with teens and families. I have a diverse practice and experience working with a variety of folx. Please contact me, I'm here to help.
(510) 662-6162 View (510) 662-6162
Photo of Jamie Rizzo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Rizzo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
I have advanced training in Imago Relationship Therapy, EMDR, EFT, and Hypnotherapy.
You realize what you're doing no longer works for you. You are ready to learn new coping skills and techniques to reduce stress and anxiety. Life transitions have led you to this point, and you are seeking therapy to assist you in healing and moving forward into the life you want to live. You long to thrive! I believe that each person carries the resources within themselves to create the life they envision. You will learn to access your inner resources to navigate life experiences and deepen your connection to Self.
I have advanced training in Imago Relationship Therapy, EMDR, EFT, and Hypnotherapy.
You realize what you're doing no longer works for you. You are ready to learn new coping skills and techniques to reduce stress and anxiety. Life transitions have led you to this point, and you are seeking therapy to assist you in healing and moving forward into the life you want to live. You long to thrive! I believe that each person carries the resources within themselves to create the life they envision. You will learn to access your inner resources to navigate life experiences and deepen your connection to Self.
(510) 768-7252 View (510) 768-7252
Photo of Ryja (Rylan Jay) Testa, PhD, Psychologist
Ryja (Rylan Jay) Testa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94701
I personalize treatment for you, using a combination of insight oriented work, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, guided meditation, dream work, forest therapy, hypnotherapy, art, movement, and music therapies.
Serving Oregon & California. Are you contemplating or working through a major change, transition, or transformation? This could mean a shift in work, relationship, gender or sexual identity, spiritual perspective, health status, or a recent loss. When we are thrust into the unknown, finding a new way forward can feel confusing, overwhelming, scary, or uncertain. You might be unsure of what to do next, worry you have lost your way, or find it hard to trust you will land on your feet again. I specialize in working with people navigating major change. I walk alongside you in the mystery until you find your way to the other shore
I personalize treatment for you, using a combination of insight oriented work, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, guided meditation, dream work, forest therapy, hypnotherapy, art, movement, and music therapies.
Serving Oregon & California. Are you contemplating or working through a major change, transition, or transformation? This could mean a shift in work, relationship, gender or sexual identity, spiritual perspective, health status, or a recent loss. When we are thrust into the unknown, finding a new way forward can feel confusing, overwhelming, scary, or uncertain. You might be unsure of what to do next, worry you have lost your way, or find it hard to trust you will land on your feet again. I specialize in working with people navigating major change. I walk alongside you in the mystery until you find your way to the other shore
(707) 243-3293 View (707) 243-3293
Photo of John Connors McConville, MDiv, MA, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Connors McConville
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I have a number of tools I use in my work: Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Somatic Interventions, Post Induction Therapy, & Interplay to develop creativity.
I work with people who face challenges that often arise but are not exclusive to the second half of life such as: the trauma of illness & death, caring for aging parents, loss of satisfaction or sense of meaning in relationships and work, loss of a job, and/or loneliness. I also work with folks suffering from love addiction or love avoidance. These challenges can often be baffling and carry symptoms such as depression, fear and anxiety. The rational mind may understand what is going on but somehow the emotional and physical body can't always take solace in rational solutions.
I have a number of tools I use in my work: Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Somatic Interventions, Post Induction Therapy, & Interplay to develop creativity.
I work with people who face challenges that often arise but are not exclusive to the second half of life such as: the trauma of illness & death, caring for aging parents, loss of satisfaction or sense of meaning in relationships and work, loss of a job, and/or loneliness. I also work with folks suffering from love addiction or love avoidance. These challenges can often be baffling and carry symptoms such as depression, fear and anxiety. The rational mind may understand what is going on but somehow the emotional and physical body can't always take solace in rational solutions.
(415) 801-3943 View (415) 801-3943
Photo of Georgina Maria Nunez, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Georgina Maria Nunez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
I am certified in Cognitive therapy as well as Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and hypnotherapy, ,Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as well as Astrological insightIs and spiritual therapy.
Do you feel overwhelmed and hopeless? Do you want to acquire skills and gain insights that will move you forward to a healthier and brighter future? In a compassionate and supportive environment, I will assist you in evaluating core beliefs, feelings, and behavior. Together we will develop effective and efficient solutions to problems you are facing. I work with my clients to alleviate their symptoms as well as find the root of the issue. Think of this as not only putting on a Band-Aid but also healing the wound! I am a certified clinical trauma therapist as well as a clinical certified PTSD and Complex-PTSD therapist.
I am certified in Cognitive therapy as well as Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and hypnotherapy, ,Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as well as Astrological insightIs and spiritual therapy.
Do you feel overwhelmed and hopeless? Do you want to acquire skills and gain insights that will move you forward to a healthier and brighter future? In a compassionate and supportive environment, I will assist you in evaluating core beliefs, feelings, and behavior. Together we will develop effective and efficient solutions to problems you are facing. I work with my clients to alleviate their symptoms as well as find the root of the issue. Think of this as not only putting on a Band-Aid but also healing the wound! I am a certified clinical trauma therapist as well as a clinical certified PTSD and Complex-PTSD therapist.
(909) 570-2113 View (909) 570-2113
Photo of Patricia Ann LaCocque, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Ann LaCocque
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Are you overwhelmed with negative thoughts, feeling depressed or anxious? No matter how hard you try, your life is still a struggle? I can help. When we are very young, we adapt to our environments to get our needs met for love and safety. And we continue to use those adaptions unconsciously as adults. I can help you understand your symptoms and help you change so that you may be more " in the moment" and experience more peace and joy. I teach Mindfulness, use Internal Family Systems Approach (IFS), EMDR and Hypnotherapy, and the Polyvagal theory.
Are you overwhelmed with negative thoughts, feeling depressed or anxious? No matter how hard you try, your life is still a struggle? I can help. When we are very young, we adapt to our environments to get our needs met for love and safety. And we continue to use those adaptions unconsciously as adults. I can help you understand your symptoms and help you change so that you may be more " in the moment" and experience more peace and joy. I teach Mindfulness, use Internal Family Systems Approach (IFS), EMDR and Hypnotherapy, and the Polyvagal theory.
(510) 369-0360 View (510) 369-0360
Photo of Holly F. Forman-Patel, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly F. Forman-Patel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
I additionally utilize hypnotherapy, ego state therapy, CBT and with children Play Therapy.
Has anxiety and other overwhelming feelings taken control of your life? Did you experience a traumatic event that continues to have impact? Have you spent years in therapy but still feel stuck regarding past events? Are you not performing like you once did in your sport or professional capacity? All of these are common experiences that do not need to continue and can shift to help you lead the life you want.
I additionally utilize hypnotherapy, ego state therapy, CBT and with children Play Therapy.
Has anxiety and other overwhelming feelings taken control of your life? Did you experience a traumatic event that continues to have impact? Have you spent years in therapy but still feel stuck regarding past events? Are you not performing like you once did in your sport or professional capacity? All of these are common experiences that do not need to continue and can shift to help you lead the life you want.
(510) 677-9264 View (510) 677-9264
Photo of Dr. Luz Maria Daley - Daley Wellness Group | Dr. Luz Daley, PsyD, Psychologist
Daley Wellness Group | Dr. Luz Daley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94133  (Online Only)
We practice from an integrated approach to wellness. We combine psychology with hypnotherapy, dreamwork and spirituality. The goal is to tap into the wisdom and healing powers that reside just below conscious awareness. The emergence of self-compassion, self-love and forgiveness builds the foundation that supports transformational healing. We trust each person is the expert in their own life and each person holds the answer they are seeking. Our role is to help those with whom we work to uncover the wisdom and resources they possess.
We practice from an integrated approach to wellness. We combine psychology with hypnotherapy, dreamwork and spirituality. The goal is to tap into the wisdom and healing powers that reside just below conscious awareness. The emergence of self-compassion, self-love and forgiveness builds the foundation that supports transformational healing. We trust each person is the expert in their own life and each person holds the answer they are seeking. Our role is to help those with whom we work to uncover the wisdom and resources they possess.
(209) 370-2663 View (209) 370-2663
Photo of Deborah Joy, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah Joy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94702
I utilize the innovative techniques of EMDR, hypnotherapy and EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique).
I have been working for over 30 years helping a wide range of people create lasting, meaningful changes in their lives. My INDIVIDUAL THERAPY is personally tailored to each client. I use a solution focused approach for short-term issues and an in-depth model for longer term problems. In COUPLES THERAPY I work to create positive connections of closeness and depth, fostering intimacy and trust. In my DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, ABUSE AND ANGER THERAPY my goal is to establish abuse free relationships based on trust, cooperation and mutual support. Through my THERAPY FOR HABIT CHANGE unwanted problematic patterns are transformed.
I utilize the innovative techniques of EMDR, hypnotherapy and EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique).
I have been working for over 30 years helping a wide range of people create lasting, meaningful changes in their lives. My INDIVIDUAL THERAPY is personally tailored to each client. I use a solution focused approach for short-term issues and an in-depth model for longer term problems. In COUPLES THERAPY I work to create positive connections of closeness and depth, fostering intimacy and trust. In my DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, ABUSE AND ANGER THERAPY my goal is to establish abuse free relationships based on trust, cooperation and mutual support. Through my THERAPY FOR HABIT CHANGE unwanted problematic patterns are transformed.
(510) 292-4185 View (510) 292-4185
Photo of Leora Fulvio, MA, MFT, CCHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leora Fulvio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CCHT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608
I work with hypnotherapy, mindfulness, meditation as well as mindful self-compassion and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
If you are suffering with food & body image issues, issues of self-esteem & self-worth, relationship issues or dealing with trauma, I can help you. There are so many women who feel as though they are not enough. They believe that they somehow have to be better, look different, lose weight, be a whole different person to have a good relationship and a happy life. They beat themselves up constantly and are always trying to change. Do you understand this feeling? If so, I can help you have a loving relationship with yourself and settle into who you really are.
I work with hypnotherapy, mindfulness, meditation as well as mindful self-compassion and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
If you are suffering with food & body image issues, issues of self-esteem & self-worth, relationship issues or dealing with trauma, I can help you. There are so many women who feel as though they are not enough. They believe that they somehow have to be better, look different, lose weight, be a whole different person to have a good relationship and a happy life. They beat themselves up constantly and are always trying to change. Do you understand this feeling? If so, I can help you have a loving relationship with yourself and settle into who you really are.
(415) 649-8964 View (415) 649-8964
Photo of Tameko Jones, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tameko Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
My techniques range from tried-and-true talk therapy to additional progress that can be facilitated by hypnotherapy.
As a licensed psychotherapist and certified hypnotherapist with over 20 + years of experience empowering women, my life’s purpose is to provide women a sanctuary. Whether easing anxiety, depression, grief, working through trauma or grappling with life’s hardest questions - I bring an open heart, deep compassion and proven therapy tools to ignite positive change. Having faced struggles myself, I have profound understanding for the issues my clients face on their journeys toward healing. My goal is to help women live their best lives.
My techniques range from tried-and-true talk therapy to additional progress that can be facilitated by hypnotherapy.
As a licensed psychotherapist and certified hypnotherapist with over 20 + years of experience empowering women, my life’s purpose is to provide women a sanctuary. Whether easing anxiety, depression, grief, working through trauma or grappling with life’s hardest questions - I bring an open heart, deep compassion and proven therapy tools to ignite positive change. Having faced struggles myself, I have profound understanding for the issues my clients face on their journeys toward healing. My goal is to help women live their best lives.
(628) 262-2567 View (628) 262-2567
Photo of Valerie Creane, PsyD, CPCC, Psychologist
Valerie Creane
Psychologist, PsyD, CPCC
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94701
I am integrative and experiential in my approach, drawing on my training in trauma informed treatments (such as AEDP and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy), as well as mindfulness, hypnotherapy, and transpersonal modalities.
Have you ever felt like you talk about a painful issue over and over but nothing changes? Are you ready to start your journey to real transformation? Therapy helps us shift underlying patterns that cause distress, heal from past wounds, and mobilize inner strengths, so that we experience greater freedom and fulfillment. For 20 years, I’ve helped clients heal and grow, and cultivate lives of meaning and joy. I offer a holistic approach to counseling, which means I draw on multiple healing modalities, and support you in feeling healthy in all ways. I love this work, and am dedicated to helping you create lasting positive change.
I am integrative and experiential in my approach, drawing on my training in trauma informed treatments (such as AEDP and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy), as well as mindfulness, hypnotherapy, and transpersonal modalities.
Have you ever felt like you talk about a painful issue over and over but nothing changes? Are you ready to start your journey to real transformation? Therapy helps us shift underlying patterns that cause distress, heal from past wounds, and mobilize inner strengths, so that we experience greater freedom and fulfillment. For 20 years, I’ve helped clients heal and grow, and cultivate lives of meaning and joy. I offer a holistic approach to counseling, which means I draw on multiple healing modalities, and support you in feeling healthy in all ways. I love this work, and am dedicated to helping you create lasting positive change.
(510) 250-7544 View (510) 250-7544
Photo of Noah Oderberg, PhD, Psychologist
Noah Oderberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
I am a Psychodynamic Psychologist and do Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and Certified Health Psychology.
Are you struggling with depression, low self-confidence, or anxiety? Are you having difficulties in your relationships or at work? Are you finding it hard to cope with a loss, life transition, or illness? I have brought warmth, knowledge, and compassion to my work with individuals & couples for over 30 years as a Psychologist. My approach to psychotherapy is to create a safe environment through listening and empathy that will enable you to talk about patterns in your life that are causing you distress. My goal is to help you achieve greater life satisfaction, healthier relationships & new sources of self worth.
I am a Psychodynamic Psychologist and do Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and Certified Health Psychology.
Are you struggling with depression, low self-confidence, or anxiety? Are you having difficulties in your relationships or at work? Are you finding it hard to cope with a loss, life transition, or illness? I have brought warmth, knowledge, and compassion to my work with individuals & couples for over 30 years as a Psychologist. My approach to psychotherapy is to create a safe environment through listening and empathy that will enable you to talk about patterns in your life that are causing you distress. My goal is to help you achieve greater life satisfaction, healthier relationships & new sources of self worth.
(510) 404-8846 View (510) 404-8846
HypnoTherapy

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 movie, 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 behavior change or better manage psychological concerns. Therapy sessions may involve guiding you through recognizing 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 hypnotized?

The most common challenge of hypnotherapy is that as many as one in four people cannot be hypnotized. 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 hypnotized may not respond to the technique because of their skepticism 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 behaviors 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.