Hypnotherapists in Belmont, CA

Photo of Carol Jaron, MS, MFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol Jaron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Belmont, CA 94002
Effective imagery/ hypnotherapy if desired.
Your mind and body make a powerful, interwoven pair. Is your body expressing what the thoughts are repressing? Easing and gently lifting your sense of heaviness from anxiety, depression, grief, isolation and emptiness of spirit can be closer than you ever believed! Let me guide you to the other side of "stuck" in your personal and professional relationships, emotions, body issues, and success. When we are in a session all the focus is on being fully present for,and deeply listening to you, offering a clear, kind and soothing direction, towards releasing unhealthy thought patterns by integrating with body feelings.
Effective imagery/ hypnotherapy if desired.
Your mind and body make a powerful, interwoven pair. Is your body expressing what the thoughts are repressing? Easing and gently lifting your sense of heaviness from anxiety, depression, grief, isolation and emptiness of spirit can be closer than you ever believed! Let me guide you to the other side of "stuck" in your personal and professional relationships, emotions, body issues, and success. When we are in a session all the focus is on being fully present for,and deeply listening to you, offering a clear, kind and soothing direction, towards releasing unhealthy thought patterns by integrating with body feelings.
(650) 684-1374 View (650) 684-1374
Steven Hobbs
Psychologist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Belmont, CA 94002
Waitlist for new clients
Each meeting expands my approach to finding solutions to human problems. It's my pleasure to help people enhance their quality of life, improve stress management skills, and renew their emotional resilience, whether the challenge is one of relationship, health, or performance. I have skills in cognitive and health psychology, biofeedback, and hypnosis to aid in rapid progress toward goals. Learning how to quickly gain self-control of one's mind and body easily increases confidence and improves mood. Because I'm focused and active in my work, clients often find my approach refreshing and rewarding.
Each meeting expands my approach to finding solutions to human problems. It's my pleasure to help people enhance their quality of life, improve stress management skills, and renew their emotional resilience, whether the challenge is one of relationship, health, or performance. I have skills in cognitive and health psychology, biofeedback, and hypnosis to aid in rapid progress toward goals. Learning how to quickly gain self-control of one's mind and body easily increases confidence and improves mood. Because I'm focused and active in my work, clients often find my approach refreshing and rewarding.
(650) 924-9394 View (650) 924-9394
Photo of Lindsay Voyles, MA, LMFT, CCHT, RYT-200, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lindsay Voyles
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCHT, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Belmont, CA 94002
Like the Egyptian Phoenix, who rises from the ashes, people have the ability to regenerate themselves from traumatic & negative life experiences, & transform their pain & hardship into sources of strength. It is my role as a psychotherapist to be present with you on your personal journey of growth & self-discovery & to help facilitate a deeper, more authentic connection with yourself & others in your life. Through inner work cultivating & encouraging deeper self-awareness along with compassion for one's self & others, clients can connect with their own innate sense of self & wholeness.
Like the Egyptian Phoenix, who rises from the ashes, people have the ability to regenerate themselves from traumatic & negative life experiences, & transform their pain & hardship into sources of strength. It is my role as a psychotherapist to be present with you on your personal journey of growth & self-discovery & to help facilitate a deeper, more authentic connection with yourself & others in your life. Through inner work cultivating & encouraging deeper self-awareness along with compassion for one's self & others, clients can connect with their own innate sense of self & wholeness.
(415) 949-6016 View (415) 949-6016
Photo of Amie Tyler - Holistic Healing, MATP, CHT, Rev
Amie Tyler - Holistic Healing
MATP, CHT, Rev
Verified Verified
Belmont, CA 94002
Waitlist for new clients
When you are going through a difficult time, seeking to heal a wound, or are embarking on a path of inner transformation, it can be healing to have someone walk beside you. Whether you feel you’re at your lowest low, or you’re experiencing a calling that is pulling your soul to be more of who you are: more authentic, able to see clearly, and feel the freedom to live beyond the limitations of fear, it is an honor for me to meet you there.
When you are going through a difficult time, seeking to heal a wound, or are embarking on a path of inner transformation, it can be healing to have someone walk beside you. Whether you feel you’re at your lowest low, or you’re experiencing a calling that is pulling your soul to be more of who you are: more authentic, able to see clearly, and feel the freedom to live beyond the limitations of fear, it is an honor for me to meet you there.
(650) 860-4365 View (650) 860-4365
Photo of Audrey Vanessa Fairchild, LMFT , LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Audrey Vanessa Fairchild
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT , LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, CA 94002
Not accepting new clients
If you're feeling stuck and need support to find a better way of coping, I can help. If you're feeling grief, anxiety, or depression, I can listen and bring some supportive tools. Working with a past trauma can bring feelings of hopelessness, overwhelm, and anger, We can work to make a plan to change thoughts and behaviors that keep us all stuck. I am a parent and a classroom teacher also, so I can help navigate the school-family relationship, and offer some support about parenting frustrations, interpersonal conflicts, and stress around parenting. I work with youth often and really understand how tough that period of time is.
If you're feeling stuck and need support to find a better way of coping, I can help. If you're feeling grief, anxiety, or depression, I can listen and bring some supportive tools. Working with a past trauma can bring feelings of hopelessness, overwhelm, and anger, We can work to make a plan to change thoughts and behaviors that keep us all stuck. I am a parent and a classroom teacher also, so I can help navigate the school-family relationship, and offer some support about parenting frustrations, interpersonal conflicts, and stress around parenting. I work with youth often and really understand how tough that period of time is.
(650) 275-5450 View (650) 275-5450

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kimberly Mascaro, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Mascaro
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94062  (Online Only)
Allow me to support you and help you thrive! Employed in the fields of mental/behavioral health, and education, since 1999, I'm also certified in guided meditation/yoga nidra, hypnotherapy, and integrative mental health.
Everyone wants to live a life of purpose and meaning. Whether you are currently facing challenging times, or desiring support in your next life chapter, I'm here for you. I'm known for my warm, relational approach and holistic style, integrating multiple therapeutic approaches. Currently, I serve a diverse adult population (primarily women in the 20s through their 50s) in many aspects of their lives, such as creativity, spirituality, post-trauma care, ADHD and executive functioning, anxiety, postpartum, big life transitions, grief/loss, cancer support, sleep and dreams, and late stage recovery.
Allow me to support you and help you thrive! Employed in the fields of mental/behavioral health, and education, since 1999, I'm also certified in guided meditation/yoga nidra, hypnotherapy, and integrative mental health.
Everyone wants to live a life of purpose and meaning. Whether you are currently facing challenging times, or desiring support in your next life chapter, I'm here for you. I'm known for my warm, relational approach and holistic style, integrating multiple therapeutic approaches. Currently, I serve a diverse adult population (primarily women in the 20s through their 50s) in many aspects of their lives, such as creativity, spirituality, post-trauma care, ADHD and executive functioning, anxiety, postpartum, big life transitions, grief/loss, cancer support, sleep and dreams, and late stage recovery.
(530) 203-5874 View (530) 203-5874
Photo of Debra D Rojas, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra D Rojas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
Specialties unique to my practice: Relationship issues (divorce, remarriage, blended families, parenting); Hypnotherapy for deep inner healing; Medical Hypnosis (preparing for surgery or managing health related diagnoses); Career testing, (changing careers or college planning); Difficulties in school I offer testing to determine strengths and areas which need development.
Are you Overwhelmed, Frustrated or Sad? Do you ask yourself 'Is this all there is?' Has a medical diagnosis or an upcoming surgery got you unnerved? If you're depressed, anxious, angry, grieving, facing divorce, or experiencing family discord, I can help make your life more manageable.
Specialties unique to my practice: Relationship issues (divorce, remarriage, blended families, parenting); Hypnotherapy for deep inner healing; Medical Hypnosis (preparing for surgery or managing health related diagnoses); Career testing, (changing careers or college planning); Difficulties in school I offer testing to determine strengths and areas which need development.
Are you Overwhelmed, Frustrated or Sad? Do you ask yourself 'Is this all there is?' Has a medical diagnosis or an upcoming surgery got you unnerved? If you're depressed, anxious, angry, grieving, facing divorce, or experiencing family discord, I can help make your life more manageable.
(650) 300-4180 View (650) 300-4180
Photo of Tammy Lee Anderson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tammy Lee Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94027  (Online Only)
She also holds an Advanced certificate in Clinical Hypnotherapy.
Online Video Appointments only. Wellness Counseling. Focused on Personal Empowerment. Grief, Stress Reduction, Life coaching, Mindfulness practice, and Hypnotherapy are some of what I offer. Stress reduction strategies, management of depression, anxiety, PTSD, Loss and Grief, physical pain management and overall general well-being. Contact me through email: balance93612@gmail.com
She also holds an Advanced certificate in Clinical Hypnotherapy.
Online Video Appointments only. Wellness Counseling. Focused on Personal Empowerment. Grief, Stress Reduction, Life coaching, Mindfulness practice, and Hypnotherapy are some of what I offer. Stress reduction strategies, management of depression, anxiety, PTSD, Loss and Grief, physical pain management and overall general well-being. Contact me through email: balance93612@gmail.com
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Photo of Michelle Stupar - Michelle Stupar-Integrative Mind Body Solutions, CHT, BScPsy
Michelle Stupar-Integrative Mind Body Solutions
CHT, BScPsy
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94404
Hypnotherapy explores the subconscious in discovering hidden core beliefs.
Helping to uncover the root cause of distress by uncovering negative patterns and addressing painful mental states such as avoidance, isolation, people-pleasing, low self-esteem, confusion, worry, stress, and anxiety while working together to come up with a customized plan to manage the situation to feel more in control and live a happier more fulfilling life. Our approach is direct, positive & uplifting using a customized therapeutic approach in a supportive and accepting manner. We believe that through education along with a focused therapeutic approach yields the most successful results and I am there every step of the way.
Hypnotherapy explores the subconscious in discovering hidden core beliefs.
Helping to uncover the root cause of distress by uncovering negative patterns and addressing painful mental states such as avoidance, isolation, people-pleasing, low self-esteem, confusion, worry, stress, and anxiety while working together to come up with a customized plan to manage the situation to feel more in control and live a happier more fulfilling life. Our approach is direct, positive & uplifting using a customized therapeutic approach in a supportive and accepting manner. We believe that through education along with a focused therapeutic approach yields the most successful results and I am there every step of the way.
(415) 787-4912 View (415) 787-4912
Photo of Anna McQuinn, PhD, MFT, PSY, Psychologist
Anna McQuinn
Psychologist, PhD, MFT, PSY
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Individual, Couples, & Family Therapy, Neurobiology of Relationships, Stress Adaptation, Aging, Premarital Counseling, Postpartum Depression, Addiction, Trauma, Divorce Psychotherapy, Trauma Therapy, Life Transitions/ Developmental Transitions, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Anxiety and Depression disorders, Stress management, Integrative Theoretical Model.
Dr. McQuinn is a licensed Clinical Psychologist and a licensed Marital and Family therapist. Dr. Anna McQuinn has been a Tenured Professor of Notre Dame de Namur University where she has been chair of the Clinical Psychology Graduate Department since 1987. She has also been an Adjunct Faculty member at the University of San Francisco graduate Psychology program. Currently she is a Professor Emeritus at the NDNU & has a private practice in San Carlos. She believes that Psychotherapy Healing takes place within the relational model. There is a profound unconscious connection between therapist and client & a mutuality of influence.
Individual, Couples, & Family Therapy, Neurobiology of Relationships, Stress Adaptation, Aging, Premarital Counseling, Postpartum Depression, Addiction, Trauma, Divorce Psychotherapy, Trauma Therapy, Life Transitions/ Developmental Transitions, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Anxiety and Depression disorders, Stress management, Integrative Theoretical Model.
Dr. McQuinn is a licensed Clinical Psychologist and a licensed Marital and Family therapist. Dr. Anna McQuinn has been a Tenured Professor of Notre Dame de Namur University where she has been chair of the Clinical Psychology Graduate Department since 1987. She has also been an Adjunct Faculty member at the University of San Francisco graduate Psychology program. Currently she is a Professor Emeritus at the NDNU & has a private practice in San Carlos. She believes that Psychotherapy Healing takes place within the relational model. There is a profound unconscious connection between therapist and client & a mutuality of influence.
(650) 508-1942 View (650) 508-1942
Photo of Saadia Faouzi, MFT, MA, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Saadia Faouzi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303
Using tools such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Hypnotherapy, I will work with you to redeem your authentic self! I provide therapy in French and English I provide telehealth using a HIPPA compliant platform.
Are you unhappy? Do you feel less and less motivated and it's getting hard for you to be yourself fully? Are you anxious? Depressed? Angry? Do you feel misunderstood and blamed? Are you overwhelmed? Do you feel lost and you don't know what to do? My therapy services can help you. Using therapy tools that work, I will help you overcome the road blocks that are on the way to your true self and to your happiness. My therapy services are client centered, individualized and strength based. Most importantly, they are tailored to meet your values and cultural needs.
Using tools such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Hypnotherapy, I will work with you to redeem your authentic self! I provide therapy in French and English I provide telehealth using a HIPPA compliant platform.
Are you unhappy? Do you feel less and less motivated and it's getting hard for you to be yourself fully? Are you anxious? Depressed? Angry? Do you feel misunderstood and blamed? Are you overwhelmed? Do you feel lost and you don't know what to do? My therapy services can help you. Using therapy tools that work, I will help you overcome the road blocks that are on the way to your true self and to your happiness. My therapy services are client centered, individualized and strength based. Most importantly, they are tailored to meet your values and cultural needs.
(408) 763-4115 View (408) 763-4115
Photo of Harsha Vaishnav - Hypnotherapy & Reiki @ Natural Health Center, BS, CCHT, Reiki
Hypnotherapy & Reiki @ Natural Health Center
BS, CCHT, Reiki
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301
I welcome the opportunity to empower you in your healing journey through Hypnotherapy and also share techniques such as EFT, NLP, guided imagery and relaxation.
Seeking solutions that bring balance and calm in your life? I offer guided mind body healing therapies such as Hypnotherapy and EFT, that empower you to find solutions for the following issues: PAIN, INSOMNIA, GRIEF, WEIGHT, ANXIETY, STRESS, TRAUMA, HABITS, CRAVINGS, RELATIONSHIPS, or PAST LIVES. Hypnotherapy can be effective in building a bridge between the conscious mind and subconscious mind in order to explore the source and solutions of emotional, mental, and physical issues. This expanded state of consciousness allows for genuine realizations and the motivation to implement lasting transformations.
I welcome the opportunity to empower you in your healing journey through Hypnotherapy and also share techniques such as EFT, NLP, guided imagery and relaxation.
Seeking solutions that bring balance and calm in your life? I offer guided mind body healing therapies such as Hypnotherapy and EFT, that empower you to find solutions for the following issues: PAIN, INSOMNIA, GRIEF, WEIGHT, ANXIETY, STRESS, TRAUMA, HABITS, CRAVINGS, RELATIONSHIPS, or PAST LIVES. Hypnotherapy can be effective in building a bridge between the conscious mind and subconscious mind in order to explore the source and solutions of emotional, mental, and physical issues. This expanded state of consciousness allows for genuine realizations and the motivation to implement lasting transformations.
(408) 707-3142 View (408) 707-3142
Photo of Sahibou Oumarou - 'Mind Your Stories & Live Well', PhD,  MA
'Mind Your Stories & Live Well'
PhD, MA
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94403
I am a Transpersonal Psychologist, Clinical Hypnotherapist, and Life Coach. My approach to healing is diverse and integrative. I use a combination of my skills to help clients progress in their lives, addressing their core needs to feel well, love and be loved, achieve success, and find fulfillment. I am equipped with a broad range of skills to meet these essential needs.
I am a Transpersonal Psychologist, Clinical Hypnotherapist, and Life Coach. My approach to healing is diverse and integrative. I use a combination of my skills to help clients progress in their lives, addressing their core needs to feel well, love and be loved, achieve success, and find fulfillment. I am equipped with a broad range of skills to meet these essential needs.
(650) 618-2204 View (650) 618-2204
Photo of Christina Arguello, MA, LMFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Arguello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94403  (Online Only)
Currently full - Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or a lack of well-being and can't stop thinking about past hurtful events? I provide compassionate mindfulness-based trauma-informed therapy to individuals struggling with family and relationship conflict, grief & loss, the impact of trauma, and stress reduction. I believe that you deserve to be in a therapeutic relationship that is safe, validating, and collaborative. We all deserve this :)
Currently full - Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or a lack of well-being and can't stop thinking about past hurtful events? I provide compassionate mindfulness-based trauma-informed therapy to individuals struggling with family and relationship conflict, grief & loss, the impact of trauma, and stress reduction. I believe that you deserve to be in a therapeutic relationship that is safe, validating, and collaborative. We all deserve this :)
(650) 282-3418 View (650) 282-3418
Photo of Amanda B Feinstein, PhD, Psychologist
Amanda B Feinstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94063  (Online Only)
Living with chronic pain or a chronic illness can be challenging. But finding the right support to help you on your journey can be transformative. I worked for 9 years in the Pediatric Pain Management Clinic at Stanford University School of Medicine teaching patients coping skills for better managing pain and improving function. Skills I teach typically align with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnosis, and Mindfulness Based interventions. I also have training in EMDR to address trauma, and have specific focus in Medical Trauma. In addition to working with individuals with medical conditions, I also treat anxiety and depression.
Living with chronic pain or a chronic illness can be challenging. But finding the right support to help you on your journey can be transformative. I worked for 9 years in the Pediatric Pain Management Clinic at Stanford University School of Medicine teaching patients coping skills for better managing pain and improving function. Skills I teach typically align with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnosis, and Mindfulness Based interventions. I also have training in EMDR to address trauma, and have specific focus in Medical Trauma. In addition to working with individuals with medical conditions, I also treat anxiety and depression.
(650) 539-6596 View (650) 539-6596
Photo of Peter Aston, PsyD, Psychologist
Peter Aston
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist (PSY32050) who provides individual psychotherapy and performance consultation to adults. I specialize in working with high-performance athletes and professionals, and in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, stress and trauma.
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist (PSY32050) who provides individual psychotherapy and performance consultation to adults. I specialize in working with high-performance athletes and professionals, and in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, stress and trauma.
(408) 547-2418 View (408) 547-2418
Photo of Susan E James, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan E James
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303
Having many years experience in both research and practice,I provide counseling that produces positive change. My style is straightforward yet nurturing to help my clients accelerate their personal growth, goal accomplishment or recovery. I help people identify and change their underlying beliefs that drive their problems.
Having many years experience in both research and practice,I provide counseling that produces positive change. My style is straightforward yet nurturing to help my clients accelerate their personal growth, goal accomplishment or recovery. I help people identify and change their underlying beliefs that drive their problems.
(415) 800-1179 View (415) 800-1179
Photo of Mary Pat Killoran, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Pat Killoran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with addiction or loving someone who is? Are life transitions like divorce, the loss of a relationship, or grief weighing you down? Life can be incredibly challenging when you're facing issues like addiction, navigating the complexities of loving an alcoholic, or dealing with the heartbreak of a relationship ending. These struggles can leave you feeling lost, overwhelmed, and unsure of where to turn next. You don't have to face them alone. Whether you're dealing with depression, relationship problems, or the deep pain of grief, I'm here to help you find a way forward. Together, we can explore your feelings, iden
Are you struggling with addiction or loving someone who is? Are life transitions like divorce, the loss of a relationship, or grief weighing you down? Life can be incredibly challenging when you're facing issues like addiction, navigating the complexities of loving an alcoholic, or dealing with the heartbreak of a relationship ending. These struggles can leave you feeling lost, overwhelmed, and unsure of where to turn next. You don't have to face them alone. Whether you're dealing with depression, relationship problems, or the deep pain of grief, I'm here to help you find a way forward. Together, we can explore your feelings, iden
(650) 487-1660 View (650) 487-1660
Photo of Odette Dahi, LMFT, CCHt, Mscd, Marriage & Family Therapist
Odette Dahi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCHt, Mscd
Verified Verified
Atherton, CA 94027
My dear future client, welcome to my page. I am here to help you heal your soul and heart. Maybe you are feeling some unresolved issues and need an empathic professional to listen. Maybe you are tired of talking and you just want to heal your energy. Maybe you are just looking for something out of the box because your soul is seeking something higher. Well, you are definitely in the right place.
My dear future client, welcome to my page. I am here to help you heal your soul and heart. Maybe you are feeling some unresolved issues and need an empathic professional to listen. Maybe you are tired of talking and you just want to heal your energy. Maybe you are just looking for something out of the box because your soul is seeking something higher. Well, you are definitely in the right place.
(424) 372-0836 View (424) 372-0836
Photo of T. Stephen Pierce, Marriage & Family Therapist
T. Stephen Pierce
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Atherton, CA 94027  (Online Only)
I’m Steve Pierce, a licensed marriage and family therapist since 2012. I’m also a veteran, and a former first responder; familiar with blended families, cultural diversity, trauma, grief, and loss. After I spent several years as a therapist for a county agency, I’m now in private practice providing services throughout California and Oregon by Zoom, specializing in couples and individual therapy. I want to hear your story and your hopes. I’m confident that I can help you achieve your desired changes to “live your best life."
I’m Steve Pierce, a licensed marriage and family therapist since 2012. I’m also a veteran, and a former first responder; familiar with blended families, cultural diversity, trauma, grief, and loss. After I spent several years as a therapist for a county agency, I’m now in private practice providing services throughout California and Oregon by Zoom, specializing in couples and individual therapy. I want to hear your story and your hopes. I’m confident that I can help you achieve your desired changes to “live your best life."
(541) 804-8741 View (541) 804-8741
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.