Photo of Leslie Hunt Palumbo, Leslie Hunt Palumbo, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Hunt Palumbo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Leslie Hunt Palumbo, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
Life is full of change and the unexpected. Have you been blindsided by one of the many curveballs life can throw at you? Realigning after a huge change- be it the loss of a loved one, separation/divorce, job change, health shift, or even college graduation- can be a challenging process. I love to help people adjust, grow, and transform though these shifts, seeing the forest through the trees to come to a fuller, more centered perspective on all that life still has to offer. Finding our way back to peace and the restoration of joy can feel overwhelming and we could all use some support in this process.
Life is full of change and the unexpected. Have you been blindsided by one of the many curveballs life can throw at you? Realigning after a huge change- be it the loss of a loved one, separation/divorce, job change, health shift, or even college graduation- can be a challenging process. I love to help people adjust, grow, and transform though these shifts, seeing the forest through the trees to come to a fuller, more centered perspective on all that life still has to offer. Finding our way back to peace and the restoration of joy can feel overwhelming and we could all use some support in this process.
(203) 896-8844 View (203) 896-8844
Photo of Malinda L Fehon, PhD, Psychologist
Malinda L Fehon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
Waitlist for new clients
Working from a positive, whole-person perspective that is grounded in a psychodynamic and relational approach, I work with clients to navigate, understand, and resolve experiences of distress, relational challenges, life transitions, and health difficulties. As a Clinical Health Psychologist with an Integrative Medicine background, I have had the honor of helping people address and overcome a wide variety of challenges for over 20 years. My areas of expertise include coping with major life-adjustments, health conditions and cancer, significant stress/burn-out, relationship and parenting challenges, grief/loss, and work-life balance.
Working from a positive, whole-person perspective that is grounded in a psychodynamic and relational approach, I work with clients to navigate, understand, and resolve experiences of distress, relational challenges, life transitions, and health difficulties. As a Clinical Health Psychologist with an Integrative Medicine background, I have had the honor of helping people address and overcome a wide variety of challenges for over 20 years. My areas of expertise include coping with major life-adjustments, health conditions and cancer, significant stress/burn-out, relationship and parenting challenges, grief/loss, and work-life balance.
(203) 787-8995 View (203) 787-8995
Photo of Leesa Sklover, PhD, LPC, MA-MT, C-IAYT, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leesa Sklover
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MA-MT, C-IAYT, CRC
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
I listen with caring and compassion. Lifetime experience with counseling and integrative therapies, 27 years. Gain a sense of meaning as I witness your life and needs, making you feel understood. Specializing in Family and Couple enhancement. Pregnancy, Prenatal-Postpartum support. Parent, Child, Adult Therapy, Entertainment/ Sports industry- Mental Performance, Creative Guidance. Speaker-Therapist-Canyon Ranch Spa (12 yrs), Hospitals, Crisis Work-First Responders. People seeking counseling are often in transitional life stages. Turn doubt and anxiety around. It's a pleasure looking at life and relationships, with the right person.
I listen with caring and compassion. Lifetime experience with counseling and integrative therapies, 27 years. Gain a sense of meaning as I witness your life and needs, making you feel understood. Specializing in Family and Couple enhancement. Pregnancy, Prenatal-Postpartum support. Parent, Child, Adult Therapy, Entertainment/ Sports industry- Mental Performance, Creative Guidance. Speaker-Therapist-Canyon Ranch Spa (12 yrs), Hospitals, Crisis Work-First Responders. People seeking counseling are often in transitional life stages. Turn doubt and anxiety around. It's a pleasure looking at life and relationships, with the right person.
(203) 872-9525 View (203) 872-9525

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cecelia Hope Manley, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cecelia Hope Manley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Guilford, CT 06437  (Online Only)
Counseling may include telling your story for insight, catharsis, and witnessing; conscious choices; healthy boundaries; changing thoughts and the body's energy field; EMDR for trauma resolution; EFT; role playing; inquiry; creative visualization; affirmations; hypnotherapy; bibliotherapy; values clarification; exercise; nutrition; meditation and prayer.
Counseling facilitates discovery and mastery of your inner resources. Spend less time on what you perceive as "wrong" and more time determining your true desires and manifesting them. View problems as opportunities to release limitations, to grow and to experience more joy. Clarify your true desires; learn that you are a powerful creator - in thought, word and deed. Recognize the guidance communicated by your emotions; focus on what is wanted now; release negative thoughts, images and bio-energetic blocks; allow more joy and good into your life; resolve trauma; manage stress and balance health by attending to body, mind and spirit.
Counseling may include telling your story for insight, catharsis, and witnessing; conscious choices; healthy boundaries; changing thoughts and the body's energy field; EMDR for trauma resolution; EFT; role playing; inquiry; creative visualization; affirmations; hypnotherapy; bibliotherapy; values clarification; exercise; nutrition; meditation and prayer.
Counseling facilitates discovery and mastery of your inner resources. Spend less time on what you perceive as "wrong" and more time determining your true desires and manifesting them. View problems as opportunities to release limitations, to grow and to experience more joy. Clarify your true desires; learn that you are a powerful creator - in thought, word and deed. Recognize the guidance communicated by your emotions; focus on what is wanted now; release negative thoughts, images and bio-energetic blocks; allow more joy and good into your life; resolve trauma; manage stress and balance health by attending to body, mind and spirit.
(203) 745-2138 View (203) 745-2138
Photo of Barry Gordon, LMFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barry Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Guilford, CT 06437  (Online Only)
My practice is devoted to supporting families, couples, and individuals through the often difficult life transitions and challenges. I offer a non-judgemental, creative approach leading to the resolution of many difficult patterns, habits, and illnesses. Modalities include and are not limited to hypnotherapy, energy healing, gestalt therapy, family constellations, couples therapy, and strategic therapy.
My practice is devoted to supporting families, couples, and individuals through the often difficult life transitions and challenges. I offer a non-judgemental, creative approach leading to the resolution of many difficult patterns, habits, and illnesses. Modalities include and are not limited to hypnotherapy, energy healing, gestalt therapy, family constellations, couples therapy, and strategic therapy.
(203) 318-4933 View (203) 318-4933
Photo of Maria Rivera Heath Llc, LMFT, NBCCH, CYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Rivera Heath Llc
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, NBCCH, CYT
Verified Verified
Guilford, CT 06437  (Online Only)
"The power for change is found when we take a look inside ourselves and then we can move forward with that new found knowledge." Now that's exciting! I am biligual & bicultural. I am fluent in Spanish and English. I treat individuals for issues attributed to childhood and or adult trauma. Parenting & Women's issues. As well as depression, anxieties, addiction, and narcissistic abuse surviviors using a systemic and experiential approach. I aim at assisting you in solving the problems you're facing here and now. I'm certified in Gestalt Therapy, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy and Narcissistic Abuse Treatment (through Dr. Ramani)
"The power for change is found when we take a look inside ourselves and then we can move forward with that new found knowledge." Now that's exciting! I am biligual & bicultural. I am fluent in Spanish and English. I treat individuals for issues attributed to childhood and or adult trauma. Parenting & Women's issues. As well as depression, anxieties, addiction, and narcissistic abuse surviviors using a systemic and experiential approach. I aim at assisting you in solving the problems you're facing here and now. I'm certified in Gestalt Therapy, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy and Narcissistic Abuse Treatment (through Dr. Ramani)
(203) 941-0906 View (203) 941-0906
Photo of Cynthia M Chase, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia M Chase
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Guilford, CT 06437
At the core of you is a vibrant, wise and transcendent self. Discover your true potential. You have within you all the answers you have been searching for. Traveling to that deep part of yourself with an experienced guide makes all the difference.In an atmosphere of trust and respect you will have the opportunity to reflect out loud about your struggles and conflicts. Through the revelation of your self to yourself in the presence of the caring "other" the challenges that you face become lighter, the path to resolution becomes clearer. Also, consider taking classes to become a Reiki practitioner/Master. Live your life's purpose!
At the core of you is a vibrant, wise and transcendent self. Discover your true potential. You have within you all the answers you have been searching for. Traveling to that deep part of yourself with an experienced guide makes all the difference.In an atmosphere of trust and respect you will have the opportunity to reflect out loud about your struggles and conflicts. Through the revelation of your self to yourself in the presence of the caring "other" the challenges that you face become lighter, the path to resolution becomes clearer. Also, consider taking classes to become a Reiki practitioner/Master. Live your life's purpose!
(347) 474-7058 View (347) 474-7058
Photo of Joseph M. Fitzgerald, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph M. Fitzgerald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Guilford, CT 06437
+ Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, or other symptoms that you think are related to a traumatic incident in your distant or recent past? + If the trauma was extended over time, such as a childhood or adult abusive relationship, do you feel like something is wrong with you, or experience feelings like fatigue, lack of motivation, low self esteem or distance from loved ones? + If you experienced a catastrophic event such as being attacked, being in combat, an accident or natural disaster, do you experience nightmares, flashbacks, or unexplainable symptoms like sudden temper flare ups, bursting into tears, or spacing out?
+ Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, or other symptoms that you think are related to a traumatic incident in your distant or recent past? + If the trauma was extended over time, such as a childhood or adult abusive relationship, do you feel like something is wrong with you, or experience feelings like fatigue, lack of motivation, low self esteem or distance from loved ones? + If you experienced a catastrophic event such as being attacked, being in combat, an accident or natural disaster, do you experience nightmares, flashbacks, or unexplainable symptoms like sudden temper flare ups, bursting into tears, or spacing out?
(203) 350-3036 View (203) 350-3036
Photo of J. Edward Lynch, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
J. Edward Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Branford, CT 06405
I work with individuals who are suffering from trauma, abuse ,depression, and anxiety. I also treat relationship issues and marriage therapy. I have a strong background in individual, couple, and family psychotherapy. I treat trauma victims, PTSD, and do Family Constellation work.
I work with individuals who are suffering from trauma, abuse ,depression, and anxiety. I also treat relationship issues and marriage therapy. I have a strong background in individual, couple, and family psychotherapy. I treat trauma victims, PTSD, and do Family Constellation work.
(203) 884-0795 View (203) 884-0795

Online Therapists

Photo of Christine M Cowell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine M Cowell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Milford, CT 06460
I am trained in EFT, (emotionally focused couples therapy), EMDR, Hypnotherapy and other modalities.
Taking the first step can be difficult but finding the right therapist can make all the difference. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, marital or relationship issues, I can help. My approach to therapy focuses on you and the changes you wish to make in your life. My goal isn't to keep you in therapy forever, it's to help you find solutions so you can enjoy life once again. Together you and I will target problem areas utilizing your strengths to resolve challenges, find solutions and develop closer more intimate relationships.
I am trained in EFT, (emotionally focused couples therapy), EMDR, Hypnotherapy and other modalities.
Taking the first step can be difficult but finding the right therapist can make all the difference. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, marital or relationship issues, I can help. My approach to therapy focuses on you and the changes you wish to make in your life. My goal isn't to keep you in therapy forever, it's to help you find solutions so you can enjoy life once again. Together you and I will target problem areas utilizing your strengths to resolve challenges, find solutions and develop closer more intimate relationships.
(203) 528-0976 View (203) 528-0976
Photo of Denise Cirillo-Romaniello, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Cirillo-Romaniello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, CT 06468  (Online Only)
Hypnotherapy/relaxation, can help you to relax while expressing feelings and conflicts bringing them towards resolutions.
I like to focus on helping people to find their passion in life. My holistic approach can help to relieve your uneasiness, fears, and problems in order to live a healthier, more satisfying life every single day. I specialize in hypnotherapy, Mindfulness practice, CBT, and EFT to eliminate negative beliefs and capitalize on strengths to help you achieve your goals. I believe that thoughts and emotions have a direct impact on your physical and emotional wellness. Anxiety, stress, and internal conflict can negatively affect your health and overall physical state which can effect how you enjoy your life.
Hypnotherapy/relaxation, can help you to relax while expressing feelings and conflicts bringing them towards resolutions.
I like to focus on helping people to find their passion in life. My holistic approach can help to relieve your uneasiness, fears, and problems in order to live a healthier, more satisfying life every single day. I specialize in hypnotherapy, Mindfulness practice, CBT, and EFT to eliminate negative beliefs and capitalize on strengths to help you achieve your goals. I believe that thoughts and emotions have a direct impact on your physical and emotional wellness. Anxiety, stress, and internal conflict can negatively affect your health and overall physical state which can effect how you enjoy your life.
(203) 457-6237 View (203) 457-6237
Photo of Kristin Ljungberg, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristin Ljungberg
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avon, CT 06001
Don’t give up, you are not alone. When we are experiencing emotional pain, healing occurs when an empathic and compassionate therapist helps to explore and understand what your psyche needs. Pain is inevitable at times for all humans, although suffering does not have to be. Emotional discomfort is the signal from your psyche that change is necessary and crises and challenges can be opportunities for our psyche to heal and grow. If you have experienced a loss, are trying to manage conflicts with a partner, friend or colleague, or seeking to improve your relationship with yourself, psychotherapy or hypnotherapy can be helpful.
Don’t give up, you are not alone. When we are experiencing emotional pain, healing occurs when an empathic and compassionate therapist helps to explore and understand what your psyche needs. Pain is inevitable at times for all humans, although suffering does not have to be. Emotional discomfort is the signal from your psyche that change is necessary and crises and challenges can be opportunities for our psyche to heal and grow. If you have experienced a loss, are trying to manage conflicts with a partner, friend or colleague, or seeking to improve your relationship with yourself, psychotherapy or hypnotherapy can be helpful.
(860) 385-2388 View (860) 385-2388
Photo of Angelique De Nofa -  Copper Penny Guidance, LLC - Angelique De Nofa , LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Copper Penny Guidance, LLC - Angelique De Nofa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06905  (Online Only)
As a seasoned therapist, I am curious, interactive and enjoy working with clients who are willing to cultivate a working relationship. Together we can work towards your goal, demystify your patterns, and shine a light into blind spots. When you're stuck in a cycle, used what's worked in the past with little success, it's time to seek guidance. I offer EMDR, clinical hypnotherapy, parts psychology, executive functioning skills, EQ (and more) to support your Whole Self in this collective world.
As a seasoned therapist, I am curious, interactive and enjoy working with clients who are willing to cultivate a working relationship. Together we can work towards your goal, demystify your patterns, and shine a light into blind spots. When you're stuck in a cycle, used what's worked in the past with little success, it's time to seek guidance. I offer EMDR, clinical hypnotherapy, parts psychology, executive functioning skills, EQ (and more) to support your Whole Self in this collective world.
View
Photo of Sheree K Surdam, CPC, CHT
Sheree K Surdam
CPC, CHT
Verified Verified
New Milford, CT 06776
Then, using the concepts of neuroplasticity with hypnotherapy as the vehicle, we dive deeper into your unconscious where lasting changes can be made.
As a person who has been challenged by my own anxiety issues and sought help and insight through counseling, I understand that it often takes more than just knowing your "story" to create effective and lasting change. I discovered hypnotherapy as a "last resort" and within eight sessions my general anxiety decreased and my fear of flying all but disappeared. I believe the key to that kind of change comes from an openness to possibilities and a readiness to let go of old thought patterns and beliefs that no longer serve you.,
Then, using the concepts of neuroplasticity with hypnotherapy as the vehicle, we dive deeper into your unconscious where lasting changes can be made.
As a person who has been challenged by my own anxiety issues and sought help and insight through counseling, I understand that it often takes more than just knowing your "story" to create effective and lasting change. I discovered hypnotherapy as a "last resort" and within eight sessions my general anxiety decreased and my fear of flying all but disappeared. I believe the key to that kind of change comes from an openness to possibilities and a readiness to let go of old thought patterns and beliefs that no longer serve you.,
(860) 407-5086 View (860) 407-5086
Photo of Michael N Rosenbaum, ACHT, MP, OM
Michael N Rosenbaum
ACHT, MP, OM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Danbury, CT 06811
Using tools like hypnotherapy counseling, regression therapy, and guided meditation, I can help you break free from destructive patterns holding you back.
You wake up in the morning, and already the stress begins. An endless stream of "what ifs" race through your mind at dizzying speeds. What if this happens? What if that happens? You begin to lose confidence and you have a sinking feeling in your stomach. No matter how well you’ve planned your life, the constant negative self-talk never lets up. It’s exhausting! You’ve tried finding a solution on your own, but the self-help books, yoga, and positive affirmations have all proven temporary. Is it possible to permanently feel better? Is there something inherently wrong with me?
Using tools like hypnotherapy counseling, regression therapy, and guided meditation, I can help you break free from destructive patterns holding you back.
You wake up in the morning, and already the stress begins. An endless stream of "what ifs" race through your mind at dizzying speeds. What if this happens? What if that happens? You begin to lose confidence and you have a sinking feeling in your stomach. No matter how well you’ve planned your life, the constant negative self-talk never lets up. It’s exhausting! You’ve tried finding a solution on your own, but the self-help books, yoga, and positive affirmations have all proven temporary. Is it possible to permanently feel better? Is there something inherently wrong with me?
(914) 281-2734 View (914) 281-2734
Photo of Ruth Guedes -  Hypnosis, Life Coach, NLP & EFT, Emotion Code
Hypnosis, Life Coach, NLP & EFT, Emotion Code
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelton, CT 06484
I provide an opportunity for change through Hypnotherapy, Neuro Linguistic programming (NLP), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Parts Therapy, Inner Child Work and the Emotion Code System.
I am offering a one on one session to help you reach your goals through: Hypnotherapy, EFT, NLP and Emotion Code. Release stress, anxiety, phobias, low self esteem, weight, stop smoking, negative belief systems, negative thought patterns, poor study habits, nervousness, submissive behavior, sleep issues, pre & post surgery, emotional difficulties and much more. Change your mind and change your life. The key to success is to change the programming that is embedded in your subconscious mind. Gain confidence and motivation, increase your happiness, increase your focus, perform your best, improve your health, get rid of bad habits, enhance your life.
I provide an opportunity for change through Hypnotherapy, Neuro Linguistic programming (NLP), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Parts Therapy, Inner Child Work and the Emotion Code System.
I am offering a one on one session to help you reach your goals through: Hypnotherapy, EFT, NLP and Emotion Code. Release stress, anxiety, phobias, low self esteem, weight, stop smoking, negative belief systems, negative thought patterns, poor study habits, nervousness, submissive behavior, sleep issues, pre & post surgery, emotional difficulties and much more. Change your mind and change your life. The key to success is to change the programming that is embedded in your subconscious mind. Gain confidence and motivation, increase your happiness, increase your focus, perform your best, improve your health, get rid of bad habits, enhance your life.
(203) 490-0747 View (203) 490-0747
Photo of Lisa Annunziato, MA, MS, LPCA, CCHt
Lisa Annunziato
LPC Associate, MA, MS, LPCA, CCHt
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newtown, CT 06470  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the first step toward potentially changing your life for the better. Partnering with the right therapist is of primary importance to your healing journey. I have been described as compassionate, authentic, nonjudgmental, and honest, with a well-placed spark of humor. A therapy session with me might be based in person-centered modalities, mindfulness, holistic practices (like meditation or hypnotherapy), or whatever you need. I have experience with and truly value working with adolescents, adults, and older adults diverse in gender, race, sexual orientation, and beliefs. All are welcome.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward potentially changing your life for the better. Partnering with the right therapist is of primary importance to your healing journey. I have been described as compassionate, authentic, nonjudgmental, and honest, with a well-placed spark of humor. A therapy session with me might be based in person-centered modalities, mindfulness, holistic practices (like meditation or hypnotherapy), or whatever you need. I have experience with and truly value working with adolescents, adults, and older adults diverse in gender, race, sexual orientation, and beliefs. All are welcome.
(860) 891-6754 View (860) 891-6754
Photo of Kim Nagle - Creative Hypnosis LLC, CH, CI
Creative Hypnosis LLC
CH, CI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489
Creative Hypnosis LLC, Hypnosis is being open to suggestion and can bring positive changes to your life such as change smoking habits, manage weight, relieve stress, and trauma symptoms. Using hypnotherapy We will work together to achieve your greatest potential through changing perceptions, patterns and other issues. In a safe environment you experience increased self esteem, freedom from emotional distress and deep healing. For trauma survivors I also practice Holographic Memory Resolution®, a trauma treatment using energy psychology, color psychology, internal family systems and hypnotherapy.
Creative Hypnosis LLC, Hypnosis is being open to suggestion and can bring positive changes to your life such as change smoking habits, manage weight, relieve stress, and trauma symptoms. Using hypnotherapy We will work together to achieve your greatest potential through changing perceptions, patterns and other issues. In a safe environment you experience increased self esteem, freedom from emotional distress and deep healing. For trauma survivors I also practice Holographic Memory Resolution®, a trauma treatment using energy psychology, color psychology, internal family systems and hypnotherapy.
(203) 403-2114 View (203) 403-2114
Photo of Jennifer A Tattersall, LCSW, CCDP, CBIS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer A Tattersall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCDP, CBIS
Verified Verified
Norwich, CT 06360
Despite difficulties in life, I believe people have an amazing amount of resilience and strength. I work to enhance their strength that gets lost when overwhelmed by challenges. Using multiple modalities, individuals move beyond their old story and into the life they desire. I have heard from clients that "therapy has never helped me" and clients of mine have achieved their goals. I have specialty training with trauma which, by definition is "a deeply distressing or disturbing experience". I assist people in trusting their innate abilities to make decisions from a healthy perspective.
Despite difficulties in life, I believe people have an amazing amount of resilience and strength. I work to enhance their strength that gets lost when overwhelmed by challenges. Using multiple modalities, individuals move beyond their old story and into the life they desire. I have heard from clients that "therapy has never helped me" and clients of mine have achieved their goals. I have specialty training with trauma which, by definition is "a deeply distressing or disturbing experience". I assist people in trusting their innate abilities to make decisions from a healthy perspective.
(860) 946-4120 View (860) 946-4120
Photo of Gary S Gruber, ND
Gary S Gruber
ND
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
I help you break the cycle of stress, anxiety, depression, fatigue, and burnout while transforming your life into vitality, health, and well-being.
I help you break the cycle of stress, anxiety, depression, fatigue, and burnout while transforming your life into vitality, health, and well-being.
(203) 594-8638 View (203) 594-8638
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.