Photo of Susan Graf-Cote, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Graf-Cote
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
I also use hypnotherapy and Reiki for clients who wish to try something different.
By promoting a safe space where you can create, and recreate the you that is well. Tapping into the strengths that live in your heart, we will gain access to your ideals and understanding and build upon them. We will awaken the part of you that will teach you to become your own coach. I will introduce you to several techniques and theoretical orientations that best suit you. I will not subject you to change through somebody elses belief systems instead of your own. With my guidance, you will find the answers to change your life and find peace.
I also use hypnotherapy and Reiki for clients who wish to try something different.
By promoting a safe space where you can create, and recreate the you that is well. Tapping into the strengths that live in your heart, we will gain access to your ideals and understanding and build upon them. We will awaken the part of you that will teach you to become your own coach. I will introduce you to several techniques and theoretical orientations that best suit you. I will not subject you to change through somebody elses belief systems instead of your own. With my guidance, you will find the answers to change your life and find peace.
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Photo of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (Instant Insurance Verification), LCSW, MD, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (Instant Insurance Verification)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Integrative & Immersive Psychotherapy approach utilizing Psychedelic, EMDR, Transpersonal, Existential, Humanistic, Trauma, Relational & Integrative Therapies, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Somatic & Intuitive Therapy, EFT, Energy Psychology, ACT, IFS, DBT, MCBT & Life Coaching.
Feya Health is a woman-owned, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy group practice, featured on MTV. Our Integrative approach helps clients address their self-destructive patterns by getting to the core and root of their issues. The result is a drastic reduction in the initial presenting symptoms over a short period of time. We offer a comprehensive, integrative & customizable approach to the Ketamine & Oxytocin Therapy Process and specialize in EMDR, PTSD, CPTSD, human optimization and Pharmaceutical Medication withdrawal.
Integrative & Immersive Psychotherapy approach utilizing Psychedelic, EMDR, Transpersonal, Existential, Humanistic, Trauma, Relational & Integrative Therapies, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Somatic & Intuitive Therapy, EFT, Energy Psychology, ACT, IFS, DBT, MCBT & Life Coaching.
Feya Health is a woman-owned, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy group practice, featured on MTV. Our Integrative approach helps clients address their self-destructive patterns by getting to the core and root of their issues. The result is a drastic reduction in the initial presenting symptoms over a short period of time. We offer a comprehensive, integrative & customizable approach to the Ketamine & Oxytocin Therapy Process and specialize in EMDR, PTSD, CPTSD, human optimization and Pharmaceutical Medication withdrawal.
(929) 442-0715 View (929) 442-0715
Photo of Nikoo Z Sadatrafiei, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nikoo Z Sadatrafiei
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075
I'm specialized in treating behavioral and mental health issues with individuals, couples, and families which arise from life transitions, conflicts in relationships, parenting, child/adolescence behavioral issues, and mental illnesses. I have extensive experience on treating trauma, grief, domestic violence, and communication. As a Licensed Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LAADC) I help individuals with their dual diagnosis. I am specialized in EMDR and hypnotherapy to facilitate change in perception. I'm certified in Gambling Disorder from the Office of Problem Gambling (CalGETS).
I'm specialized in treating behavioral and mental health issues with individuals, couples, and families which arise from life transitions, conflicts in relationships, parenting, child/adolescence behavioral issues, and mental illnesses. I have extensive experience on treating trauma, grief, domestic violence, and communication. As a Licensed Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LAADC) I help individuals with their dual diagnosis. I am specialized in EMDR and hypnotherapy to facilitate change in perception. I'm certified in Gambling Disorder from the Office of Problem Gambling (CalGETS).
(858) 707-7602 View (858) 707-7602
Photo of Jay Inglee, LMFT, CMH, CPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jay Inglee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMH, CPT
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Thank You for your time. Over the years I have worked with people from varied walks of life including children with social and emotional difficulties, adolescents facing their own unique challenges, adults, couples and entire families. I have been fortunate to train with experts in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Object Relations, Self Psychology, Play and Sand Tray Therapy as well as, Family Systems, Structural Family Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. In addition, I am certified in the clinical application of hypnotherapy through, and former Vice President of, the American Psychotherapy & Medical Hypnosis Association.
Thank You for your time. Over the years I have worked with people from varied walks of life including children with social and emotional difficulties, adolescents facing their own unique challenges, adults, couples and entire families. I have been fortunate to train with experts in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Object Relations, Self Psychology, Play and Sand Tray Therapy as well as, Family Systems, Structural Family Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. In addition, I am certified in the clinical application of hypnotherapy through, and former Vice President of, the American Psychotherapy & Medical Hypnosis Association.
(530) 771-6416 View (530) 771-6416
Photo of Victoria Buskirk, AMFT, CCht, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Victoria Buskirk
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, CCht
Verified Verified
Santee, CA 92071
Waitlist for new clients
I am a dedicated Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Strategic MRI, Solution Focused Therapy, and REBT. I have a heart-centered approach with specialties focused on trauma, inner child healing, substance abuse, women's issues and perinatal and postnatal mood disorders. I enjoy integrating individualized spirituality to enhance psychological well-being. My focus is on brief therapy, targeting specific goals to equip you with resilience and skills for life's challenges. Let’s explore your path to healing together! Email Preferred.
I am a dedicated Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Strategic MRI, Solution Focused Therapy, and REBT. I have a heart-centered approach with specialties focused on trauma, inner child healing, substance abuse, women's issues and perinatal and postnatal mood disorders. I enjoy integrating individualized spirituality to enhance psychological well-being. My focus is on brief therapy, targeting specific goals to equip you with resilience and skills for life's challenges. Let’s explore your path to healing together! Email Preferred.
(619) 473-7821 View (619) 473-7821
Photo of Shaliss Padilla Ma - Shaliss Padilla LMFT: Integrative Mental Health , MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shaliss Padilla LMFT: Integrative Mental Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
My name is Shaliss Padilla, LMFT, founder/CEO of Mindbodyology. I integrate the best of conventional and holistic approaches, taking "talk therapy" to the next level! Seeking personal transformation? Are anxiety and/or depression, and/or bad habits holding you back? Well, we can help! We work with the whole person - mind, body and spirit. Prefer more traditional approaches? Lets try evidence based counseling such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or DBT. Like holistic approaches? Let's explore Reiki Treatments, Mindfulness, Energy Psychology, EFT/tapping, Sound Therapy, Hypnotherapy or other integrative modalities.
My name is Shaliss Padilla, LMFT, founder/CEO of Mindbodyology. I integrate the best of conventional and holistic approaches, taking "talk therapy" to the next level! Seeking personal transformation? Are anxiety and/or depression, and/or bad habits holding you back? Well, we can help! We work with the whole person - mind, body and spirit. Prefer more traditional approaches? Lets try evidence based counseling such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or DBT. Like holistic approaches? Let's explore Reiki Treatments, Mindfulness, Energy Psychology, EFT/tapping, Sound Therapy, Hypnotherapy or other integrative modalities.
(855) 976-9486 View (855) 976-9486
Photo of Dr. Traci Moreno - Free Spirit Coaching & Psychological Services PLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Free Spirit Coaching & Psychological Services PLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92124
In addition to traditional psychotherapy (CBT, DBT & EMDR), we offer alternative treatments ( Hypnotherapy, Equine Coaching, Spiritual Coaching, Crystal Reiki & Sound Healing, Special Events and more.
We are not your average therapists! If you're looking for someone to nod their head in agreement with everything you say or for someone to just listen until "time is up," then this is not the place for you. We are an active part of your treatment. We focus on helping people find stability, life satisfaction and self-love. To do this effectively, means we offer insights and feedback, encourage you to dig deeper and challenge you. We're able to do this with care and compassion because we develop a strong therapeutic alliance built on mutual respect and trust. This is the foundation of what we do.
In addition to traditional psychotherapy (CBT, DBT & EMDR), we offer alternative treatments ( Hypnotherapy, Equine Coaching, Spiritual Coaching, Crystal Reiki & Sound Healing, Special Events and more.
We are not your average therapists! If you're looking for someone to nod their head in agreement with everything you say or for someone to just listen until "time is up," then this is not the place for you. We are an active part of your treatment. We focus on helping people find stability, life satisfaction and self-love. To do this effectively, means we offer insights and feedback, encourage you to dig deeper and challenge you. We're able to do this with care and compassion because we develop a strong therapeutic alliance built on mutual respect and trust. This is the foundation of what we do.
(520) 980-9324 View (520) 980-9324
Photo of Merla A Huntley, LCSW, BCD, CHT, CCTP, CEPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Merla A Huntley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, CHT, CCTP, CEPT
Verified Verified
Lancaster, CA 93536
Waitlist for new clients
There is no better feeling than knowing someone is or has worked through there issues and feeling that life is making them smile and laugh again. I strive to assist my clients to find their way through the "drama and darkness" no matter how old they are or what problems they present. Together we work through the issues that bind them and help them to walk a path to find happiness and a healthy life thus my company name "Life Steps." Please know this is not easy work but I take these steps with you at a pace that fits for you. My treatment is not for those who want to be in therapy "long term." I want clients to be on their way!
There is no better feeling than knowing someone is or has worked through there issues and feeling that life is making them smile and laugh again. I strive to assist my clients to find their way through the "drama and darkness" no matter how old they are or what problems they present. Together we work through the issues that bind them and help them to walk a path to find happiness and a healthy life thus my company name "Life Steps." Please know this is not easy work but I take these steps with you at a pace that fits for you. My treatment is not for those who want to be in therapy "long term." I want clients to be on their way!
(661) 510-7093 View (661) 510-7093
Photo of Ran D Anbar, MD, FAAP
Ran D Anbar
MD, FAAP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I am a pediatrician whose work focuses on helping children help themselves in dealing with many issues common to childhood including anxiety, bedwetting, dealing with chronic disease, depression, headaches, habit cough, hair pulling, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome, pain, phobias, seizures, shortness of breath, tics, and vocal cord dysfunction. I also help children improve their academic and athletic performance, deal with existential questions, and develop a better spiritual understanding.
I am a pediatrician whose work focuses on helping children help themselves in dealing with many issues common to childhood including anxiety, bedwetting, dealing with chronic disease, depression, headaches, habit cough, hair pulling, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome, pain, phobias, seizures, shortness of breath, tics, and vocal cord dysfunction. I also help children improve their academic and athletic performance, deal with existential questions, and develop a better spiritual understanding.
(858) 766-5214 View (858) 766-5214
Photo of Robert Tommy Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert Tommy Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045  (Online Only)
I have 37 years, experience working with individuals, families and children in the home, community and, school. I have also worked with developmentally disabled adults and children in private homes and in group homes. I have spent 6 years, as a drug and alcohol counselor. I have also worked in assisted living facilities with individuals 65 and over with memory care deficits. I have also worked with individuals that are housebound.
I have 37 years, experience working with individuals, families and children in the home, community and, school. I have also worked with developmentally disabled adults and children in private homes and in group homes. I have spent 6 years, as a drug and alcohol counselor. I have also worked in assisted living facilities with individuals 65 and over with memory care deficits. I have also worked with individuals that are housebound.
(424) 480-8758 View (424) 480-8758
Photo of Dr. Andrew J Leone, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Andrew J Leone
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91202  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Just living in today’s world can be difficult and exhausting. Many of us feel as if we are just “getting by.” We all struggle with our mental health, from daily conflict with others, feeling frustrated or irritable, painful past experiences(trauma), struggles with work and family, and anxious thoughts. These issues can hinder our ability to heal and grow. We can all use help at times, even if we don’t know how to ask for it. I provide comprehensive support and direct feedback to help guide you through this difficult journey, to reach a path that leads to healing, understanding, acceptance, and resolution.
Just living in today’s world can be difficult and exhausting. Many of us feel as if we are just “getting by.” We all struggle with our mental health, from daily conflict with others, feeling frustrated or irritable, painful past experiences(trauma), struggles with work and family, and anxious thoughts. These issues can hinder our ability to heal and grow. We can all use help at times, even if we don’t know how to ask for it. I provide comprehensive support and direct feedback to help guide you through this difficult journey, to reach a path that leads to healing, understanding, acceptance, and resolution.
(310) 361-0831 View (310) 361-0831
Barbara Fouts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
As a Marriage/Family therapist and Educational Psychologist I assist individuals, families, couples and children overcome difficulties and begin the process of change in a safe, supportive environment. I specialize in Behavioral Issues, PTSD, relationships, parenting, effective communication, grief and loss, ADHD and Life Transitions. I help the whole person within their family, social environment and community. As a therapist and person I am committed to helping my clients create their journey through life in a positive, affirming manner.
As a Marriage/Family therapist and Educational Psychologist I assist individuals, families, couples and children overcome difficulties and begin the process of change in a safe, supportive environment. I specialize in Behavioral Issues, PTSD, relationships, parenting, effective communication, grief and loss, ADHD and Life Transitions. I help the whole person within their family, social environment and community. As a therapist and person I am committed to helping my clients create their journey through life in a positive, affirming manner.
(858) 381-5633 View (858) 381-5633
Photo of Mark Brewer - WAVE Therapy Group Practice, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
WAVE Therapy Group Practice
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92054
We are a large group practice with over 35 therapists at 5 locations throughout San Diego and Orange County. We have been serving the San Diego community since 2014 and WAVE is a family owned and operated company. We specialize in a variety of issues and see clients from all age groups. We take most major insurances and also have affordable cash rates. Call today for immediate openings and therapy for the whole family in one place. We have locations in Oceanside, Carlsbad, Laguna Hills, Rancho Bernardo, and Mission Valley. See our website for more information: www.wavetherapist.org
We are a large group practice with over 35 therapists at 5 locations throughout San Diego and Orange County. We have been serving the San Diego community since 2014 and WAVE is a family owned and operated company. We specialize in a variety of issues and see clients from all age groups. We take most major insurances and also have affordable cash rates. Call today for immediate openings and therapy for the whole family in one place. We have locations in Oceanside, Carlsbad, Laguna Hills, Rancho Bernardo, and Mission Valley. See our website for more information: www.wavetherapist.org
(442) 219-7795 View (442) 219-7795
Photo of Yessica Avancena, LMFT, MBA, CMT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yessica Avancena
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA, CMT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The ideal client is one who is ready for change and open to healing. I work with individuals with a variety of mental health issues, emergent spirituality concerns or finding oneself through life purpose utilizing Mindfulness-based practices, energy work among other techniques to help decrease stress and promote happiness.
The ideal client is one who is ready for change and open to healing. I work with individuals with a variety of mental health issues, emergent spirituality concerns or finding oneself through life purpose utilizing Mindfulness-based practices, energy work among other techniques to help decrease stress and promote happiness.
(661) 218-1760 View (661) 218-1760
Photo of R. Boris Greenberg, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
R. Boris Greenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tarzana, CA 91356
I am looking forward to providing a safe and judgement-free environment in which you can explore treatment for Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Blended/Step Family Issues, Eating Disorders, Impulse-Control, Substance-Related Disorders and Gender Dysphoria. I have been licensed for 34 years and bring my experience as a nurse, educator and therapist to combine a practical approach in my work. I specialize in the treatment of Childhood and Adolescent Disorders as well as Anxiety and Depression Disorders with Adults and Families.
I am looking forward to providing a safe and judgement-free environment in which you can explore treatment for Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Blended/Step Family Issues, Eating Disorders, Impulse-Control, Substance-Related Disorders and Gender Dysphoria. I have been licensed for 34 years and bring my experience as a nurse, educator and therapist to combine a practical approach in my work. I specialize in the treatment of Childhood and Adolescent Disorders as well as Anxiety and Depression Disorders with Adults and Families.
(818) 293-5791 View (818) 293-5791
Photo of Edith Romero-Cabral, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Edith Romero-Cabral
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92116
If you feel lost and are struggling with issues like; life changes, feeling stuck, and depression, it can be difficult to know where to turn and how to get help. Maybe you feel like this more often than not, and it has become a new normal that you can't shake. What if there was a way for you to break out of this cycle? What if I could teach you to change your situation? As a Spanish speaking military spouse, student, professional, and mother, I’ve learned to successfully adjust to different cultures and new situations at any time. I can help you develop these skills too.
If you feel lost and are struggling with issues like; life changes, feeling stuck, and depression, it can be difficult to know where to turn and how to get help. Maybe you feel like this more often than not, and it has become a new normal that you can't shake. What if there was a way for you to break out of this cycle? What if I could teach you to change your situation? As a Spanish speaking military spouse, student, professional, and mother, I’ve learned to successfully adjust to different cultures and new situations at any time. I can help you develop these skills too.
(619) 268-8147 x8 View (619) 268-8147 x8
Photo of Veronica Calkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-0957 View (562) 268-0957
Photo of Veronica Calkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-1330 View (562) 268-1330
Photo of Dr. David Godot, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. David Godot
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
I'm the chief psychologist at Psych Lab, a private mental health practice focused on using careful assessment and depth-oriented psychotherapy to help you achieve total health. Not just symptom relief - real mental health and well-being. Joy. Happiness. Fulfillment. Therapy at Psych Lab begins with an in-depth screening process that reveals a lot of personal strengths, needs, and personality aspects that other therapists will never even find out about. Then, you'll receive an in-depth, one-on-one evaluation to help develop that understanding into something actionable. What do we need to -do- to help you get un-stuck?
I'm the chief psychologist at Psych Lab, a private mental health practice focused on using careful assessment and depth-oriented psychotherapy to help you achieve total health. Not just symptom relief - real mental health and well-being. Joy. Happiness. Fulfillment. Therapy at Psych Lab begins with an in-depth screening process that reveals a lot of personal strengths, needs, and personality aspects that other therapists will never even find out about. Then, you'll receive an in-depth, one-on-one evaluation to help develop that understanding into something actionable. What do we need to -do- to help you get un-stuck?
(323) 553-7040 View (323) 553-7040
Photo of Monica Chernoff, MS , AMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Monica Chernoff
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS , AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
My specialities as a therapist are 1) children, adolescents, & their families and 2) student athletes. Many individuals within this population suffer with mood disorders, anxiety, school & sport performance stress, identity crisis, family conflict, and low self-esteem due to familial/societal expectations and competitive culture. As a child, teenager, or parent, managing all these life stressors can take a toll on our mental health. My hope as a therapist is to make clients feel safe to process these struggles, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and improve their social/ family connections around them.
My specialities as a therapist are 1) children, adolescents, & their families and 2) student athletes. Many individuals within this population suffer with mood disorders, anxiety, school & sport performance stress, identity crisis, family conflict, and low self-esteem due to familial/societal expectations and competitive culture. As a child, teenager, or parent, managing all these life stressors can take a toll on our mental health. My hope as a therapist is to make clients feel safe to process these struggles, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and improve their social/ family connections around them.
(424) 340-5636 View (424) 340-5636
1
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.