Hypnotherapists in Marietta, GA

Photo of Anne S. Mayfield, NCC, CSAT, RRT-P, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne S. Mayfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CSAT, RRT-P
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
As a certified RRT Practitioner and a CSAT offering psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, and Rapid Resolution Therapy, I specialize in healing trauma as well as in sex, love, and relationship addiction. Counseling is, for me, about witnessing someone else's personal story and providing a safe place to experience the whole range of emotions. I provide a nurturing, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment in which to explore your issues. Together we will develop new strategies to help you deal with life's challenges so that you are better able to experience life's joys.
As a certified RRT Practitioner and a CSAT offering psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, and Rapid Resolution Therapy, I specialize in healing trauma as well as in sex, love, and relationship addiction. Counseling is, for me, about witnessing someone else's personal story and providing a safe place to experience the whole range of emotions. I provide a nurturing, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment in which to explore your issues. Together we will develop new strategies to help you deal with life's challenges so that you are better able to experience life's joys.
(404) 982-4403 View (404) 982-4403
Photo of Carol L Moore - Counseling Innovations, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling Innovations
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30060
I have extensive training in EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, Animal-Assisted Therapy.
As a licensed professional counselor, my goal is to help individuals, couples, and families identify areas where change is needed to enhance growth, harmony, and balance in their lives. I take a holistic approach to therapy by incorporating a variety of therapeutic modalities into my practice including CBT, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Imago Therapy, DBT, Mindfulness Based Therapy (i.e., meditation, guided imagery, deep breathing), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and Animal Assisted Therapy.
I have extensive training in EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, Animal-Assisted Therapy.
As a licensed professional counselor, my goal is to help individuals, couples, and families identify areas where change is needed to enhance growth, harmony, and balance in their lives. I take a holistic approach to therapy by incorporating a variety of therapeutic modalities into my practice including CBT, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Imago Therapy, DBT, Mindfulness Based Therapy (i.e., meditation, guided imagery, deep breathing), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and Animal Assisted Therapy.
(678) 919-1077 View (678) 919-1077
Photo of Anne S. Mayfield, NCC, CSAT, RRT-P, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne S. Mayfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CSAT, RRT-P
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
As a certified RRT Practitioner and a CSAT offering psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, and Rapid Resolution Therapy, I specialize in healing trauma as well as in sex, love, and relationship addiction. Counseling is, for me, about witnessing someone else's personal story and providing a safe place to experience the whole range of emotions. I provide a nurturing, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment in which to explore your issues. Together we will develop new strategies to help you deal with life's challenges so that you are better able to experience life's joys.
As a certified RRT Practitioner and a CSAT offering psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, and Rapid Resolution Therapy, I specialize in healing trauma as well as in sex, love, and relationship addiction. Counseling is, for me, about witnessing someone else's personal story and providing a safe place to experience the whole range of emotions. I provide a nurturing, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment in which to explore your issues. Together we will develop new strategies to help you deal with life's challenges so that you are better able to experience life's joys.
(404) 800-3587 View (404) 800-3587
Photo of Anne S. Mayfield, NCC, CSAT, RRT-P, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne S. Mayfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CSAT, RRT-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
As a certified RRT Practitioner and a CSAT offering psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, and Rapid Resolution Therapy, I specialize in healing trauma as well as in sex, love, and relationship addiction. Counseling is, for me, about witnessing someone else's personal story and providing a safe place to experience the whole range of emotions. I provide a nurturing, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment in which to explore your issues. Together we will develop new strategies to help you deal with life's challenges so that you are better able to experience life's joys.
As a certified RRT Practitioner and a CSAT offering psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, and Rapid Resolution Therapy, I specialize in healing trauma as well as in sex, love, and relationship addiction. Counseling is, for me, about witnessing someone else's personal story and providing a safe place to experience the whole range of emotions. I provide a nurturing, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment in which to explore your issues. Together we will develop new strategies to help you deal with life's challenges so that you are better able to experience life's joys.
(404) 238-7878 View (404) 238-7878
Photo of Debra LeGere - Debra LeGere, LCSW, CCH, LCSW, CCH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra LeGere, LCSW, CCH
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCH
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
For deep healing and long-lasting change, I offer hypnotherapy, guided imagery, and tapping techniques.
Starting therapy, or beginning again with a new therapist, is a big step. Clients often call me when they realize things are going to change or when traditional talk-therapy has reached its limit. If you are struggling with anxiety, trauma, or grief/loss, things can seem overwhelming. You can reach the other side, with a deeper sense of your purpose and your spiritual nature. If you are spiritually/metaphysically based, if you believe you co-create your reality, if traditional therapy is no longer helping, I understand your unique perspective. My frame of reference is deeply rooted in the synergy of the mind-body-spirit connection.
For deep healing and long-lasting change, I offer hypnotherapy, guided imagery, and tapping techniques.
Starting therapy, or beginning again with a new therapist, is a big step. Clients often call me when they realize things are going to change or when traditional talk-therapy has reached its limit. If you are struggling with anxiety, trauma, or grief/loss, things can seem overwhelming. You can reach the other side, with a deeper sense of your purpose and your spiritual nature. If you are spiritually/metaphysically based, if you believe you co-create your reality, if traditional therapy is no longer helping, I understand your unique perspective. My frame of reference is deeply rooted in the synergy of the mind-body-spirit connection.
(404) 900-7737 View (404) 900-7737
Photo of Pat Stogner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pat Stogner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
My intention in working with you is to help you change unwanted behavior patterns. These patterns are frequently based on negative conclusions we may have drawn about ourselves in the past. I typically use a blend of traditional talk therapy combined with experiential approaches such as Brainspotting,, hypnotherapy, breathwork, psychodrama, and meditation. In this way we are able to re-introduce you to your strengths as well as take the healing to a deeper level. I consider it a privilege to do this work and I honor you for undertaking the challenge of personal growth.
My intention in working with you is to help you change unwanted behavior patterns. These patterns are frequently based on negative conclusions we may have drawn about ourselves in the past. I typically use a blend of traditional talk therapy combined with experiential approaches such as Brainspotting,, hypnotherapy, breathwork, psychodrama, and meditation. In this way we are able to re-introduce you to your strengths as well as take the healing to a deeper level. I consider it a privilege to do this work and I honor you for undertaking the challenge of personal growth.
(678) 671-7267 View (678) 671-7267
Photo of Robin Reeves-Oppenheim, ThD, LCSW, DCSW, CHT, BC-TMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Reeves-Oppenheim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ThD, LCSW, DCSW, CHT, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30008
I provide a unique and innovative therapeutic approach to holistic wellness with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families. I provide a wide range of behavioral health, mental health, and substance abuse services: family & relationship issues, anxiety, stress, depression, inner child, mental disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse & chemical dependency, trauma, neuroscience, transformational psychology, biofield science, Reiki, hypnotherapy, spirituality, energy healing, and mind-body approaches. My licensed professional staff and I are committed to providing the best quality services and cutting edge" best practices".
I provide a unique and innovative therapeutic approach to holistic wellness with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families. I provide a wide range of behavioral health, mental health, and substance abuse services: family & relationship issues, anxiety, stress, depression, inner child, mental disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse & chemical dependency, trauma, neuroscience, transformational psychology, biofield science, Reiki, hypnotherapy, spirituality, energy healing, and mind-body approaches. My licensed professional staff and I are committed to providing the best quality services and cutting edge" best practices".
(678) 929-5207 View (678) 929-5207
Photo of Robert W Poynter Ill, MS, EdS, LPC, NCC, CCHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert W Poynter Ill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EdS, LPC, NCC, CCHT
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062
While working from a mindfulness-based approach, I incorporate teachings from Eastern and Western philosophies while meeting the individual wherever they are in the moment. My holistic approach involves the mind-body connection, neuroscience, neurobiology, quantum theory, polyvagal theory, tapping into the bioenergetic field, and how the brain, mind and body are interrelated. I utilize natural healing techniques such as; breathing exercises, relaxation therapy, visualization, mindfulness meditation, emotional regulation techniques, self-compassion awareness, energy work, and hypnotherapy to facilitate change (Natural Healing).
While working from a mindfulness-based approach, I incorporate teachings from Eastern and Western philosophies while meeting the individual wherever they are in the moment. My holistic approach involves the mind-body connection, neuroscience, neurobiology, quantum theory, polyvagal theory, tapping into the bioenergetic field, and how the brain, mind and body are interrelated. I utilize natural healing techniques such as; breathing exercises, relaxation therapy, visualization, mindfulness meditation, emotional regulation techniques, self-compassion awareness, energy work, and hypnotherapy to facilitate change (Natural Healing).
(678) 792-0608 View (678) 792-0608
Photo of Michael-Renee Godfrey, PsyD,RN, LPC,PCS, BC-TMH, CAMS-II, CFRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael-Renee Godfrey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD,RN, LPC,PCS, BC-TMH, CAMS-II, CFRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
When needed, I use equine assisted psychotherapy & hypnotherapy.
"If my aim is to prove I am enough, the project goes on to infinity; because the battle was already lost on the day I conceded the issue was debatable." ~Nathaniel Branden. As an experiential therapist, I "name the elephant in the room" & help clients navigate obstacles denying them pure joy in living. I work with clients to get out of their own way, embrace their power, choose "gutz over fear," & not let their worst enemy be between their own two ears. My clients learn the power & responsibility of choice, self-compassion when self-esteem fails, respect in accountability, grace when failing forward, and celebration & love of self.
When needed, I use equine assisted psychotherapy & hypnotherapy.
"If my aim is to prove I am enough, the project goes on to infinity; because the battle was already lost on the day I conceded the issue was debatable." ~Nathaniel Branden. As an experiential therapist, I "name the elephant in the room" & help clients navigate obstacles denying them pure joy in living. I work with clients to get out of their own way, embrace their power, choose "gutz over fear," & not let their worst enemy be between their own two ears. My clients learn the power & responsibility of choice, self-compassion when self-esteem fails, respect in accountability, grace when failing forward, and celebration & love of self.
(678) 918-4076 View (678) 918-4076
Photo of Adele Teresa Hernandez, LPC, CCH, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adele Teresa Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCH, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
I am certified in Hypnotherapy and also use a new, cutting edge technique called Brainspotting as well as EMDR to promote rapid change for trauma, depression and anxiety.
My passion is helping people discover their strengths and use those strengths to work through the internal blocks that prevent them from living life to their full potential. I love working with adults, couples and families.
I am certified in Hypnotherapy and also use a new, cutting edge technique called Brainspotting as well as EMDR to promote rapid change for trauma, depression and anxiety.
My passion is helping people discover their strengths and use those strengths to work through the internal blocks that prevent them from living life to their full potential. I love working with adults, couples and families.
(678) 829-2406 View (678) 829-2406
Photo of Zulaikha Straight, MA, LPC, NCC, NCIAC, NCLF, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zulaikha Straight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, NCIAC, NCLF
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30006  (Online Only)
This may include EMDR, parts work, hypnotherapy, memory reconsolidation therapy, somatic therapy, or psychodynamic work.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Does the pain of past trauma impact your daily life? You may give too much and struggle to set healthy boundaries with romantic partners, family, and friends, leading to exhaustion and burnout. You may feel overwhelmed by your ever-growing to-do list. I help individuals find relief from anxiety, depression & ADHD, develop healthy relationships that fulfill their deepest needs, and create a career where they truly thrive. You’ll start feeling more confident, productive, and empowered as you gain insight into your thoughts, emotions, and choices, leading to greater joy and freedom.
This may include EMDR, parts work, hypnotherapy, memory reconsolidation therapy, somatic therapy, or psychodynamic work.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Does the pain of past trauma impact your daily life? You may give too much and struggle to set healthy boundaries with romantic partners, family, and friends, leading to exhaustion and burnout. You may feel overwhelmed by your ever-growing to-do list. I help individuals find relief from anxiety, depression & ADHD, develop healthy relationships that fulfill their deepest needs, and create a career where they truly thrive. You’ll start feeling more confident, productive, and empowered as you gain insight into your thoughts, emotions, and choices, leading to greater joy and freedom.
(404) 905-3606 View (404) 905-3606
Photo of Kim L. Roberts, EdS, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim L. Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
You can do this. I have faith in you and I offer a safe, non-judgmental place to heal. My experience includes working with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction and loss. I enjoy helping teens, adults and families navigate life's stressors. A positive environment that promotes insight and empowerment is the foundation of my practice. The nature of therapy requires a strong alliance which I strive to create with my clients. I also offer Domestic Violence group counseling and Alcohol and Drug evaluations and referrals for recovery sites.
You can do this. I have faith in you and I offer a safe, non-judgmental place to heal. My experience includes working with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction and loss. I enjoy helping teens, adults and families navigate life's stressors. A positive environment that promotes insight and empowerment is the foundation of my practice. The nature of therapy requires a strong alliance which I strive to create with my clients. I also offer Domestic Violence group counseling and Alcohol and Drug evaluations and referrals for recovery sites.
(770) 285-5164 View (770) 285-5164
Photo of Mary Elizabeth Ebinger - Attento Counseling Practice, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Attento Counseling Practice
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
*Request an Appointment Here https://attentocounseling.com/request-an-appointment/ *Attento Counseling is an outpatient behavioral health provider with 3 locations and over 60 licensed clinicians in the north Atlanta metro area (Marietta, Cumming, and Kennesaw). We also offer an affordable, accessible sliding-scale option for clients in need through our Mental Wellness & Emotional Learning program. Visit mwel.net for more information.
*Request an Appointment Here https://attentocounseling.com/request-an-appointment/ *Attento Counseling is an outpatient behavioral health provider with 3 locations and over 60 licensed clinicians in the north Atlanta metro area (Marietta, Cumming, and Kennesaw). We also offer an affordable, accessible sliding-scale option for clients in need through our Mental Wellness & Emotional Learning program. Visit mwel.net for more information.
(404) 383-6944 View (404) 383-6944
Photo of Laurie Chandler, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laurie Chandler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
The journey toward healing can sometimes feel lonely and overwhelming. People are wounded in relationships and, in turn, healed in relationships. I strongly believe that one of the most influential relationships for healing and growth can be the relationship between therapist and client. Therefore, I am committed to providing a safe,caring,non-judgmental therapeutic environment in which we work together, at your pace, to help you achieve your goals for healing and personal growth.I sincerely consider it a privilege to walk with you on this journey.
The journey toward healing can sometimes feel lonely and overwhelming. People are wounded in relationships and, in turn, healed in relationships. I strongly believe that one of the most influential relationships for healing and growth can be the relationship between therapist and client. Therefore, I am committed to providing a safe,caring,non-judgmental therapeutic environment in which we work together, at your pace, to help you achieve your goals for healing and personal growth.I sincerely consider it a privilege to walk with you on this journey.
(678) 256-2697 View (678) 256-2697
Photo of Ellen Dean, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Dean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over two decades of experience in community mental health care. My goal is to help people from all walks of life identify what they value, change what they want to change, and make the often difficult decisions that can ultimately lead to less suffering and greater meaning, purpose, and fulfillment. I work with adolescents and adults ages 16 and older; some are facing significant mental health challenges, others may be looking for ways of managing life stressors and transitions with greater clarity and ease.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over two decades of experience in community mental health care. My goal is to help people from all walks of life identify what they value, change what they want to change, and make the often difficult decisions that can ultimately lead to less suffering and greater meaning, purpose, and fulfillment. I work with adolescents and adults ages 16 and older; some are facing significant mental health challenges, others may be looking for ways of managing life stressors and transitions with greater clarity and ease.
(678) 672-6623 View (678) 672-6623
Photo of Casey Calvert, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Casey Calvert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062  (Online Only)
You’re the one who seemingly has it all together. The one your friends and family all turn to for help. You’re great at taking care of others, but not so great at taking care of yourself. You're used to doing it all on your own, but now you're struggling. You’re tired of being the strong one. You're not alone. I can help! I help people just like you who feel overwhelmed with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Stress, and Relationship Trauma. Together, we will identify what’s not working in your life, and get you back on track to feeling better, stronger, and more at peace.
You’re the one who seemingly has it all together. The one your friends and family all turn to for help. You’re great at taking care of others, but not so great at taking care of yourself. You're used to doing it all on your own, but now you're struggling. You’re tired of being the strong one. You're not alone. I can help! I help people just like you who feel overwhelmed with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Stress, and Relationship Trauma. Together, we will identify what’s not working in your life, and get you back on track to feeling better, stronger, and more at peace.
(678) 931-9096 View (678) 931-9096
Photo of Alan Behrman - Alan Behrman & Associates, PC, PhD, Psychologist
Alan Behrman & Associates, PC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
While active listening is an important skill for a therapist, listening can only go so far. All of the therapists here believe that what sets us apart from many other therapists is the fact we actually help you help yourself make the necessary changes in your life by giving you techniques, tools, skills, and guidance to achieve your goals. You'll almost always walk out of a session with a new technique or two that you can go home and start using immediately. All eight of our therapists are highly trained, personable, and ready to give you the stills and techniques you need.
While active listening is an important skill for a therapist, listening can only go so far. All of the therapists here believe that what sets us apart from many other therapists is the fact we actually help you help yourself make the necessary changes in your life by giving you techniques, tools, skills, and guidance to achieve your goals. You'll almost always walk out of a session with a new technique or two that you can go home and start using immediately. All eight of our therapists are highly trained, personable, and ready to give you the stills and techniques you need.
(678) 245-6028 View (678) 245-6028
Photo of Darleen Claire Wodzenski, MA-ESE, MA-CMHC, QPPE, PhD LPC, NCC ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darleen Claire Wodzenski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA-ESE, MA-CMHC, QPPE, PhD LPC, NCC ACS
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30066
I love children of all ages - from 0 to 99 - and I am truly here to help. Are you dealing with Relationship issues? Mental health? Learning? Development? Getting along with siblings, peers, spouse? We know that humans must learn a precise set of skills & developmental capacities to thrive. When people experience an interruption in healthy social, emotional, moral, and attachment development, serious problems can arise throughout their lives. We provide integrated support for clients of all ages in a compassionate, loving, & safe environment.
I love children of all ages - from 0 to 99 - and I am truly here to help. Are you dealing with Relationship issues? Mental health? Learning? Development? Getting along with siblings, peers, spouse? We know that humans must learn a precise set of skills & developmental capacities to thrive. When people experience an interruption in healthy social, emotional, moral, and attachment development, serious problems can arise throughout their lives. We provide integrated support for clients of all ages in a compassionate, loving, & safe environment.
(678) 726-5375 View (678) 726-5375
Photo of Keir Brady, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Keir Brady
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062
You are seeking a therapist because you want to make your life and relationships better. You may feel discouraged and feel helpless as to how to improve things. The good news is that individual or couples therapy can help. Through therapy, I can help you free yourself from stress and struggle. Together we can work to heal your pain, create the relationships that you want, improve your self-esteem, and build a more fulfilling life. I can help you develop more compassion for your pain and be kinder to yourself so you can feel more hopeful about your life and relationships.
You are seeking a therapist because you want to make your life and relationships better. You may feel discouraged and feel helpless as to how to improve things. The good news is that individual or couples therapy can help. Through therapy, I can help you free yourself from stress and struggle. Together we can work to heal your pain, create the relationships that you want, improve your self-esteem, and build a more fulfilling life. I can help you develop more compassion for your pain and be kinder to yourself so you can feel more hopeful about your life and relationships.
(404) 341-4163 View (404) 341-4163
Photo of Jennifer Harbin, MS, NCC, LPC, CCH, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Harbin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CCH, RPT
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30066
Our goal is to help you navigate through concerns and anxieties that may be getting in your way like: Trauma, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, and Stress. Jennifer is an integrative therapist, sometimes called a prescriptive therapeutic style, which means she is committed to seeking and maintaining a knowledge base of a variety of therapeutic modalities. She is then able to utilize and blend what approaches or aspects of a model will be most helpful to each client-so truly individualized care.
Our goal is to help you navigate through concerns and anxieties that may be getting in your way like: Trauma, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, and Stress. Jennifer is an integrative therapist, sometimes called a prescriptive therapeutic style, which means she is committed to seeking and maintaining a knowledge base of a variety of therapeutic modalities. She is then able to utilize and blend what approaches or aspects of a model will be most helpful to each client-so truly individualized care.
(678) 400-2093 View (678) 400-2093
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.