Hypnotherapists in Raleigh, NC

Photo of Peggy Zaloga, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peggy Zaloga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
I specialize in teens and adults who are experiencing life challenges and transitions, and am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Hypnotherapy, Mindfulness, Wilderness therapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
Do you have a hard time connecting with yourself and others around you? Does it often feel like no one really understands how you're feeling? I listen and try to understand where my clients are coming from, and once we understand one another and have built a solid relationship I can teach a wide variety of integrative health and wellness skills that will help you overcome challenges related (but not limited) to: school refusal, social anxiety, peer group communication, family conflicts, intimate relationships, behavioral addictions, chronic illness, emotional trauma and panic attacks.
I specialize in teens and adults who are experiencing life challenges and transitions, and am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Hypnotherapy, Mindfulness, Wilderness therapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
Do you have a hard time connecting with yourself and others around you? Does it often feel like no one really understands how you're feeling? I listen and try to understand where my clients are coming from, and once we understand one another and have built a solid relationship I can teach a wide variety of integrative health and wellness skills that will help you overcome challenges related (but not limited) to: school refusal, social anxiety, peer group communication, family conflicts, intimate relationships, behavioral addictions, chronic illness, emotional trauma and panic attacks.
(919) 780-4008 View (919) 780-4008
Photo of Byalinah Shakir-Burgess - Limitless Counseling PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Limitless Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27610  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience in mental health. I am trained in EMDR, Hypnotherapy and CBT. I enjoy using humor to ease tension and lighten the mood, as I build rapport and help people feel supported. When working with clients, I help them identify natural support systems, set healthy boundaries, develop coping skills, gain work/life balance and process trauma. I have a holistic collaborative approach to care focusing on building resiliency using active listening, empathy and unconditional positive regard.
I have over 20 years of experience in mental health. I am trained in EMDR, Hypnotherapy and CBT. I enjoy using humor to ease tension and lighten the mood, as I build rapport and help people feel supported. When working with clients, I help them identify natural support systems, set healthy boundaries, develop coping skills, gain work/life balance and process trauma. I have a holistic collaborative approach to care focusing on building resiliency using active listening, empathy and unconditional positive regard.
(984) 205-8736 View (984) 205-8736
Photo of Stefan J. Simanovich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stefan J. Simanovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605
Stefan supports people in their healing journey using integrative therapies such as EMDR therapy, somatic/embodiment practices, grounding techniques, as well as can offer hypnotherapy if appropriate and for those interested. EMDR therapy and integrative approaches can be very effective in supporting one find relief from a variety of issues, diagnostic histories, traumatic experiences, emotional imbalances, pain and present day distress.
Stefan supports people in their healing journey using integrative therapies such as EMDR therapy, somatic/embodiment practices, grounding techniques, as well as can offer hypnotherapy if appropriate and for those interested. EMDR therapy and integrative approaches can be very effective in supporting one find relief from a variety of issues, diagnostic histories, traumatic experiences, emotional imbalances, pain and present day distress.
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Photo of Sabriya laila Sharif-Hanifa - veryMe LLC, MS, CMH
veryMe LLC
MS, CMH
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27604  (Online Only)
As a certified hypnotherapist. I am dedicated to empowering individuals on their journeys towards holistic well-being. My name is Sabriya Sharif-Hanifa and with a masters in mental health counseling and two decades of experience in the field. I specialize in assisting clients to overcome challenges such as smoking cessation, stress and anxiety reduction and pain management through the power of hypnotherapy. My approach is rooted in compassion, expertise and a deep commitment to facilitating positive transformation in their lives of those I serve
As a certified hypnotherapist. I am dedicated to empowering individuals on their journeys towards holistic well-being. My name is Sabriya Sharif-Hanifa and with a masters in mental health counseling and two decades of experience in the field. I specialize in assisting clients to overcome challenges such as smoking cessation, stress and anxiety reduction and pain management through the power of hypnotherapy. My approach is rooted in compassion, expertise and a deep commitment to facilitating positive transformation in their lives of those I serve
(984) 214-8287 View (984) 214-8287
Photo of Rebecca Weidler - Integrated Journey, LCMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Integrated Journey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610  (Online Only)
Specializing in trauma treatment, hypnotherapy, play therapy and behavioral consulting for children, adults and families.
No matter what life brings you, treatment can bring you "home." All walks of life and all experiences are unique, so your treatment will be tailored to fit for you. Direction, support, guidance and healing available now.
Specializing in trauma treatment, hypnotherapy, play therapy and behavioral consulting for children, adults and families.
No matter what life brings you, treatment can bring you "home." All walks of life and all experiences are unique, so your treatment will be tailored to fit for you. Direction, support, guidance and healing available now.
(252) 429-0145 View (252) 429-0145
Photo of James A Barbour, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
James A Barbour
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610  (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
(252) 585-5186 View (252) 585-5186
Photo of Kerry S Thomas, MEd, LCMHC, Counselor
Kerry S Thomas
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27602
Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, EMDR, and Family Systems Therapy.
When we are in the midst of some tough situations, we can be blind to what the options are for improving our lives. Sometimes just dealing with the emotional impact is hard enough. We can be so engaged by the emotional upset itself that it is often hard to see beyond it to solutions. In therapy, we have a partner whose sole function is promoting our well-being. Someone who has the experience and training to help us handle the emotional impact while providing insight as to how we can become better at managing challenging situations, improving our relationships, shifting our perspectives and ultimately living a more peaceful, happier
Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, EMDR, and Family Systems Therapy.
When we are in the midst of some tough situations, we can be blind to what the options are for improving our lives. Sometimes just dealing with the emotional impact is hard enough. We can be so engaged by the emotional upset itself that it is often hard to see beyond it to solutions. In therapy, we have a partner whose sole function is promoting our well-being. Someone who has the experience and training to help us handle the emotional impact while providing insight as to how we can become better at managing challenging situations, improving our relationships, shifting our perspectives and ultimately living a more peaceful, happier
(919) 415-0748 View (919) 415-0748
Photo of Ann Marie Sochia, MS, LCMHC, CHT, NLP
Ann Marie Sochia
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CHT, NLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27604
I specialize in mental health counseling with a focus on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), gestalt, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, computer assisted relaxation training, and meditation.
At Waves of Change, I assist clients in making the positive changes they want to make in themselves through the utilization of hypnosis, meditation, mindfulness, mental health counseling, and technology assisted relaxation practices. All of my services are offered in a confidential, safe, and serene environment. Some of the specific issues I help clients with are; smoking cessation, weight management, depression, pain management, and stress management to name a few. Please contact me to learn more about how I can help you achieve success in reaching your goals.
I specialize in mental health counseling with a focus on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), gestalt, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, computer assisted relaxation training, and meditation.
At Waves of Change, I assist clients in making the positive changes they want to make in themselves through the utilization of hypnosis, meditation, mindfulness, mental health counseling, and technology assisted relaxation practices. All of my services are offered in a confidential, safe, and serene environment. Some of the specific issues I help clients with are; smoking cessation, weight management, depression, pain management, and stress management to name a few. Please contact me to learn more about how I can help you achieve success in reaching your goals.
(919) 701-6473 View (919) 701-6473
Photo of Hope Threadgill Psyd, PsyD, LPC, NCC, BCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hope Threadgill Psyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC, BCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614  (Online Only)
I am doctorate level trained, certified in treating various types of stress: Hypnotherapy-Certified, EMDR Level II , Gottman Couples Therapy Level 3, EFT, TFT Level II, Executive Coach Certified, Healing the Innerchild, and Mindfulness techniques.
I help clients with Relationship issues, Life stressors, making Healhty life changes, and becoming empowed on a positive path to growth and well-being. My counseling approach emphasizes understanding first, and techniques second. I am existentially grounded, believe clients have the ability to expand their self-awareness, develop confident self image, make healthy choices, create positive meaning and purpose in their life while being successful. I counsel clients to understand their uniqueness, value themselves, have healthy relationships, and find the courage to persist over adversity while positively shaping their own future.
I am doctorate level trained, certified in treating various types of stress: Hypnotherapy-Certified, EMDR Level II , Gottman Couples Therapy Level 3, EFT, TFT Level II, Executive Coach Certified, Healing the Innerchild, and Mindfulness techniques.
I help clients with Relationship issues, Life stressors, making Healhty life changes, and becoming empowed on a positive path to growth and well-being. My counseling approach emphasizes understanding first, and techniques second. I am existentially grounded, believe clients have the ability to expand their self-awareness, develop confident self image, make healthy choices, create positive meaning and purpose in their life while being successful. I counsel clients to understand their uniqueness, value themselves, have healthy relationships, and find the courage to persist over adversity while positively shaping their own future.
(864) 613-4920 View (864) 613-4920
Photo of Samantha Bell-Walker, LCMHC, NCC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Bell-Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601  (Online Only)
My sessions combine behavioral, cognitive and family therapies with holistic methods like mindfulness, hypnotherapy, somatics, breathwork, and energy psychology.
Are you in a dark place and seeking a sense of healing but unsure what to do? Are you afraid to look in the mirror because you have lost sight of the person staring back at you? At some point we have all been in that dark place, but I want to empower you to finally look in the mirror to see yourself again. I have a love for individuals that have been strong friend. The ones who have been the caretakers or the people pleasers in their family or friend group. The ones who often feel forgotten about. So much so, you have forgotten about yourself and your identity. Together, we will work to restore the balance.
My sessions combine behavioral, cognitive and family therapies with holistic methods like mindfulness, hypnotherapy, somatics, breathwork, and energy psychology.
Are you in a dark place and seeking a sense of healing but unsure what to do? Are you afraid to look in the mirror because you have lost sight of the person staring back at you? At some point we have all been in that dark place, but I want to empower you to finally look in the mirror to see yourself again. I have a love for individuals that have been strong friend. The ones who have been the caretakers or the people pleasers in their family or friend group. The ones who often feel forgotten about. So much so, you have forgotten about yourself and your identity. Together, we will work to restore the balance.
(910) 565-9034 View (910) 565-9034
Photo of Debra Young, LCMHC
Debra Young
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Hi and welcome! I am glad you're here and look forward to talking with you! My focus is on you, on creating a very individualized plan depending on what you hope to accomplish. You'll experience a holistic approach, that is collaborative and can include traditional psychotherapy & clinical hypnosis with a variety of breathing practices, mindfulness, and sometimes simple movement. I've worked in private practice, agency settings, and the public school system and maintained a private coaching business. Hypnotherapy is a game-changer when you're ready for change. Reach out today for questions, concerns & appointments.
Hi and welcome! I am glad you're here and look forward to talking with you! My focus is on you, on creating a very individualized plan depending on what you hope to accomplish. You'll experience a holistic approach, that is collaborative and can include traditional psychotherapy & clinical hypnosis with a variety of breathing practices, mindfulness, and sometimes simple movement. I've worked in private practice, agency settings, and the public school system and maintained a private coaching business. Hypnotherapy is a game-changer when you're ready for change. Reach out today for questions, concerns & appointments.
(910) 807-3936 View (910) 807-3936
Photo of Lola Tasar, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lola Tasar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Hypnotherapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stressed out? Do you feel like you need more support, wherever you are in life? Starting therapy can be intimidating. I am here to listen and help. My approach is to be supportive, compassionate, and empathetic, with a focus on promoting self esteem, awareness, and robust relationships. I love working with clients who experience trauma, anxiety, life changes, women's, parenting, and relationship issues. I will accompany you on your journey toward healing and personal growth in a safe and nurturing environment. You're worth it!
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Hypnotherapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stressed out? Do you feel like you need more support, wherever you are in life? Starting therapy can be intimidating. I am here to listen and help. My approach is to be supportive, compassionate, and empathetic, with a focus on promoting self esteem, awareness, and robust relationships. I love working with clients who experience trauma, anxiety, life changes, women's, parenting, and relationship issues. I will accompany you on your journey toward healing and personal growth in a safe and nurturing environment. You're worth it!
(919) 646-2643 View (919) 646-2643
Photo of Shandra J. Ross, LCMHC, LCAS, CHT, BC-TMH
Shandra J. Ross
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CHT, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
You are a hard working person, you go to work everyday, you take care of your responsibilities and everyone thinks you have it all together but the truth is, you are struggling and often times you're sad. No one knows that the smile on your face and the laughter in your voice is a mask. You are afraid to show how you feel, so you hide it. Sometimes things are going great and you never want it to end, and other times it seems like nothing is going well. You feel like you are on an emotional roller coaster. Sometimes you say things and react to circumstances in a way you feel regret afterwards and, it has cost you relationships.
You are a hard working person, you go to work everyday, you take care of your responsibilities and everyone thinks you have it all together but the truth is, you are struggling and often times you're sad. No one knows that the smile on your face and the laughter in your voice is a mask. You are afraid to show how you feel, so you hide it. Sometimes things are going great and you never want it to end, and other times it seems like nothing is going well. You feel like you are on an emotional roller coaster. Sometimes you say things and react to circumstances in a way you feel regret afterwards and, it has cost you relationships.
(919) 372-4600 View (919) 372-4600
Photo of Clodagh O' Herlihy, MFT, CCHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Clodagh O' Herlihy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CCHT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612
Currently, I have openings for individuals and couples. We can be discerning, intuitive, & emotionally intelligent in our selection of partners. However, we won't know how real our love is until we go through the fire of conflict and stay centered in the face of feedback. The clients that show up in my office need support with conflict, abuse, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, commitment, relationship and sexual intimacy. Clients want to feel worthy of love and establish trust and commitment in their relationships. Clients want to be heard, seen, loved for who they are and be open to reciprocity in love.
Currently, I have openings for individuals and couples. We can be discerning, intuitive, & emotionally intelligent in our selection of partners. However, we won't know how real our love is until we go through the fire of conflict and stay centered in the face of feedback. The clients that show up in my office need support with conflict, abuse, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, commitment, relationship and sexual intimacy. Clients want to feel worthy of love and establish trust and commitment in their relationships. Clients want to be heard, seen, loved for who they are and be open to reciprocity in love.
(910) 469-0674 View (910) 469-0674
Photo of Paige Tharrington, LCMHC, Counselor
Paige Tharrington
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
I believe that the client/counselor relationship is crucial - especially elements such as mutual respect, cooperation and confidentiality. We will work together to better understand your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, while empowering you to think about and communicate more clearly your wants, needs and expectations. I offer both long and short-term therapy to adult individuals using a confidential, practical, positive approach.
I believe that the client/counselor relationship is crucial - especially elements such as mutual respect, cooperation and confidentiality. We will work together to better understand your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, while empowering you to think about and communicate more clearly your wants, needs and expectations. I offer both long and short-term therapy to adult individuals using a confidential, practical, positive approach.
(919) 407-8052 View (919) 407-8052
Photo of Cynthia L Babits, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia L Babits
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Psychotherapy is the opportunity to learn about yourself, and to make changes you haven't been able to make before. When we understand ourselves we can change how we relate to ourselves and others, we can work toward meaningful accomplishments that connect with our deepest values. Therapy can help you to become more effective, stronger, and more fulfilled, as you become the person you want to be. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation or you're ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
Psychotherapy is the opportunity to learn about yourself, and to make changes you haven't been able to make before. When we understand ourselves we can change how we relate to ourselves and others, we can work toward meaningful accomplishments that connect with our deepest values. Therapy can help you to become more effective, stronger, and more fulfilled, as you become the person you want to be. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation or you're ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(919) 255-8243 View (919) 255-8243
Photo of Gisela Weimer, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Gisela Weimer
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I work with motivated individuals seeking relief from chronic pain as well as reduced stress and anxiety in their personal lives or at work. Chronic pain conditions that I treat include but are not limited to neck and back pain, headaches, pelvic pain, IBS, tinnitus, and fibromyalgia.
I work with motivated individuals seeking relief from chronic pain as well as reduced stress and anxiety in their personal lives or at work. Chronic pain conditions that I treat include but are not limited to neck and back pain, headaches, pelvic pain, IBS, tinnitus, and fibromyalgia.
(919) 551-6904 View (919) 551-6904
Photo of Mary Beth Auld, MSW, LCSW, NBCCH, CGP, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Beth Auld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, NBCCH, CGP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Although I have 28 years of experience in mental health working with a wide range of therapeutic issues, I now focus on treating adults who are having problems managing depression, anxiety, phobias, and changes in life. If you're ready, motivated for change and are willing to take action, I can help you on your journey with a traditional or creative therapy model or with metaphysical insights. Let's get started!
Although I have 28 years of experience in mental health working with a wide range of therapeutic issues, I now focus on treating adults who are having problems managing depression, anxiety, phobias, and changes in life. If you're ready, motivated for change and are willing to take action, I can help you on your journey with a traditional or creative therapy model or with metaphysical insights. Let's get started!
(919) 439-1191 View (919) 439-1191
Photo of Shere Carinci, MSc
Shere Carinci
MSc
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27603
Are you an empath and even a intuitive who is looking to align with your personal power and potential? Are you a spiritual seeker wanting to live in your Divine self-expression, within this human experience? Are you looking to clean up your energy and vibration to be in alignment with your gifts? Are you ready to break the habit of being yourself, the personality that you have outgrown, but need the support of creating lasting transformation? Then I invite you to schedule a FREE 15-20 minute coaching call to see if we are a good fit, and if you are ready to jump in schedule a 90 minute session NOW
Are you an empath and even a intuitive who is looking to align with your personal power and potential? Are you a spiritual seeker wanting to live in your Divine self-expression, within this human experience? Are you looking to clean up your energy and vibration to be in alignment with your gifts? Are you ready to break the habit of being yourself, the personality that you have outgrown, but need the support of creating lasting transformation? Then I invite you to schedule a FREE 15-20 minute coaching call to see if we are a good fit, and if you are ready to jump in schedule a 90 minute session NOW
(984) 205-9431 View (984) 205-9431
Photo of Kate Double, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Double
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
Focusing primarily on relationships, sexuality and trauma; and starting with the belief that relationships are central to our well-being, I partner with patients to create a warm and safe space in which to explore patterns that impact growth. Therapy is not only to heal past hurts, but also to improve current/future functioning. I see psychotherapy as a joint and dynamic process between patients and clinician. My work is informed by Polyvagal & attachment theories; and pulls from a variety of evidence-based models including mindfulness, narrative therapy, EFT & Gottman approaches, among others. I am trained in EMDR & hypnosis.
Focusing primarily on relationships, sexuality and trauma; and starting with the belief that relationships are central to our well-being, I partner with patients to create a warm and safe space in which to explore patterns that impact growth. Therapy is not only to heal past hurts, but also to improve current/future functioning. I see psychotherapy as a joint and dynamic process between patients and clinician. My work is informed by Polyvagal & attachment theories; and pulls from a variety of evidence-based models including mindfulness, narrative therapy, EFT & Gottman approaches, among others. I am trained in EMDR & hypnosis.
(919) 726-3883 View (919) 726-3883
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.