Hypnotherapists in Wyckoff, NJ

Photo of Pari Sharif (Sharifkashani), MA, LPC, LRC, CTTS, PsyA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pari Sharif (Sharifkashani)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LRC, CTTS, PsyA
Verified Verified
Wyckoff, NJ 07481
Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Rehabilitation Counselor, Certificates of completion of Family therapy, Hypnotherapy, Divorce mediation, and Child Development, Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Approved Clinical supervisor.
Adolescents: Peer pressur, School anxiety, parent/child conflict. Young Adults and Adults: Career chosen/ change, Anxiety, Depression, Any relationship issues, Sleep problems, Weight problems, Smoke cession. No problem is too small to ignore.
Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Rehabilitation Counselor, Certificates of completion of Family therapy, Hypnotherapy, Divorce mediation, and Child Development, Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Approved Clinical supervisor.
Adolescents: Peer pressur, School anxiety, parent/child conflict. Young Adults and Adults: Career chosen/ change, Anxiety, Depression, Any relationship issues, Sleep problems, Weight problems, Smoke cession. No problem is too small to ignore.
(201) 254-5147 View (201) 254-5147
Photo of Ailyn Costa-Minch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ailyn Costa-Minch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wyckoff, NJ 07481
I work with teens, college students, adults, and couples. Many of my clients struggle with attention deficit, depression, anxiety, micromanaging thoughts, perfectionism, and boredom. Others tend to want success, but lack passion and drive. While others struggle with intimacy and experience shame, guilt or blame.
I work with teens, college students, adults, and couples. Many of my clients struggle with attention deficit, depression, anxiety, micromanaging thoughts, perfectionism, and boredom. Others tend to want success, but lack passion and drive. While others struggle with intimacy and experience shame, guilt or blame.
(201) 720-6199 View (201) 720-6199
Photo of Rose Celia Rosato, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rose Celia Rosato
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Wyckoff, NJ 07481
With 35 years' of experience in the mental health field as a counselor and psychotherapist, I have maintained a well-established practice in Bergen County for 30 years. My practice provides individual, group and family counseling and psychotherapy in addition to workshops and lectures. I have worked in a variety of community and private agencies which has provided me experience with diverse populations and services. Areas of experience include: depression, anxiety, women's issues, trauma, life transition, adolescent issues, family issues, addiction, gifted population and more.
With 35 years' of experience in the mental health field as a counselor and psychotherapist, I have maintained a well-established practice in Bergen County for 30 years. My practice provides individual, group and family counseling and psychotherapy in addition to workshops and lectures. I have worked in a variety of community and private agencies which has provided me experience with diverse populations and services. Areas of experience include: depression, anxiety, women's issues, trauma, life transition, adolescent issues, family issues, addiction, gifted population and more.
(201) 254-5257 View (201) 254-5257

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rebecca Dombrowsky-Henriquez, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Dombrowsky-Henriquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
In my twenty years of working in the mental health field, I've learned that it is not the situation that can render us helpless, but the meaning we create about the situation. The judgments we make about ourselves and others can make a situation worse, creating anxiety, depression, or undue stress. I specialize in providing therapeutic interventions to decrease self defeating patterns and negative self-talk. You will be engaged in a partnership as treatment goals are identified to personalize your care. I specialize in the following therapies: DBT, CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness Meditation, Hypnotherapy, and Imago Couple Therapy.
In my twenty years of working in the mental health field, I've learned that it is not the situation that can render us helpless, but the meaning we create about the situation. The judgments we make about ourselves and others can make a situation worse, creating anxiety, depression, or undue stress. I specialize in providing therapeutic interventions to decrease self defeating patterns and negative self-talk. You will be engaged in a partnership as treatment goals are identified to personalize your care. I specialize in the following therapies: DBT, CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness Meditation, Hypnotherapy, and Imago Couple Therapy.
(201) 977-6926 View (201) 977-6926
Photo of Stanley M Spergel, PsyD, Psychologist
Stanley M Spergel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677
Technically eclectic, his treatment strategies include, but not are restricted to, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, dream analysis, and hypnotherapy.
Dr Stanley M. Spergel is a licensed psychologist, certified school psychologist and fellow of the American Orthopsychiatric Association with offices in Teaneck and Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. He is the founding director of the Family Resource Center and has been in both group and individual private practice since 1981. Dr Spergel specializes in treating children, adolescents and adults using a variety of treatment modalities and has a special interest in hypnotherapy.
Technically eclectic, his treatment strategies include, but not are restricted to, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, dream analysis, and hypnotherapy.
Dr Stanley M. Spergel is a licensed psychologist, certified school psychologist and fellow of the American Orthopsychiatric Association with offices in Teaneck and Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. He is the founding director of the Family Resource Center and has been in both group and individual private practice since 1981. Dr Spergel specializes in treating children, adolescents and adults using a variety of treatment modalities and has a special interest in hypnotherapy.
(201) 391-8778 View (201) 391-8778
Photo of Carole Pasahow, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carole Pasahow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410  (Online Only)
I hold licenses in Florida, New Jersey and New York. My extensive training and experience (certified psychoanalyst, couple & sex therapist, hypnotherapy, somatic experiencing, IFS, EMDR, PACT and Hakomi) allows me to treat a wide variety of issues successfully. (adolescent to adults). Clients with complicated problems who have been treated by other therapists unsuccessfully seek my help because of my motivational, self -powering approach to treating clients. My services range from sexual concerns (dysfunctions, abuse, infidelity, compulsive behavior, gender dysphoria), acute and post trauma stress to personality and mood disorders.
I hold licenses in Florida, New Jersey and New York. My extensive training and experience (certified psychoanalyst, couple & sex therapist, hypnotherapy, somatic experiencing, IFS, EMDR, PACT and Hakomi) allows me to treat a wide variety of issues successfully. (adolescent to adults). Clients with complicated problems who have been treated by other therapists unsuccessfully seek my help because of my motivational, self -powering approach to treating clients. My services range from sexual concerns (dysfunctions, abuse, infidelity, compulsive behavior, gender dysphoria), acute and post trauma stress to personality and mood disorders.
(201) 898-0960 View (201) 898-0960
Photo of Lorraine Antine, LCSW, CADC, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorraine Antine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, SEP
Verified Verified
Dumont, NJ 07628  (Online Only)
Among these are: Somatic Trauma Healing, Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic , EMDR, Emotional Freedom Technique, Hypnotherapy, Family Constellation.
Advanced Psychotherapy. If you have tried everything and nothing has been effective in relieving symptoms, a deeper approach to wellness may be the help your are seeking. Various forms of Integrative, Holistic & Energy Psychology Approaches may be what you are seeking for greater outcomes.
Among these are: Somatic Trauma Healing, Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic , EMDR, Emotional Freedom Technique, Hypnotherapy, Family Constellation.
Advanced Psychotherapy. If you have tried everything and nothing has been effective in relieving symptoms, a deeper approach to wellness may be the help your are seeking. Various forms of Integrative, Holistic & Energy Psychology Approaches may be what you are seeking for greater outcomes.
(201) 383-1644 View (201) 383-1644
Photo of Victorie Valspirit Hypnotherapy, CMS-CHt, FIBH
Victorie Valspirit Hypnotherapy
CMS-CHt, FIBH
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Advance Clinical & Medical Support Hypnotherapy.
I Tori Valspirit, stand for my clients loving themselves, knowing their true values, expecting the best in life, being happy, healthy, strong and prosperous. Understanding that they can make a choice to transform and change their lives and make it all that it can be. As a result of my work as a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Teacher and Empowerment Coach knowing that we have the ability to create the lives that we were meant to have. Acknowledging the power within us because it is possible for human kind to experience Heaven on Earth.” Board Certification #F10319-600, Today we have a 93.4% success rate.
Advance Clinical & Medical Support Hypnotherapy.
I Tori Valspirit, stand for my clients loving themselves, knowing their true values, expecting the best in life, being happy, healthy, strong and prosperous. Understanding that they can make a choice to transform and change their lives and make it all that it can be. As a result of my work as a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Teacher and Empowerment Coach knowing that we have the ability to create the lives that we were meant to have. Acknowledging the power within us because it is possible for human kind to experience Heaven on Earth.” Board Certification #F10319-600, Today we have a 93.4% success rate.
(973) 949-0499 View (973) 949-0499
Photo of Patricia G. Vadine - Patricia Vadine LCSW Integrative Psychotherapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Vadine LCSW Integrative Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Vale, NJ 07675
The way in which I work is "Integrative" in that I use my knowledge of Psychoanalysis, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Energy Psychology and Brainspotting to design an approach for each client based on individual need and individual outcome.
With 30 years of clinical experience I offer a confidential, warm , caring environment in which life's difficulties can be explored and sensitively addressed. My style is interactive and solution oriented and I am told I bring wisdom and a sense of humor to the relationship.
The way in which I work is "Integrative" in that I use my knowledge of Psychoanalysis, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Energy Psychology and Brainspotting to design an approach for each client based on individual need and individual outcome.
With 30 years of clinical experience I offer a confidential, warm , caring environment in which life's difficulties can be explored and sensitively addressed. My style is interactive and solution oriented and I am told I bring wisdom and a sense of humor to the relationship.
(201) 654-7438 View (201) 654-7438
Photo of Heidi Flax, MA, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi Flax
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601
The mind-body connection is fundamental for growth and and I often use relaxation and hypnotherapy in my practice.
I have been working with families for over 30 years. During this time I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and couples. Many people begin therapy to work towards moving aside obstacles or issues that prevent movement forward, whatever that looks like to them...it is all individual. Although my expertise has always been in working with adolescents dealing with social, emotional, family or school issues, I feel equally capable when working with a family, a couple or an individual towards their goal.
The mind-body connection is fundamental for growth and and I often use relaxation and hypnotherapy in my practice.
I have been working with families for over 30 years. During this time I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and couples. Many people begin therapy to work towards moving aside obstacles or issues that prevent movement forward, whatever that looks like to them...it is all individual. Although my expertise has always been in working with adolescents dealing with social, emotional, family or school issues, I feel equally capable when working with a family, a couple or an individual towards their goal.
(201) 283-8153 View (201) 283-8153
Photo of Pauline Carides, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pauline Carides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Curative tools such as EMDR and Hypnotherapy can empower you to move efficiently toward your goals.
I enjoy my work as a therapist. The cornerstone of my success is my ability to provide a safe environment, listen intently, and genuinely engage with the individuals and families that I meet. Perhaps you are on the precipice of change, and you just can't take the first step. Maybe you are taking inventory of your life, and you need guidance on how to sum up your past and learn how to make new decisions in this moment with your eyes wide open. Together, we can sort out the transition and help you move toward positive transformation.
Curative tools such as EMDR and Hypnotherapy can empower you to move efficiently toward your goals.
I enjoy my work as a therapist. The cornerstone of my success is my ability to provide a safe environment, listen intently, and genuinely engage with the individuals and families that I meet. Perhaps you are on the precipice of change, and you just can't take the first step. Maybe you are taking inventory of your life, and you need guidance on how to sum up your past and learn how to make new decisions in this moment with your eyes wide open. Together, we can sort out the transition and help you move toward positive transformation.
(201) 632-3925 View (201) 632-3925
Photo of Kanan Kapila, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kanan Kapila
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Kanan Kapila strives to provide a wise, compassionate, welcoming, and culturally conscious space where therapy can help cultivate our capacity for meaningful life, career, and relationship experiences. Psychotherapy brings awareness to emotions in relation to thoughts, amplifying our ability to respond with kind inquiry and authenticity in our actions. Kanan Kapila adopts an integrative approach to Psychotherapy, drawing from Cognitive-Behavioral, Somatic Therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Mindfulness techniques. Through therapy, clients gain insight into the patterns shaping their personalities.
Kanan Kapila strives to provide a wise, compassionate, welcoming, and culturally conscious space where therapy can help cultivate our capacity for meaningful life, career, and relationship experiences. Psychotherapy brings awareness to emotions in relation to thoughts, amplifying our ability to respond with kind inquiry and authenticity in our actions. Kanan Kapila adopts an integrative approach to Psychotherapy, drawing from Cognitive-Behavioral, Somatic Therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Mindfulness techniques. Through therapy, clients gain insight into the patterns shaping their personalities.
(973) 313-5421 View (973) 313-5421
Photo of Lorna Myers, PhD, Psychologist
Lorna Myers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601
The treatments I offer are based on CBT and hypnotherapy.
I specialize in treating psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) or dissociative seizures. This is a condition in which emotional stress and physiological dysregulation is "converted" into physical symptoms that look a lot like epileptic seizures. Once a patient is diagnosed with PNES and is referred to see me, I offer therapies designed to target the main symptoms (seizures, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and stress coping). Many adult patients diagnosed with PNES have traumatic histories and need trauma-based therapies. I am certified in prolonged exposure and use this to treat patients who are dually diagnosed with PNES and PTSD.
The treatments I offer are based on CBT and hypnotherapy.
I specialize in treating psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) or dissociative seizures. This is a condition in which emotional stress and physiological dysregulation is "converted" into physical symptoms that look a lot like epileptic seizures. Once a patient is diagnosed with PNES and is referred to see me, I offer therapies designed to target the main symptoms (seizures, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and stress coping). Many adult patients diagnosed with PNES have traumatic histories and need trauma-based therapies. I am certified in prolonged exposure and use this to treat patients who are dually diagnosed with PNES and PTSD.
(646) 679-7591 View (646) 679-7591
Photo of Mary Beth Del Balzo, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Beth Del Balzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Ho Ho Kus, NJ 07423
My mission is to patiently support people in seeking and finding joy that eludes them, helping them to empower themselves by using psychotherapy & hypnotherapy, working with the mind, body, emotions and our spirit that makes us unique and a part of the whole of humanity. Our therapeutic alliance encourages a look at the world in a new, safe way. Hypnosis and work in the subconscious is the eye to the soul. I'm an expert hypnotherapist with numerous hypnosis certifications, in private psychotherapy practice since 2005 and a practicing clinical hypnotherapist since 1995, located in NJ.
My mission is to patiently support people in seeking and finding joy that eludes them, helping them to empower themselves by using psychotherapy & hypnotherapy, working with the mind, body, emotions and our spirit that makes us unique and a part of the whole of humanity. Our therapeutic alliance encourages a look at the world in a new, safe way. Hypnosis and work in the subconscious is the eye to the soul. I'm an expert hypnotherapist with numerous hypnosis certifications, in private psychotherapy practice since 2005 and a practicing clinical hypnotherapist since 1995, located in NJ.
(201) 292-5167 View (201) 292-5167
Photo of Mary Huss Zetelski - Mary Huss Zetelski LCSW, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Huss Zetelski LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601
I am Certified in EMDR and Hypnotherapy.
There maybe a past trauma, however big or small, interfering with your ability to get through the day or interfering with your sleep. Or there maybe everyday challenges you face, with parenting, and work life balance? There maybe a loss or a health concern your facing. As a seasoned therapist, I am able to provide a supportive, trusting environment for you to explore your concerns in a secure setting, free from judgement.
I am Certified in EMDR and Hypnotherapy.
There maybe a past trauma, however big or small, interfering with your ability to get through the day or interfering with your sleep. Or there maybe everyday challenges you face, with parenting, and work life balance? There maybe a loss or a health concern your facing. As a seasoned therapist, I am able to provide a supportive, trusting environment for you to explore your concerns in a secure setting, free from judgement.
(201) 231-7190 View (201) 231-7190
Photo of Lisa C Ruane, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa C Ruane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Westwood, NJ 07675
Helping others through the healing process that Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy provides has become a passion of mine.
Lisa holds her MSW from the Boston College School of Social Work and has been a clinical Social Worker since 2011. Her experience lies with psychiatric diagnoses. Additionally, she is a certified Hypnotherapist, who received her training through The Wellness Institute in Seattle. In her private practice, she treats adults who are looking to improve their quality of life through self-awareness and healing.
Helping others through the healing process that Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy provides has become a passion of mine.
Lisa holds her MSW from the Boston College School of Social Work and has been a clinical Social Worker since 2011. Her experience lies with psychiatric diagnoses. Additionally, she is a certified Hypnotherapist, who received her training through The Wellness Institute in Seattle. In her private practice, she treats adults who are looking to improve their quality of life through self-awareness and healing.
(201) 987-9545 View (201) 987-9545
Photo of Frances A Vadas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frances A Vadas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wayne, NJ 07470  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in hypnotherapy, guided imagery, and EMDR for help with trauma and anxiety.
Get your life back post-pandemic; it's time to resume your journey. I'm here to help you on your healing path, if you're ready to go. Most insurance plans are accepted.
I have extensive training in hypnotherapy, guided imagery, and EMDR for help with trauma and anxiety.
Get your life back post-pandemic; it's time to resume your journey. I'm here to help you on your healing path, if you're ready to go. Most insurance plans are accepted.
(609) 604-5302 View (609) 604-5302
Photo of Elisabeth Constantine - Elisabeth Constantine, LPC, NBCCH, LLC, MA, LPC, NCC, NBCCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elisabeth Constantine, LPC, NBCCH, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601
As an adjunct to talk therapy I use Hypnotherapy for sufferers of PTSD or Acute Stress Disorder; e.
Confidential, Caring and Professional...When times are difficult at home or at work (or school) and you feel overwhelmed and stressed...anxiety and depression often follow. Perhaps you have had a childhood that was traumatic or troubled and you haven't felt like you resolved it or thought you had but something from the past gets in the way. When talking with friends and family doesn't seem to be enough - or you're not comfortable confiding in them, this is often the time to seek help from a professional who cares and understands.
As an adjunct to talk therapy I use Hypnotherapy for sufferers of PTSD or Acute Stress Disorder; e.
Confidential, Caring and Professional...When times are difficult at home or at work (or school) and you feel overwhelmed and stressed...anxiety and depression often follow. Perhaps you have had a childhood that was traumatic or troubled and you haven't felt like you resolved it or thought you had but something from the past gets in the way. When talking with friends and family doesn't seem to be enough - or you're not comfortable confiding in them, this is often the time to seek help from a professional who cares and understands.
(201) 283-8057 View (201) 283-8057
Photo of Robert Galarowicz - Dr. Robert's Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy, ND, ACH, CH
Dr. Robert's Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy
ND, ACH, CH
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
" Cathy Gumber Englewood Cliffs - Franklin Lakes, Bergen County New Jersey "10 months without being depressed & still feeling good" Clifton - Rick, Passaic County, NJ Essex-Hudson- Hypnotherapy-Hypnosis.
Discover How My Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy Service Can Help You ... If You Want To Improve Your Anxiety, Depression, Boost Confidence, or Improve Other Mental/Emotional Problems or Life Challenges I Have The Service FOR YOU! I ENJOY to help people & your Children use hypnosis and many mind-body therapies to improve their health. Discover how I can help you ... lose weight, stop smoking & addictions, sleep better, end stress/fear, be happy, control thoughts, change/build habits, end pain, and MORE ... Visit my other website http://www.drrobertg.com for $187 of FREE Goodies! Plus a no-charge phone
" Cathy Gumber Englewood Cliffs - Franklin Lakes, Bergen County New Jersey "10 months without being depressed & still feeling good" Clifton - Rick, Passaic County, NJ Essex-Hudson- Hypnotherapy-Hypnosis.
Discover How My Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy Service Can Help You ... If You Want To Improve Your Anxiety, Depression, Boost Confidence, or Improve Other Mental/Emotional Problems or Life Challenges I Have The Service FOR YOU! I ENJOY to help people & your Children use hypnosis and many mind-body therapies to improve their health. Discover how I can help you ... lose weight, stop smoking & addictions, sleep better, end stress/fear, be happy, control thoughts, change/build habits, end pain, and MORE ... Visit my other website http://www.drrobertg.com for $187 of FREE Goodies! Plus a no-charge phone
(201) 425-6339 View (201) 425-6339
Photo of Kanan Kapila, LMSW, LSW, E-RYT, ICF, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kanan Kapila
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LSW, E-RYT, ICF
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07043
I find an integrated approach to therapy, using life coaching in Jungian psychology and clinical hypnotherapy, is most effective in client transformation.
Welcome. I am here to help you. There are times and stages of our lives where we are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, confused, or proactively seeking clarity on specific issues, and in need of deeper insight into how to cope with challenges. I use a collaborative and experiential approach, honoring your cultural strengths to support you through what motivates you and triggers you, and identify effective and meaningful ways of being. In psychotherapy, you have a safe space to share your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Sometimes we just need professional guidance to get us to the right level of understanding to potentiate change.
I find an integrated approach to therapy, using life coaching in Jungian psychology and clinical hypnotherapy, is most effective in client transformation.
Welcome. I am here to help you. There are times and stages of our lives where we are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, confused, or proactively seeking clarity on specific issues, and in need of deeper insight into how to cope with challenges. I use a collaborative and experiential approach, honoring your cultural strengths to support you through what motivates you and triggers you, and identify effective and meaningful ways of being. In psychotherapy, you have a safe space to share your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Sometimes we just need professional guidance to get us to the right level of understanding to potentiate change.
(973) 346-9577 View (973) 346-9577
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.