Hypnotherapists in King County, WA

Photo of Carla Grace - Carla Grace, LMHC, LPC, DBTC, CAMF, Counselor
Carla Grace
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, DBTC, CAMF
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98117  (Online Only)
My specialties include Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Rapid Transformational Therapy, Brain Gym, Psych-K, and Sandtray.
Hi, my name is Carla Grace. My therapeutic style is interactive, inclusive and supportive. I facilitate my client's exploration of the root of traumatic events from a nurturing and empowering perspective. I view the healing process as a sacred and vulnerable experience and create a safe and empowering environment for exploration and healing. Initially, I help the client create supportive scaffolding by identifying and implementing healthy effective coping skills and identifying triggers. It is a privilege to walk alongside a person through their healing journey.
My specialties include Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Rapid Transformational Therapy, Brain Gym, Psych-K, and Sandtray.
Hi, my name is Carla Grace. My therapeutic style is interactive, inclusive and supportive. I facilitate my client's exploration of the root of traumatic events from a nurturing and empowering perspective. I view the healing process as a sacred and vulnerable experience and create a safe and empowering environment for exploration and healing. Initially, I help the client create supportive scaffolding by identifying and implementing healthy effective coping skills and identifying triggers. It is a privilege to walk alongside a person through their healing journey.
(206) 759-7511 View (206) 759-7511
Photo of Jack Elias - Lucid Heart Therapy & life Coaching, CHT
Lucid Heart Therapy & life Coaching
CHT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98117  (Online Only)
Lucid Heart Therapy and Life Coaching is a system of dynamic, creative hypnotherapy originally developed by Seattle hypnotist and hypnotherapist Jack Elias, CHT.
Specific Issues Addressed in Private Sessions Overeating, Weight loss, Smoking, Gambling, Compulsive Habits, Workaholism, Worrying, Fears & Phobias, Traumas & PTSD, Panic Attacks, Stress Management, Pain Control, Painfree Child Birth, Family Counseling, Couples Counseling – Intimacy in Relationships, Counseling for children & teens, Self-confidence, Depression, Professional Success, Harmony at Work, Intuition, Creativity, End Addictive Patterns, Improvement in Athletic Performance, Improvement in Academic Performance, Asthma & Allergies, Auto-immune Disorders, Insomnia, and more ..
Lucid Heart Therapy and Life Coaching is a system of dynamic, creative hypnotherapy originally developed by Seattle hypnotist and hypnotherapist Jack Elias, CHT.
Specific Issues Addressed in Private Sessions Overeating, Weight loss, Smoking, Gambling, Compulsive Habits, Workaholism, Worrying, Fears & Phobias, Traumas & PTSD, Panic Attacks, Stress Management, Pain Control, Painfree Child Birth, Family Counseling, Couples Counseling – Intimacy in Relationships, Counseling for children & teens, Self-confidence, Depression, Professional Success, Harmony at Work, Intuition, Creativity, End Addictive Patterns, Improvement in Athletic Performance, Improvement in Academic Performance, Asthma & Allergies, Auto-immune Disorders, Insomnia, and more ..
(206) 502-1963 View (206) 502-1963
Photo of Tracy Barrett Adams, CHT
Tracy Barrett Adams
CHT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Why hypnotherapy? Because it is solution oriented, not problem oriented.
Hypnosis creates a natural bridge between mind and body, and it's a proven method for relieving pain, improving sleep, releasing anxiety, and replacing self-sabotage with new choices. Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention creating a heightened openness and awareness. This state allows the mind to gently access deep creative resources, and in clinical hypnosis, we can then apply these resources to your goals for change.
Why hypnotherapy? Because it is solution oriented, not problem oriented.
Hypnosis creates a natural bridge between mind and body, and it's a proven method for relieving pain, improving sleep, releasing anxiety, and replacing self-sabotage with new choices. Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention creating a heightened openness and awareness. This state allows the mind to gently access deep creative resources, and in clinical hypnosis, we can then apply these resources to your goals for change.
(206) 800-7535 View (206) 800-7535
Photo of Glaiza Gatdula - Strengths Awareness Counseling, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Strengths Awareness Counseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
I use strengths-based, mindfulness-based, psychoeducation, CBT, gestalt, client-centered, IFS, and hypnotherapy in my practice.
Most of my work will focus on helping you manage life stressors, whether you are feeling depressed, anxious, or have experienced trauma and/or grief. We'll aim to understand the roots of your problems and make healthier and more conscious choices moving forward. Sometimes I will challenge your thoughts, and at other times, we'll slow down together to reflect, process, and simply feel the emotions to gain acceptance of the things you cannot control.
I use strengths-based, mindfulness-based, psychoeducation, CBT, gestalt, client-centered, IFS, and hypnotherapy in my practice.
Most of my work will focus on helping you manage life stressors, whether you are feeling depressed, anxious, or have experienced trauma and/or grief. We'll aim to understand the roots of your problems and make healthier and more conscious choices moving forward. Sometimes I will challenge your thoughts, and at other times, we'll slow down together to reflect, process, and simply feel the emotions to gain acceptance of the things you cannot control.
(206) 260-0288 View (206) 260-0288
Photo of Tony Reyna, MA, CCHt, MHyp
Tony Reyna
MA, CCHt, MHyp
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98058  (Online Only)
As a hypnotherapist, I believe each client is unique, and their issues and goals are specific to their circumstances. However, ideal clients seeking hypnotherapy may have various issues, such as anxiety, depression, phobias, addiction, insomnia, or chronic pain. You may need to overcome limiting beliefs, improve self-esteem, or manage stress. Your goals may include achieving better health, increasing confidence, enhancing performance, or attaining inner peace. Ultimately, You want to improve your quality of life and find solutions to your challenges.
As a hypnotherapist, I believe each client is unique, and their issues and goals are specific to their circumstances. However, ideal clients seeking hypnotherapy may have various issues, such as anxiety, depression, phobias, addiction, insomnia, or chronic pain. You may need to overcome limiting beliefs, improve self-esteem, or manage stress. Your goals may include achieving better health, increasing confidence, enhancing performance, or attaining inner peace. Ultimately, You want to improve your quality of life and find solutions to your challenges.
(206) 984-6313 View (206) 984-6313
Photo of Thomas Beck, PhD
Thomas Beck
Mental Health Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
I offer EMDR, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), meditation, hypnotherapy, and Energy Medicine.
In this time of unprecedented loss and stress due to COVID-19 and other world events such as accelerating climate change, I can help you deal with anxiety and depression. My orientation is transpersonal as I see physical and emotional issues as doorways to transformation and spiritual awakening. In my psychotherapy practice, people have achieved new levels of personal freedom and self-esteem. Together, we can enrich your quality of life and enhance your creativity. Integrative healing encompasses body, mind & spirit. We all deserve to be happy in our bodies and our lives. I work also with couples to resolve relationship issues.
I offer EMDR, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), meditation, hypnotherapy, and Energy Medicine.
In this time of unprecedented loss and stress due to COVID-19 and other world events such as accelerating climate change, I can help you deal with anxiety and depression. My orientation is transpersonal as I see physical and emotional issues as doorways to transformation and spiritual awakening. In my psychotherapy practice, people have achieved new levels of personal freedom and self-esteem. Together, we can enrich your quality of life and enhance your creativity. Integrative healing encompasses body, mind & spirit. We all deserve to be happy in our bodies and our lives. I work also with couples to resolve relationship issues.
(206) 260-0681 View (206) 260-0681
Photo of Marie Sohl, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Marie Sohl
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
Specializing in serving Vashon Island helping adults heal anxiety, depression, stress which often originate from patterns learned in childhood or from trauma. Treatment goes back to heal the very beginning of these patterns through EMDR, IFS, and Hypnotherapy. Marie Sohl has been working with families and infants, toddler or preschooler ages 0-6 for over 20 years who are needing extra support through changes and transitions. The extensive history working with young children and their families are helpful in understanding healing for adults who have been affected by childhood events.
Specializing in serving Vashon Island helping adults heal anxiety, depression, stress which often originate from patterns learned in childhood or from trauma. Treatment goes back to heal the very beginning of these patterns through EMDR, IFS, and Hypnotherapy. Marie Sohl has been working with families and infants, toddler or preschooler ages 0-6 for over 20 years who are needing extra support through changes and transitions. The extensive history working with young children and their families are helpful in understanding healing for adults who have been affected by childhood events.
(206) 535-1859 View (206) 535-1859
Photo of Anna Margolina, PhD, CHT
Anna Margolina
PhD, CHT
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Hypnotherapy and NLP can help you achieve your goals by harnessing resources and powers of your own unconscious mind.
Many people today are struggling with stresses and overwhelm. As tension keeps building up, it can lead to relationship problems, inability to fall asleep at night, unhealthy eating habits, emotional outbursts at work and at home, exhaustion and general depletion. Usually, using willpower to try eating healthier, exercising more, or control your emotions doesn't work. This is because most of our coping behaviors are unconscious and automatic. This is why hypnotherapy, which work with our unconscious mind, can be a valuable tool for those who want to take charge of their life and habits.
Hypnotherapy and NLP can help you achieve your goals by harnessing resources and powers of your own unconscious mind.
Many people today are struggling with stresses and overwhelm. As tension keeps building up, it can lead to relationship problems, inability to fall asleep at night, unhealthy eating habits, emotional outbursts at work and at home, exhaustion and general depletion. Usually, using willpower to try eating healthier, exercising more, or control your emotions doesn't work. This is because most of our coping behaviors are unconscious and automatic. This is why hypnotherapy, which work with our unconscious mind, can be a valuable tool for those who want to take charge of their life and habits.
(425) 474-5574 View (425) 474-5574
Photo of Janet Douglas, LICSW, ACHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027  (Online Only)
I use counselling, hypnotherapy and mindfulness techniques to help heal your past and coaching techniques to help improve your future.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or a past that's holding you back? I can help. Are you wanting to make a change, and are feeling stuck, or out of control? Are you ready to heal yourself from within? I can help! Counselling and hypnotherapy allow you to get to the source of negative beliefs and patterns so that you can heal from old wounds. You are better able to see how these patterns may have carried forward and left you feeling stuck in your current situation. Through this healing, you can release what no longer serves you and become who we truly want to be.
I use counselling, hypnotherapy and mindfulness techniques to help heal your past and coaching techniques to help improve your future.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or a past that's holding you back? I can help. Are you wanting to make a change, and are feeling stuck, or out of control? Are you ready to heal yourself from within? I can help! Counselling and hypnotherapy allow you to get to the source of negative beliefs and patterns so that you can heal from old wounds. You are better able to see how these patterns may have carried forward and left you feeling stuck in your current situation. Through this healing, you can release what no longer serves you and become who we truly want to be.
(425) 292-5064 View (425) 292-5064
Photo of Francesca Licciardi, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Francesca Licciardi
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
Individual therapy is comprised of somatic, cognitive/behavioral therapies and hypnotherapy.
This time has been isolating and life alternating to say the least. Many of us are left with a feeling of overwhelm as we are separated from one another and cannot participate in the lifestyle routines that once helped us to feel grounded. I have been working with many clients this year to find a source of balance and inner peace when so much of the world has shut down and become unavailable to us. From anxiety, depression and Pandemic PTSD to low motivation and deflation. Feelings of isolation, loneliness and despondency are a few of the many issues I work with in my clients at the moment. Let me help you build your new world!
Individual therapy is comprised of somatic, cognitive/behavioral therapies and hypnotherapy.
This time has been isolating and life alternating to say the least. Many of us are left with a feeling of overwhelm as we are separated from one another and cannot participate in the lifestyle routines that once helped us to feel grounded. I have been working with many clients this year to find a source of balance and inner peace when so much of the world has shut down and become unavailable to us. From anxiety, depression and Pandemic PTSD to low motivation and deflation. Feelings of isolation, loneliness and despondency are a few of the many issues I work with in my clients at the moment. Let me help you build your new world!
(425) 967-8748 View (425) 967-8748
Photo of Sasha Melnik, M, A, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sasha Melnik
Pre-Licensed Professional, M, A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011
My orientation involves IFS parts work and hypnotherapy (RTT certified) as a tool to help heal the root of the suffering, hurt, and confusion.
I am here to provide a compassionate container for you to reconnect with yourself authentically. I specialize in working with individuals who have anxiety, trauma and attachment wounds. I enjoy working with people from all backgrounds and walks of life, you are welcome and accepted here just as you are.
My orientation involves IFS parts work and hypnotherapy (RTT certified) as a tool to help heal the root of the suffering, hurt, and confusion.
I am here to provide a compassionate container for you to reconnect with yourself authentically. I specialize in working with individuals who have anxiety, trauma and attachment wounds. I enjoy working with people from all backgrounds and walks of life, you are welcome and accepted here just as you are.
(425) 600-1668 View (425) 600-1668
Photo of Melinda Stone, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Melinda Stone
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I have trained in the use of hypnotherapy, which can be tremendously useful if you are experiencing intrusive traumatic memories, chronic pain, phobias, or if you are hoping to change habits, particularly around losing weight and increasing motivation to exercise and eat a healthier diet.
Good therapy is a gift that you give yourself: a gift of understanding, compassion, and clarity. It can lead to better relationships and the ability to enjoy what is good in life, even when bad things happen. The saying, "What is shareable is bearable," forms the backbone of my philosophy. Being able to talk about what is troubling you can help you deal with stress and relationships. I help individuals process the issues causing them stress and I help couples get to the heart of their issues.
I have trained in the use of hypnotherapy, which can be tremendously useful if you are experiencing intrusive traumatic memories, chronic pain, phobias, or if you are hoping to change habits, particularly around losing weight and increasing motivation to exercise and eat a healthier diet.
Good therapy is a gift that you give yourself: a gift of understanding, compassion, and clarity. It can lead to better relationships and the ability to enjoy what is good in life, even when bad things happen. The saying, "What is shareable is bearable," forms the backbone of my philosophy. Being able to talk about what is troubling you can help you deal with stress and relationships. I help individuals process the issues causing them stress and I help couples get to the heart of their issues.
(206) 745-5807 View (206) 745-5807
Photo of Jamila Coleman, MA, CC, HT, MHP, CMHS, Counselor
Jamila Coleman
Counselor, MA, CC, HT, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057
For over 15 years, I have been a practicing mental health professional and professional coach with a specialization in social justice counseling, hypnotherapy and expressive arts therapy, specifically narrative, poetry and restorative yoga. I received my master’s degree in Social Justice Counseling from Antioch University, yoga teacher training certifications from My Vinyasa Practice, LLC and American Sports and Fitness Association and I currently hold several Department of Health credentials in Washington State.
For over 15 years, I have been a practicing mental health professional and professional coach with a specialization in social justice counseling, hypnotherapy and expressive arts therapy, specifically narrative, poetry and restorative yoga. I received my master’s degree in Social Justice Counseling from Antioch University, yoga teacher training certifications from My Vinyasa Practice, LLC and American Sports and Fitness Association and I currently hold several Department of Health credentials in Washington State.
(253) 316-8621 View (253) 316-8621
Arthur Levine
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Covington, WA 98042  (Online Only)
I have spent hundreds of hours studying such approaches as hypnotherapy, NLP, and Thought Pattern Management, because these are powerful ways of accessing the resources of the Unconscious Mind and enlisting its assistance as a powerful ally.
I am committed to helping people get the results they want quickly and effectively. Toward that end, I have studied a broad range of therapeutic approaches, and I endeavor to tailor my work with you to meet your specific needs and temperament. Through my studies and experience, I have learned that the Unconscious Mind is a great resource, full of all our life's learnings, experiences, and wisdom, and that it can be enlisted in the quest for emotional healing, personal growth, and creating lasting changes in one's life.
I have spent hundreds of hours studying such approaches as hypnotherapy, NLP, and Thought Pattern Management, because these are powerful ways of accessing the resources of the Unconscious Mind and enlisting its assistance as a powerful ally.
I am committed to helping people get the results they want quickly and effectively. Toward that end, I have studied a broad range of therapeutic approaches, and I endeavor to tailor my work with you to meet your specific needs and temperament. Through my studies and experience, I have learned that the Unconscious Mind is a great resource, full of all our life's learnings, experiences, and wisdom, and that it can be enlisted in the quest for emotional healing, personal growth, and creating lasting changes in one's life.
(206) 504-2651 View (206) 504-2651
Photo of Erin C Mullins, ACHt, CSP, LMT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erin C Mullins
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACHt, CSP, LMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011
Counseling with me is anchored in deep listening and safe witnessing, conversational processing, and may include somatic processes, transpersonal explorations, parts work, and hypnotherapy when wanted.
Accepting new clients! Life is a complex journey, and we all need skillful support along the way. As a counselor, I am oriented toward your wholeness and uniqueness. I provide individualized care based on your needs and goals. I facilitate the therapeutic process from a place of non-judgment and collaboration, navigating the path to your therapeutic goals while holding space for your long-term vision and purpose. I maintain a therapeutic container that is both strong and soft, held in compassion, activated by my commitment to supporting your development, and nourished by constant attunement to deep listening and skillful practice.
Counseling with me is anchored in deep listening and safe witnessing, conversational processing, and may include somatic processes, transpersonal explorations, parts work, and hypnotherapy when wanted.
Accepting new clients! Life is a complex journey, and we all need skillful support along the way. As a counselor, I am oriented toward your wholeness and uniqueness. I provide individualized care based on your needs and goals. I facilitate the therapeutic process from a place of non-judgment and collaboration, navigating the path to your therapeutic goals while holding space for your long-term vision and purpose. I maintain a therapeutic container that is both strong and soft, held in compassion, activated by my commitment to supporting your development, and nourished by constant attunement to deep listening and skillful practice.
(425) 541-7179 View (425) 541-7179
Photo of Katharine Fitzpatrick - Dr. Katharine Fitzpatrick, ND
Dr. Katharine Fitzpatrick
ND
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Clinical hypnotherapy is a powerful treatment strategy with broad applications. Hypnosis engages with the subconscious mind by offering new ideas and new stories to help shift unhelpful or harmful patterns of behavior. Hypnosis can be used to treat a variety of clinical conditions (e.g. insomnia, jaw clenching), phobias (dogs, flying), and even addiction.
Clinical hypnotherapy is a powerful treatment strategy with broad applications. Hypnosis engages with the subconscious mind by offering new ideas and new stories to help shift unhelpful or harmful patterns of behavior. Hypnosis can be used to treat a variety of clinical conditions (e.g. insomnia, jaw clenching), phobias (dogs, flying), and even addiction.
(206) 800-7547 View (206) 800-7547
Photo of Kelly Granite Enck, CHT, BA, RRT
Kelly Granite Enck
CHT, BA, RRT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125
Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT) is a cutting-edge hypnotherapy technique that helps individuals overcome anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), quit smoking, manage grief, insomnia, lose weight, enhance sports performance, and build confidence. Book your Online or In-Office RRT Therapy Session with Kelly on her website, clicking the "Book Now" button www.DoylestownHypnosis.com.
Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT) is a cutting-edge hypnotherapy technique that helps individuals overcome anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), quit smoking, manage grief, insomnia, lose weight, enhance sports performance, and build confidence. Book your Online or In-Office RRT Therapy Session with Kelly on her website, clicking the "Book Now" button www.DoylestownHypnosis.com.
(206) 507-3203 View (206) 507-3203
Photo of Heidi Kinsella - Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching, LMHC, SUDP, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT, Counselor
Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027
We practice EMDR, Couples EFT, Gottman, Lifespan Integration, Carnes 30 Task Model, CBT, Hypnotherapy, Christian Counseling.
Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching is group practice of therapists and coaches who specialize in addiction including alcohol and drug addiction, sex addiction, pornography addiction, love addiction and partner betrayal trauma. All of the therapists and coaches at Fourth Dimension are in long term substance abuse recovery themselves and are experts in the field of addiction. They also have extensive training in couples therapy, infidelity, codependency, family of origin, women's issues, domestic violence, trauma and life transitions. We offer individual, couples and group therapy and coaching for both men and women.
We practice EMDR, Couples EFT, Gottman, Lifespan Integration, Carnes 30 Task Model, CBT, Hypnotherapy, Christian Counseling.
Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching is group practice of therapists and coaches who specialize in addiction including alcohol and drug addiction, sex addiction, pornography addiction, love addiction and partner betrayal trauma. All of the therapists and coaches at Fourth Dimension are in long term substance abuse recovery themselves and are experts in the field of addiction. They also have extensive training in couples therapy, infidelity, codependency, family of origin, women's issues, domestic violence, trauma and life transitions. We offer individual, couples and group therapy and coaching for both men and women.
(425) 652-1690 View (425) 652-1690
Photo of Laura Rude' - HealthWise Hypnosis, CCHT
HealthWise Hypnosis
CCHT
Verified Verified
Maple Valley, WA 98038  (Online Only)
*Private, 1-1 Online Hypnotherapy* Through a process of self-discovery using hypnosis, I help my clients find what might be standing in their way or holding them back. With clinical hypnosis techniques, I help clients make positive changes and remove blocks as well as change limiting beliefs and perceptions that are keeping them from moving forward and living a life full of peace, happiness and success. I am deeply passionate about helping people discover their own powers for change.
*Private, 1-1 Online Hypnotherapy* Through a process of self-discovery using hypnosis, I help my clients find what might be standing in their way or holding them back. With clinical hypnosis techniques, I help clients make positive changes and remove blocks as well as change limiting beliefs and perceptions that are keeping them from moving forward and living a life full of peace, happiness and success. I am deeply passionate about helping people discover their own powers for change.
(425) 642-1189 View (425) 642-1189
Photo of Christian Skoorsmith, MA, BCH
Christian Skoorsmith
MA, BCH
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98126
Stressed? Overwhelmed? Angry? Reactionary? Trouble in relationships - personal, professional, intimate? Feeling down or frustrated too often? Christian provides a professional, evidence-based approach to working with sub-clinical issues through a systematic hypnotherapy model. Oftentimes in a matter of just a few sessions, clients report startling and sustainable change, new insights into themselves and old patterns of beliefs or reactions, and more freedom to be their best selves.
Stressed? Overwhelmed? Angry? Reactionary? Trouble in relationships - personal, professional, intimate? Feeling down or frustrated too often? Christian provides a professional, evidence-based approach to working with sub-clinical issues through a systematic hypnotherapy model. Oftentimes in a matter of just a few sessions, clients report startling and sustainable change, new insights into themselves and old patterns of beliefs or reactions, and more freedom to be their best selves.
(206) 350-4519 View (206) 350-4519

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.