Hypnotherapists in Highland Park, IL

Photo of Serge Sorokin, PsyD, Psychologist
Serge Sorokin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
Research indicates that hypnotherapy is most efficient in combination with psychotherapy.
Dr. Sorokin effectively treats depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and substance abuse by successfully combining hypnosis and psychotherapy. He also specializes in relationship problems, anger management, OCD, domestic abuse, sleep issues and PTSD. If you feel stock in life and powerless to change things, if you feel fatigue and constantly worry it's time to start changing your life. Dr. Sorokin utilizes his innovative approach to create a long-lasting improvement in your emotional and physical condition and achieve a successful, balanced life. He effectively utilizes holistic approach to help you recognize an important unity of human body, mind and spirit.
Research indicates that hypnotherapy is most efficient in combination with psychotherapy.
Dr. Sorokin effectively treats depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and substance abuse by successfully combining hypnosis and psychotherapy. He also specializes in relationship problems, anger management, OCD, domestic abuse, sleep issues and PTSD. If you feel stock in life and powerless to change things, if you feel fatigue and constantly worry it's time to start changing your life. Dr. Sorokin utilizes his innovative approach to create a long-lasting improvement in your emotional and physical condition and achieve a successful, balanced life. He effectively utilizes holistic approach to help you recognize an important unity of human body, mind and spirit.
(847) 607-6525 View (847) 607-6525
Photo of Dr. Eleanor D Laser, PhD, Counselor
Dr. Eleanor D Laser
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
I specialize in hypnotherapy, which offers rapid results.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
I specialize in hypnotherapy, which offers rapid results.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
(312) 465-4993 View (312) 465-4993
Photo of James E. 'jed' Foster Jr., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
James E. 'jed' Foster Jr.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
I am accepting new patients at Comprehensive Gastrointestinal Health (CGH) in Northbrook, IL, and in private practice in Missouri and Illinois via telehealth. At CGH, I practice gut-directed hypnotherapy for IBS, Esophageal disorders, and other disorders of the mind-gut axis. In private practice, I see individuals, couples, and families looking to improve their mental health and overall well-being.
I am accepting new patients at Comprehensive Gastrointestinal Health (CGH) in Northbrook, IL, and in private practice in Missouri and Illinois via telehealth. At CGH, I practice gut-directed hypnotherapy for IBS, Esophageal disorders, and other disorders of the mind-gut axis. In private practice, I see individuals, couples, and families looking to improve their mental health and overall well-being.
(224) 212-1054 View (224) 212-1054
Photo of Ellen S Katz, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellen S Katz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
My training includes cognitive/behavioral, hypnotherapy, voice dialogue, IFS, meditation and yoga therapies.
I have been blessed with many incredible mentors throughout my journey as a human and as a therapist, and I now can share their collective wisdom along with my life experience, with you. Therapy offer a process of healing learn to be present together, allowing awareness to expand in a safe place. Here, truth can be expressed, allowing transformation. Typically we default to distraction, intoxication or denial when a we can't genuinely connect with ourselves. "Process addictions", loss, trauma and shame creep in and inhibit our sense of Self. Through therapy, our clarity, healing and ease with emotional intimacy can finally emerge.
My training includes cognitive/behavioral, hypnotherapy, voice dialogue, IFS, meditation and yoga therapies.
I have been blessed with many incredible mentors throughout my journey as a human and as a therapist, and I now can share their collective wisdom along with my life experience, with you. Therapy offer a process of healing learn to be present together, allowing awareness to expand in a safe place. Here, truth can be expressed, allowing transformation. Typically we default to distraction, intoxication or denial when a we can't genuinely connect with ourselves. "Process addictions", loss, trauma and shame creep in and inhibit our sense of Self. Through therapy, our clarity, healing and ease with emotional intimacy can finally emerge.
(847) 908-3702 View (847) 908-3702
Photo of Harry James Nozicka, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Harry James Nozicka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
I have been in Private Practice for many years and pride myself on keeping up to date on learning some of the most contemporary therapeutic approaches available today. My services go beyond traditional talking about problems and focus more on helping people maximize their strengths through the use of contemporary and innovative therapies such as Brainspotting, EMDR, Mindfulness informed therapy, and Clinical Hypnosis. These approaches are extremely effective in dealing with or overcoming anxiety, depression, stress, conflicts, trauma, performance issues, and stress-intensified physical problems.
I have been in Private Practice for many years and pride myself on keeping up to date on learning some of the most contemporary therapeutic approaches available today. My services go beyond traditional talking about problems and focus more on helping people maximize their strengths through the use of contemporary and innovative therapies such as Brainspotting, EMDR, Mindfulness informed therapy, and Clinical Hypnosis. These approaches are extremely effective in dealing with or overcoming anxiety, depression, stress, conflicts, trauma, performance issues, and stress-intensified physical problems.
(847) 440-3668 View (847) 440-3668
Photo of Dr. Dana Louise Martin, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Dana Louise Martin
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
My therapeutic approach focuses on guiding the client to discovering their personal truth while providing them with useful information and tools to help better cope with the trials and tribulations of life. Whether you are struggling with emotions, relationships, a stressful environment, or looking to work on developing yourself, you do not have to do it alone. Therapy can provide you with skills and personal insights that will transform how you see yourself, others, and the world.
My therapeutic approach focuses on guiding the client to discovering their personal truth while providing them with useful information and tools to help better cope with the trials and tribulations of life. Whether you are struggling with emotions, relationships, a stressful environment, or looking to work on developing yourself, you do not have to do it alone. Therapy can provide you with skills and personal insights that will transform how you see yourself, others, and the world.
(224) 261-7661 View (224) 261-7661
Photo of Patricia Roy - The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology
The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
(224) 427-6245 View (224) 427-6245
Photo of Sarah Catanese, Sarah Catanese, PhD, Psychologist
Sarah Catanese
Psychologist, Sarah Catanese, PhD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
(847) 495-8235 View (847) 495-8235
Photo of Des Raftery, MPS, MSW, ACHT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Des Raftery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPS, MSW, ACHT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
Not accepting new clients
I work with individuals and couples using the following processes, Hypnotherapy, Breath therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Reiki and Healing Touch therapy, Imago Relational therapy, Body Wellness practices and Meditation.
I have spent most of my life as a spiritual guide, teacher and psychotherapist. I have worked in Ireland, England, Wales and Nigeria over the past four decades. I have been very fortunate to have great teachers but my best teachers are those people that I have been most privileged to companion through their life challenges. What I am learning from all of my own life experiences is that each moment is filled with magnificence of the Divine and learning to attune to these great unfolding Divine moments is my continued life ambition.
I work with individuals and couples using the following processes, Hypnotherapy, Breath therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Reiki and Healing Touch therapy, Imago Relational therapy, Body Wellness practices and Meditation.
I have spent most of my life as a spiritual guide, teacher and psychotherapist. I have worked in Ireland, England, Wales and Nigeria over the past four decades. I have been very fortunate to have great teachers but my best teachers are those people that I have been most privileged to companion through their life challenges. What I am learning from all of my own life experiences is that each moment is filled with magnificence of the Divine and learning to attune to these great unfolding Divine moments is my continued life ambition.
(630) 373-7149 View (630) 373-7149

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Allie Szeliga, LCPC, Counselor
Allie Szeliga
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
I utilize trauma-informed hypnotherapy and Somatic Experiencing.
I would be honored to assist you in tuning into your body’s unique ability to heal from traumatic experiences. Perhaps you are realizing that you have been avoiding some much needed healing because of fear that it will be deeply painful. Luckily, that does not have to be the case. I firmly believe you can get through life with increased resiliency and confidence in your ability to not only survive, but ultimately thrive.
I utilize trauma-informed hypnotherapy and Somatic Experiencing.
I would be honored to assist you in tuning into your body’s unique ability to heal from traumatic experiences. Perhaps you are realizing that you have been avoiding some much needed healing because of fear that it will be deeply painful. Luckily, that does not have to be the case. I firmly believe you can get through life with increased resiliency and confidence in your ability to not only survive, but ultimately thrive.
(224) 427-6936 View (224) 427-6936
Photo of Alisa J Courtney, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Alisa J Courtney
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I work with individuals,adults and couples. I see each person as a unique individual with strengths and challenges. It is my goal to create a feeling of safety and compassion. It can take courage to enter into therapy and I work with each person in a way that respects their pace, accesses their inner resources, and supports and guides them as new insights and behaviors are evolving. I also use Hypnotherapy and am certified through the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis. Hypnosis can enhance change, help with anxiety, depression, pain, and increase relaxation as well as other issues.
I work with individuals,adults and couples. I see each person as a unique individual with strengths and challenges. It is my goal to create a feeling of safety and compassion. It can take courage to enter into therapy and I work with each person in a way that respects their pace, accesses their inner resources, and supports and guides them as new insights and behaviors are evolving. I also use Hypnotherapy and am certified through the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis. Hypnosis can enhance change, help with anxiety, depression, pain, and increase relaxation as well as other issues.
(847) 512-8987 View (847) 512-8987
Photo of Wendy L McCarty, LMFT, CHT, MA-SP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy L McCarty
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT, MA-SP
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
I use a combination of Marriage and Family therapy, Hypnotherapy and Spiritual psychology to understand and heal faulty negative self conclusions from the past. Once we understand,( sometimes through buried memories,) that our value as human beings cannot be "unworthy, or "not good enough", we can repair mental, emotional and spiritual wounds from the past. My goal is for you to live in freedom and fulfillment from finding your passion in, and for life.
I use a combination of Marriage and Family therapy, Hypnotherapy and Spiritual psychology to understand and heal faulty negative self conclusions from the past. Once we understand,( sometimes through buried memories,) that our value as human beings cannot be "unworthy, or "not good enough", we can repair mental, emotional and spiritual wounds from the past. My goal is for you to live in freedom and fulfillment from finding your passion in, and for life.
(847) 457-0279 View (847) 457-0279
Photo of Emily Edlynn, PhD, Psychologist
Emily Edlynn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Clinicians at Oak Park Behavioral Medicine have received training and certification in medical hypnotherapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training in pediatric health psychology. In my therapy approach, I draw from evidence-based practice, while collaboratively tailoring therapy to individual needs and symptoms. The goal is always to improve daily functioning and each person's quality of life regardless of their disease status. I have extensive experience working with a variety of illnesses and symptoms (eg, chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders, seizures, diabetes, obesity, epilepsy, cancer) by using a combination of cognitive behavioral approaches, mindfulness, and stress management strategies. I have a special interest in youth managing grief and loss.
Clinicians at Oak Park Behavioral Medicine have received training and certification in medical hypnotherapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training in pediatric health psychology. In my therapy approach, I draw from evidence-based practice, while collaboratively tailoring therapy to individual needs and symptoms. The goal is always to improve daily functioning and each person's quality of life regardless of their disease status. I have extensive experience working with a variety of illnesses and symptoms (eg, chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders, seizures, diabetes, obesity, epilepsy, cancer) by using a combination of cognitive behavioral approaches, mindfulness, and stress management strategies. I have a special interest in youth managing grief and loss.
(847) 497-8374 View (847) 497-8374
Photo of Carol L Tessler, PsyD, Psychologist
Carol L Tessler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Prospect Heights, IL 60070  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression and relationship problems are the most frequent complaints of clients seeking counseling. Learning skills to manage symptoms such as panic and anger is where therapy begins. People often have difficult relationships and a strategy for managing them can be very helpful. I respect the values and beliefs of my clients as I help them find solutions to life problems and work toward lasting happiness and stability. My training includes CBT, experiential and psychodynamic therapy, creativity coaching and hypnotherapy.
Anxiety, depression and relationship problems are the most frequent complaints of clients seeking counseling. Learning skills to manage symptoms such as panic and anger is where therapy begins. People often have difficult relationships and a strategy for managing them can be very helpful. I respect the values and beliefs of my clients as I help them find solutions to life problems and work toward lasting happiness and stability. My training includes CBT, experiential and psychodynamic therapy, creativity coaching and hypnotherapy.
(847) 920-4242 View (847) 920-4242
Photo of Lina Costelloe, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lina Costelloe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northfield, IL 60093
I am presently getting certified in Rewind Technique (explicitly applied for trauma and PTSD treatment) and hypnotherapy.
I act as a facilitator of change for individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, various traumas, panic, grief/loss, stress, postpartum blues and depression, low self-esteem, and who are going through life transitions and have parenting challenges. I believe that human birthright is to experience joy in life. Individual journeys in healing and growth are the ways to achieve that.
I am presently getting certified in Rewind Technique (explicitly applied for trauma and PTSD treatment) and hypnotherapy.
I act as a facilitator of change for individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, various traumas, panic, grief/loss, stress, postpartum blues and depression, low self-esteem, and who are going through life transitions and have parenting challenges. I believe that human birthright is to experience joy in life. Individual journeys in healing and growth are the ways to achieve that.
(224) 408-5048 View (224) 408-5048
Photo of Hayley Beth Van Serke, MSW, PsyD, Psychologist
Hayley Beth Van Serke
Psychologist, MSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091  (Online Only)
I am also completing certification in hypnotherapy.
I am an experienced clinician with over 15 years of experience working with clients across gender, ethnic, generational & religious differences. I am dedicated to establishing an authentic connection and creating a safe space for you to begin or continue your process of growth and healing. I tailor my approach to each client and their values and goals. In meeting you exactly where you are with empathy, we will work towards exploring what is at the core of your struggle and develop the insight and tools needed to help you improve your overall wellbeing.
I am also completing certification in hypnotherapy.
I am an experienced clinician with over 15 years of experience working with clients across gender, ethnic, generational & religious differences. I am dedicated to establishing an authentic connection and creating a safe space for you to begin or continue your process of growth and healing. I tailor my approach to each client and their values and goals. In meeting you exactly where you are with empathy, we will work towards exploring what is at the core of your struggle and develop the insight and tools needed to help you improve your overall wellbeing.
(708) 694-8902 View (708) 694-8902
Photo of Julie Ann Doherty, MA, LCPC, ACHt, Counselor
Julie Ann Doherty
Counselor, MA, LCPC, ACHt
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068  (Online Only)
I use Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy, breathwork, RoHun transpersonal (soul) psychology & coaching, meditation/guided imagery, along with traditional talk therapies to empower you, overcome trauma and change unhealthy behaviors/thoughts which can result in anxiety and depression, among other issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you have trouble staying focused, concentrating, functioning normally? Most people that seek out my expertise do because they're either in crisis or struggling, and within a few sessions, they are feeling more in control, more peaceful, and more aware of their capabilities to manage their lives and relationships better.
I use Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy, breathwork, RoHun transpersonal (soul) psychology & coaching, meditation/guided imagery, along with traditional talk therapies to empower you, overcome trauma and change unhealthy behaviors/thoughts which can result in anxiety and depression, among other issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you have trouble staying focused, concentrating, functioning normally? Most people that seek out my expertise do because they're either in crisis or struggling, and within a few sessions, they are feeling more in control, more peaceful, and more aware of their capabilities to manage their lives and relationships better.
(847) 960-3812 View (847) 960-3812
Photo of Eileen H Glenn, MA, LCPC, LLC, Counselor
Eileen H Glenn
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glenview, IL 60025
Utilizing Psychodynamic Therapy, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Breathwork, Rohun, or Healing Touch, I offer many approaches based on the individual needs of my clients.
My primary goal for my clients is to achieve healing on the deepest level. As an Adlerian trained therapist, I utilize psychodynamic as well as alternative modalities to explore, transform and heal those perceptions and beliefs that may be negatively impacting their lives. Whether it's one on one, couples, or group therapy, I am actively participating, encouraging, and guiding my clients so they feel safe and supported to examine and process their deepest emotional wounds.
Utilizing Psychodynamic Therapy, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Breathwork, Rohun, or Healing Touch, I offer many approaches based on the individual needs of my clients.
My primary goal for my clients is to achieve healing on the deepest level. As an Adlerian trained therapist, I utilize psychodynamic as well as alternative modalities to explore, transform and heal those perceptions and beliefs that may be negatively impacting their lives. Whether it's one on one, couples, or group therapy, I am actively participating, encouraging, and guiding my clients so they feel safe and supported to examine and process their deepest emotional wounds.
(847) 457-0145 View (847) 457-0145
Photo of Catherine Boyce - Evanston Counseling, PLLC, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evanston Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morton Grove, IL 60053
We use counseling, CBT, and hypnotherapy, to help you understand and conquer anxiety, pain, and loneliness, to empower you to feel happier and stronger in your pursuits and relationships.
You’ve been carrying the anxiety and pain for far too long. No one really knows what it's like to be you. It feels utterly lonely. But you are at the point, where you want to find hope again and see if there is a chance that it doesn’t have to be this way. You are navigating relationships with your intimate partner and friends, and experiencing difficult lonely feelings about your life, family, health, and career. Whether you have a relationship or are starting a new one, planning a family or maintaining one, struggling at college, battling chronic pain or IBS, or moving into the empty nest syndrome, there is so much to worry about.
We use counseling, CBT, and hypnotherapy, to help you understand and conquer anxiety, pain, and loneliness, to empower you to feel happier and stronger in your pursuits and relationships.
You’ve been carrying the anxiety and pain for far too long. No one really knows what it's like to be you. It feels utterly lonely. But you are at the point, where you want to find hope again and see if there is a chance that it doesn’t have to be this way. You are navigating relationships with your intimate partner and friends, and experiencing difficult lonely feelings about your life, family, health, and career. Whether you have a relationship or are starting a new one, planning a family or maintaining one, struggling at college, battling chronic pain or IBS, or moving into the empty nest syndrome, there is so much to worry about.
(847) 440-1345 View (847) 440-1345
Photo of Julie A Xiques-Prieto, PsyD, ACht, Psychologist
Julie A Xiques-Prieto
Psychologist, PsyD, ACht
Verified Verified
Wheeling, IL 60090
My name is Dr. Julie A. Xiques-Prieto. I am a bilingual clinical psychologist that has been providing bilingual services in the Chicago area for more than twenty years. I completed my doctoral degree in clinical psychology at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in 1996. My career path has guided me towards highly unique and experiential training that allow me to create for you a "therapeutic experience" that goes beyond traditional "talk therapy". I am certified in hypnotherapy and EMDR and Breathwork. Spanish is my native language, but I am also fluent in English. I also conduct immigration evaluations.
My name is Dr. Julie A. Xiques-Prieto. I am a bilingual clinical psychologist that has been providing bilingual services in the Chicago area for more than twenty years. I completed my doctoral degree in clinical psychology at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in 1996. My career path has guided me towards highly unique and experiential training that allow me to create for you a "therapeutic experience" that goes beyond traditional "talk therapy". I am certified in hypnotherapy and EMDR and Breathwork. Spanish is my native language, but I am also fluent in English. I also conduct immigration evaluations.
(224) 491-4435 View (224) 491-4435

See more therapy options for Highland Park

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.