Hypnotherapists in Waltham, MA

Photo of Andrew Hahn And Associates, PsyD, Psychologist
Andrew Hahn And Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02451
My team and I help individuals and couples. We are best suited to treating you where you're stuck, be it physical (like chronic pain, auto-immune), mental (like anxiety), emotional (like depression), relational (partners, children, parents, people you work with), and spiritual (like alienation). What makes my work unique is it's remarkably efficient & effective.
My team and I help individuals and couples. We are best suited to treating you where you're stuck, be it physical (like chronic pain, auto-immune), mental (like anxiety), emotional (like depression), relational (partners, children, parents, people you work with), and spiritual (like alienation). What makes my work unique is it's remarkably efficient & effective.
(781) 622-9087 View (781) 622-9087
Photo of Life Centered Therapy Institute - Life Centered Therapy Institute, PsyD, Psychologist
Life Centered Therapy Institute
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02451
My team and I help individuals and couples. Our ideal client is someone who's interested in both healing and growth, who is goal oriented, and knows that how we make sense of things is fundamental. The symptoms about which we suffer are also an invitation to remember what we couldn't handle so that we heal and grow. I'm best suited to treating you where you're stuck, be it physical (like chronic pain, auto-immune), mental (like anxiety), emotional (like depression), relational (partners, children, parents, people you work with), and spiritual (like alienation).
My team and I help individuals and couples. Our ideal client is someone who's interested in both healing and growth, who is goal oriented, and knows that how we make sense of things is fundamental. The symptoms about which we suffer are also an invitation to remember what we couldn't handle so that we heal and grow. I'm best suited to treating you where you're stuck, be it physical (like chronic pain, auto-immune), mental (like anxiety), emotional (like depression), relational (partners, children, parents, people you work with), and spiritual (like alienation).
(617) 676-0872 View (617) 676-0872
Photo of Susan Elizabeth Aeschbach, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Elizabeth Aeschbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02451
I work in a very collaborative way to help you to achieve your personal goals. The fit is essential and so I invite you to meet with me to see if the match feels right. In our initial meetings I will want to get an understanding of what is working well in your life as well as what is not working well. I will also obtain a history and after a couple of sesions I will share with you my assessment of you and your problems and will recommend a treatment approach that I think will be helpful.
I work in a very collaborative way to help you to achieve your personal goals. The fit is essential and so I invite you to meet with me to see if the match feels right. In our initial meetings I will want to get an understanding of what is working well in your life as well as what is not working well. I will also obtain a history and after a couple of sesions I will share with you my assessment of you and your problems and will recommend a treatment approach that I think will be helpful.
(617) 500-1337 View (617) 500-1337
Photo of Amelia Hasbun, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amelia Hasbun
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
I enjoy working with couples, the LGBTQIA+ community, women, people of color, children, families, those of various cultural backgrounds, those with anxiety and depression, and those navigating life stressors or geographic moves. I like working with clients who are ready to work authentically on stated goals.
I enjoy working with couples, the LGBTQIA+ community, women, people of color, children, families, those of various cultural backgrounds, those with anxiety and depression, and those navigating life stressors or geographic moves. I like working with clients who are ready to work authentically on stated goals.
(857) 858-1479 View (857) 858-1479
Photo of Kathleen R Burke, PhD, RN, CS, Psychologist
Kathleen R Burke
Psychologist, PhD, RN, CS
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02452
My clinical work is integrative with the goal of helping an individual, couple, or family become more whole. My clients are diverse; I thoroughly enjoy working with the full age range, from high-energy little ones to quietly reflective older folks. Together we create a space where we can collaborate with curiosity and creative mindfulness, a space where the work of psychotherapy enables clients to tap their strengths and develop psychologically. My ideal clients are receptive to change and courageous.
My clinical work is integrative with the goal of helping an individual, couple, or family become more whole. My clients are diverse; I thoroughly enjoy working with the full age range, from high-energy little ones to quietly reflective older folks. Together we create a space where we can collaborate with curiosity and creative mindfulness, a space where the work of psychotherapy enables clients to tap their strengths and develop psychologically. My ideal clients are receptive to change and courageous.
(781) 428-9051 View (781) 428-9051
Photo of Claudia A Harris, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudia A Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02451
By interweaving different types of therapy, we collaborate towards your goals in a way that's effective and respectful of your time, energy and money. Each session can be useful - I track this carefully by asking for feedback and by giving choices on how we work together. The time in-between sessions also is used - through practice 'homework' we choose individually, as a couple or as a family, or through observation/thinking. This helps us to identify what helps you to change or restrains you from change - we can then work together from an attitude of curiosity rather than "shoulds".
By interweaving different types of therapy, we collaborate towards your goals in a way that's effective and respectful of your time, energy and money. Each session can be useful - I track this carefully by asking for feedback and by giving choices on how we work together. The time in-between sessions also is used - through practice 'homework' we choose individually, as a couple or as a family, or through observation/thinking. This helps us to identify what helps you to change or restrains you from change - we can then work together from an attitude of curiosity rather than "shoulds".
(617) 500-3838 View (617) 500-3838
Photo of Kimberly Faris, PsyD, Psychologist
Kimberly Faris
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02451
I am naturally upbeat, enthusiastic and totally invested in motivating individuals to challenge negative thinking and embrace their potential through the lens of quantum mechanics. As a way to engage my patients in their own recovery process they will learn mindfulness and meditation techniques in order to access their capacity to heal physically and emotionally. I embrace the techniques of energy psychology and support Joe Dispenza's work in self-healing. I am well suited for those who desire the skills to cope with life's challenges and fully understand and that we are the creators of our life and that which we manifest.
I am naturally upbeat, enthusiastic and totally invested in motivating individuals to challenge negative thinking and embrace their potential through the lens of quantum mechanics. As a way to engage my patients in their own recovery process they will learn mindfulness and meditation techniques in order to access their capacity to heal physically and emotionally. I embrace the techniques of energy psychology and support Joe Dispenza's work in self-healing. I am well suited for those who desire the skills to cope with life's challenges and fully understand and that we are the creators of our life and that which we manifest.
(617) 307-4806 View (617) 307-4806
Photo of David Jay Weiss, PhD, FAACS, Psychologist
David Jay Weiss
Psychologist, PhD, FAACS
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
You are calling because you want help, relief, and improvement as soon as possible. I have 35 years of experience specializing in individual therapy, marriage/couples counseling, and sex therapy. Using an integrative approach, we will develop a clear articulation of your problem and a clear plan to get more out of life. We will use techniques addressing anxiety, depression, sexual issues, ineffective communication, self-defeating patterns, feelings of hopeless or sadness. You may know what you are feeling, but not the solution. My job is to relieve suffering and enhance your wellbeing and your relationship with others.
You are calling because you want help, relief, and improvement as soon as possible. I have 35 years of experience specializing in individual therapy, marriage/couples counseling, and sex therapy. Using an integrative approach, we will develop a clear articulation of your problem and a clear plan to get more out of life. We will use techniques addressing anxiety, depression, sexual issues, ineffective communication, self-defeating patterns, feelings of hopeless or sadness. You may know what you are feeling, but not the solution. My job is to relieve suffering and enhance your wellbeing and your relationship with others.
(617) 466-9972 View (617) 466-9972
Photo of Inessa Altshuler, LMHC, Counselor
Inessa Altshuler
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
Not accepting new clients
My practice provides safe and supportive environment to reduce pressure, discomfort, fear of judgment creating an atmosphere of trust, acceptance, and validation. This setting allows to speak openly about physical, emotional, and psychological concerns, to freely express doubts, believes, thoughts, feelings, emotions, ideas, and concepts. I encourage, but not pressure, exploring difficult situations, traumatic events, defense mechanisms, malfunctioning schema, identifying patterns, values, beliefs, connections between past and present; building on strengths to overcome challenges, realize potential and find meaning.
My practice provides safe and supportive environment to reduce pressure, discomfort, fear of judgment creating an atmosphere of trust, acceptance, and validation. This setting allows to speak openly about physical, emotional, and psychological concerns, to freely express doubts, believes, thoughts, feelings, emotions, ideas, and concepts. I encourage, but not pressure, exploring difficult situations, traumatic events, defense mechanisms, malfunctioning schema, identifying patterns, values, beliefs, connections between past and present; building on strengths to overcome challenges, realize potential and find meaning.
(339) 368-5683 View (339) 368-5683

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sara Leo, PsyD, Psychologist
Sara Leo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
I am a licensed clinical health psychologist at Cambridge Psychology Group. I specialize in treating people coping with anxiety, chronic pain, stress, medical issues, mood disorders, and difficulties adjusting to life changes. I believe that each person is unique, and therefore no one approach is right for everyone. I strive to integrate a variety of techniques and perspectives from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness based therapies, relaxation training, biofeedback, clinical hypnotherapy, and supportive therapy to create a treatment that is tailored to the individual I am working with.
I am a licensed clinical health psychologist at Cambridge Psychology Group. I specialize in treating people coping with anxiety, chronic pain, stress, medical issues, mood disorders, and difficulties adjusting to life changes. I believe that each person is unique, and therefore no one approach is right for everyone. I strive to integrate a variety of techniques and perspectives from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness based therapies, relaxation training, biofeedback, clinical hypnotherapy, and supportive therapy to create a treatment that is tailored to the individual I am working with.
(617) 977-4770 View (617) 977-4770
Photo of Cally Stewart, OTD, OTR/L, CH, Occupational Therapist
Cally Stewart
Occupational Therapist, OTD, OTR/L, CH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02140
I offer hypnotherapy for the wellness goals (above) and also have multiple specialty areas: Maternal Health, Kids & Teens, Cancer Support, and Chronic Conditions (IBS, chronic pain, autoimmune disease).
I combine my skills in hypnosis, occupational therapy, and reiki - to offer deeply relaxing hypnotherapy programs. My goal is to teach self-hypnosis strategies to help clients connect with relaxation, focus, and their own subconscious wisdom. I guide clients towards their health and wellness goals through thoughtfully designed hypnotherapy programs that draw from research-backed best practices for: Stress relief, Better sleep, Habit change (smoking/vaping cessation, weight management, motivation for exercise), Releasing emotional tension, Relieving physical pain, Resolving fears & phobias, Greater ease during life transitions.
I offer hypnotherapy for the wellness goals (above) and also have multiple specialty areas: Maternal Health, Kids & Teens, Cancer Support, and Chronic Conditions (IBS, chronic pain, autoimmune disease).
I combine my skills in hypnosis, occupational therapy, and reiki - to offer deeply relaxing hypnotherapy programs. My goal is to teach self-hypnosis strategies to help clients connect with relaxation, focus, and their own subconscious wisdom. I guide clients towards their health and wellness goals through thoughtfully designed hypnotherapy programs that draw from research-backed best practices for: Stress relief, Better sleep, Habit change (smoking/vaping cessation, weight management, motivation for exercise), Releasing emotional tension, Relieving physical pain, Resolving fears & phobias, Greater ease during life transitions.
(857) 376-3923 View (857) 376-3923
Photo of Bradford B Bedar, EdD, Psychologist
Bradford B Bedar
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02458
Waitlist for new clients
I also offer hypnotherapy for weight control and smoking cessation, and EMDR for deep insight.
If you are ready to take the next step on your journey whether it's dealing with anxiety or depression, family issues,overcoming a loss, or making important decisions about your future, I will help guide you through your process. Together we will examine your concerns, your fears and your hopes and map out a plan to get you there. As a Psychologist I will work with you on many levels with compassion and respect. Also, if you have questions about your relationships with peers or family members, divorce, creative endeavors, children or elderly parents, I look forward to helping you.
I also offer hypnotherapy for weight control and smoking cessation, and EMDR for deep insight.
If you are ready to take the next step on your journey whether it's dealing with anxiety or depression, family issues,overcoming a loss, or making important decisions about your future, I will help guide you through your process. Together we will examine your concerns, your fears and your hopes and map out a plan to get you there. As a Psychologist I will work with you on many levels with compassion and respect. Also, if you have questions about your relationships with peers or family members, divorce, creative endeavors, children or elderly parents, I look forward to helping you.
(781) 209-5475 View (781) 209-5475
Photo of Kathryn G. Coletta, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn G. Coletta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
I'm trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, relaxation and hypnotherapy which I weave into my work where appropriate.
These times are hard. The impact is felt by everyone, but even more so for people who struggle with other things as well. Perhaps you're looking to change your life, resolve a current situation, or manage a long-standing problem. Maybe you just need support. I’d like to talk with you about how I can help. I work with clients on anxiety, depression, relationships, illness and family issues. I work with adults of all ages. I assist my clients in uncovering and reaching their goals. In our collaborative work, I seek to provide a corrective relationship to address concerns and help clients feel better in their daily lives.
I'm trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, relaxation and hypnotherapy which I weave into my work where appropriate.
These times are hard. The impact is felt by everyone, but even more so for people who struggle with other things as well. Perhaps you're looking to change your life, resolve a current situation, or manage a long-standing problem. Maybe you just need support. I’d like to talk with you about how I can help. I work with clients on anxiety, depression, relationships, illness and family issues. I work with adults of all ages. I assist my clients in uncovering and reaching their goals. In our collaborative work, I seek to provide a corrective relationship to address concerns and help clients feel better in their daily lives.
(617) 446-3195 View (617) 446-3195
Photo of Tanya Cherkerzian, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanya Cherkerzian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Needham, MA 02492
As a member of NESCH and Approved Consultant through ASCH, I can integrate clinical hypnotherapy into my practice especially in supporting medical procedures like needle phobia, birthing, pre/post surgery issues, smoking cessation, public speaking, sports and test performance.
Welcome to my practice! I invite you to consider working together to address your specific goals and challenges in a supportive and collaborative way. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults with issues of anxiety, specific phobias, depression, trauma, mood dysregulation, adjustment to life transitions and building coping strategies and resilience. I believe that with challenge comes an opportunity for inner growth and strength. Mindset is a powerful tool that can help you to feel strong, calm, and confident.
As a member of NESCH and Approved Consultant through ASCH, I can integrate clinical hypnotherapy into my practice especially in supporting medical procedures like needle phobia, birthing, pre/post surgery issues, smoking cessation, public speaking, sports and test performance.
Welcome to my practice! I invite you to consider working together to address your specific goals and challenges in a supportive and collaborative way. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults with issues of anxiety, specific phobias, depression, trauma, mood dysregulation, adjustment to life transitions and building coping strategies and resilience. I believe that with challenge comes an opportunity for inner growth and strength. Mindset is a powerful tool that can help you to feel strong, calm, and confident.
(617) 658-3834 View (617) 658-3834
Photo of Sharyn Rose, MSW, MEd, ACCH
Sharyn Rose
MSW, MEd, ACCH
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02140  (Online Only)
I have been in private practice for over three decades. My approach is eclectic, engaging, and respectful. Humor has it's place in the journey of therapy! I feel blessed for the opportunity to help people build on their own strengths. My areas of particular interest include recovery, relationship/intimacy building, ADHD, sexuality/LGBT issues, ACOA, Wellness coaching, and hypnotherapy. I look forward to the opportunity of assisting you in challenging old behaviors and reframing healthier narratives in your life.
I have been in private practice for over three decades. My approach is eclectic, engaging, and respectful. Humor has it's place in the journey of therapy! I feel blessed for the opportunity to help people build on their own strengths. My areas of particular interest include recovery, relationship/intimacy building, ADHD, sexuality/LGBT issues, ACOA, Wellness coaching, and hypnotherapy. I look forward to the opportunity of assisting you in challenging old behaviors and reframing healthier narratives in your life.
(617) 674-0915 View (617) 674-0915
Photo of Kenneth MacIntosh, LICSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenneth MacIntosh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02139  (Online Only)
Kenny offers traditional talk therapy, EMDR, hypnotherapy, and other modalities to customize a structured or integrative approach that fits each client's unique needs and preferences.
Kenny is a US Navy Veteran (Corpsman/Medic) and therapist specializing in PTSD, anxiety, self-sabotaging behaviors, and depression. Are you genuinely curious about unhelpful patterns that seem to keep showing up in your life and relationships? Do you ask why you can't let things go, have trust issues, or the inability to relax? You keep putting other's needs first, have trouble setting boundaries or communicating your needs? Unable to see your purpose? Real change can only occur when you are genuinely curious about uncovering recurring patterns and are motivated to try out new strategies to break them.
Kenny offers traditional talk therapy, EMDR, hypnotherapy, and other modalities to customize a structured or integrative approach that fits each client's unique needs and preferences.
Kenny is a US Navy Veteran (Corpsman/Medic) and therapist specializing in PTSD, anxiety, self-sabotaging behaviors, and depression. Are you genuinely curious about unhelpful patterns that seem to keep showing up in your life and relationships? Do you ask why you can't let things go, have trust issues, or the inability to relax? You keep putting other's needs first, have trouble setting boundaries or communicating your needs? Unable to see your purpose? Real change can only occur when you are genuinely curious about uncovering recurring patterns and are motivated to try out new strategies to break them.
(351) 444-9447 View (351) 444-9447
Photo of Carla Chalah, BA, CCHT, CI, HBCE, CILC
Carla Chalah
BA, CCHT, CI, HBCE, CILC
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Sudbury, MA 01776
I specialize in hypnotherapy and life coaching, focusing on overcoming obstacles to unlock your full potential.
Embarking on self-discovery takes courage, offering significant rewards. Many feel an inherent push towards growth; when blocked, it can lead to feeling stuck and a loss of self-confidence. As a hypnotherapist and life coach, I'm dedicated to helping you overcome these obstacles. We'll tackle fears, avoidance behaviors, self-sabotage, and negative subconscious patterns that hinder your progress. My aim is to empower you to surpass your goals, fostering a journey of success and fulfillment. Together, we'll unlock your full potential, guiding you towards the life you deserve.
I specialize in hypnotherapy and life coaching, focusing on overcoming obstacles to unlock your full potential.
Embarking on self-discovery takes courage, offering significant rewards. Many feel an inherent push towards growth; when blocked, it can lead to feeling stuck and a loss of self-confidence. As a hypnotherapist and life coach, I'm dedicated to helping you overcome these obstacles. We'll tackle fears, avoidance behaviors, self-sabotage, and negative subconscious patterns that hinder your progress. My aim is to empower you to surpass your goals, fostering a journey of success and fulfillment. Together, we'll unlock your full potential, guiding you towards the life you deserve.
(617) 300-0558 View (617) 300-0558
Photo of Whitney Lew, MA, LMHC, LPCC, CCH, Counselor
Whitney Lew
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC, CCH
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02139  (Online Only)
Some of the frameworks I pull from include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic methods, and hypnotherapy, but I tend to create personalized treatment plans that address the underlying causes of distress.
In these times of uncertainty and change, I am offering a space of hope and connection. I believe that therapy is a space to be seen and valued - a space to slow down, reflect, and engage in vulnerability. I understand the unique challenges faced by POC and immigrants, such as navigating cultural differences, acculturation stress, and intergenerational conflicts. In addition, I have a focus on working with college students and working professionals. In our work, we'll explore how cultural factors intersect with your mental health, nurturing a strong sense of identity, helping you to navigate life's complexities.
Some of the frameworks I pull from include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic methods, and hypnotherapy, but I tend to create personalized treatment plans that address the underlying causes of distress.
In these times of uncertainty and change, I am offering a space of hope and connection. I believe that therapy is a space to be seen and valued - a space to slow down, reflect, and engage in vulnerability. I understand the unique challenges faced by POC and immigrants, such as navigating cultural differences, acculturation stress, and intergenerational conflicts. In addition, I have a focus on working with college students and working professionals. In our work, we'll explore how cultural factors intersect with your mental health, nurturing a strong sense of identity, helping you to navigate life's complexities.
(339) 229-5610 View (339) 229-5610
Photo of Marisa Adele Fanelli - Healing Point Therapeutics, LAC, MA
Healing Point Therapeutics
LAC, MA
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
Combining hypnotherapy, acupuncture, and intuitive guidance into a multidimensional approach has allowed me to offer treatments that create transformation on every possible level: physical, mental, emotional, and subconscious.
Are you living in your full magnificence? Whether you believe it or not, you have access to infinite inner resources that can catalyze you into living a life that you never imagined was possible for you. Hypnoacupuncture is a powerful way to unlock the door to these resources. It is designed to propel you into action by treating you on every level of your being: mental, physical, emotional, conscious, and subconscious. If you are prepared to work with me to create lasting changes in your health and happiness, you are the type of client that will thrive here.
Combining hypnotherapy, acupuncture, and intuitive guidance into a multidimensional approach has allowed me to offer treatments that create transformation on every possible level: physical, mental, emotional, and subconscious.
Are you living in your full magnificence? Whether you believe it or not, you have access to infinite inner resources that can catalyze you into living a life that you never imagined was possible for you. Hypnoacupuncture is a powerful way to unlock the door to these resources. It is designed to propel you into action by treating you on every level of your being: mental, physical, emotional, conscious, and subconscious. If you are prepared to work with me to create lasting changes in your health and happiness, you are the type of client that will thrive here.
(855) 358-2287 View (855) 358-2287
Photo of Marwan El Khoury, MA, MDiv, EMDR, KAP, HYPNO, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marwan El Khoury
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MDiv, EMDR, KAP, HYPNO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02464
I offer integrative treatments: Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), Hypnotherapy, EMDR, CBT, DBT, individual therapy, spirituality, existentialism, post-modern.
Have you been struggling with uncontrollable negative thoughts, panic attacks, and anxiety? Do you have low self-esteem, low-confidence and low-body image? Did you lose meaning of life or even do not know why you exist? I know your goal! You want to be the most powerful and successful person in the world! Well, I can help you with that. My therapeutic philosophy focuses on Your freedom, power, strength, and responsibility to overcome Your distress through a positive goal-oriented approach and extreme empathy. We will both utilize integrative treatment uniquely designed for You to achieve personal growth and healing.
I offer integrative treatments: Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), Hypnotherapy, EMDR, CBT, DBT, individual therapy, spirituality, existentialism, post-modern.
Have you been struggling with uncontrollable negative thoughts, panic attacks, and anxiety? Do you have low self-esteem, low-confidence and low-body image? Did you lose meaning of life or even do not know why you exist? I know your goal! You want to be the most powerful and successful person in the world! Well, I can help you with that. My therapeutic philosophy focuses on Your freedom, power, strength, and responsibility to overcome Your distress through a positive goal-oriented approach and extreme empathy. We will both utilize integrative treatment uniquely designed for You to achieve personal growth and healing.
(617) 420-6307 View (617) 420-6307
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.