Hypnotherapists in Cabin John, MD

Jan Iris Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Cabin John, MD 20818
I am Jan Iris Smith, LCSW, BCD, a licensed and Board Certified Diplomate in clinical social work.I work with individuals, couples, families. I have certifications in Marital/Family Therapy, Psychodrama and group psychotherapy and in mind/body connection and spiritual/energy healing . I look for strengths clients bring to the therapy that can be enhanced, and ways to remove blockages so people can live a richer more meaningful life.Therapy is an ongoing process of healing from the mental/emotional/physical trauma that sometimes occurs in life. I work from an eclectic viewpoint and use what makes sense for the client I am treating.
I am Jan Iris Smith, LCSW, BCD, a licensed and Board Certified Diplomate in clinical social work.I work with individuals, couples, families. I have certifications in Marital/Family Therapy, Psychodrama and group psychotherapy and in mind/body connection and spiritual/energy healing . I look for strengths clients bring to the therapy that can be enhanced, and ways to remove blockages so people can live a richer more meaningful life.Therapy is an ongoing process of healing from the mental/emotional/physical trauma that sometimes occurs in life. I work from an eclectic viewpoint and use what makes sense for the client I am treating.
(301) 852-7533 View (301) 852-7533

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stewart A Zelman, PhD, Psychologist
Stewart A Zelman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
My practice incorporates such achievement specific interventions and therapies as neuro-linguistic programming, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution focused therapy.
I work with clients who want to finally change their psychology and manage their lives more effectively. This work can help you manage your obesity, depression and anxiety. Based on your needs and goals, we can improve your relationships,ability to create and achieve your goals. If you are struggling with finally lose weight, we have developed an assessment, WALT and tools to help you stop struggling. By improving your ability to manage your mind and emotions, improve your motivation and body image we can help you lose the weight. We use specific treatment modalities which create goal achievement in a solution focused atmosphere.
My practice incorporates such achievement specific interventions and therapies as neuro-linguistic programming, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution focused therapy.
I work with clients who want to finally change their psychology and manage their lives more effectively. This work can help you manage your obesity, depression and anxiety. Based on your needs and goals, we can improve your relationships,ability to create and achieve your goals. If you are struggling with finally lose weight, we have developed an assessment, WALT and tools to help you stop struggling. By improving your ability to manage your mind and emotions, improve your motivation and body image we can help you lose the weight. We use specific treatment modalities which create goal achievement in a solution focused atmosphere.
(301) 485-6914 View (301) 485-6914
Photo of Jennifer Morris, LCSW-C, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815  (Online Only)
She teaches Hypnotherapy and offers ongoing Hypnotherapy Supervision groups.
I believe that a respectful, supportive, collaborative, relationship, free from judgement is important for deeper healing. My approach is warm & creative. I use traditional psychotherapy and adjunctive therapies to work from the inside out - allowing one to resolve deep-rooted, underlying issues. I am skilled and Certified in Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, EMDR ,and Sex Therapy. Together, we work towards freeing you from the pain of anxiety, Depression, PTSD, sexual disorders and eating struggles. Self-understanding with resolution can allow choice. I welcome the opportunity to be part of your journey to a freer life.
She teaches Hypnotherapy and offers ongoing Hypnotherapy Supervision groups.
I believe that a respectful, supportive, collaborative, relationship, free from judgement is important for deeper healing. My approach is warm & creative. I use traditional psychotherapy and adjunctive therapies to work from the inside out - allowing one to resolve deep-rooted, underlying issues. I am skilled and Certified in Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, EMDR ,and Sex Therapy. Together, we work towards freeing you from the pain of anxiety, Depression, PTSD, sexual disorders and eating struggles. Self-understanding with resolution can allow choice. I welcome the opportunity to be part of your journey to a freer life.
(410) 267-4497 View (410) 267-4497
Photo of Brenda Burruss Chavis, M A, LCPC
Brenda Burruss Chavis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, M A, LCPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901  (Online Only)
I believe in the integration of various therapeutic approaches including Rapid Transformation Therapy - RTT, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and am person-centered as well as solution-focused in my delivery. I counsel clients across the spectrum who are dealing with challenges that include: depression; anxiety; suicidal thoughts and self-harming; low self-esteem; adjustment; and grief/loss. I believe one can change their behavior as they transform their thinking. My goal is to address the entire person holistically, mentally, physically and emotionally in guiding toward peace and wellness.
I believe in the integration of various therapeutic approaches including Rapid Transformation Therapy - RTT, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and am person-centered as well as solution-focused in my delivery. I counsel clients across the spectrum who are dealing with challenges that include: depression; anxiety; suicidal thoughts and self-harming; low self-esteem; adjustment; and grief/loss. I believe one can change their behavior as they transform their thinking. My goal is to address the entire person holistically, mentally, physically and emotionally in guiding toward peace and wellness.
(301) 264-6369 View (301) 264-6369
Photo of Donald Pelles - Hypnosis Silver Spring, PhD, CHT
Hypnosis Silver Spring
PhD, CHT
Verified Verified
Kensington, MD 20895
Hypnotherapy is my third career (following mathematics and software development).
People settle, for things in their lives they don’t really like, that they feel powerless to change. I work with both the conscious and unconscious aspects, sometimes indirectly, in ways that engender changes on both of these levels. I enable and empower my clients to open up to new directions and possibilities, to new ways of feeling, doing, and being.
Hypnotherapy is my third career (following mathematics and software development).
People settle, for things in their lives they don’t really like, that they feel powerless to change. I work with both the conscious and unconscious aspects, sometimes indirectly, in ways that engender changes on both of these levels. I enable and empower my clients to open up to new directions and possibilities, to new ways of feeling, doing, and being.
(240) 219-6115 View (240) 219-6115
Photo of Olesia Muravizki, MPH, LGPC, Counselor
Olesia Muravizki
Counselor, MPH, LGPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850
I use an eclectic approach of modalities and techniques: Schema Therapy; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT); Parts Work; Hypnotherapy; Brief Therapy; Psychodynamic Therapy; and Lifecoaching for teens and adults on the spectrum (ASD-1).
Dear seeker of clarity and healing, whether you're seeking support for personal growth, overcoming obstacles, enhancing communication skills, or healing the wounds of the past, I am here to guide you with reassuring presence grounded in expertise and empathy. I want you to know that you're not alone in this journey. Life can sometimes leave us feeling stuck, lost, and confused. I'm here to offer you a safe space where we can explore your experiences together. I encourage you to take that first step by reaching out, and we can begin this transformative process of reconnecting to your inner strength and purpose.
I use an eclectic approach of modalities and techniques: Schema Therapy; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT); Parts Work; Hypnotherapy; Brief Therapy; Psychodynamic Therapy; and Lifecoaching for teens and adults on the spectrum (ASD-1).
Dear seeker of clarity and healing, whether you're seeking support for personal growth, overcoming obstacles, enhancing communication skills, or healing the wounds of the past, I am here to guide you with reassuring presence grounded in expertise and empathy. I want you to know that you're not alone in this journey. Life can sometimes leave us feeling stuck, lost, and confused. I'm here to offer you a safe space where we can explore your experiences together. I encourage you to take that first step by reaching out, and we can begin this transformative process of reconnecting to your inner strength and purpose.
(301) 433-7144 View (301) 433-7144
Photo of Ozlem Yazar, MSW, LGSW, ADS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ozlem Yazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW, ADS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
I employ methods including, but not limited to, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-based theories, Acupuncture Detoxification, and Hypnotherapy.
In psychotherapy, the therapist and client commit to work together to facilitate change. My goal is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space as we focus on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment, sexual identity/LGBTQ concerns, and traditional/non-traditional relationships. My approach to therapy is both holistic and mindful. I view the client as a whole, focusing on the need to bring the mind, body, and spirit into harmony while each element plays a role in healing and the creation of change.
I employ methods including, but not limited to, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-based theories, Acupuncture Detoxification, and Hypnotherapy.
In psychotherapy, the therapist and client commit to work together to facilitate change. My goal is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space as we focus on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment, sexual identity/LGBTQ concerns, and traditional/non-traditional relationships. My approach to therapy is both holistic and mindful. I view the client as a whole, focusing on the need to bring the mind, body, and spirit into harmony while each element plays a role in healing and the creation of change.
(202) 838-4312 View (202) 838-4312
Photo of Olya Rich - Enrichment Wellness, LLC, MA, LCPC
Enrichment Wellness, LLC
MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850
Our clinicians utilize a variety of treatment approaches including mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, DBT, MI, CBT, NLP/ hypnotherapy techniques, EFT/ tapping, Internal Family Systems as well as meditation work to help our clients with their emotional and behavioral symptoms.
Late afternoon and evening appointments are available now! Are you feeling anxious? Lonely? Depressed, stuck and scared to move forward? Having difficulties communicating your emotions and needs? Struggling with relationships? We can help you to find inner peace and confidence! Our clinicians utilize warm, and compassionate approaches to serve your needs. We provide services in person as well as via telehealth. Please email/call us for availability.
Our clinicians utilize a variety of treatment approaches including mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, DBT, MI, CBT, NLP/ hypnotherapy techniques, EFT/ tapping, Internal Family Systems as well as meditation work to help our clients with their emotional and behavioral symptoms.
Late afternoon and evening appointments are available now! Are you feeling anxious? Lonely? Depressed, stuck and scared to move forward? Having difficulties communicating your emotions and needs? Struggling with relationships? We can help you to find inner peace and confidence! Our clinicians utilize warm, and compassionate approaches to serve your needs. We provide services in person as well as via telehealth. Please email/call us for availability.
(301) 944-0564 View (301) 944-0564
Photo of Jacqueline Barnes - Self-Care & Counseling LLC, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Self-Care & Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Potomac, MD 20854  (Online Only)
Depending on your situation, I'll utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), internal family systems therapy (IFS), EMDR, Narrative Therapy, Hypnotherapy, coaching, and/or brain retraining techniques to help you move forward, break free, connect, get to the next level, become more fulfilled, and ultimately feel more peaceful—more like your true self.
If you’re looking for a safe space where you can be heard by an empathetic therapist who's experienced, look no further—that’s me. I provide virtual couple counseling and adult therapy for depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, work stress, and health issues: Chronic Pain, Sleep Difficulties, Coping with diagnoses/conditions, Health Anxiety, Stress, or Burnout. We'd be a good fit for therapy if you're ready to commit to meeting regularly and open to examining your concerns in new ways. I believe most people have what they need to overcome their issues, but they may need a shift in perspective or support through change.
Depending on your situation, I'll utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), internal family systems therapy (IFS), EMDR, Narrative Therapy, Hypnotherapy, coaching, and/or brain retraining techniques to help you move forward, break free, connect, get to the next level, become more fulfilled, and ultimately feel more peaceful—more like your true self.
If you’re looking for a safe space where you can be heard by an empathetic therapist who's experienced, look no further—that’s me. I provide virtual couple counseling and adult therapy for depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, work stress, and health issues: Chronic Pain, Sleep Difficulties, Coping with diagnoses/conditions, Health Anxiety, Stress, or Burnout. We'd be a good fit for therapy if you're ready to commit to meeting regularly and open to examining your concerns in new ways. I believe most people have what they need to overcome their issues, but they may need a shift in perspective or support through change.
(240) 730-4266 View (240) 730-4266
Photo of Joan Weill, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joan Weill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
I use a variety of treatment approaches including traditional cognitive and behavioral as well as utilizing special skills from my certifications in nutrition counseling, recovery coaching, and Ericksonian hypnotherapy.
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, weight loss, eating issues and other addictions, I can help. With years of experience and many successful outcomes helping clients work through depression & anxiety, achieve weight loss and recovery from eating disorders, addictions, trauma, grief & loss, I welcome you and the opportunity to help you achieve results! With a caring approach & many effective interventions for adults & adolescents coping with personal stresses in work, school, relationships, divorce, custody & family issues, sexuality, I provide a safe environment to work through issues. I believe in you & your potential!
I use a variety of treatment approaches including traditional cognitive and behavioral as well as utilizing special skills from my certifications in nutrition counseling, recovery coaching, and Ericksonian hypnotherapy.
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, weight loss, eating issues and other addictions, I can help. With years of experience and many successful outcomes helping clients work through depression & anxiety, achieve weight loss and recovery from eating disorders, addictions, trauma, grief & loss, I welcome you and the opportunity to help you achieve results! With a caring approach & many effective interventions for adults & adolescents coping with personal stresses in work, school, relationships, divorce, custody & family issues, sexuality, I provide a safe environment to work through issues. I believe in you & your potential!
(240) 650-8240 View (240) 650-8240
Photo of Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist, LCPC, CST, Counselor
Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist
Counselor, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Potomac, MD 20854
Has sex started to feel like a chore? Maybe you've tried discussing it and have been to individual or couples counseling but still feel stuck. I specialize in helping people in committed relationships to get unstuck and get back to feeling close and passionate again. Along the way we build some amazing sexual communication skills and get a clear sense of turn-ons and turn-offs so you can initiate like a pro. Whether you have low libido, sex addiction, erectile dysfunction or trauma around sexuality, I can offer support and guidance.
Has sex started to feel like a chore? Maybe you've tried discussing it and have been to individual or couples counseling but still feel stuck. I specialize in helping people in committed relationships to get unstuck and get back to feeling close and passionate again. Along the way we build some amazing sexual communication skills and get a clear sense of turn-ons and turn-offs so you can initiate like a pro. Whether you have low libido, sex addiction, erectile dysfunction or trauma around sexuality, I can offer support and guidance.
(301) 888-3461 View (301) 888-3461
Photo of Melanie Ricaurte, PsyD, Psychologist
Melanie Ricaurte
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850
Dr. Ricaurte has worked with diverse individual of different races, ethnicities, religions, and sexual orientations in a variety of settings. Dr. Ricaurte is fluent in Spanish both written and spoken and welcomes the chance to work with Spanish speaking clients. She is an advocate, educator, and therapist, focusing her work on issues related to human sexuality and human rights. Dr. Ricaurte has conducted research on factors that influence relationship satisfaction, conflict, and compromise among interfaith couples.
Dr. Ricaurte has worked with diverse individual of different races, ethnicities, religions, and sexual orientations in a variety of settings. Dr. Ricaurte is fluent in Spanish both written and spoken and welcomes the chance to work with Spanish speaking clients. She is an advocate, educator, and therapist, focusing her work on issues related to human sexuality and human rights. Dr. Ricaurte has conducted research on factors that influence relationship satisfaction, conflict, and compromise among interfaith couples.
(855) 617-7856 View (855) 617-7856
Photo of Megan A Szczepanik, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan A Szczepanik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Whether you’ve spent a lifetime together or are just beginning your journey, relationships provide us with priceless opportunities to learn, grow, and heal. So often, we see conflict and power struggles as “warning signs” rather than precious growth gifts. How can this be when conflict with our partner is so painful? The answer lies in the struggle itself. Beneath the anger, there nearly always lies hurt, disappointment, fear, or sadness. The Imago relationship approach challenges us to embrace our vulnerability and communicate with our partner openly and without fear. When we are heard and truly seen, healing begins.
Whether you’ve spent a lifetime together or are just beginning your journey, relationships provide us with priceless opportunities to learn, grow, and heal. So often, we see conflict and power struggles as “warning signs” rather than precious growth gifts. How can this be when conflict with our partner is so painful? The answer lies in the struggle itself. Beneath the anger, there nearly always lies hurt, disappointment, fear, or sadness. The Imago relationship approach challenges us to embrace our vulnerability and communicate with our partner openly and without fear. When we are heard and truly seen, healing begins.
(727) 269-5426 View (727) 269-5426
Photo of Bennett Solberg, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Bennett Solberg
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850
Ready to approach your mental health from a fresh perspective that considers your whole self—mind and body? Dr. Bennett Solberg brings a thoughtful and empathetic approach to therapy, guiding clients toward healing through a blend of traditional and alternative therapeutic methods. Specializing in treating anxiety, depression, grief, relationship concerns, and sex therapy, he works with individuals and couples to navigate a variety of challenges. His work integrates cognitive-behavioral therapy with holistic approaches, including biofeedback, hypnosis, and psychophysiology, ensuring personalized care.
Ready to approach your mental health from a fresh perspective that considers your whole self—mind and body? Dr. Bennett Solberg brings a thoughtful and empathetic approach to therapy, guiding clients toward healing through a blend of traditional and alternative therapeutic methods. Specializing in treating anxiety, depression, grief, relationship concerns, and sex therapy, he works with individuals and couples to navigate a variety of challenges. His work integrates cognitive-behavioral therapy with holistic approaches, including biofeedback, hypnosis, and psychophysiology, ensuring personalized care.
(301) 517-9582 View (301) 517-9582
Photo of Joe James, PhD, Psychologist
Joe James
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I've been helping individuals and couples find new ways since 1995 and have been featured in Newsweek, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Good Housekeeping and NPR. Day, evening and weekend appointments are available.
I've been helping individuals and couples find new ways since 1995 and have been featured in Newsweek, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Good Housekeeping and NPR. Day, evening and weekend appointments are available.
(240) 485-6053 View (240) 485-6053
Photo of Taylor Sherman, MEd, LGPC, Counselor
Taylor Sherman
Counselor, MEd, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850
I work with individuals to become their best selves, drawing upon existential frameworks and humanistic principles. My work explores the intersection of choice and meaning, helping you remain grounded and authentic to your core values. I also work with couples who would like to solve significant issues in their relationships and become closer. I've completed Gottman Couples Therapy Levels 1 and 2 training and use it in my work, along with attachment theory in order to help partners more deeply connect with one another.
I work with individuals to become their best selves, drawing upon existential frameworks and humanistic principles. My work explores the intersection of choice and meaning, helping you remain grounded and authentic to your core values. I also work with couples who would like to solve significant issues in their relationships and become closer. I've completed Gottman Couples Therapy Levels 1 and 2 training and use it in my work, along with attachment theory in order to help partners more deeply connect with one another.
(301) 485-5177 View (301) 485-5177
Photo of Olivia Aybar-Torres - Olivia Aybar Counseling & Therapy, LCSW-C, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olivia Aybar Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20847
Hello, thank you for reading my profile. Life is beautiful and we try to make the best of it, but due to stresses and unexpected factors it becomes difficult to maintain a balance between ourselves and the people surrounding us. I believe in a holistic approach to treat the human mind. I provide psychotherapy services for adolescents and adults to address depression, anxiety, addiction, self-esteem issues, concern in personal and work relationships. I have specialized training in traumatic events like sexual assault, grief and chronic illness as well as anger management, conflict resolution, life coaching and problem solving.
Hello, thank you for reading my profile. Life is beautiful and we try to make the best of it, but due to stresses and unexpected factors it becomes difficult to maintain a balance between ourselves and the people surrounding us. I believe in a holistic approach to treat the human mind. I provide psychotherapy services for adolescents and adults to address depression, anxiety, addiction, self-esteem issues, concern in personal and work relationships. I have specialized training in traumatic events like sexual assault, grief and chronic illness as well as anger management, conflict resolution, life coaching and problem solving.
(941) 200-4664 View (941) 200-4664
Photo of Shawn M. Rill, BSW, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shawn M. Rill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults who have ADHD/ADD. Besides adult ADHD, I work with adults experiencing excessive stress, executive dysfunction, communication problems, relationship conflicts, and Men's Issues. Through active collaboration, we'll identify specific changes you want to make and set realistic, achievable goals based on what you can control. Together, we’ll practice new skills to manage stress. I integrate evidence-based models with Stoic philosophy, offering practical tools for real change, all while maintaining a secular perspective.
I specialize in working with adults who have ADHD/ADD. Besides adult ADHD, I work with adults experiencing excessive stress, executive dysfunction, communication problems, relationship conflicts, and Men's Issues. Through active collaboration, we'll identify specific changes you want to make and set realistic, achievable goals based on what you can control. Together, we’ll practice new skills to manage stress. I integrate evidence-based models with Stoic philosophy, offering practical tools for real change, all while maintaining a secular perspective.
(410) 847-2391 View (410) 847-2391
Photo of Cara Alexander, PhD, LCSW-C, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cara Alexander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C, BCD
Verified Verified
Garrett Park, MD 20896  (Online Only)
Does life have a way of throwing curveballs at you? I believe that we all need a little help sometimes. I assist my clients explore feelings that accompany setback, failure, rejection, and disappointment. Feelings are critical to identify and manage as they motivate behavior. Thoughts and beliefs are also critical to examine with the support of a seasoned professional that offers unconditional positive regard. I specialize in connections with significant others, children, family friends, colleagues, employees, and supervisors. Most importantly, I work to bolster connections with self to support authentic connections with others.
Does life have a way of throwing curveballs at you? I believe that we all need a little help sometimes. I assist my clients explore feelings that accompany setback, failure, rejection, and disappointment. Feelings are critical to identify and manage as they motivate behavior. Thoughts and beliefs are also critical to examine with the support of a seasoned professional that offers unconditional positive regard. I specialize in connections with significant others, children, family friends, colleagues, employees, and supervisors. Most importantly, I work to bolster connections with self to support authentic connections with others.
(240) 221-5304 View (240) 221-5304
Photo of Micah Brady, LCSW-C, CTC, CCATP, CATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Micah Brady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CTC, CCATP, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
*Currently have limited in person and virtual openings* I am easy to talk to and believe in collaborative and evidence-based treatment.
*Currently have limited in person and virtual openings* I am easy to talk to and believe in collaborative and evidence-based treatment.
(240) 816-3637 View (240) 816-3637
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.