Hypnotherapists in Catonsville, MD
![Photo of Mary Sidhwani, RN, PsyD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bdd35e1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My specialty is hypnotherapy and I have found this to be an invaluable tool in helping clients overcome longstanding issues such as: anxiety,panic, phobias,smoking, obesity, test anxiety, low self esteem, among other issues.
Welcome- I am a therapist who specializes in hypnotherapy. I have been in private practice since 2000 and have had the privilege of helping many clients overcome longstanding habit issues and dysfunctional patterns. Therapy is provided in a safe,comfortable and private settting. Each client is supported and respected within the framework of compassionate understanding. I feel honored to work with each client, helping and guiding them towards their goals and dreams.
My specialty is hypnotherapy and I have found this to be an invaluable tool in helping clients overcome longstanding issues such as: anxiety,panic, phobias,smoking, obesity, test anxiety, low self esteem, among other issues.
Welcome- I am a therapist who specializes in hypnotherapy. I have been in private practice since 2000 and have had the privilege of helping many clients overcome longstanding habit issues and dysfunctional patterns. Therapy is provided in a safe,comfortable and private settting. Each client is supported and respected within the framework of compassionate understanding. I feel honored to work with each client, helping and guiding them towards their goals and dreams.
![Photo of James O'Neill, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48eb527c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
James O'Neill
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
I specialize in guiding high-achieving individuals to overcome personal and professional obstacles. By combining a range of psychotherapeutic techniques, including mindfulness, hypnotherapy, and metaphysical counseling, I help clients uncover and transform limiting beliefs into empowering perspectives. This transformative process fosters healthier relationships, greater well-being, and a deeper sense of self-fulfillment. I offer mPEAK (Olympic Mental Training) and MBSR. These programs are designed to empower entrepreneurs, medical and business professionals, and athletes to optimize their performance and resilience.
I specialize in guiding high-achieving individuals to overcome personal and professional obstacles. By combining a range of psychotherapeutic techniques, including mindfulness, hypnotherapy, and metaphysical counseling, I help clients uncover and transform limiting beliefs into empowering perspectives. This transformative process fosters healthier relationships, greater well-being, and a deeper sense of self-fulfillment. I offer mPEAK (Olympic Mental Training) and MBSR. These programs are designed to empower entrepreneurs, medical and business professionals, and athletes to optimize their performance and resilience.
![Photo of Liza Hicks, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd6a855c-2700-4d50-82b4-7bf1bb00909c/3/320x400.jpeg)
I trust that finding a therapist is challenging and can be overwhelming. I am a caring, supportive, intelligent and well trained therapist. I am committed to helping people overcome challenges and pain in their lives.
I trust that finding a therapist is challenging and can be overwhelming. I am a caring, supportive, intelligent and well trained therapist. I am committed to helping people overcome challenges and pain in their lives.
![Photo of Nini Gomes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d35ceb9-11cf-463e-bb44-6a75e31ce780/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nini Gomes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228 (Online Only)
Are you a young intuitive woman, aspiring witch, or blacksheep struggling to envision your future? Are you feeling stuck or anxious? Have you been hurt or traumatized? Feel like your full potential is unreachable? or frustrated with life itself? Be still. Breathe. Seek deep within, for you have the power to change things. Are you ready to transform your life and feel deeply fulfilled? Are you ready to explore and journey into your own unique expression of self? Are you ready to tap into your magick and blessings? Reconnect and embody your true self with my support and guidance. All of you is welcome.
Are you a young intuitive woman, aspiring witch, or blacksheep struggling to envision your future? Are you feeling stuck or anxious? Have you been hurt or traumatized? Feel like your full potential is unreachable? or frustrated with life itself? Be still. Breathe. Seek deep within, for you have the power to change things. Are you ready to transform your life and feel deeply fulfilled? Are you ready to explore and journey into your own unique expression of self? Are you ready to tap into your magick and blessings? Reconnect and embody your true self with my support and guidance. All of you is welcome.
![Photo of Dr. Desirée N. Robinson, LCSW-C, ACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba9c1caf-b1a9-4689-9ee4-a403af3a77b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Desirée N. Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, ACS
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228 (Online Only)
Intimacy Injuries are rampant and even normalized in today’s environment. Whether these emotional wounds show up in regards to your relationship with yourself, your significant others, or your family members; the opportunity to ameliorate those hurts is here! In my work as a Psychotherapist, I specialize in Sex, Intimacy, and Trauma as well as a Bariatric Specialist with self-identity before and after Weight Loss Surgery. If you also identify as Highly Sensitive or Introverted, let's have a chat about how to uncover how you may be hiding your greatness in plain sight!
Intimacy Injuries are rampant and even normalized in today’s environment. Whether these emotional wounds show up in regards to your relationship with yourself, your significant others, or your family members; the opportunity to ameliorate those hurts is here! In my work as a Psychotherapist, I specialize in Sex, Intimacy, and Trauma as well as a Bariatric Specialist with self-identity before and after Weight Loss Surgery. If you also identify as Highly Sensitive or Introverted, let's have a chat about how to uncover how you may be hiding your greatness in plain sight!
![Photo of Candice Richardson Dickens, LCPC-S, LCADC, NCC, MA, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8c6ba7f-be61-4421-836a-2c56b6abb0aa/1/320x400.png)
Candice Richardson Dickens
Counselor, LCPC-S, LCADC, NCC, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
Are you tired of your past traumas getting in the way of experiencing joy, long lasting intimacy, stability and happiness? If so, I want you to know that healing is possible. and you deserve to have the life that you want. I am a trauma specialist, and I am trained in helping clients heal from past abuse, hurt, and acts of violence. Restoration, liberation from trauma, and peace are the goals for my ideal client.
Are you tired of your past traumas getting in the way of experiencing joy, long lasting intimacy, stability and happiness? If so, I want you to know that healing is possible. and you deserve to have the life that you want. I am a trauma specialist, and I am trained in helping clients heal from past abuse, hurt, and acts of violence. Restoration, liberation from trauma, and peace are the goals for my ideal client.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Patti Friedman, PsyD, MS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cda584b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I recently completed an advanced medical hypnotherapy training; and I am constantly refining my therapy skills, to better serve my clients.
The success my clients experience is a direct result of our strong and supportive working alliance where confidentiality is protected, and I am a facilitator. I help my clients find answers for themselves and support them in reaching their goals. Years of clinical hypnotherapy training, and the success my clients achieve in applying relaxation training at work and in their personal lives, has been truly gratifying. I enjoy teaching patients Clinical Hypnotherapy, and the vast benefits to my clients. It is a joy to watch clients overcome phobias, pain disorders, anxiety, and stop habits, regaining self-confidence and empowerment .
I recently completed an advanced medical hypnotherapy training; and I am constantly refining my therapy skills, to better serve my clients.
The success my clients experience is a direct result of our strong and supportive working alliance where confidentiality is protected, and I am a facilitator. I help my clients find answers for themselves and support them in reaching their goals. Years of clinical hypnotherapy training, and the success my clients achieve in applying relaxation training at work and in their personal lives, has been truly gratifying. I enjoy teaching patients Clinical Hypnotherapy, and the vast benefits to my clients. It is a joy to watch clients overcome phobias, pain disorders, anxiety, and stop habits, regaining self-confidence and empowerment .
![Photo of Deborah Cooper, PhD, LCMFT, -, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b6d6c4e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I've taught college courses in psychology, communication and hypnotherapy.
If you have you been upset about your life or relationship, you just may feel better sooner than you ever thought you would. I can help you reduce the emotional pain while increasing your confidence at the same time. I have been referred to as a "no-holds-barred life changer." I use Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy and EFT as tools to speed up your growth process. When you walk in my office you are a person not just one of my clients. We will find out what your specific needs are and then match the best treatment for you. www.drdeborahcooper.com
I've taught college courses in psychology, communication and hypnotherapy.
If you have you been upset about your life or relationship, you just may feel better sooner than you ever thought you would. I can help you reduce the emotional pain while increasing your confidence at the same time. I have been referred to as a "no-holds-barred life changer." I use Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy and EFT as tools to speed up your growth process. When you walk in my office you are a person not just one of my clients. We will find out what your specific needs are and then match the best treatment for you. www.drdeborahcooper.com
![Photo of Stewart A Zelman, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf4bd48-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Beth Charbonneau, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eed3c0b5-be69-4b29-b019-22950d006889/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer talk therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, LGBTQ+ care, hypnotherapy & embodied healing work options.
You want better than "fine". Even though you are (sometimes just barely) keeping your head above water, you hope there is a bigger, brighter life for you, maybe just out of sight. It's exhausting and dispiriting to feel stuck, going around in circles. You know you are ready for something to shift, to gain some real traction for lasting change and you need some help to get there. I'd love to help. Find more clarity & ease in your mind, more trust in your body, and learn to befriend all parts of yourself, especially the parts that have been challenging and that you'd usually prefer to just ditch. Get to way better than "fine".
I offer talk therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, LGBTQ+ care, hypnotherapy & embodied healing work options.
You want better than "fine". Even though you are (sometimes just barely) keeping your head above water, you hope there is a bigger, brighter life for you, maybe just out of sight. It's exhausting and dispiriting to feel stuck, going around in circles. You know you are ready for something to shift, to gain some real traction for lasting change and you need some help to get there. I'd love to help. Find more clarity & ease in your mind, more trust in your body, and learn to befriend all parts of yourself, especially the parts that have been challenging and that you'd usually prefer to just ditch. Get to way better than "fine".
![Photo of Larry Lambert - Galaxy Hypnosis, CHT, DCI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/409b8509-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hypnosis and hypnotherapy are a healing modalities that help better balance feelings and emotions while helping your focus on achieving your goals and dreams.
We work with clients to help them deal with Anger, Anxiety, Self- Confidence, Depression, Fears and Phobias, Smoking Cessation, and Weight Loss. We will explain how hypnosis works and can help you enhance your life using hypnosis to better manage stress over life's challenges and improve your quality of life. We enhance your situational coping skills. We help you retake control of your life, place the past in the past where it belongs, and make positive choices that facilitate the change you want in your life.
Hypnosis and hypnotherapy are a healing modalities that help better balance feelings and emotions while helping your focus on achieving your goals and dreams.
We work with clients to help them deal with Anger, Anxiety, Self- Confidence, Depression, Fears and Phobias, Smoking Cessation, and Weight Loss. We will explain how hypnosis works and can help you enhance your life using hypnosis to better manage stress over life's challenges and improve your quality of life. We enhance your situational coping skills. We help you retake control of your life, place the past in the past where it belongs, and make positive choices that facilitate the change you want in your life.
![Photo of Francesca Richardson - Francesca Richardson, PhD, LCSW-C, PhD, MSW, LCSW-C, ACHt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/621d3fb1-65e4-469f-a187-c609143ff8de/1/320x400.jpeg)
Francesca Richardson, PhD, LCSW-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LCSW-C, ACHt
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209 (Online Only)
Are past traumas causing anxiety, depression, grief, or flashbacks? Would you like to get to the source of your problems and make yourself whole? Is deeper meaning and connection in relationships important to you? Would you like to tap into your inner wisdom? I have over 35 years of experience as a therapist. I am certified in EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Hypnotherapy, Inner Child and Partswork, Psychedelic Integration and I am trained in sex therapy. Give me a call and we can talk about what would be helpful for you.
Are past traumas causing anxiety, depression, grief, or flashbacks? Would you like to get to the source of your problems and make yourself whole? Is deeper meaning and connection in relationships important to you? Would you like to tap into your inner wisdom? I have over 35 years of experience as a therapist. I am certified in EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Hypnotherapy, Inner Child and Partswork, Psychedelic Integration and I am trained in sex therapy. Give me a call and we can talk about what would be helpful for you.
![Photo of Andrew Stanton, LCSW-C, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d05d4eb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Stanton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, SAP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
Through mindfulness and hypnotherapy he has a special talent to help people reach their higher potential in sports, academics and life.
Voted best in Howard County! Andrew's experience includes 25 years of specialization with children, adolescents, and families. Through working in a variety of settings he has developed exceptional skills working with trauma, emotional, and behavioral issues. He has had tremendous success working with some of the most at risk clients. He works with individuals, families and couples to help produce positive changes. He practices EMDR to help clients overcome traumas.
Through mindfulness and hypnotherapy he has a special talent to help people reach their higher potential in sports, academics and life.
Voted best in Howard County! Andrew's experience includes 25 years of specialization with children, adolescents, and families. Through working in a variety of settings he has developed exceptional skills working with trauma, emotional, and behavioral issues. He has had tremendous success working with some of the most at risk clients. He works with individuals, families and couples to help produce positive changes. He practices EMDR to help clients overcome traumas.
![Photo of Maria Cocoros, PsyD, CHT, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f090c86-7135-4306-ac84-edffacf59334/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide therapy to adults with a wide variety of issues. I use a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive, and hypnotherapy techniques. One or all of these techniques might be right for you at any given time during the course of treatment. I believe that a strong therapeutic alliance is of utmost importance. I provide a safe atmosphere of non-judgment and empathy. My approach is warm, supportive, and collaborative. I enjoy helping individuals utilize their personal creativity to manage emotions and take on life's challenges.
I provide therapy to adults with a wide variety of issues. I use a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive, and hypnotherapy techniques. One or all of these techniques might be right for you at any given time during the course of treatment. I believe that a strong therapeutic alliance is of utmost importance. I provide a safe atmosphere of non-judgment and empathy. My approach is warm, supportive, and collaborative. I enjoy helping individuals utilize their personal creativity to manage emotions and take on life's challenges.
![Photo of Brenda Burruss Chavis, M A, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba19776f-b49b-4a48-8ddd-bfc70047f8a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brenda Burruss Chavis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, M A, LCPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045 (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.
![Photo of Janis Kay C Jarvis - Hypnotherapy By The Bay LLC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c41a880a-b688-4a4a-a97f-a75abbeac240/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gifts Gone Bad? Take Back Your Bliss! Here Janis KC Jarvis MA MHt CLC offers Transpersonal Clinical Hypnotherapy, Life Coaching and Meditation to assist you to reduce or eliminate Traumatic Effects from the past,.
On a mission to uplift and foster positive change in 1 BILLION people by Fall 2027! Are you stuck in destructive behavior, confusion, fear or frustration? What if your best life is waiting for you, just beyond your reach? Do you feel like you are taking one step forward and two steps back? Are you sick of it? I can help you get to where you want to go! Experience the joy of my unique blend of hypnotherapy and life coaching. Reach for your best life and make it last!
Gifts Gone Bad? Take Back Your Bliss! Here Janis KC Jarvis MA MHt CLC offers Transpersonal Clinical Hypnotherapy, Life Coaching and Meditation to assist you to reduce or eliminate Traumatic Effects from the past,.
On a mission to uplift and foster positive change in 1 BILLION people by Fall 2027! Are you stuck in destructive behavior, confusion, fear or frustration? What if your best life is waiting for you, just beyond your reach? Do you feel like you are taking one step forward and two steps back? Are you sick of it? I can help you get to where you want to go! Experience the joy of my unique blend of hypnotherapy and life coaching. Reach for your best life and make it last!
![Photo of Jeffrey Aviles - Baltimore Counseling Center, LLC, LCSW-C, ARPN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f413f6c4-52ab-4e9a-b66d-5f3bdd9dfe27/1/320x400.jpeg)
Baltimore Counseling Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, ARPN
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224
At Baltimore Counseling Center, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to our clients. We specialize in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and relationship issues through couples sessions. Our team of experienced professionals utilizes evidence-based therapies such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Mindfulness practices In addition to therapy, we offer medication management to ensure a holistic approach to mental health.
At Baltimore Counseling Center, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to our clients. We specialize in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and relationship issues through couples sessions. Our team of experienced professionals utilizes evidence-based therapies such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Mindfulness practices In addition to therapy, we offer medication management to ensure a holistic approach to mental health.
![Photo of Aliza Ada Scharf-Bendov, LCSWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46f44423-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you want to improve your relationships? Are you seeking happiness and fulfillment? I help individuals, couples and families deepen their relationships with themselves and others. My approach draws from the wisdom of individual psychology, family systems as well as spiritual practice. I consider these essential components in the healing process and journey to joy and freedom.
Do you want to improve your relationships? Are you seeking happiness and fulfillment? I help individuals, couples and families deepen their relationships with themselves and others. My approach draws from the wisdom of individual psychology, family systems as well as spiritual practice. I consider these essential components in the healing process and journey to joy and freedom.
![Photo of Gary Green - Maryland Couples and Relationship Counseling, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c05bd2c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Maryland Couples and Relationship Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
Unhappy with your marriage or other significant relationship? Are you tired of the struggles and lack of connection? I can help! I specialize in marriage, family, and relationship counseling because I believe that positive, nurturing, and supportive relationships are essential to living a happy, emotionally-fulfilling life. My practice centers on helping relationships heal and thrive, with an eye towards restoring the harmonious balance and intimate closeness we desire and need. I have over 15 years experience working with couples and families, employing the most clinically proven methods for achieving success with clilents of all backgrounds.
Unhappy with your marriage or other significant relationship? Are you tired of the struggles and lack of connection? I can help! I specialize in marriage, family, and relationship counseling because I believe that positive, nurturing, and supportive relationships are essential to living a happy, emotionally-fulfilling life. My practice centers on helping relationships heal and thrive, with an eye towards restoring the harmonious balance and intimate closeness we desire and need. I have over 15 years experience working with couples and families, employing the most clinically proven methods for achieving success with clilents of all backgrounds.
![Photo of Mordy Lyss, LMFT, LCMFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e9f648f-bb93-4f95-92f2-81957ebf7767/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with life's challenges? Have you tried coping skills, and thirst for a deeper awareness and understanding of who you are, where you came from, and what makes you tick? If you have experienced some anxiety or depression, then please realize you are not alone, and sharing the burden within the therapeutic context can help make sense of your struggles, and release the weight you have been holding for so long.
Are you struggling with life's challenges? Have you tried coping skills, and thirst for a deeper awareness and understanding of who you are, where you came from, and what makes you tick? If you have experienced some anxiety or depression, then please realize you are not alone, and sharing the burden within the therapeutic context can help make sense of your struggles, and release the weight you have been holding for so long.
See more therapy options for Catonsville
Nearby HypnoTherapy Searches for Catonsville
- Arnold
- Baltimore
- Bowie
- College Park
- Columbia
- Crofton
- Ellicott City
- Lutherville Timonium
- Owings Mills
- Pikesville
- Silver Spring
- Towson
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.