Hypnotherapists in College Park, MD

Photo of Beth Charbonneau, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Charbonneau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740
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".
(240) 813-4449 View (240) 813-4449
Photo of Miguel A Hernandez, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Miguel A Hernandez
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Miguel. I was born and raised in the Dominican Republic, came of age in New York City, and served in the US Army for several years. I am a clinician and educator, and credentialed as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (Maryland), Licensed Professional Counselor (Virginia), and a National Certified Counselor with the National Board of Certified Counselors (NCC). In addition, I have a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am finishing my Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision.
Hi, my name is Miguel. I was born and raised in the Dominican Republic, came of age in New York City, and served in the US Army for several years. I am a clinician and educator, and credentialed as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (Maryland), Licensed Professional Counselor (Virginia), and a National Certified Counselor with the National Board of Certified Counselors (NCC). In addition, I have a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am finishing my Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision.
(804) 361-7934 View (804) 361-7934
Photo of Kevin Barwick, LCPC, MHt
Kevin Barwick
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MHt
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Park, MD 20740
I help individual men, women and couples create or re-create realistically satisfying intimate connection. They can learn expertise to be the best lover, partner, parent and friend they can be... without feeling fake, sleazy or desperate! Whether you are currently in a committed relationship right now, you (and your partner) will learn skills to rekindle the emotional and sexual flame you once enjoyed, and put you both on the path of deeper intimacy, respect and passion. It's not easy. But it's worth it! Give me a call at 301-768-2344.
I help individual men, women and couples create or re-create realistically satisfying intimate connection. They can learn expertise to be the best lover, partner, parent and friend they can be... without feeling fake, sleazy or desperate! Whether you are currently in a committed relationship right now, you (and your partner) will learn skills to rekindle the emotional and sexual flame you once enjoyed, and put you both on the path of deeper intimacy, respect and passion. It's not easy. But it's worth it! Give me a call at 301-768-2344.
(301) 852-5510 View (301) 852-5510
Photo of Tracie Strucker, PhD, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracie Strucker
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20742  (Online Only)
Are you looking for ways to be in control of your eating? Do you feel like overeating causes more stress than it solves? You know what’s healthy, but being consistent when you’re overwhelmed and exhausted... Hi, I’m Tracie, I specialize in helping women break the cycle of emotional eating and eating disorders. Food problems aren’t solved with healthy eating. They’re sparked by stress and need solutions that give you skills that last. I can help you with strategies that put you in control. You deserve a therapist who’s specially trained with a proven 25 year track record of solving emotional eating and eating disorders for good!
Are you looking for ways to be in control of your eating? Do you feel like overeating causes more stress than it solves? You know what’s healthy, but being consistent when you’re overwhelmed and exhausted... Hi, I’m Tracie, I specialize in helping women break the cycle of emotional eating and eating disorders. Food problems aren’t solved with healthy eating. They’re sparked by stress and need solutions that give you skills that last. I can help you with strategies that put you in control. You deserve a therapist who’s specially trained with a proven 25 year track record of solving emotional eating and eating disorders for good!
(301) 298-1758 View (301) 298-1758

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brenda Burruss Chavis, M A, LCPC
Brenda Burruss Chavis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, M A, LCPC
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20725  (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 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 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 Linda Sanderville - Satya Counseling & Yoga- Transformation Intensives, LCSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Satya Counseling & Yoga- Transformation Intensives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I combine eye movement therapy, hypnotherapy, internal family systems and yoga for an experience that is even more powerful and holistic than the sum of its individual parts.
Are you being held back in your career or relationship goals by uncontrollable fears or stress? Do you need solutions fast so that more time isn’t lost to overwhelm, self-doubt and failed relationships? What if you had the confidence and freedom to easily face it all? Finally move in a new direction with a Transformation Therapy Intensive (TTI). Become unstoppable when you keep the wisdom gained from past challenges, but lose the associated pain. A TTI is to regular talk therapy what a plane ride is to a bike ride, getting you much further much faster, and living with joy. Your future is waiting.
I combine eye movement therapy, hypnotherapy, internal family systems and yoga for an experience that is even more powerful and holistic than the sum of its individual parts.
Are you being held back in your career or relationship goals by uncontrollable fears or stress? Do you need solutions fast so that more time isn’t lost to overwhelm, self-doubt and failed relationships? What if you had the confidence and freedom to easily face it all? Finally move in a new direction with a Transformation Therapy Intensive (TTI). Become unstoppable when you keep the wisdom gained from past challenges, but lose the associated pain. A TTI is to regular talk therapy what a plane ride is to a bike ride, getting you much further much faster, and living with joy. Your future is waiting.
(505) 386-3421 View (505) 386-3421
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 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 Audra N Gillis, LCSW-C, LICSW, CBT, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audra N Gillis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, CBT, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mitchellville, MD 20721  (Online Only)
My patients often struggle with finding their worth due to poor self-esteem or past traumas. They often have difficulty asserting themselves and creating healthy boundaries in relationships. I enjoy working with patients and being a part of their growth and change as they find their true purpose and begin to live their best lives.
My patients often struggle with finding their worth due to poor self-esteem or past traumas. They often have difficulty asserting themselves and creating healthy boundaries in relationships. I enjoy working with patients and being a part of their growth and change as they find their true purpose and begin to live their best lives.
(301) 888-0572 View (301) 888-0572
Photo of Kendra Jackson-Ralph, MS, LCPC, AASECT, NBCCH
Kendra Jackson-Ralph
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, AASECT, NBCCH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20721
Kendra Jackson-Ralph is a licensed professional counselor in DC, MD, and VA. She is also a practicing AASECT certified Sex Therapist and certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. In addition, for years she began advocating against domestic violence with survivors and treating the batterers for change within intimate relationships. Mrs. Ralph works with individuals and couples to address mental health issues; in addition, to rebuild and improve what's missing in the intimate relationship. Do you need to rebuild trust or communication in your relationship, create a satisfying sexual connection or decrease sexual dysfunctions?
Kendra Jackson-Ralph is a licensed professional counselor in DC, MD, and VA. She is also a practicing AASECT certified Sex Therapist and certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. In addition, for years she began advocating against domestic violence with survivors and treating the batterers for change within intimate relationships. Mrs. Ralph works with individuals and couples to address mental health issues; in addition, to rebuild and improve what's missing in the intimate relationship. Do you need to rebuild trust or communication in your relationship, create a satisfying sexual connection or decrease sexual dysfunctions?
(240) 896-2791 View (240) 896-2791
Photo of Psychotherapist: Tamara Pleasant - Tamara\'s Clouds INC, MA, MPT,  LCPC,  CBT, CCTP
Tamara\'s Clouds INC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, MPT, LCPC, CBT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20783
I am the founder of Tamara’s Clouds Inc. I started this company in 2009 with aspirations of empowering humanity. I believe that each person has a past that is transporting them into their future. My approach is to craft a trusted and non-judgmental environment, while fostering truth and liberation with every client.
I am the founder of Tamara’s Clouds Inc. I started this company in 2009 with aspirations of empowering humanity. I believe that each person has a past that is transporting them into their future. My approach is to craft a trusted and non-judgmental environment, while fostering truth and liberation with every client.
(833) 496-0773 View (833) 496-0773
Photo of Kublai K Duhart - Illuminated Paradigm Counseling and Healing, LLC, MA, LCPC, ADS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Illuminated Paradigm Counseling and Healing, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, ADS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20901  (Online Only)
We specialize in assisting people with working through anxiety and stress to experience relief and achieve life and professional goals. Learn how to master yourself with an emphasis on integrative wellness, be a high performer, develop high-performing teams, better manage your time and priorities, and speak up confidently when appropriate with emotional intelligence. We will work through life and family challenges and set a career path that aligns with your true self.
We specialize in assisting people with working through anxiety and stress to experience relief and achieve life and professional goals. Learn how to master yourself with an emphasis on integrative wellness, be a high performer, develop high-performing teams, better manage your time and priorities, and speak up confidently when appropriate with emotional intelligence. We will work through life and family challenges and set a career path that aligns with your true self.
(443) 738-4724 View (443) 738-4724
Photo of Shane Perrault - African American Marriage Counseling, PhD, Psychologist
African American Marriage Counseling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greenbelt, MD 20770
Whether you just heard, "I love you, but I'm not in love with you," are trying to rebuild trust after an affair, need to replace distance with closeness, need to forgive (or be forgiven), or are trying to avoid separation or stop a divorce -- Dr. Shane employs Gottman Institute's research based methods to help couples develop the skills needed to hear (and be heard), resolve conflicts in a "win/win' vs a "win/lose" fashion, and speak each other's "love language" so that you can try and make peace with the past and get past the hurt.
Whether you just heard, "I love you, but I'm not in love with you," are trying to rebuild trust after an affair, need to replace distance with closeness, need to forgive (or be forgiven), or are trying to avoid separation or stop a divorce -- Dr. Shane employs Gottman Institute's research based methods to help couples develop the skills needed to hear (and be heard), resolve conflicts in a "win/win' vs a "win/lose" fashion, and speak each other's "love language" so that you can try and make peace with the past and get past the hurt.
(301) 842-6187 View (301) 842-6187
Photo of Twanna Carter, CHT, LPC, LCPC, CAMS II, NCC, Counselor
Twanna Carter
Counselor, CHT, LPC, LCPC, CAMS II, NCC
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20715  (Online Only)
As a Black woman you've spent years pushing down your emotions, feeling isolated, and yearning for relief from stress, anxiety, or trauma. Every day it feels like you carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. Too many days, you've felt unheard and unseen. Longing for a secure, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, gain clarity, and develop strategies to overcome the challenges you're facing. You are seeking a way to live a happier, more fulfilled life. You are not alone, and I am here to help.
As a Black woman you've spent years pushing down your emotions, feeling isolated, and yearning for relief from stress, anxiety, or trauma. Every day it feels like you carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. Too many days, you've felt unheard and unseen. Longing for a secure, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, gain clarity, and develop strategies to overcome the challenges you're facing. You are seeking a way to live a happier, more fulfilled life. You are not alone, and I am here to help.
(240) 628-7884 View (240) 628-7884
Pearl Elizabeth Pfuhl
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NBCDCH
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20715
Everyone has the capacity to interpret, influence, and create life events. We can choose what to do with the abilities and limitations we possess. Our thinking may affect the way we feel and behave. Would you like assistance in developing self-awareness and skills to manage life transitions? I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment; offering support and guidance as you gain insight to find answers to the conflicts in life. An effective therapeutic relationship is based on trust and rapport. I am dedicated to providing confidential, ethical, qualified assistance to help you promote personal growth and achieve therapeutic goals.
Everyone has the capacity to interpret, influence, and create life events. We can choose what to do with the abilities and limitations we possess. Our thinking may affect the way we feel and behave. Would you like assistance in developing self-awareness and skills to manage life transitions? I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment; offering support and guidance as you gain insight to find answers to the conflicts in life. An effective therapeutic relationship is based on trust and rapport. I am dedicated to providing confidential, ethical, qualified assistance to help you promote personal growth and achieve therapeutic goals.
(240) 392-1701 View (240) 392-1701
Photo of Women's Innerfitness And Wellness Center - Women's InnerFitness & Wellness Center, LLC, PsyD, PhD, LCSW, LPC, Psychologist
Women's InnerFitness & Wellness Center, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20901  (Online Only)
Are you a driven, successful woman who excels in your career, cares deeply for your family, and strives to achieve personal goals? Do you find yourself juggling numerous responsibilities, feeling the weight of it all, and wondering how to balance everything? Do you need support in carving out time for self-care and nurturing your well-being? We specialize in helping women like you find balance, regain control of their lives, and prioritize their well-being. Finding the time and energy for self-care can be challenging, but it is crucial for sustained mental health and overall happiness.
Are you a driven, successful woman who excels in your career, cares deeply for your family, and strives to achieve personal goals? Do you find yourself juggling numerous responsibilities, feeling the weight of it all, and wondering how to balance everything? Do you need support in carving out time for self-care and nurturing your well-being? We specialize in helping women like you find balance, regain control of their lives, and prioritize their well-being. Finding the time and energy for self-care can be challenging, but it is crucial for sustained mental health and overall happiness.
(301) 691-4437 View (301) 691-4437
Photo of Jonathan Kirkendall, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jonathan Kirkendall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901
I'm a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals in DC navigate grief, depression, anxiety, and trauma. Using a blend of techniques with a strong emphasis on mindfulness to foster self-compassion and emotional well-being, I genuinely love helping clients build a lifestyle that promotes a life of mental well-being. I also has a deep understanding of military families and veterans, having served them for 12 years. I have a warm and conversational approach, which creates a safe space for healing. In-person (Dupont) and telehealth sessions available.
I'm a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals in DC navigate grief, depression, anxiety, and trauma. Using a blend of techniques with a strong emphasis on mindfulness to foster self-compassion and emotional well-being, I genuinely love helping clients build a lifestyle that promotes a life of mental well-being. I also has a deep understanding of military families and veterans, having served them for 12 years. I have a warm and conversational approach, which creates a safe space for healing. In-person (Dupont) and telehealth sessions available.
(202) 250-3744 View (202) 250-3744

See more therapy options for College Park

HypnoTherapy

How does hypnotherapy work?

Hypnotherapy works by using guided hypnosis to help you reach a state of focus and concentration through mental imagery and soothing verbal repetition. The state is somewhat like being absorbed in a book, a movie, or your own thoughts. You are not under a therapist’s “control,” but they can help you relax and turn your attention inward to discover the resources to achieve behavior change or better manage psychological concerns. Therapy sessions may involve guiding you through recognizing a problem, releasing problematic thoughts about it, and considering and accepting more productive alternatives before returning to normal awareness. Hypnotherapy is typically used by a therapist along with traditional forms of talk therapy. Eventually, your therapist can help you learn hypnotherapy techniques yourself so you can establish a stronger sense of control on your own in stressful or challenging moments.

Is hypnotherapy the same as hypnosis?

Hypnotherapy, which is sometimes called hypnotic suggestion, is a therapeutic technique in which a therapist uses hypnosis to help patients. It is not the kind of hypnosis portrayed in stage shows, or in movies or on television. You will not be unconscious or asleep during hypnotherapy, you will not lose control of yourself, your thoughts, or your free will, and you will be able to fully recall your experience. And while you will hear your therapist’s suggestions, it is always up to you to decide whether to act on them. Hypnosis by a trained mental-health professional is not a form of mind control, which is impossible to achieve anyway.

Can everyone be hypnotized?

The most common challenge of hypnotherapy is that as many as one in four people cannot be hypnotized. Brain imaging has confirmed differences in patterns of brain connectivity between those who respond to hypnotism and those who do not. Other people who could potentially be hypnotized may not respond to the technique because of their skepticism or resistance to entering a hypnotic state. If a therapist’s “post-hypnotic suggestion” is effective, it’s because they are suggesting something you want to achieve.

Does hypnotherapy work?

Through hypnotherapy, you can achieve changes that are real and sustainable. Like other talk therapy techniques, when hypnotherapy succeeds, it’s a case of mind over matter. Effective hypnotherapy involves self-healing because you access resources you need to change inside of yourself and learn how to tap into them whenever you need. Hypnotherapy has been shown to be an effective therapy for anxiety, phobias, stress, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, sexual dysfunction, and undesirable behaviors like smoking. It can be used to help improve sleep or to address relationship challenges, and to aid with pain management, digestive disorders, skin conditions, and the gastrointestinal side effects of pregnancy or chemotherapy.