Hypnotherapists in Pikesville, MD

Photo of Gabriel Newman, PhD, CNutr, BCIA, ABDA, Psychologist
Gabriel Newman
Psychologist, PhD, CNutr, BCIA, ABDA
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
Not all therapists are able to support you fully when medical or other conditions have caused cognitive decline. This is my specialty. Having worked closely with neurologists, radiologists and many other medical specialties, I can offer you neuropsyc or psych evaluations and brain maps that shed light on problems, and create a treatment plan that really makes a difference. We've helped folks with brain injury or general concerns for cognition, restore memory and attention skills, get to better thinking and reasoning, and enhanced joy in life. I go beyond the limits where others stopped, because rehabilitating brains is my passion.
Not all therapists are able to support you fully when medical or other conditions have caused cognitive decline. This is my specialty. Having worked closely with neurologists, radiologists and many other medical specialties, I can offer you neuropsyc or psych evaluations and brain maps that shed light on problems, and create a treatment plan that really makes a difference. We've helped folks with brain injury or general concerns for cognition, restore memory and attention skills, get to better thinking and reasoning, and enhanced joy in life. I go beyond the limits where others stopped, because rehabilitating brains is my passion.
(410) 346-5664 View (410) 346-5664
Photo of David Michael Toplin - Tree of Life Counseling, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tree of Life Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Not Verified Not Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
Our team of experienced male and female therapists provide counseling to children, adolescents, couples and families of all ages. Many of our clients are struggling with anxiety, depression, serious relationship conflict, a trauma disorder or a child's behavior problem and often find it difficult coping day to day. The therapeutic process is liberating once begun, indeed it is life-transforming. Trust that you will emerge stronger and more self-aware now able to reclaim that special, essential "You", that you always knew was there but couldn't quite seem to get in touch with. Start your therapy journey today!
Our team of experienced male and female therapists provide counseling to children, adolescents, couples and families of all ages. Many of our clients are struggling with anxiety, depression, serious relationship conflict, a trauma disorder or a child's behavior problem and often find it difficult coping day to day. The therapeutic process is liberating once begun, indeed it is life-transforming. Trust that you will emerge stronger and more self-aware now able to reclaim that special, essential "You", that you always knew was there but couldn't quite seem to get in touch with. Start your therapy journey today!
(410) 343-7146 View (410) 343-7146
Photo of Shlomo Schor, MA, LCPC
Shlomo Schor
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Welcome to a transformative journey of healing and growth. With 15 years of experience as a trauma therapist, I specialize in trauma-focused EMDR, Somatic Therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. My approach is born out of a deep commitment to providing clients with the most profound transformation in the shortest time. Recognizing the urgency in relieving suffering, I employ techniques that have proven to be remarkably effective in the shortest amount of time.
Welcome to a transformative journey of healing and growth. With 15 years of experience as a trauma therapist, I specialize in trauma-focused EMDR, Somatic Therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. My approach is born out of a deep commitment to providing clients with the most profound transformation in the shortest time. Recognizing the urgency in relieving suffering, I employ techniques that have proven to be remarkably effective in the shortest amount of time.
(410) 449-7077 View (410) 449-7077
Photo of Dena Leibowitz, MS, LCADC, RYT, CHT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Dena Leibowitz
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCADC, RYT, CHT
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
Dena earned a BA from Towson University (BS ’92) and (MS '96) in Psychology from University of Baltimore. Dena completed post-graduate coursework at Johns Hopkins University required for her licensure. She is both certified in hypnosis (CHT) and as an NLP Practitioner. Additional accomplishments include being a panelist , public speaking, providing expert witness, and credential training. I opened the center in 1998 in Towson, Maryland treating addictions, depression and anxiety. In 2010, I renamed the center ZenLife and integrated mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and hypnosis in my practice.
Dena earned a BA from Towson University (BS ’92) and (MS '96) in Psychology from University of Baltimore. Dena completed post-graduate coursework at Johns Hopkins University required for her licensure. She is both certified in hypnosis (CHT) and as an NLP Practitioner. Additional accomplishments include being a panelist , public speaking, providing expert witness, and credential training. I opened the center in 1998 in Towson, Maryland treating addictions, depression and anxiety. In 2010, I renamed the center ZenLife and integrated mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and hypnosis in my practice.
(443) 840-9994 View (443) 840-9994
Photo of Gary Green - Maryland Couples and Relationship Counseling, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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.
(443) 502-0951 View (443) 502-0951

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of James O'Neill, LCPC
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.
(443) 251-3846 View (443) 251-3846
Photo of Patti Friedman, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Patti Friedman
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21208
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 .
(410) 657-8622 View (410) 657-8622
Photo of Deborah Cooper, PhD, LCMFT, -, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT, -
Verified Verified
Timonium, MD 21093
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
(410) 701-3353 View (410) 701-3353
Photo of Linda Beam, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Beam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21286  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
With twenty-five years of study in the mind/body modalities, and trained as a yoga instructor, my therapeutic approach integrates traditional talk therapy and cognitive/behavioral work with integrative modalities such as guided imagery, hypnotherapy, dreamwork, mindfulness techniques, and EMDR.
I believe that there is an integrative center within each of us that guides us toward healing. The situations, losses, and difficulties that arise in life provide us the impetus we need to grow into a fuller and more joyful life. My therapeutic style has been described as warm and respectful of the client. I create an environment of support within the session that encourages a collaborative relationship conducive for self-growth. My experience lies in the areas of stress management, anxiety disorders, depression, illness, addictions, trauma, and marital or relationship issues. I enjoy working with a variety of cultural backgrounds.
With twenty-five years of study in the mind/body modalities, and trained as a yoga instructor, my therapeutic approach integrates traditional talk therapy and cognitive/behavioral work with integrative modalities such as guided imagery, hypnotherapy, dreamwork, mindfulness techniques, and EMDR.
I believe that there is an integrative center within each of us that guides us toward healing. The situations, losses, and difficulties that arise in life provide us the impetus we need to grow into a fuller and more joyful life. My therapeutic style has been described as warm and respectful of the client. I create an environment of support within the session that encourages a collaborative relationship conducive for self-growth. My experience lies in the areas of stress management, anxiety disorders, depression, illness, addictions, trauma, and marital or relationship issues. I enjoy working with a variety of cultural backgrounds.
(410) 417-6728 View (410) 417-6728
Photo of Barbara A Reade, MS, LCPC, CPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara A Reade
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, CPC
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
Are you looking for relief from anxiety, depression, or trauma symptoms? After 30+ years in this field I have realized how unique each person is and how unique each persons needs are. I have advanced training in several types of therapy including IFS (certified), Eriksonian Hypnotherapy (certified), EMDR (certification equivalent), CBT (certification eqiuvalent). Having been trained in many forms of therapy I realize no one type has everything that is needed for healing. So together we explore what fits best for you. I offer a safe and compassionate space where you may find path to healing and growth.
Are you looking for relief from anxiety, depression, or trauma symptoms? After 30+ years in this field I have realized how unique each person is and how unique each persons needs are. I have advanced training in several types of therapy including IFS (certified), Eriksonian Hypnotherapy (certified), EMDR (certification equivalent), CBT (certification eqiuvalent). Having been trained in many forms of therapy I realize no one type has everything that is needed for healing. So together we explore what fits best for you. I offer a safe and compassionate space where you may find path to healing and growth.
(410) 604-8140 View (410) 604-8140
Photo of Mary Sidhwani, RN, PsyD
Mary Sidhwani
RN, PsyD
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
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.
(410) 657-8206 View (410) 657-8206
Photo of Francesca Richardson - Francesca Richardson, PhD, LCSW-C, PhD, MSW, LCSW-C, ACHt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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.
(443) 960-7025 View (443) 960-7025
Photo of Larry Lambert - Galaxy Hypnosis, CHT, DCI
Galaxy Hypnosis
CHT, DCI
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201
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.
(301) 259-3729 View (301) 259-3729
Photo of Janis Kay C Jarvis - Hypnotherapy By The Bay LLC
Hypnotherapy By The Bay LLC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21203
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 m​y 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 m​y unique blend of hypnotherapy and life coaching. Reach for your best life and make it last!
(443) 516-9989 View (443) 516-9989
Photo of Andrew Stanton, LCSW-C, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Stanton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, SAP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
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.
(443) 380-4527 View (443) 380-4527
Photo of Candice Richardson Dickens, LCPC-S, LCADC, NCC, MA, CCTP, Counselor
Candice Richardson Dickens
Counselor, LCPC-S, LCADC, NCC, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
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.
(443) 218-9560 View (443) 218-9560
Photo of Mordy Lyss, LMFT, LCMFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mordy Lyss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21208
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.
(475) 445-1797 View (475) 445-1797
Photo of Nini Gomes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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.
(443) 241-6635 View (443) 241-6635
Photo of Mimi Thomas, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mimi Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutherville, MD 21093
Are you having difficulties with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or intimate relationships? I work with adults ages 18 to 100 who are experiencing problems and life stressors interfering with work,; relationships, family or friends. Many of these issues involve these symptoms. I can help by working with you to achieve a happier quality of life and improved communications. I use a variety of approaches to fit each client. I occasionally use humor in sessions when appropriate. :
Are you having difficulties with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or intimate relationships? I work with adults ages 18 to 100 who are experiencing problems and life stressors interfering with work,; relationships, family or friends. Many of these issues involve these symptoms. I can help by working with you to achieve a happier quality of life and improved communications. I use a variety of approaches to fit each client. I occasionally use humor in sessions when appropriate. :
(443) 334-8751 View (443) 334-8751
Photo of Shawn W. Hales - Pivot Child Psychological Resources LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Pivot Child Psychological Resources LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Hunt Valley, MD 21031
•• Accepting New Patients •• We specialize in helping children who struggle with anxiety, depression, or school concerns with counseling, psychiatry, and psychological testing. Do you think your child may have a learning disability or mental health disorder? Are you struggling to find the right medication to reduce your child's symptoms? Are your child's emotions so extreme that it worries you? If you answered yes to any of these questions then I know we can help you!
•• Accepting New Patients •• We specialize in helping children who struggle with anxiety, depression, or school concerns with counseling, psychiatry, and psychological testing. Do you think your child may have a learning disability or mental health disorder? Are you struggling to find the right medication to reduce your child's symptoms? Are your child's emotions so extreme that it worries you? If you answered yes to any of these questions then I know we can help you!
(410) 505-7500 View (410) 505-7500
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.