Hypnotherapists in Holly Springs, NC

Photo of Anita Bhat, PsyD, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Anita Bhat
Counselor, PsyD, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I am certified in Focusing for mind-body healing, hypnotherapy techniques such as BLAST, Advanced BLAST and RTT (Rapid Transformational Therapy) which can powerfully, quickly and permanently help you to treat PTSD trauma and heal current conditions through the subconscious.
If you are in need of trauma healing from the past and present, I am the therapist for you! "Pain is inevitable but suffering is optional." Pain is a part of life but it does not have to rule your life. Suffering is not a part of life. We do it to ourselves by allowing our pain to take over our lives. You don't have to sit alone with your pain and suffer. I am a deeply empathetic and effective therapist. Trauma should not be a life sentence for anyone. I am trained in the best techniques using hypnotherapy and mind-body healing to resolve PTSD, trauma and other conditions powerfully, rapidly and effectively using the subconscious
I am certified in Focusing for mind-body healing, hypnotherapy techniques such as BLAST, Advanced BLAST and RTT (Rapid Transformational Therapy) which can powerfully, quickly and permanently help you to treat PTSD trauma and heal current conditions through the subconscious.
If you are in need of trauma healing from the past and present, I am the therapist for you! "Pain is inevitable but suffering is optional." Pain is a part of life but it does not have to rule your life. Suffering is not a part of life. We do it to ourselves by allowing our pain to take over our lives. You don't have to sit alone with your pain and suffer. I am a deeply empathetic and effective therapist. Trauma should not be a life sentence for anyone. I am trained in the best techniques using hypnotherapy and mind-body healing to resolve PTSD, trauma and other conditions powerfully, rapidly and effectively using the subconscious
(984) 205-6585 View (984) 205-6585
Photo of Matt Morano, PhD, LCMHC, CHT
Matt Morano
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, CHT
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Now accepting new clients! Sometimes life doesn't go as expected. When you need help with some of those challenges, it can be helpful to talk to someone like me. Trained in a unique combination of traditional counseling therapy and hypnotherapy, I am happy to help you get through some of life's big (and small) challenges. If you are looking to address some old habits (like smoking or vaping) or even some new ones, my goal is to help you achieve your goals.
Now accepting new clients! Sometimes life doesn't go as expected. When you need help with some of those challenges, it can be helpful to talk to someone like me. Trained in a unique combination of traditional counseling therapy and hypnotherapy, I am happy to help you get through some of life's big (and small) challenges. If you are looking to address some old habits (like smoking or vaping) or even some new ones, my goal is to help you achieve your goals.
(919) 752-3234 View (919) 752-3234
Photo of Tara Parker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Tara has an energetic laugh that puts clients at ease and enjoys playfully incorporating her love of sarcasm into her work with her clients. She has been known to lovingly call people out on their “bologna” when she hears it and is a great accountability partner. Tara is also incredibly empathetic and provides a warm and safe environment and a quiet listening ear when the situation calls for it. Noticing and reading nonverbal communication and body language is a skill Tara possesses in spades so she often learns a lot even from things that go unsaid. Tara is judgement free and she encourages you to be genuine and authentic.
Tara has an energetic laugh that puts clients at ease and enjoys playfully incorporating her love of sarcasm into her work with her clients. She has been known to lovingly call people out on their “bologna” when she hears it and is a great accountability partner. Tara is also incredibly empathetic and provides a warm and safe environment and a quiet listening ear when the situation calls for it. Noticing and reading nonverbal communication and body language is a skill Tara possesses in spades so she often learns a lot even from things that go unsaid. Tara is judgement free and she encourages you to be genuine and authentic.
(919) 276-8375 View (919) 276-8375
Photo of Tammy Holcomb, LCMHCS, CEDS, NBCCH
Tammy Holcomb
LCMHCS, CEDS, NBCCH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Tired of facing this alone? Need someone to trust to listen without placing judgment? So often, we try to handle things alone for too long. By the time we ask for help, the problem feels out of control. I want to help you to figure this out and get out from under whatever burden or decision is on you. Whether it is the past, work stress, grief over a loss, regret, anxiety, depression, or a behavior interfering with your life goals, I will work with you to try to figure this out.
Tired of facing this alone? Need someone to trust to listen without placing judgment? So often, we try to handle things alone for too long. By the time we ask for help, the problem feels out of control. I want to help you to figure this out and get out from under whatever burden or decision is on you. Whether it is the past, work stress, grief over a loss, regret, anxiety, depression, or a behavior interfering with your life goals, I will work with you to try to figure this out.
(919) 323-4002 View (919) 323-4002
Photo of Shere Carinci, MSc
Shere Carinci
MSc
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Are you an empath and even a intuitive who is looking to align with your personal power and potential? Are you a spiritual seeker wanting to live in your Divine self-expression, within this human experience? Are you looking to clean up your energy and vibration to be in alignment with your gifts? Are you ready to break the habit of being yourself, the personality that you have outgrown, but need the support of creating lasting transformation? Then I invite you to schedule a FREE 15-20 minute coaching call to see if we are a good fit, and if you are ready to jump in schedule a 90 minute session NOW
Are you an empath and even a intuitive who is looking to align with your personal power and potential? Are you a spiritual seeker wanting to live in your Divine self-expression, within this human experience? Are you looking to clean up your energy and vibration to be in alignment with your gifts? Are you ready to break the habit of being yourself, the personality that you have outgrown, but need the support of creating lasting transformation? Then I invite you to schedule a FREE 15-20 minute coaching call to see if we are a good fit, and if you are ready to jump in schedule a 90 minute session NOW
(984) 205-9431 View (984) 205-9431

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kerry S Thomas, MEd, LCMHC, Counselor
Kerry S Thomas
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, EMDR, and Family Systems Therapy.
When we are in the midst of some tough situations, we can be blind to what the options are for improving our lives. Sometimes just dealing with the emotional impact is hard enough. We can be so engaged by the emotional upset itself that it is often hard to see beyond it to solutions. In therapy, we have a partner whose sole function is promoting our well-being. Someone who has the experience and training to help us handle the emotional impact while providing insight as to how we can become better at managing challenging situations, improving our relationships, shifting our perspectives and ultimately living a more peaceful, happier
Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, EMDR, and Family Systems Therapy.
When we are in the midst of some tough situations, we can be blind to what the options are for improving our lives. Sometimes just dealing with the emotional impact is hard enough. We can be so engaged by the emotional upset itself that it is often hard to see beyond it to solutions. In therapy, we have a partner whose sole function is promoting our well-being. Someone who has the experience and training to help us handle the emotional impact while providing insight as to how we can become better at managing challenging situations, improving our relationships, shifting our perspectives and ultimately living a more peaceful, happier
(919) 415-0748 View (919) 415-0748
Photo of Peggy Zaloga, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peggy Zaloga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
I specialize in teens and adults who are experiencing life challenges and transitions, and am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Hypnotherapy, Mindfulness, Wilderness therapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
Do you have a hard time connecting with yourself and others around you? Does it often feel like no one really understands how you're feeling? I listen and try to understand where my clients are coming from, and once we understand one another and have built a solid relationship I can teach a wide variety of integrative health and wellness skills that will help you overcome challenges related (but not limited) to: school refusal, social anxiety, peer group communication, family conflicts, intimate relationships, behavioral addictions, chronic illness, emotional trauma and panic attacks.
I specialize in teens and adults who are experiencing life challenges and transitions, and am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Hypnotherapy, Mindfulness, Wilderness therapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
Do you have a hard time connecting with yourself and others around you? Does it often feel like no one really understands how you're feeling? I listen and try to understand where my clients are coming from, and once we understand one another and have built a solid relationship I can teach a wide variety of integrative health and wellness skills that will help you overcome challenges related (but not limited) to: school refusal, social anxiety, peer group communication, family conflicts, intimate relationships, behavioral addictions, chronic illness, emotional trauma and panic attacks.
(919) 780-4008 View (919) 780-4008
Photo of Gina Roberts, PhD, LCMHC, RYT
Gina Roberts
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27539
Whether hope or discouragement bring you to this site, it is my privilege to offer you a sanctuary of solace, deep listening, and confidential guidance. Maybe you feel stuck or directionless? Are you needing support and guidance through a life transition, grief, illness, a troubled relationship, spiritual crisis or broken dreams? Whatever your concerns -- past or present, large or small, clear or vaguely defined, personal or interpersonal -- our experience together is designed to help you discover the inherent possibility, healing & change available to you as you embrace life more fully from the wisdom of who you truly are.
Whether hope or discouragement bring you to this site, it is my privilege to offer you a sanctuary of solace, deep listening, and confidential guidance. Maybe you feel stuck or directionless? Are you needing support and guidance through a life transition, grief, illness, a troubled relationship, spiritual crisis or broken dreams? Whatever your concerns -- past or present, large or small, clear or vaguely defined, personal or interpersonal -- our experience together is designed to help you discover the inherent possibility, healing & change available to you as you embrace life more fully from the wisdom of who you truly are.
(919) 813-7285 View (919) 813-7285
Photo of Sara E Rosenquist - DrSara, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
DrSara
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
Are you facing challenges with your sexual or reproductive health? You're not alone. DrSara understands the sensitive and deeply personal nature of these issues. My mission is to provide compassionate support and effective solutions to help you regain control of your sexual health and family building.
Are you facing challenges with your sexual or reproductive health? You're not alone. DrSara understands the sensitive and deeply personal nature of these issues. My mission is to provide compassionate support and effective solutions to help you regain control of your sexual health and family building.
(336) 815-5812 View (336) 815-5812
Photo of Darlene Mew, LPC-MHS, MBA, LCMHC, Counselor
Darlene Mew
Counselor, LPC-MHS, MBA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
It gives me joy to come alongside you as a partner in your journey towards being your best self. If you have felt like grief, trauma and anxiety have been holding you back from all you aspire to be, we can work together towards a life that is intentional. I enjoy working with people who have experienced trauma, anxiety, and grief to clear out concerns that have impacted their mental health.
It gives me joy to come alongside you as a partner in your journey towards being your best self. If you have felt like grief, trauma and anxiety have been holding you back from all you aspire to be, we can work together towards a life that is intentional. I enjoy working with people who have experienced trauma, anxiety, and grief to clear out concerns that have impacted their mental health.
(980) 351-2186 View (980) 351-2186
Photo of Amelia Kelley, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR,  RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amelia Kelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR, RYT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Brainspotting, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. We specialize in treating addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, family discord, school issues, chronic pain and stress, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Brainspotting, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. We specialize in treating addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, family discord, school issues, chronic pain and stress, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
(919) 794-8350 View (919) 794-8350
Photo of Nathan Webber, MA, LMCHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nathan Webber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMCHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Finding the right counselor is very important! With that in mind, don't read a bio and pick someone. Take advantage of my free 20 minute phone consultation! That's all it's going to take to tell if I'll be a good fit or not. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, families, and adults. I'm good at getting people to talk about what the real problem is and not dance around the elephant in the room. You are not always going to get from me what you want to hear but I guarantee you are going to get from me what you need to hear.
Finding the right counselor is very important! With that in mind, don't read a bio and pick someone. Take advantage of my free 20 minute phone consultation! That's all it's going to take to tell if I'll be a good fit or not. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, families, and adults. I'm good at getting people to talk about what the real problem is and not dance around the elephant in the room. You are not always going to get from me what you want to hear but I guarantee you are going to get from me what you need to hear.
(919) 229-8990 View (919) 229-8990
Photo of Stanley Hall - Hall Family Therapy, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hall Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Evening and weekend free sessions with our interns Isaiah and Kate for kids, couples, and families. Dr. Hall has been practicing for over 22 years with people all over the country all while caring for his own wife of 23 years and 5 kids. We have the latest treatments for your anxiety, depression, PTSD, and difficult family issues. Couples benefit from using the research based Gottman method in our clinic and have permanent positive results within weeks! With experience as a professor, supervisor and therapist in community health working with even the most severe disorders. Sign up for an online appointment at hallfamilytherapy.com
Evening and weekend free sessions with our interns Isaiah and Kate for kids, couples, and families. Dr. Hall has been practicing for over 22 years with people all over the country all while caring for his own wife of 23 years and 5 kids. We have the latest treatments for your anxiety, depression, PTSD, and difficult family issues. Couples benefit from using the research based Gottman method in our clinic and have permanent positive results within weeks! With experience as a professor, supervisor and therapist in community health working with even the most severe disorders. Sign up for an online appointment at hallfamilytherapy.com
(919) 794-3113 View (919) 794-3113
Photo of Ronald G Begley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ronald G Begley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
NOW OFFERING VIDEO AND TELEPHONIC COUNSELING. I will help you to determine your goals, and we will work together to accomplish them. I am an experienced psychotherapist with a reputation for delivering helpful and effective care in a warm, affirming, and respectful manner. My primary specialties are anxiety and panic, couples issues, clinical hypnosis, and substance abuse. I am in-network with most insurance and EAP panels, and my office is conveniently located off of I-40, near Cary Towne Center Mall.
NOW OFFERING VIDEO AND TELEPHONIC COUNSELING. I will help you to determine your goals, and we will work together to accomplish them. I am an experienced psychotherapist with a reputation for delivering helpful and effective care in a warm, affirming, and respectful manner. My primary specialties are anxiety and panic, couples issues, clinical hypnosis, and substance abuse. I am in-network with most insurance and EAP panels, and my office is conveniently located off of I-40, near Cary Towne Center Mall.
(919) 924-0944 View (919) 924-0944
Photo of Daniela Perone, PhD, HSP-P, Psychologist
Daniela Perone
Psychologist, PhD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
It's exhausting always being the "strong" one that everyone turns to when they need something, isn't it? You're the one who gets things done. You're always making sure everyone else is ok before you take care of yourself. You're running on empty but you feel like you can't stop or all the balls will drop. It doesn't feel like there is anyone else you can count on to pick them up. You might also be a deep feeler and you carry emotional weight for others too. You're highly intuitive too. It often feels like you are not enough, no matter what you do. You're here because the weight of it is bringing you down and you need support.
It's exhausting always being the "strong" one that everyone turns to when they need something, isn't it? You're the one who gets things done. You're always making sure everyone else is ok before you take care of yourself. You're running on empty but you feel like you can't stop or all the balls will drop. It doesn't feel like there is anyone else you can count on to pick them up. You might also be a deep feeler and you carry emotional weight for others too. You're highly intuitive too. It often feels like you are not enough, no matter what you do. You're here because the weight of it is bringing you down and you need support.
(919) 535-4647 View (919) 535-4647
Photo of Dr. Rhian Daniel, PhD
Dr. Rhian Daniel
PhD
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Dr. Rhian Daniel helps individuals discover the psychological connection between who they think they are and who they actually are; and consequently, how they connect with the concept of a purpose-in-life and fulfill that goal. Contributing to knowing who you really are is knowing what your really are. Therefore, he guides people to this awareness firstly, using various methods. This is essential, as change is simplified when one knows the original construction methods. Techniques Dr. Daniel employs come from within the fields of transpersonal psychology, ecopsychology, somatic psychology, and Wilderness Rites of Passage rituals.
Dr. Rhian Daniel helps individuals discover the psychological connection between who they think they are and who they actually are; and consequently, how they connect with the concept of a purpose-in-life and fulfill that goal. Contributing to knowing who you really are is knowing what your really are. Therefore, he guides people to this awareness firstly, using various methods. This is essential, as change is simplified when one knows the original construction methods. Techniques Dr. Daniel employs come from within the fields of transpersonal psychology, ecopsychology, somatic psychology, and Wilderness Rites of Passage rituals.
(919) 728-5031 View (919) 728-5031

Online Therapists

Photo of Melissa Heustess-Decker - HigherMind Integrative Therapy, PLLC, LCSW, PSYCH-K, CHT, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
HigherMind Integrative Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PSYCH-K, CHT, CIMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pinehurst, NC 28374
We offer CBT, HRV/Biofeedback, EMDR, PSYCH-K, EFT, PVT, Hypnotherapy, Somatic experiencing, and traditional talk therapy.
Through a variety of evidence-based and complementary modalities, HigherMind Integrative Therapy creates an engaging therapeutic experience. We are trauma-informed and certified integrative mental health therapists experienced in areas related to anxiety, depression, loss, adjustment disorders, opioid and substance use. Integrative in our approach, we take into account how the mind and body desire homeostasis and guide you into this calm state of being. From there, we encourage expansion in the area of psychospirituality, which supports profound and lasting healing.
We offer CBT, HRV/Biofeedback, EMDR, PSYCH-K, EFT, PVT, Hypnotherapy, Somatic experiencing, and traditional talk therapy.
Through a variety of evidence-based and complementary modalities, HigherMind Integrative Therapy creates an engaging therapeutic experience. We are trauma-informed and certified integrative mental health therapists experienced in areas related to anxiety, depression, loss, adjustment disorders, opioid and substance use. Integrative in our approach, we take into account how the mind and body desire homeostasis and guide you into this calm state of being. From there, we encourage expansion in the area of psychospirituality, which supports profound and lasting healing.
(910) 400-1815 View (910) 400-1815
Photo of Langley Hoeferkamp - Hypnotherapy by Langley, CCHt
Hypnotherapy by Langley
CCHt
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703  (Online Only)
If you're curious about hypnotherapy, have specific goals in mind, or simply need a compassionate listener, I invite you to reach out.
I am a dedicated and compassionate hypnotherapist committed to guiding you through a profound process of positive change and self-discovery. With a background in psychology and counseling, I believe in the incredible power of the mind to create lasting change. Through a personalized and client-centered approach, I utilize hypnotherapy as a tool to explore the subconscious mind, identify limiting beliefs, and facilitate transformative experiences. Together my goal is to create a safe and supportive space for you to navigate your unique journey towards healing and personal growth.
If you're curious about hypnotherapy, have specific goals in mind, or simply need a compassionate listener, I invite you to reach out.
I am a dedicated and compassionate hypnotherapist committed to guiding you through a profound process of positive change and self-discovery. With a background in psychology and counseling, I believe in the incredible power of the mind to create lasting change. Through a personalized and client-centered approach, I utilize hypnotherapy as a tool to explore the subconscious mind, identify limiting beliefs, and facilitate transformative experiences. Together my goal is to create a safe and supportive space for you to navigate your unique journey towards healing and personal growth.
(919) 804-0673 View (919) 804-0673
Photo of Sabriya laila Sharif-Hanifa - veryMe LLC, MS, CMH
veryMe LLC
MS, CMH
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27604  (Online Only)
As a certified hypnotherapist. I am dedicated to empowering individuals on their journeys towards holistic well-being. My name is Sabriya Sharif-Hanifa and with a masters in mental health counseling and two decades of experience in the field. I specialize in assisting clients to overcome challenges such as smoking cessation, stress and anxiety reduction and pain management through the power of hypnotherapy. My approach is rooted in compassion, expertise and a deep commitment to facilitating positive transformation in their lives of those I serve
As a certified hypnotherapist. I am dedicated to empowering individuals on their journeys towards holistic well-being. My name is Sabriya Sharif-Hanifa and with a masters in mental health counseling and two decades of experience in the field. I specialize in assisting clients to overcome challenges such as smoking cessation, stress and anxiety reduction and pain management through the power of hypnotherapy. My approach is rooted in compassion, expertise and a deep commitment to facilitating positive transformation in their lives of those I serve
(984) 214-8287 View (984) 214-8287
Photo of Donna Dunlap - New Life Counseling Center, PLLC, LCMHCS
New Life Counseling Center, PLLC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Some specialties include Hypnotherapy, Trauma Focused, CBT (Cognitive Behavior), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy).
New Life Counseling Center offers exceptional therapy services to residents of the Triad and surrounding areas. We are a private, group practice featuring therapists who specialize in Professional Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy. It is our goal to retain only the best and most professional therapists to ensure that each and every client is treated with respect and care! It's our shared mission to provide top-notch mental health services available in a pleasant, professional setting. We take the extra time to learn about you so that we can match you up with the therapist who will be the best fit for your needs.
Some specialties include Hypnotherapy, Trauma Focused, CBT (Cognitive Behavior), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy).
New Life Counseling Center offers exceptional therapy services to residents of the Triad and surrounding areas. We are a private, group practice featuring therapists who specialize in Professional Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy. It is our goal to retain only the best and most professional therapists to ensure that each and every client is treated with respect and care! It's our shared mission to provide top-notch mental health services available in a pleasant, professional setting. We take the extra time to learn about you so that we can match you up with the therapist who will be the best fit for your needs.
(336) 439-3376 View (336) 439-3376

See more therapy options for Holly Springs

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.