Hypnotherapists in Clifton, NJ

Photo of Linda Libby Charlaff, LCSW, BCD, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Libby Charlaff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, LCADC
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07012
My approach offers a unique blend of therapy that includes: CBT and DBT, Mindfulness , and Hypnotherapy.
Right now, you may feel confused or scared or a mix of emotions that you can’t understand. That’s okay, you’re only human, and we all need some help sometimes to deal with the challenges that life throws at us. The hardest part of healing is often making that first admission that you need help, and then accepting it when it is offered. I'm here to tell you that you are not alone... Hi, I'm Linda, and I'm here to help you. As a clinical social worker, I have spent 30 years treating clients with challenges such as mental illness, addictions, personality disorders and rebuilding relationships.
My approach offers a unique blend of therapy that includes: CBT and DBT, Mindfulness , and Hypnotherapy.
Right now, you may feel confused or scared or a mix of emotions that you can’t understand. That’s okay, you’re only human, and we all need some help sometimes to deal with the challenges that life throws at us. The hardest part of healing is often making that first admission that you need help, and then accepting it when it is offered. I'm here to tell you that you are not alone... Hi, I'm Linda, and I'm here to help you. As a clinical social worker, I have spent 30 years treating clients with challenges such as mental illness, addictions, personality disorders and rebuilding relationships.
(347) 970-7264 View (347) 970-7264
Photo of Miriam Adler, PhD, CHT, Psychologist
Miriam Adler
Psychologist, PhD, CHT
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07012
Do you suffer from stress, depression or anxiety? Do you have difficulty just getting through the day? Don't give up on yourself! I am an experienced therapist who personalizes therapy to match each client's individual needs and personality. My style is warm and supportive, with a solution oriented, down-to-earth approach. I make therapy a comfortable and natural experience- I love what I do, and will give you my undivided attention. I can give you the tools to build upon your strengths, work around your weaknesses, and develop a sense of inner balance and well-being.
Do you suffer from stress, depression or anxiety? Do you have difficulty just getting through the day? Don't give up on yourself! I am an experienced therapist who personalizes therapy to match each client's individual needs and personality. My style is warm and supportive, with a solution oriented, down-to-earth approach. I make therapy a comfortable and natural experience- I love what I do, and will give you my undivided attention. I can give you the tools to build upon your strengths, work around your weaknesses, and develop a sense of inner balance and well-being.
(973) 317-8121 x253 View (973) 317-8121 x253
Photo of Amanda Levy, L, C, S, W, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, C, S, W
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07012
Are you struggling with an important decision, having difficulties in a relationship? Maybe you are the kind of person that finds yourself overwhelmed or lives from crisis to crisis. Do you want to stop the pattern of putting out the personal fires in your life? Maybe you are interested in a more satisfying and successful life? Perhaps your child has school issues, or has difficulty managing his feelings or experiences. Perhaps , knowing what to do as a parent isn't so clear.
Are you struggling with an important decision, having difficulties in a relationship? Maybe you are the kind of person that finds yourself overwhelmed or lives from crisis to crisis. Do you want to stop the pattern of putting out the personal fires in your life? Maybe you are interested in a more satisfying and successful life? Perhaps your child has school issues, or has difficulty managing his feelings or experiences. Perhaps , knowing what to do as a parent isn't so clear.
(973) 517-4062 View (973) 517-4062
Photo of Lara Seymour, LCSW, PsyA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lara Seymour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyA
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07013
Seeking help is a sign of strength. You don't have to feel alone or helpless. Dealing promptly with your psychological and social problems is essential for you and the people you love and care about. Together we can uncover solutions to help you live your happy, healthy life. Are you going through difficult times? You and I will work together to help you gain control over emotions, achieve safer and closer relationships, bring improvements in your behavior, reduce or eliminate unwanted and distressing thoughts, restore lost motivation, or just recover the joy of life.
Seeking help is a sign of strength. You don't have to feel alone or helpless. Dealing promptly with your psychological and social problems is essential for you and the people you love and care about. Together we can uncover solutions to help you live your happy, healthy life. Are you going through difficult times? You and I will work together to help you gain control over emotions, achieve safer and closer relationships, bring improvements in your behavior, reduce or eliminate unwanted and distressing thoughts, restore lost motivation, or just recover the joy of life.
(201) 561-8544 View (201) 561-8544
Photo of Allison Gaydos - Allison Gaydos: EMDR, IFS, Trauma, and Hypnosis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Gaydos: EMDR, IFS, Trauma, and Hypnosis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07013  (Online Only)
I'm an experienced EMDR trauma specialist & I love supporting adult children of emotionally immature parents, adults, college students, and post-college grads. My clients come to therapy to heal from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, reduce traumatic memories, and get to know their healthier adult self. We'll work on boundary setting and building rewarding relationships. I offer talk therapy as well as EMDR, IFS (Internal Family Systems), and clinical hypnosis that can have a bigger impact and faster results. Book a free 20 min consultation to learn more: cultivatetherapyteam.clientsecure.me
I'm an experienced EMDR trauma specialist & I love supporting adult children of emotionally immature parents, adults, college students, and post-college grads. My clients come to therapy to heal from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, reduce traumatic memories, and get to know their healthier adult self. We'll work on boundary setting and building rewarding relationships. I offer talk therapy as well as EMDR, IFS (Internal Family Systems), and clinical hypnosis that can have a bigger impact and faster results. Book a free 20 min consultation to learn more: cultivatetherapyteam.clientsecure.me
(201) 862-4707 View (201) 862-4707
Photo of Nina Garland - Footprints to Feel Better, Licensed Professional Counselor
Footprints to Feel Better
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07013
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Frances A Vadas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frances A Vadas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wayne, NJ 07470  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in hypnotherapy, guided imagery, and EMDR for help with trauma and anxiety.
Get your life back post-pandemic; it's time to resume your journey. I'm here to help you on your healing path, if you're ready to go. Most insurance plans are accepted.
I have extensive training in hypnotherapy, guided imagery, and EMDR for help with trauma and anxiety.
Get your life back post-pandemic; it's time to resume your journey. I'm here to help you on your healing path, if you're ready to go. Most insurance plans are accepted.
(609) 604-5302 View (609) 604-5302
Photo of Dr. S. Yeliz Orhan, PhD, CMH, CHT, MA
Dr. S. Yeliz Orhan
PhD, CMH, CHT, MA
Verified Verified
Totowa, NJ 07512
I use Psychotheraphy, Hypnotherapy,EMDR for treatments.
I am a psychologist (Ph.D.), I have over 21 years of experience and have worked with a diverse population on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, Post-traumatic stress disorder, marital/family conflict and stress,ADHD in childs and adults,adolescent mental health,neurotic dieseases and psychotic disorders,traumatic events,phobias. Specialized on chronic stress-related psychological and problems like vaginismus,sexual problems and physiological illnesses like cardio-vascular. I have training in working with children and adolescents and their parents.I also have significant experience in working older adults/
I use Psychotheraphy, Hypnotherapy,EMDR for treatments.
I am a psychologist (Ph.D.), I have over 21 years of experience and have worked with a diverse population on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, Post-traumatic stress disorder, marital/family conflict and stress,ADHD in childs and adults,adolescent mental health,neurotic dieseases and psychotic disorders,traumatic events,phobias. Specialized on chronic stress-related psychological and problems like vaginismus,sexual problems and physiological illnesses like cardio-vascular. I have training in working with children and adolescents and their parents.I also have significant experience in working older adults/
(551) 278-8728 View (551) 278-8728
Photo of Meaghan Coneys, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meaghan Coneys
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glen Ridge, NJ 07028
I am trained in Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy, which is a gentle yet rapid healing approach using a deep state of relaxation, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and the Emotion Freedom Technique (EFT).
Starting therapy both a daunting and exciting process. I will create a safe environment where you can feel comfortable in moments of discomfort. I strongly believe the relationship between therapist and client is the primary factor to change and growth within the individual. I emphasize importance on past/current relationships, believing that we are impacted and molded by our relationships with others. I maintain a strengths-based/humanistic approach to psychotherapy, while using a number of clinical tools (EMDR, Hypnotherapy, EFT, & Meditation) to cope with uncomfortable thoughts and feelings.
I am trained in Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy, which is a gentle yet rapid healing approach using a deep state of relaxation, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and the Emotion Freedom Technique (EFT).
Starting therapy both a daunting and exciting process. I will create a safe environment where you can feel comfortable in moments of discomfort. I strongly believe the relationship between therapist and client is the primary factor to change and growth within the individual. I emphasize importance on past/current relationships, believing that we are impacted and molded by our relationships with others. I maintain a strengths-based/humanistic approach to psychotherapy, while using a number of clinical tools (EMDR, Hypnotherapy, EFT, & Meditation) to cope with uncomfortable thoughts and feelings.
(203) 609-4462 View (203) 609-4462
Photo of Kanan Kapila, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kanan Kapila
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Kanan Kapila strives to provide a wise, compassionate, welcoming, and culturally conscious space where therapy can help cultivate our capacity for meaningful life, career, and relationship experiences. Psychotherapy brings awareness to emotions in relation to thoughts, amplifying our ability to respond with kind inquiry and authenticity in our actions. Kanan Kapila adopts an integrative approach to Psychotherapy, drawing from Cognitive-Behavioral, Somatic Therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Mindfulness techniques. Through therapy, clients gain insight into the patterns shaping their personalities.
Kanan Kapila strives to provide a wise, compassionate, welcoming, and culturally conscious space where therapy can help cultivate our capacity for meaningful life, career, and relationship experiences. Psychotherapy brings awareness to emotions in relation to thoughts, amplifying our ability to respond with kind inquiry and authenticity in our actions. Kanan Kapila adopts an integrative approach to Psychotherapy, drawing from Cognitive-Behavioral, Somatic Therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Mindfulness techniques. Through therapy, clients gain insight into the patterns shaping their personalities.
(973) 313-5421 View (973) 313-5421
Photo of Nadine O'Reilly - Englewood Therapy Associates, Psychologist
Englewood Therapy Associates
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
Our therapists have advanced training in evidence-based modalities, including EMDR, Marriage and Family Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play Therapy, and Hypnotherapy.
We are a multi-disciplinary team of clinicians located in the heart of East Hill Englewood in Bergen County, NJ. We offer in-person and virtual therapy to children, teens, adults, couples and families. We treat stress, anxiety, burnout, relationship difficulties, depression and anger. We specialize in reluctant therapy-seekers and have a strong track record in creating and maintaining lasting working relationships with a solutions-focused approach.
Our therapists have advanced training in evidence-based modalities, including EMDR, Marriage and Family Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play Therapy, and Hypnotherapy.
We are a multi-disciplinary team of clinicians located in the heart of East Hill Englewood in Bergen County, NJ. We offer in-person and virtual therapy to children, teens, adults, couples and families. We treat stress, anxiety, burnout, relationship difficulties, depression and anger. We specialize in reluctant therapy-seekers and have a strong track record in creating and maintaining lasting working relationships with a solutions-focused approach.
(551) 282-1829 View (551) 282-1829
Photo of Mary Beth Del Balzo, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Beth Del Balzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
My mission is to patiently support people in seeking and finding joy that eludes them, helping them to empower themselves by using psychotherapy & hypnotherapy, working with the mind, body, emotions and our spirit that makes us unique and a part of the whole of humanity. Our therapeutic alliance encourages a look at the world in a new, safe way. Hypnosis and work in the subconscious is the eye to the soul. I'm an expert hypnotherapist with numerous hypnosis certifications, in private psychotherapy practice since 2005 and a practicing clinical hypnotherapist since 1995, located in NJ.
My mission is to patiently support people in seeking and finding joy that eludes them, helping them to empower themselves by using psychotherapy & hypnotherapy, working with the mind, body, emotions and our spirit that makes us unique and a part of the whole of humanity. Our therapeutic alliance encourages a look at the world in a new, safe way. Hypnosis and work in the subconscious is the eye to the soul. I'm an expert hypnotherapist with numerous hypnosis certifications, in private psychotherapy practice since 2005 and a practicing clinical hypnotherapist since 1995, located in NJ.
(201) 292-5167 View (201) 292-5167
Photo of Ally Sachko, MS
Ally Sachko
MS
Verified Verified
Rutherford, NJ 07070
I use integrated techniques that combine EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Hypnotherapy (Hypnosis), Attachment-based and Trauma-informed therapy. I help people manage and improve their lives burdened by painful life events & triggers stemming from Developmental Trauma and Attachment Ruptures. The goal is to learn how to minimize maladaptive reactions to triggers and better manage stressful situations. The way we get there is by integrating our body, mind, and spirit.
I use integrated techniques that combine EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Hypnotherapy (Hypnosis), Attachment-based and Trauma-informed therapy. I help people manage and improve their lives burdened by painful life events & triggers stemming from Developmental Trauma and Attachment Ruptures. The goal is to learn how to minimize maladaptive reactions to triggers and better manage stressful situations. The way we get there is by integrating our body, mind, and spirit.
(201) 942-5521 View (201) 942-5521
Photo of Pauline Carides, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pauline Carides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Curative tools such as EMDR and Hypnotherapy can empower you to move efficiently toward your goals.
I enjoy my work as a therapist. The cornerstone of my success is my ability to provide a safe environment, listen intently, and genuinely engage with the individuals and families that I meet. Perhaps you are on the precipice of change, and you just can't take the first step. Maybe you are taking inventory of your life, and you need guidance on how to sum up your past and learn how to make new decisions in this moment with your eyes wide open. Together, we can sort out the transition and help you move toward positive transformation.
Curative tools such as EMDR and Hypnotherapy can empower you to move efficiently toward your goals.
I enjoy my work as a therapist. The cornerstone of my success is my ability to provide a safe environment, listen intently, and genuinely engage with the individuals and families that I meet. Perhaps you are on the precipice of change, and you just can't take the first step. Maybe you are taking inventory of your life, and you need guidance on how to sum up your past and learn how to make new decisions in this moment with your eyes wide open. Together, we can sort out the transition and help you move toward positive transformation.
(201) 632-3925 View (201) 632-3925
Photo of Lorna Myers, PhD, Psychologist
Lorna Myers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601
The treatments I offer are based on CBT and hypnotherapy.
I specialize in treating psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) or dissociative seizures. This is a condition in which emotional stress and physiological dysregulation is "converted" into physical symptoms that look a lot like epileptic seizures. Once a patient is diagnosed with PNES and is referred to see me, I offer therapies designed to target the main symptoms (seizures, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and stress coping). Many adult patients diagnosed with PNES have traumatic histories and need trauma-based therapies. I am certified in prolonged exposure and use this to treat patients who are dually diagnosed with PNES and PTSD.
The treatments I offer are based on CBT and hypnotherapy.
I specialize in treating psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) or dissociative seizures. This is a condition in which emotional stress and physiological dysregulation is "converted" into physical symptoms that look a lot like epileptic seizures. Once a patient is diagnosed with PNES and is referred to see me, I offer therapies designed to target the main symptoms (seizures, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and stress coping). Many adult patients diagnosed with PNES have traumatic histories and need trauma-based therapies. I am certified in prolonged exposure and use this to treat patients who are dually diagnosed with PNES and PTSD.
(646) 679-7591 View (646) 679-7591
Photo of Pari Sharif (Sharifkashani), MA, LPC, LRC, CTTS, PsyA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pari Sharif (Sharifkashani)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LRC, CTTS, PsyA
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Rehabilitation Counselor, Certificates of completion of Family therapy, Hypnotherapy, Divorce mediation, and Child Development, Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Approved Clinical supervisor.
Adolescents: Peer pressur, School anxiety, parent/child conflict. Young Adults and Adults: Career chosen/ change, Anxiety, Depression, Any relationship issues, Sleep problems, Weight problems, Smoke cession. No problem is too small to ignore.
Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Rehabilitation Counselor, Certificates of completion of Family therapy, Hypnotherapy, Divorce mediation, and Child Development, Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Approved Clinical supervisor.
Adolescents: Peer pressur, School anxiety, parent/child conflict. Young Adults and Adults: Career chosen/ change, Anxiety, Depression, Any relationship issues, Sleep problems, Weight problems, Smoke cession. No problem is too small to ignore.
(201) 254-5147 View (201) 254-5147
Photo of Taylor Rotolo, LCSW, ACHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Rotolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACHT
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07306  (Online Only)
I also offer meditation and hypnotherapy as well as therapeutic tools.
Hi there! My name is Taylor Rotolo (she/her) and I am a licensed clinical social worker in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. I offer telehealth only for right now however I am hopeful to be able to offer in person services in the future. I have been a therapist for 5 years and a social worker for 9 years. Social work is my passion and helping people heal into self love is my purpose. I absolutely love to serve people in their healing journeys. I am committed to being the change as I serve as a social worker. I feel truly blessed to do this work.
I also offer meditation and hypnotherapy as well as therapeutic tools.
Hi there! My name is Taylor Rotolo (she/her) and I am a licensed clinical social worker in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. I offer telehealth only for right now however I am hopeful to be able to offer in person services in the future. I have been a therapist for 5 years and a social worker for 9 years. Social work is my passion and helping people heal into self love is my purpose. I absolutely love to serve people in their healing journeys. I am committed to being the change as I serve as a social worker. I feel truly blessed to do this work.
(610) 897-7966 View (610) 897-7966
Photo of Stanley M Spergel, PsyD, Psychologist
Stanley M Spergel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
Technically eclectic, his treatment strategies include, but not are restricted to, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, dream analysis, and hypnotherapy.
Dr Stanley M. Spergel is a licensed psychologist, certified school psychologist and fellow of the American Orthopsychiatric Association with offices in Teaneck and Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. He is the founding director of the Family Resource Center and has been in both group and individual private practice since 1981. Dr Spergel specializes in treating children, adolescents and adults using a variety of treatment modalities and has a special interest in hypnotherapy.
Technically eclectic, his treatment strategies include, but not are restricted to, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, dream analysis, and hypnotherapy.
Dr Stanley M. Spergel is a licensed psychologist, certified school psychologist and fellow of the American Orthopsychiatric Association with offices in Teaneck and Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. He is the founding director of the Family Resource Center and has been in both group and individual private practice since 1981. Dr Spergel specializes in treating children, adolescents and adults using a variety of treatment modalities and has a special interest in hypnotherapy.
(201) 836-1112 View (201) 836-1112
Photo of Melissa Bada-Devers - Melissa Bada-Devers, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Bada-Devers, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666  (Online Only)
I combine traditional psychotherapy, heart-centered hypnotherapy, guided meditation and inner child healing with a culturally affirming approach.
There are times in our lives when we may feel as though we are just going through the motions. Past experiences, perhaps dating back to childhood, could show up in a variety of ways in your adult life. Sometimes you may realize that there could be a connection between your past affecting the present but you are not quite sure how. You may be experiencing a variety of overwhelming emotions, some of which could be contributing to anxiety, depression or showing up in your interpersonal relationships. This may have created the potential opportunity for you to begin your healing process. It is my intention to assist you in this journey.
I combine traditional psychotherapy, heart-centered hypnotherapy, guided meditation and inner child healing with a culturally affirming approach.
There are times in our lives when we may feel as though we are just going through the motions. Past experiences, perhaps dating back to childhood, could show up in a variety of ways in your adult life. Sometimes you may realize that there could be a connection between your past affecting the present but you are not quite sure how. You may be experiencing a variety of overwhelming emotions, some of which could be contributing to anxiety, depression or showing up in your interpersonal relationships. This may have created the potential opportunity for you to begin your healing process. It is my intention to assist you in this journey.
(732) 487-3074 View (732) 487-3074
Photo of Lori Ippolito - The Philmore Associates, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Philmore Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nutley, NJ 07110
I hold a certificate in Clinical Hypnotherapy from the American Institute for Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy, New York, NY.
I have served as clinical director of the Philmore Associates since 1983. I hold degrees in Psychology, Clinical Social Work and Special Education. In addition to managing operations at the Philmore, I provide clinical treatment to children, adolescents, and adults for issues including anxiety and stress disorders, depression, grief and relationship/familial issues. I enjoy providing training and supervision to clinicians working toward licensure as a mental health practitioners.
I hold a certificate in Clinical Hypnotherapy from the American Institute for Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy, New York, NY.
I have served as clinical director of the Philmore Associates since 1983. I hold degrees in Psychology, Clinical Social Work and Special Education. In addition to managing operations at the Philmore, I provide clinical treatment to children, adolescents, and adults for issues including anxiety and stress disorders, depression, grief and relationship/familial issues. I enjoy providing training and supervision to clinicians working toward licensure as a mental health practitioners.
(973) 620-7194 View (973) 620-7194
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.