Hypnotherapists in Tenafly, NJ

Photo of Felice Toonkel, LPC, LMHC, SEP, NCPsyA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Felice Toonkel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, SEP, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I am a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and have been in private practice for over 30 years. The eclectic nature of my training and practice allows me to tailor therapy to your unique treatment needs. As we think about the nature of experiences such as trauma (both old and new), grief, loss, depression, and anxiety, it is clear they affect us through the mind, emotions, and the physical sensations. The mind-body connection treats the whole person in the service of health and well-being.
I am a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and have been in private practice for over 30 years. The eclectic nature of my training and practice allows me to tailor therapy to your unique treatment needs. As we think about the nature of experiences such as trauma (both old and new), grief, loss, depression, and anxiety, it is clear they affect us through the mind, emotions, and the physical sensations. The mind-body connection treats the whole person in the service of health and well-being.
(201) 543-1902 View (201) 543-1902
Photo of Joon Eui Lee, LPC, NCC, MS, MPA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joon Eui Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS, MPA
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I am a Korean and English speaking Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, relationship and parenting children. In my practice I work with individuals, couples, and families.
I am a Korean and English speaking Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, relationship and parenting children. In my practice I work with individuals, couples, and families.
(201) 425-0889 View (201) 425-0889
Photo of Judy H. Gurfein, PhD, ABPP, APRN, BC, Psychologist
Judy H. Gurfein
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
For over 25 years I have been privileged to become closely involved with patients and their challenges. I value my relationship with each patient and couple, and provide a safe, warm environment. My goal is to bring about positive change by alleviating problems and providing relief from symptoms. Extensive training and experience combined with warmth and individualized attention are the ingredients which enable me to help my patients successfully achieve their goals. Since every individual and situation is different, I match the treatment to the patient, and not the patient to the treatment.
For over 25 years I have been privileged to become closely involved with patients and their challenges. I value my relationship with each patient and couple, and provide a safe, warm environment. My goal is to bring about positive change by alleviating problems and providing relief from symptoms. Extensive training and experience combined with warmth and individualized attention are the ingredients which enable me to help my patients successfully achieve their goals. Since every individual and situation is different, I match the treatment to the patient, and not the patient to the treatment.
(201) 254-0758 View (201) 254-0758
Photo of Monica Carsky, PhD, Psychologist
Monica Carsky
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Not accepting new clients
I have a particular interest in helping people with personality and relationship problems. In therapy I try to create an environment where patients will feel safe sharing and exploring all their thoughts and feelings about themselves, so that we can trace how these affect their daily experiences. To do this we may also examine the person's moment to moment experience in therapy. Understanding the interactions between internal assumptions on the one hand, and feelings and behavior, on the other,leads to a more stable sense of self and the possibility of different choices.
I have a particular interest in helping people with personality and relationship problems. In therapy I try to create an environment where patients will feel safe sharing and exploring all their thoughts and feelings about themselves, so that we can trace how these affect their daily experiences. To do this we may also examine the person's moment to moment experience in therapy. Understanding the interactions between internal assumptions on the one hand, and feelings and behavior, on the other,leads to a more stable sense of self and the possibility of different choices.
(201) 692-1336 View (201) 692-1336

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stanley M Spergel, PsyD, Psychologist
Stanley M Spergel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677
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) 391-8778 View (201) 391-8778
Photo of Ally Sachko, MS
Ally Sachko
MS
Verified Verified
Rutherford, NJ 07070
I use integrated techniques that combine IFS (internal family systems), EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Hypnotherapy (Hypnosis), Attachment-based and Trauma-informed modalities. My goal is to help you rediscover your internal resources and coping abilities so that you can overcome the problems you're facing. The way we get there is by integrating our body and mind. The process of healing involves self-compassion and reconnecting with others in a healthy supportive way. It also involves confronting difficult emotions and learning the tools to process them. This builds emotional resilience which leads to lasting emotional well-being.
I use integrated techniques that combine IFS (internal family systems), EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Hypnotherapy (Hypnosis), Attachment-based and Trauma-informed modalities. My goal is to help you rediscover your internal resources and coping abilities so that you can overcome the problems you're facing. The way we get there is by integrating our body and mind. The process of healing involves self-compassion and reconnecting with others in a healthy supportive way. It also involves confronting difficult emotions and learning the tools to process them. This builds emotional resilience which leads to lasting emotional well-being.
(201) 942-5521 View (201) 942-5521
Photo of Robert C Baldino, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert C Baldino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Alpine, NJ 07620
I am licensed in New York and New Jersey with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, and depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am here to support and empower you in that journey. I have training in psychoanalytic therapy, CBT, hypnotherapy, substance abuse and couples counseling. My approach is goal focused psychodynamic therapy and I am eclectic in nature. I have worked with adults and adolescents.
I am licensed in New York and New Jersey with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, and depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am here to support and empower you in that journey. I have training in psychoanalytic therapy, CBT, hypnotherapy, substance abuse and couples counseling. My approach is goal focused psychodynamic therapy and I am eclectic in nature. I have worked with adults and adolescents.
(914) 817-0421 View (914) 817-0421
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 Elisabeth Constantine - Elisabeth Constantine, LPC, NBCCH, LLC, MA, LPC, NCC, NBCCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elisabeth Constantine, LPC, NBCCH, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
As an adjunct to talk therapy I use Hypnotherapy for sufferers of PTSD or Acute Stress Disorder; e.
Confidential, Caring and Professional...When times are difficult at home or at work (or school) and you feel overwhelmed and stressed...anxiety and depression often follow. Perhaps you have had a childhood that was traumatic or troubled and you haven't felt like you resolved it or thought you had but something from the past gets in the way. When talking with friends and family doesn't seem to be enough - or you're not comfortable confiding in them, this is often the time to seek help from a professional who cares and understands.
As an adjunct to talk therapy I use Hypnotherapy for sufferers of PTSD or Acute Stress Disorder; e.
Confidential, Caring and Professional...When times are difficult at home or at work (or school) and you feel overwhelmed and stressed...anxiety and depression often follow. Perhaps you have had a childhood that was traumatic or troubled and you haven't felt like you resolved it or thought you had but something from the past gets in the way. When talking with friends and family doesn't seem to be enough - or you're not comfortable confiding in them, this is often the time to seek help from a professional who cares and understands.
(201) 283-8057 View (201) 283-8057
Photo of Mary Beth Del Balzo, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Beth Del Balzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Ho Ho Kus, NJ 07423
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 Lisa C Ruane, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa C Ruane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Westwood, NJ 07675
Helping others through the healing process that Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy provides has become a passion of mine.
Lisa holds her MSW from the Boston College School of Social Work and has been a clinical Social Worker since 2011. Her experience lies with psychiatric diagnoses. Additionally, she is a certified Hypnotherapist, who received her training through The Wellness Institute in Seattle. In her private practice, she treats adults who are looking to improve their quality of life through self-awareness and healing.
Helping others through the healing process that Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy provides has become a passion of mine.
Lisa holds her MSW from the Boston College School of Social Work and has been a clinical Social Worker since 2011. Her experience lies with psychiatric diagnoses. Additionally, she is a certified Hypnotherapist, who received her training through The Wellness Institute in Seattle. In her private practice, she treats adults who are looking to improve their quality of life through self-awareness and healing.
(201) 987-9545 View (201) 987-9545
Photo of Victorie Valspirit Hypnotherapy, CMS-CHt, FIBH
Victorie Valspirit Hypnotherapy
CMS-CHt, FIBH
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Advance Clinical & Medical Support Hypnotherapy.
I Tori Valspirit, stand for my clients loving themselves, knowing their true values, expecting the best in life, being happy, healthy, strong and prosperous. Understanding that they can make a choice to transform and change their lives and make it all that it can be. As a result of my work as a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Teacher and Empowerment Coach knowing that we have the ability to create the lives that we were meant to have. Acknowledging the power within us because it is possible for human kind to experience Heaven on Earth.” Board Certification #F10319-600, Today we have a 93.4% success rate.
Advance Clinical & Medical Support Hypnotherapy.
I Tori Valspirit, stand for my clients loving themselves, knowing their true values, expecting the best in life, being happy, healthy, strong and prosperous. Understanding that they can make a choice to transform and change their lives and make it all that it can be. As a result of my work as a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Teacher and Empowerment Coach knowing that we have the ability to create the lives that we were meant to have. Acknowledging the power within us because it is possible for human kind to experience Heaven on Earth.” Board Certification #F10319-600, Today we have a 93.4% success rate.
(973) 949-0499 View (973) 949-0499
Photo of Mary Huss Zetelski - Mary Huss Zetelski LCSW, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Huss Zetelski LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601
I am Certified in EMDR and Hypnotherapy.
There maybe a past trauma, however big or small, interfering with your ability to get through the day or interfering with your sleep. Or there maybe everyday challenges you face, with parenting, and work life balance? There maybe a loss or a health concern your facing. As a seasoned therapist, I am able to provide a supportive, trusting environment for you to explore your concerns in a secure setting, free from judgement.
I am Certified in EMDR and Hypnotherapy.
There maybe a past trauma, however big or small, interfering with your ability to get through the day or interfering with your sleep. Or there maybe everyday challenges you face, with parenting, and work life balance? There maybe a loss or a health concern your facing. As a seasoned therapist, I am able to provide a supportive, trusting environment for you to explore your concerns in a secure setting, free from judgement.
(201) 231-7190 View (201) 231-7190
Photo of Robert Galarowicz - Dr. Robert's Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy, ND, ACH, CH
Dr. Robert's Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy
ND, ACH, CH
Verified Verified
Wood Ridge, NJ 07075
" Cathy Gumber Englewood Cliffs - Franklin Lakes, Bergen County New Jersey "10 months without being depressed & still feeling good" Clifton - Rick, Passaic County, NJ Essex-Hudson- Hypnotherapy-Hypnosis.
Discover How My Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy Service Can Help You ... If You Want To Improve Your Anxiety, Depression, Boost Confidence, or Improve Other Mental/Emotional Problems or Life Challenges I Have The Service FOR YOU! I ENJOY to help people & your Children use hypnosis and many mind-body therapies to improve their health. Discover how I can help you ... lose weight, stop smoking & addictions, sleep better, end stress/fear, be happy, control thoughts, change/build habits, end pain, and MORE ... Visit my other website http://www.drrobertg.com for $187 of FREE Goodies! Plus a no-charge phone
" Cathy Gumber Englewood Cliffs - Franklin Lakes, Bergen County New Jersey "10 months without being depressed & still feeling good" Clifton - Rick, Passaic County, NJ Essex-Hudson- Hypnotherapy-Hypnosis.
Discover How My Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy Service Can Help You ... If You Want To Improve Your Anxiety, Depression, Boost Confidence, or Improve Other Mental/Emotional Problems or Life Challenges I Have The Service FOR YOU! I ENJOY to help people & your Children use hypnosis and many mind-body therapies to improve their health. Discover how I can help you ... lose weight, stop smoking & addictions, sleep better, end stress/fear, be happy, control thoughts, change/build habits, end pain, and MORE ... Visit my other website http://www.drrobertg.com for $187 of FREE Goodies! Plus a no-charge phone
(201) 425-6339 View (201) 425-6339
Photo of Carole Pasahow, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carole Pasahow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410  (Online Only)
I hold licenses in Florida, New Jersey and New York. My extensive training and experience (certified psychoanalyst, couple & sex therapist, hypnotherapy, somatic experiencing, IFS, EMDR, PACT and Hakomi) allows me to treat a wide variety of issues successfully. (adolescent to adults). Clients with complicated problems who have been treated by other therapists unsuccessfully seek my help because of my motivational, self -powering approach to treating clients. My services range from sexual concerns (dysfunctions, abuse, infidelity, compulsive behavior, gender dysphoria), acute and post trauma stress to personality and mood disorders.
I hold licenses in Florida, New Jersey and New York. My extensive training and experience (certified psychoanalyst, couple & sex therapist, hypnotherapy, somatic experiencing, IFS, EMDR, PACT and Hakomi) allows me to treat a wide variety of issues successfully. (adolescent to adults). Clients with complicated problems who have been treated by other therapists unsuccessfully seek my help because of my motivational, self -powering approach to treating clients. My services range from sexual concerns (dysfunctions, abuse, infidelity, compulsive behavior, gender dysphoria), acute and post trauma stress to personality and mood disorders.
(201) 898-0960 View (201) 898-0960
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 Roy Spiegel, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roy Spiegel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cliffside Park, NJ 07010
The modes of therapy I use include psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and hypnotherapy.
As a clinical social worker, LCSW, and psychotherapist, I am a kind, caring, compassionate and empathetic person with extensive life experience. It is such life experience and my 30 years of practice which help me relate to what you are experiencing and better able to help you because of it. No matter what your issue(s) may be, no matter what their severity, from mild to traumatic, and/or overwhelming, I help people not only cope with their stressors but to overcome them. With this philosophy, I believe no problem in life is insurmountable and I am confident I can help you.
The modes of therapy I use include psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and hypnotherapy.
As a clinical social worker, LCSW, and psychotherapist, I am a kind, caring, compassionate and empathetic person with extensive life experience. It is such life experience and my 30 years of practice which help me relate to what you are experiencing and better able to help you because of it. No matter what your issue(s) may be, no matter what their severity, from mild to traumatic, and/or overwhelming, I help people not only cope with their stressors but to overcome them. With this philosophy, I believe no problem in life is insurmountable and I am confident I can help you.
(201) 677-8952 View (201) 677-8952
Photo of Patricia G. Vadine - Patricia Vadine LCSW Integrative Psychotherapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Vadine LCSW Integrative Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Vale, NJ 07675
The way in which I work is "Integrative" in that I use my knowledge of Psychoanalysis, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Energy Psychology and Brainspotting to design an approach for each client based on individual need and individual outcome.
With 30 years of clinical experience I offer a confidential, warm , caring environment in which life's difficulties can be explored and sensitively addressed. My style is interactive and solution oriented and I am told I bring wisdom and a sense of humor to the relationship.
The way in which I work is "Integrative" in that I use my knowledge of Psychoanalysis, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Energy Psychology and Brainspotting to design an approach for each client based on individual need and individual outcome.
With 30 years of clinical experience I offer a confidential, warm , caring environment in which life's difficulties can be explored and sensitively addressed. My style is interactive and solution oriented and I am told I bring wisdom and a sense of humor to the relationship.
(201) 654-7438 View (201) 654-7438
Photo of Nadine O'Reilly - Englewood Therapy Associates, Psychologist
Englewood Therapy Associates
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631
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 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
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.