Hypnotherapists in Beaverton, OR

Photo of Elizabeth Leah Downs, LCSW, CHT, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Leah Downs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT, ACSW
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
I blend Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/ DBT, Hypnotherapy, Family & Couples Therapy, Expressive Arts/ Play & Art Therapy, Addictions Counseling, NLP, Gestalt & Life Coaching, as well as Jungian Therapy.
Seeking therapy is an act of courage when your life is not working, when you are feeling overwhelming emotions, or are ready to grow. With over 35 years of experience, I work skillfully with adults, children, families & couples. I am here to compassionately facilitate your learning to live your life with emotional freedom, purpose, creativity, passion & joy! Get in touch with the strength & beauty of your Inner Self & develop more satisfying relationships. Examine your thinking & beliefs & develop mindfulness, transforming your moods & your life. I use a gentle therapeutic style which is an eclectic, psychodynamic, humanistic, transpersonal & holistic wellness approach.
I blend Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/ DBT, Hypnotherapy, Family & Couples Therapy, Expressive Arts/ Play & Art Therapy, Addictions Counseling, NLP, Gestalt & Life Coaching, as well as Jungian Therapy.
Seeking therapy is an act of courage when your life is not working, when you are feeling overwhelming emotions, or are ready to grow. With over 35 years of experience, I work skillfully with adults, children, families & couples. I am here to compassionately facilitate your learning to live your life with emotional freedom, purpose, creativity, passion & joy! Get in touch with the strength & beauty of your Inner Self & develop more satisfying relationships. Examine your thinking & beliefs & develop mindfulness, transforming your moods & your life. I use a gentle therapeutic style which is an eclectic, psychodynamic, humanistic, transpersonal & holistic wellness approach.
(503) 444-9712 View (503) 444-9712
Photo of Dr. Arlene Strugar, PsyD, CHT, NLP, PFT
Dr. Arlene Strugar
PsyD, CHT, NLP, PFT
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97078
My holistic approaches to mind, body, and brain optimization employ my diverse backgrounds in Health and Fitness Research, Neuroscience, Clinical, Health and Sports Psychology, Mental Toughness, Industrial Psychology, NLP Coaching, Holistic Wellness and Nutrition, Hypnotherapy, and Stress Management techniques.
Mental strength training involves learning and practicing mental skills that strengthen the ability to control thoughts, emotions, and performance. With a Whole-person and Holistic Approach, it is a WIN! As a Doctor of Clinical Psychology, certified Holistic Health Practitioner, Consulting Hypnotherapist, Certified Wellness and Nutrition Coach, Certified Fitness Trainer, Behavioral Change Specialist, Certified Mental Trainer, and Cognitive and Sports Psychologist, I am passionate about helping you perform the best when it matters the most. I am a trained Brain Health Coach with the Daniel Amen Method Professional and a Career Coach.
My holistic approaches to mind, body, and brain optimization employ my diverse backgrounds in Health and Fitness Research, Neuroscience, Clinical, Health and Sports Psychology, Mental Toughness, Industrial Psychology, NLP Coaching, Holistic Wellness and Nutrition, Hypnotherapy, and Stress Management techniques.
Mental strength training involves learning and practicing mental skills that strengthen the ability to control thoughts, emotions, and performance. With a Whole-person and Holistic Approach, it is a WIN! As a Doctor of Clinical Psychology, certified Holistic Health Practitioner, Consulting Hypnotherapist, Certified Wellness and Nutrition Coach, Certified Fitness Trainer, Behavioral Change Specialist, Certified Mental Trainer, and Cognitive and Sports Psychologist, I am passionate about helping you perform the best when it matters the most. I am a trained Brain Health Coach with the Daniel Amen Method Professional and a Career Coach.
(971) 395-4251 View (971) 395-4251
Photo of Brandy K. Poirier, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandy K. Poirier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005
Waitlist for new clients
Lifespan Integration, Neurofeedback, Attachment-Focused EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), Interpersonal Neurobiology and Hypnotherapy are some of the evidence-based methods we’ll use to help you feel better, faster.
Do you notice that worry, conflict, or self-doubt are leaving you feeling exhausted, paralyzed, or overwhelmed? Or find yourself stuck in situations or patterns that no longer serve you? If past or current events are limiting your ability to fully live your life, this could be a great time to see a therapist. When you enter new territory, having a skilled companion by your side--to really listen, see your strengths, offer new tools, and be with you while you explore and heal the difficult places--can give you the clarity, courage, and confidence to effectively make the changes you want to see in your life more quickly.
Lifespan Integration, Neurofeedback, Attachment-Focused EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), Interpersonal Neurobiology and Hypnotherapy are some of the evidence-based methods we’ll use to help you feel better, faster.
Do you notice that worry, conflict, or self-doubt are leaving you feeling exhausted, paralyzed, or overwhelmed? Or find yourself stuck in situations or patterns that no longer serve you? If past or current events are limiting your ability to fully live your life, this could be a great time to see a therapist. When you enter new territory, having a skilled companion by your side--to really listen, see your strengths, offer new tools, and be with you while you explore and heal the difficult places--can give you the clarity, courage, and confidence to effectively make the changes you want to see in your life more quickly.
(503) 567-1286 View (503) 567-1286
Photo of Margot Miles - Margot Miles, Hypnotherapist, CHT
Margot Miles, Hypnotherapist
CHT
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97007
Using hypnotherapy, you can reduce stress, gain confidence, boost motivation and enjoy greater control.
Have you been feeling stressed, stuck or overwhelmed? Finding it difficult to stop unhealthy thoughts, habits or behaviors? Hypnosis can help.
Using hypnotherapy, you can reduce stress, gain confidence, boost motivation and enjoy greater control.
Have you been feeling stressed, stuck or overwhelmed? Finding it difficult to stop unhealthy thoughts, habits or behaviors? Hypnosis can help.
(503) 442-6221 View (503) 442-6221
Photo of Mindtree Holistic Counseling Wellness Center - MindTree Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center LLC, LMFT, LCSW, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
MindTree Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005
We also offer wellness services like Reiki Healing, Hypnotherapy, Ayurveda, Yoga and Mindfulness meditation are offered.
At MindTree we treat the person as a whole, by integrating the healing of mind and Body. Our team of holistic practitioners provide a collaborative health care model and create a personalized Holistic Wellness plan for adults, younger children, teens, elderly adults, couples and families. We believe in the philosophy that mind and body do not operate separately, rather interdependently. All of the Holistic Counseling techniques that MindTree offers are evidence-based, peer reviewed, and represent current best practices in the field.
We also offer wellness services like Reiki Healing, Hypnotherapy, Ayurveda, Yoga and Mindfulness meditation are offered.
At MindTree we treat the person as a whole, by integrating the healing of mind and Body. Our team of holistic practitioners provide a collaborative health care model and create a personalized Holistic Wellness plan for adults, younger children, teens, elderly adults, couples and families. We believe in the philosophy that mind and body do not operate separately, rather interdependently. All of the Holistic Counseling techniques that MindTree offers are evidence-based, peer reviewed, and represent current best practices in the field.
(503) 210-9420 View (503) 210-9420
Photo of Josie Salaz - Soul Fusion Counseling, LLC, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Soul Fusion Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97076
In my unique style of counseling, I offer a beautiful blend of evidenced based psychotherapy and blend it with energy healing, astrology, hypnotherapy and other ancient healing techniques that are specific to the unique needs of your energetic spiritual blueprint. Your soul has a calling, energetic expression and natural state it wants to find naturally. Through intentional techniques, lets find your body, mind and souls alignment.
In my unique style of counseling, I offer a beautiful blend of evidenced based psychotherapy and blend it with energy healing, astrology, hypnotherapy and other ancient healing techniques that are specific to the unique needs of your energetic spiritual blueprint. Your soul has a calling, energetic expression and natural state it wants to find naturally. Through intentional techniques, lets find your body, mind and souls alignment.
(541) 348-8755 View (541) 348-8755
Photo of Craig Schlarb - Bend Mindfulness Counseling, Craig Schlarb Ph.D, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bend Mindfulness Counseling, Craig Schlarb Ph.D
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97006
My psychology and counseling practice is the expansion of identities through awareness and compassion not just solving problems. Your journey has been one with twists and turns and taking the first step to contact me may feel uncertain. Given life can feel like a maze, I make our initial contact straightforward as possible. For 25 years I’ve helped people clear the way to the freedom of their true nature in psychotherapy as well as hypnotherapy. I’ve worked as a crisis worker in ERs, to chief auditor for mental health services in Silicon Valley, to developing a successful counseling training center focused on mindfulness
My psychology and counseling practice is the expansion of identities through awareness and compassion not just solving problems. Your journey has been one with twists and turns and taking the first step to contact me may feel uncertain. Given life can feel like a maze, I make our initial contact straightforward as possible. For 25 years I’ve helped people clear the way to the freedom of their true nature in psychotherapy as well as hypnotherapy. I’ve worked as a crisis worker in ERs, to chief auditor for mental health services in Silicon Valley, to developing a successful counseling training center focused on mindfulness
(458) 214-8971 View (458) 214-8971
Photo of Genviev St. Clair, OB, BCI, CHT
Genviev St. Clair
OB, BCI, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97007  (Online Only)
Are you tired of struggling with stress, fear, pain, despair and hopelessness? Have you tried endless approaches and gotten nowhere? Do you feel stuck? I know how you feel. I was there. Stressful events experienced in life often lead to negative self-image and sabotaging coping mechanisms. Most modalities focus on alleviating symptoms. The causes at the root of our issues are continually ignored. Unresolved root causes are a driving force behind our physical, mental and emotional imbalances. Begin the most effective training you’ll ever experience. Learn to work with your own brain to finally secure rapid and lasting relief!
Are you tired of struggling with stress, fear, pain, despair and hopelessness? Have you tried endless approaches and gotten nowhere? Do you feel stuck? I know how you feel. I was there. Stressful events experienced in life often lead to negative self-image and sabotaging coping mechanisms. Most modalities focus on alleviating symptoms. The causes at the root of our issues are continually ignored. Unresolved root causes are a driving force behind our physical, mental and emotional imbalances. Begin the most effective training you’ll ever experience. Learn to work with your own brain to finally secure rapid and lasting relief!
(503) 470-2501 View (503) 470-2501
Photo of Kenneth John Tetreault - Pacific Brief Therapy Center , MA, MFT
Pacific Brief Therapy Center
MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
Clients want problems solved and expect that to occur soon. So I focus on the here and now and am active in making recommendations that bring about change as soon as possible. I use an outcome-focused approach and have over 40 years of professional experience as a counselor and trainer to bring you competent expertise. Treating individuals, couples and children with depression, anxiety, and traumas, are common complaints that respond well to my treatment.
Clients want problems solved and expect that to occur soon. So I focus on the here and now and am active in making recommendations that bring about change as soon as possible. I use an outcome-focused approach and have over 40 years of professional experience as a counselor and trainer to bring you competent expertise. Treating individuals, couples and children with depression, anxiety, and traumas, are common complaints that respond well to my treatment.
(971) 232-4394 View (971) 232-4394
Photo of Regina Skarzinskas - Your Bright World Coaching, MPH
Your Bright World Coaching
MPH
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97007
I work with people of all ages and backgrounds who are going through or looking for change in their lives. Does this sound like you? "I often feel life is taking me for a ride." " I seem to respond to circumstances rather than create opportunities." "I know there is more to life than this!" I help my clients identify their limiting beliefs and understand how they influence the perception of life experiences. When limiting beliefs are replaced by positive, empowering beliefs, we can eliminate obstacles which are keeping you from becoming the best YOU, that you can be.
I work with people of all ages and backgrounds who are going through or looking for change in their lives. Does this sound like you? "I often feel life is taking me for a ride." " I seem to respond to circumstances rather than create opportunities." "I know there is more to life than this!" I help my clients identify their limiting beliefs and understand how they influence the perception of life experiences. When limiting beliefs are replaced by positive, empowering beliefs, we can eliminate obstacles which are keeping you from becoming the best YOU, that you can be.
(503) 376-9851 View (503) 376-9851
Photo of Angee Gilchrist-Stewart, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angee Gilchrist-Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005  (Online Only)
Each of us is unique and has encountered challenges that shape who we are. Sometimes, we need someone to talk to and hold space for us. Sometimes we need someone who will challenge our perspective to help shift the way we have been looking at a problem. Sometimes we need someone to come down into the rabbit hole with us and help us find our way out. Let's find meaningful, intentional ways for you to engage with and live your life fully. I offer a safe, confidential space to navigate your concerns with a down-to-earth, open-minded, and objective, highly trained professional.
Each of us is unique and has encountered challenges that shape who we are. Sometimes, we need someone to talk to and hold space for us. Sometimes we need someone who will challenge our perspective to help shift the way we have been looking at a problem. Sometimes we need someone to come down into the rabbit hole with us and help us find our way out. Let's find meaningful, intentional ways for you to engage with and live your life fully. I offer a safe, confidential space to navigate your concerns with a down-to-earth, open-minded, and objective, highly trained professional.
(971) 203-7878 View (971) 203-7878
Photo of Gail Hardman-Woung - Portland Neurofeedback, LLC, LCSW, PhD, LPC, QMHP
Portland Neurofeedback, LLC
LCSW, PhD, LPC, QMHP
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
Portland Neurofeedback is a licensed mental health clinic. People are different so we offer four different types of Neurofeedback. We support clients working through traumatic brain Injuries, concussions, central nervous system disorders, sleep issues, adrenal fatigue, trauma, and more. We are honored to walk you through the journey of healing. From The movie Wisdom of Trauma, we also offer Steven Porges' Safe & Sound Protocol. If you are tired of coping and ready to see some changes, it may be time to give us a call.
Portland Neurofeedback is a licensed mental health clinic. People are different so we offer four different types of Neurofeedback. We support clients working through traumatic brain Injuries, concussions, central nervous system disorders, sleep issues, adrenal fatigue, trauma, and more. We are honored to walk you through the journey of healing. From The movie Wisdom of Trauma, we also offer Steven Porges' Safe & Sound Protocol. If you are tired of coping and ready to see some changes, it may be time to give us a call.
(971) 940-2601 View (971) 940-2601
Photo of Natasha Monica Lopez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natasha Monica Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97006
Many people grow up in dysfunction and therefore they relate in inappropriate ways. Clients that I have helped the most typically relate to these dysfunctional ways: They guess at what normal is. They judge themselves without mercy. They have difficulty relaxing and enjoying life. They have difficulty with intimate relationships. They over-react to changes over which they have no control. They constantly seek approval and affirmation. They feel that they are different from other people. They avoid conflict or aggravate it; rarely do they deal with it. They fear failure, but sabotage their success.
Many people grow up in dysfunction and therefore they relate in inappropriate ways. Clients that I have helped the most typically relate to these dysfunctional ways: They guess at what normal is. They judge themselves without mercy. They have difficulty relaxing and enjoying life. They have difficulty with intimate relationships. They over-react to changes over which they have no control. They constantly seek approval and affirmation. They feel that they are different from other people. They avoid conflict or aggravate it; rarely do they deal with it. They fear failure, but sabotage their success.
(503) 836-5216 View (503) 836-5216
Photo of Wendy Haynes, MA, PhD, LMFT
Wendy Haynes
MA, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005  (Online Only)
I hold PhD in Clinical Psychology and a Master's Degree in Psychology. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I support my clients in achieving greater well being by honing what is genuinely unique and important to them. I teach practices that boost resiliency to stress and inspire self-esteem and self-compassion to bloom. I support my clients in breaking through blocks and in unleashing authentic and dynamic self-expression, so that their values are congruent with their behavior and their intentions and desires become experiences that are truly lived.
I hold PhD in Clinical Psychology and a Master's Degree in Psychology. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I support my clients in achieving greater well being by honing what is genuinely unique and important to them. I teach practices that boost resiliency to stress and inspire self-esteem and self-compassion to bloom. I support my clients in breaking through blocks and in unleashing authentic and dynamic self-expression, so that their values are congruent with their behavior and their intentions and desires become experiences that are truly lived.
(503) 342-2158 View (503) 342-2158
Photo of Naiyana Chantarabunchorn - Bloom Therapy, LLC, PhD, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bloom Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97007
Therapy can be very beneficial for individuals willing to have the courage to be vulnerable and open to change. While most people tend to seek therapy after the fact, when things have gone wrong, I also encourage therapy as a means of maintaining wellness. By being proactive, versus reactive, you may find that you'll experience greater happiness and less stress. If you've done your research then you know there are many options for help, which can make it hard to choose; I standby the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship as key to making this work and encourage you not to give up if you don't feel connected at first.
Therapy can be very beneficial for individuals willing to have the courage to be vulnerable and open to change. While most people tend to seek therapy after the fact, when things have gone wrong, I also encourage therapy as a means of maintaining wellness. By being proactive, versus reactive, you may find that you'll experience greater happiness and less stress. If you've done your research then you know there are many options for help, which can make it hard to choose; I standby the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship as key to making this work and encourage you not to give up if you don't feel connected at first.
(503) 479-4674 View (503) 479-4674
Photo of Cheri Yadon - Cheri Yadon M.Ed. Lpc LMHC, MEd, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Cheri Yadon M.Ed. Lpc LMHC
Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97076  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Deep Brain Reorienting I facilitate the client in the discovery of their own personal resolutions. My style of counseling is focused on self-exploration and increasing an individual's level of understanding surrounding their current life circumstances, and their own behaviors and reactions to those situations. I have a desire to understand each client, and utilize my therapeutic skills and knowledge of psychology and human behavior to facilitate growth. My philosophy is that a client is much more inclined to make possible their own solutions, if they are responsible for creating them. I am licensed in Washington, Oregon and Texas.
Deep Brain Reorienting I facilitate the client in the discovery of their own personal resolutions. My style of counseling is focused on self-exploration and increasing an individual's level of understanding surrounding their current life circumstances, and their own behaviors and reactions to those situations. I have a desire to understand each client, and utilize my therapeutic skills and knowledge of psychology and human behavior to facilitate growth. My philosophy is that a client is much more inclined to make possible their own solutions, if they are responsible for creating them. I am licensed in Washington, Oregon and Texas.
(206) 222-7576 View (206) 222-7576
Photo of Steven Bo O'Dell, MSW, LCSW, BCD, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steven Bo O'Dell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD, CHT
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
Not accepting new clients
I use a modified cognitive approach mixed with hypnotherapy and complimentary alternative modalities to explore the inner you.
It doesn't interest me what you do for a living, how old you are, or how much money you have, whom you know or how you came to be here. I want to know what you ache for, and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing..." ~~ from "The Invitation" by Elder Oriah Mountain Dreamer. I enjoy working with people who want to understand themselves in a deeper way, who want to uncover and heal the patterns of behavior that have kept them from living their dreams.
I use a modified cognitive approach mixed with hypnotherapy and complimentary alternative modalities to explore the inner you.
It doesn't interest me what you do for a living, how old you are, or how much money you have, whom you know or how you came to be here. I want to know what you ache for, and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing..." ~~ from "The Invitation" by Elder Oriah Mountain Dreamer. I enjoy working with people who want to understand themselves in a deeper way, who want to uncover and heal the patterns of behavior that have kept them from living their dreams.
(503) 567-1318 View (503) 567-1318
Photo of Kathy Lefor, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy Lefor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling sad, anxious, angry,or lonely? Are these feelings keeping you awake at night or causing difficulties in your relationships? Perhaps it is time to consider professional counseling. Within a safe and confidential setting, I help clients resolve current life issues and heal past events/traumas that continue to create problems. My approach is collaborative, within the context of a trusting, nonjudgmental relationship.
Are you feeling sad, anxious, angry,or lonely? Are these feelings keeping you awake at night or causing difficulties in your relationships? Perhaps it is time to consider professional counseling. Within a safe and confidential setting, I help clients resolve current life issues and heal past events/traumas that continue to create problems. My approach is collaborative, within the context of a trusting, nonjudgmental relationship.
(971) 322-8672 View (971) 322-8672
Photo of Chuck Schmitt - The Relationship Specialists, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Relationship Specialists
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Great relationships don't happen by accident. I can help you learn how to have one. Whether it is a relationship with yourself, your family, your boss or your significant other, they all have one thing in common. It's good communication. Communication is one of the top three problems in relationships. Over the years I've found that if you can handle good communication you can then handle almost anything. Why don't you let me know what your needs and goals are, then we can start there.
Great relationships don't happen by accident. I can help you learn how to have one. Whether it is a relationship with yourself, your family, your boss or your significant other, they all have one thing in common. It's good communication. Communication is one of the top three problems in relationships. Over the years I've found that if you can handle good communication you can then handle almost anything. Why don't you let me know what your needs and goals are, then we can start there.
(971) 290-1857 View (971) 290-1857

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marina Nelson, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marina Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Accepting clients in January. Anxiety, depression, shame, stress, overwhelm, or burn out are some normal responses to life challenges. As social beings, we benefit deeply from supportive people and environments that assist us in uncovering and integrating the wisdom of our minds, bodies and emotions to return to our essential selves--the part that is unshaped by adaptation to difficult experiences. It is my honor to be present and help facilitate people finding their inner strengths, true self, abilities and qualities they didn't fully realize they own as they release the negative effects of the past.
Accepting clients in January. Anxiety, depression, shame, stress, overwhelm, or burn out are some normal responses to life challenges. As social beings, we benefit deeply from supportive people and environments that assist us in uncovering and integrating the wisdom of our minds, bodies and emotions to return to our essential selves--the part that is unshaped by adaptation to difficult experiences. It is my honor to be present and help facilitate people finding their inner strengths, true self, abilities and qualities they didn't fully realize they own as they release the negative effects of the past.
(503) 201-7502 View (503) 201-7502
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.