Hypnotherapists in Chattanooga, TN

Photo of Aline Defiglia, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aline Defiglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37408
I draw from a wide body of therapeutic and coaching techniques including EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique or "tapping"), Clinical Hypnotherapy, DBT skills, mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal neurobiology, non-violent communication, and holistic/integrative health practices.
I own a dynamic group practice in Chattanooga called Ascend Coaching and Therapy. We work with clients in-person at our office in downtown Chattanooga, virtually via phone or video, and outside in the beautiful forests of TN via ecotherapy sessions. I offer Life Coaching, Clinical Hypnotherapy and Integrative Psychotherapy to help you make and keep personal and professional changes, fulfill your potential, improve your health, and heal from the negative experiences and beliefs that hold you back.
I draw from a wide body of therapeutic and coaching techniques including EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique or "tapping"), Clinical Hypnotherapy, DBT skills, mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal neurobiology, non-violent communication, and holistic/integrative health practices.
I own a dynamic group practice in Chattanooga called Ascend Coaching and Therapy. We work with clients in-person at our office in downtown Chattanooga, virtually via phone or video, and outside in the beautiful forests of TN via ecotherapy sessions. I offer Life Coaching, Clinical Hypnotherapy and Integrative Psychotherapy to help you make and keep personal and professional changes, fulfill your potential, improve your health, and heal from the negative experiences and beliefs that hold you back.
(773) 888-2713 View (773) 888-2713
Photo of Brian Clinton, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Clinton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37405  (Online Only)
I utilize Trauma Informed Hypnotherapy and other solution-oriented strategies to resolve symptoms that come from past traumatic experiences.
My goal is to help people discover their own ability to achieve change in their lives. Many times I hear people describe themselves as broken or damaged because they are unable to just "get over it". Often, these degrading narratives overwhelm and we can find ourselves experiencing anxiety, depression and even substance abuse issues. The good news is that using modern, evidence-based techniques we can not only resolve the issues that have led you to seek counseling, but make you better equipped in the future to handle life challenges as they arise.
I utilize Trauma Informed Hypnotherapy and other solution-oriented strategies to resolve symptoms that come from past traumatic experiences.
My goal is to help people discover their own ability to achieve change in their lives. Many times I hear people describe themselves as broken or damaged because they are unable to just "get over it". Often, these degrading narratives overwhelm and we can find ourselves experiencing anxiety, depression and even substance abuse issues. The good news is that using modern, evidence-based techniques we can not only resolve the issues that have led you to seek counseling, but make you better equipped in the future to handle life challenges as they arise.
(423) 290-0358 View (423) 290-0358
Photo of Tiffany Warner, LCSW, NBCCH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Warner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37405  (Online Only)
My level of experience has allowed me to become a trainer for other therapists learning these methods within the VA system and also through the Institute for Trauma Informed Hypnotherapy.
HI! Thank you for checking out my profile. My goal as a therapist is to create a warm, safe, and supportive environment for my clients to identify and make the changes they are seeking in their lives. I work with adults on a variety of issues including anxiety, grief/loss, depression, stress, breaking unwanted habits, and trauma (including complex trauma) . I am dually licensed as a LCSW in both Tennessee and Florida, and I have over 25 years of experience in my field. I love sharing my knowledge of neuroscience to help my clients gain understanding, and to bridge the gap between what they know and what they feel.
My level of experience has allowed me to become a trainer for other therapists learning these methods within the VA system and also through the Institute for Trauma Informed Hypnotherapy.
HI! Thank you for checking out my profile. My goal as a therapist is to create a warm, safe, and supportive environment for my clients to identify and make the changes they are seeking in their lives. I work with adults on a variety of issues including anxiety, grief/loss, depression, stress, breaking unwanted habits, and trauma (including complex trauma) . I am dually licensed as a LCSW in both Tennessee and Florida, and I have over 25 years of experience in my field. I love sharing my knowledge of neuroscience to help my clients gain understanding, and to bridge the gap between what they know and what they feel.
(423) 800-5973 View (423) 800-5973
Photo of Anna McCurdy Railroad Valley Therapeutics, LPCMHSP, NCC, CMIP, CCTP, RYT-200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna McCurdy Railroad Valley Therapeutics
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, NCC, CMIP, CCTP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37415
What is getting in the way of you being happy? Of being the person you want to be? Feeling comfortable in your own body? Having healthy relationships? And not being ruled by emotions, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, and restless nights? How long have you tried to figure it out for yourself and how many things have you tried without much relief? I get it. It's overwhelming. If you are ready for things to be different, I'm ready to help you get there.
What is getting in the way of you being happy? Of being the person you want to be? Feeling comfortable in your own body? Having healthy relationships? And not being ruled by emotions, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, and restless nights? How long have you tried to figure it out for yourself and how many things have you tried without much relief? I get it. It's overwhelming. If you are ready for things to be different, I'm ready to help you get there.
(423) 208-9206 View (423) 208-9206
Photo of J. Gail Carson-Webb, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
J. Gail Carson-Webb
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421  (Online Only)
Every person who steps through my door is a unique individual. Like many multi-faceted people, you may be experiencing confusing or conflicting internal "signals" telling you your life needs changing. Ongoing frustration, worry, sadness, tension, relationship conflict, or disinterest in things that used to give you joy are signs that your life really wants your attention! Distress may drive you to seek relief, but may also indicate your readiness for change. With careful attention, hard work, and the right therapeutic fit, your deepest challenges could, ironically, become the bedrock for a better life.
Every person who steps through my door is a unique individual. Like many multi-faceted people, you may be experiencing confusing or conflicting internal "signals" telling you your life needs changing. Ongoing frustration, worry, sadness, tension, relationship conflict, or disinterest in things that used to give you joy are signs that your life really wants your attention! Distress may drive you to seek relief, but may also indicate your readiness for change. With careful attention, hard work, and the right therapeutic fit, your deepest challenges could, ironically, become the bedrock for a better life.
(423) 892-1795 View (423) 892-1795
Photo of Jeff Bayne, (temp), CTPII, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jeff Bayne
Pre-Licensed Professional, (temp), CTPII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37421
I utilize a unique set of techniques, including EMDR, to help clients pursue meaning and discover their own passion for life. I am grateful to be able to support those with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, parenting issues, or those struggling with self-worth. My approach is compassionate yet straightforward. I am grounded in the belief that a supportive trusting relationship with a competent therapist offers hope and healing.
I utilize a unique set of techniques, including EMDR, to help clients pursue meaning and discover their own passion for life. I am grateful to be able to support those with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, parenting issues, or those struggling with self-worth. My approach is compassionate yet straightforward. I am grounded in the belief that a supportive trusting relationship with a competent therapist offers hope and healing.
(423) 522-1420 View (423) 522-1420
Photo of Allyson Bowman, LPC, MHSP, MA, MBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allyson Bowman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405  (Online Only)
Sometimes, looking for the right therapist can seem overwhelming, but the sheer fact that you are searching here says that you are ready for positive change in your life. I utilize therapy in a thoughtful and compassionate manner to help clients create the change they seek. If you're struggling with anxiety, overwhelming emotions, or ineffective relationship patterns, then I can help you to regain those inherent strengths and sense of peace and joy. I offer clients a relaxed, supportive environment where they can freely express themselves, gain new insights, learn new coping skills, and change ineffective thinking patterns.
Sometimes, looking for the right therapist can seem overwhelming, but the sheer fact that you are searching here says that you are ready for positive change in your life. I utilize therapy in a thoughtful and compassionate manner to help clients create the change they seek. If you're struggling with anxiety, overwhelming emotions, or ineffective relationship patterns, then I can help you to regain those inherent strengths and sense of peace and joy. I offer clients a relaxed, supportive environment where they can freely express themselves, gain new insights, learn new coping skills, and change ineffective thinking patterns.
(423) 793-3485 View (423) 793-3485
Photo of Linda L Graham, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda L Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405  (Online Only)
My intention is to create a safe, accepting, and respectful therapeutic environment in which you can express yourself freely and begin the process of moving towards the life you want. My role as a therapist is to help you find a sense of peace and resolution by encouraging insight, exploring new coping tools, and connecting or re-connecting with inner resources for resilience.
My intention is to create a safe, accepting, and respectful therapeutic environment in which you can express yourself freely and begin the process of moving towards the life you want. My role as a therapist is to help you find a sense of peace and resolution by encouraging insight, exploring new coping tools, and connecting or re-connecting with inner resources for resilience.
(423) 243-3448 View (423) 243-3448
Photo of Melissa Meade, MS, LPC/MHS, BC-DMT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Meade
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC/MHS, BC-DMT, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37411
Our world expects so much from people and we are often able to do it all, for a while. Sometimes expectations, both ours and others, smother us and leave us feeling hopeless. We might not be able to move forward in our career, despite excelling in our work. Sometimes we bury emotions, thinking I’ll get to that later, which may result in feeling overwhelmed or feeling nothing at all. Perhaps the demands of career, family, and caring for others leave us feeling exhausted and guilt-ridden. Possibly what has always worked, doesn’t seem to work anymore. Peace may feel out of reach.
Our world expects so much from people and we are often able to do it all, for a while. Sometimes expectations, both ours and others, smother us and leave us feeling hopeless. We might not be able to move forward in our career, despite excelling in our work. Sometimes we bury emotions, thinking I’ll get to that later, which may result in feeling overwhelmed or feeling nothing at all. Perhaps the demands of career, family, and caring for others leave us feeling exhausted and guilt-ridden. Possibly what has always worked, doesn’t seem to work anymore. Peace may feel out of reach.
(423) 226-5482 View (423) 226-5482
Photo of Corliss LAWLER, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corliss LAWLER
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37412
I have been in the practice of Social Work many years. I have a thirst for learning and I greet change with open arms. I completed my training as a nurse at age 55 and have incorporated my nursing skills with my years of Social Work training and experience. During this time I have learned that all people have their answers inside and my job is to help them recognize and build on those answers. Having experienced many situations in my own life I’ve learned to persist and sometimes back up and regroup. I have a lot of joy in my life and hope to help you find yours. I offer animal assisted therapy with Teddy, 5 yo Wheaten Terrier.
I have been in the practice of Social Work many years. I have a thirst for learning and I greet change with open arms. I completed my training as a nurse at age 55 and have incorporated my nursing skills with my years of Social Work training and experience. During this time I have learned that all people have their answers inside and my job is to help them recognize and build on those answers. Having experienced many situations in my own life I’ve learned to persist and sometimes back up and regroup. I have a lot of joy in my life and hope to help you find yours. I offer animal assisted therapy with Teddy, 5 yo Wheaten Terrier.
(423) 205-1140 View (423) 205-1140
Photo of Darlene Mew, LPC-MHS, MBA, LCMHC, Counselor
Darlene Mew
Counselor, LPC-MHS, MBA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405  (Online Only)
It gives me joy to come alongside you as a partner in your journey towards being your best self. If you have felt like grief, trauma and anxiety have been holding you back from all you aspire to be, we can work together towards a life that is intentional. I enjoy working with people who have experienced trauma, anxiety, and grief to clear out concerns that have impacted their mental health.
It gives me joy to come alongside you as a partner in your journey towards being your best self. If you have felt like grief, trauma and anxiety have been holding you back from all you aspire to be, we can work together towards a life that is intentional. I enjoy working with people who have experienced trauma, anxiety, and grief to clear out concerns that have impacted their mental health.
(980) 351-2186 View (980) 351-2186
Photo of Charles Hiatt, LPC/MHS, QSAP, MAC, SAE, NBCCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles Hiatt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC/MHS, QSAP, MAC, SAE, NBCCH
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
Currently Unavailable for New Clients I have worked in the counseling field for over 20 years with adults, couples, and adolescents. I received my Master of Science Degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2004. I'm licensed in the State of Tennessee as a Professional Counselor (LPC/MHSP) and nationally certified as a Master Addiction Counselor (MAC). I'm also credentialed as a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) for the US Department of Transportation (DOT) and have completed Gottman Level 1 training.
Currently Unavailable for New Clients I have worked in the counseling field for over 20 years with adults, couples, and adolescents. I received my Master of Science Degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2004. I'm licensed in the State of Tennessee as a Professional Counselor (LPC/MHSP) and nationally certified as a Master Addiction Counselor (MAC). I'm also credentialed as a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) for the US Department of Transportation (DOT) and have completed Gottman Level 1 training.
(423) 425-9573 View (423) 425-9573
Photo of Charles B Cobble, BCD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charles B Cobble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BCD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37401  (Online Only)
I’m glad to see you are considering therapy to overcome your challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, stress, or another other issue, I can help you find relief and overcome obstacles on your path to success. I’m compassionate and supportive. Our conversation is confidential in the comfort of your own home.
I’m glad to see you are considering therapy to overcome your challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, stress, or another other issue, I can help you find relief and overcome obstacles on your path to success. I’m compassionate and supportive. Our conversation is confidential in the comfort of your own home.
(615) 703-4090 View (615) 703-4090
Photo of Denise Powell, LCSW, CEAP, NBCCH, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP, NBCCH, SAP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Not accepting new clients
As a Certified Practitioner in Trauma Informed Hypnotherapy and Rapid Resolution Therapy ®, I provide an opportunity for individuals to resolve trauma and negative emotional experiences, by combining the use of subconscious and conscious levels of mind within a few sessions.
I primarily work with adults. I promote a supportive environment to provide a trusting and caring venue for my clients to explore their concerns. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Employee Assistance Professional Certified Practitioner in Trauma Informed Hypnotherapy and Rapid Resolution Therapy, as well as Certified by the National Board of Certified Clinical Hypnotherapy. My practice focuses on many concerns,in particular I work with addiction, trauma, anxiety, relationship concerns and depression. I am a DOT Substance Abuse Professional, providing services in accordance with DOT regulations.
As a Certified Practitioner in Trauma Informed Hypnotherapy and Rapid Resolution Therapy ®, I provide an opportunity for individuals to resolve trauma and negative emotional experiences, by combining the use of subconscious and conscious levels of mind within a few sessions.
I primarily work with adults. I promote a supportive environment to provide a trusting and caring venue for my clients to explore their concerns. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Employee Assistance Professional Certified Practitioner in Trauma Informed Hypnotherapy and Rapid Resolution Therapy, as well as Certified by the National Board of Certified Clinical Hypnotherapy. My practice focuses on many concerns,in particular I work with addiction, trauma, anxiety, relationship concerns and depression. I am a DOT Substance Abuse Professional, providing services in accordance with DOT regulations.
(423) 388-4258 x2 View (423) 388-4258 x2
Photo of Nancy Holland, MS, LPE, CPC
Nancy Holland
MS, LPE, CPC
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Not accepting new clients
I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy and hypnotherapy, practicing a holistic mind/body approach.
Choosing to make changes in our lives can be scary and challenging. Having the right individual to help you in facing those changes is imperative. I enjoy working with those interested in making changes in their lives whether it be in facing present life transitions and stressors or dealing with past events/traumas. I have great empathy, compassion and patience in working with those who want to tackle their challenges in a safe and supportive therapeutic environment. I would be honored to work with you and/or your loved one(s) to help you take the steps towards change in your journey through life.
I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy and hypnotherapy, practicing a holistic mind/body approach.
Choosing to make changes in our lives can be scary and challenging. Having the right individual to help you in facing those changes is imperative. I enjoy working with those interested in making changes in their lives whether it be in facing present life transitions and stressors or dealing with past events/traumas. I have great empathy, compassion and patience in working with those who want to tackle their challenges in a safe and supportive therapeutic environment. I would be honored to work with you and/or your loved one(s) to help you take the steps towards change in your journey through life.
(423) 800-5099 View (423) 800-5099
Photo of Nancy Graves Wahler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Graves Wahler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Not accepting new clients
I work with people who are ready to heal. I’m a Christian and Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years experience working with PTSD, grief, anxiety, anger management, depression and other trauma-related issues. I am EMDR certified and an EMDR consultant and trained in Clinical Hypnosis and Brainspotting level 1. All are treatments for trauma, depression, and anxiety according to the latest research in neuroscience. I enjoy partnering with First Responders, military, adults and teenagers to help them work through whatever issues are interfering with their joy. If you have any questions, call or send me an email.
I work with people who are ready to heal. I’m a Christian and Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years experience working with PTSD, grief, anxiety, anger management, depression and other trauma-related issues. I am EMDR certified and an EMDR consultant and trained in Clinical Hypnosis and Brainspotting level 1. All are treatments for trauma, depression, and anxiety according to the latest research in neuroscience. I enjoy partnering with First Responders, military, adults and teenagers to help them work through whatever issues are interfering with their joy. If you have any questions, call or send me an email.
(423) 560-6353 View (423) 560-6353

More Therapists Nearby

Victoria J Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Signal Mountain, TN 37377
Why Play Therapy? This is a frequently asked question. I believe that through play, children express themselves in their own developmentally appropriate way. Through play and other expressive therapies, children can resolve problems, cope with difficult emotions,improve cognitive development and help resolve inner conflicts. Although I work mainly with children, my education and training also allow me the opportunity to work with adults on certain issues.
Why Play Therapy? This is a frequently asked question. I believe that through play, children express themselves in their own developmentally appropriate way. Through play and other expressive therapies, children can resolve problems, cope with difficult emotions,improve cognitive development and help resolve inner conflicts. Although I work mainly with children, my education and training also allow me the opportunity to work with adults on certain issues.
(423) 464-4354 View (423) 464-4354

Online Therapists

Photo of Jesse Williams, MS, LPC, MHSP, NCC, CCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jesse Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, NCC, CCH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
I adjust each session to what the client needs at that time, using traditional talk therapy techniques, as well as non-traditional techniques, such as tarot-based therapy, nature-based therapy, hypnotherapy, experiential therapy, and transpersonal therapy.
Accepting new clients! My approach to therapy is a fairly nontraditional, nature-informed, holistic-style of therapy/coaching. My goal in therapy is to help you rediscover your true self and to realign you with the ideal path for your life. Too often, we lose track of our true selves by getting buried under the hurt from the past, the auto-pilot of the present, and the fears of the future. Together, we will work to break you out of those cycles and to address that which holds you back from your full potential. I will help you identify your inner strengths so that you can feel more grounded in the person that you want to become.
I adjust each session to what the client needs at that time, using traditional talk therapy techniques, as well as non-traditional techniques, such as tarot-based therapy, nature-based therapy, hypnotherapy, experiential therapy, and transpersonal therapy.
Accepting new clients! My approach to therapy is a fairly nontraditional, nature-informed, holistic-style of therapy/coaching. My goal in therapy is to help you rediscover your true self and to realign you with the ideal path for your life. Too often, we lose track of our true selves by getting buried under the hurt from the past, the auto-pilot of the present, and the fears of the future. Together, we will work to break you out of those cycles and to address that which holds you back from your full potential. I will help you identify your inner strengths so that you can feel more grounded in the person that you want to become.
(865) 518-7077 View (865) 518-7077
Photo of Teresa Quance, LCSW, CMHIMP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa Quance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
I also employ hypnotherapy where appropriate.
I provide counseling and coaching to female teens and adults living with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, relationship problems, self-esteem issues, major life transitions and maladaptive coping. Mental health and physical health are irrevocably connected—poor mental health can lead to poor physical health and harmful behaviours. Depression has been linked to many chronic illnesses. I take a holistic approach to therapy and discuss physical health/fitness and nutrition; emotional resilience; positive social connections; intellectual stimulation and spiritual fulfilment.
I also employ hypnotherapy where appropriate.
I provide counseling and coaching to female teens and adults living with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, relationship problems, self-esteem issues, major life transitions and maladaptive coping. Mental health and physical health are irrevocably connected—poor mental health can lead to poor physical health and harmful behaviours. Depression has been linked to many chronic illnesses. I take a holistic approach to therapy and discuss physical health/fitness and nutrition; emotional resilience; positive social connections; intellectual stimulation and spiritual fulfilment.
(615) 338-8452 View (615) 338-8452
Photo of Dr. Samantha A Hutton-Metheney, MA, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Samantha A Hutton-Metheney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
Waitlist for new clients
Hypnotherapy is a deeply relaxed state of heightened awareness that helps access subconscious material of the psyche to purge the psyche of negative beliefs,and traumatic imprints.
I believe that clients have the innate ability to heal through accessing their innermost selves. Each client is traveling their own personal, interpersonal, and spiritual path and I act as a guide to help facilitate and co- create healing and wholeness. Through healing old wounds, past traumas, and solving relationship conflicts, I aspire to help individuals, couples, and families reach their highest potentials to aid in having richer and more fulfilling lives. My approach is Transpersonal, which means that I look beyond the ego into the spiritual to encourage wholeness in each client.
Hypnotherapy is a deeply relaxed state of heightened awareness that helps access subconscious material of the psyche to purge the psyche of negative beliefs,and traumatic imprints.
I believe that clients have the innate ability to heal through accessing their innermost selves. Each client is traveling their own personal, interpersonal, and spiritual path and I act as a guide to help facilitate and co- create healing and wholeness. Through healing old wounds, past traumas, and solving relationship conflicts, I aspire to help individuals, couples, and families reach their highest potentials to aid in having richer and more fulfilling lives. My approach is Transpersonal, which means that I look beyond the ego into the spiritual to encourage wholeness in each client.
(865) 730-4209 View (865) 730-4209

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.