Hypnotherapists in Herndon, VA

Photo of Dr. Xinyi Ma - XY Grow&Heal Center, MD, CHT
XY Grow&Heal Center
MD, CHT
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20171
I often use Hypnotherapy in my practice.
If you are struggling with anxiety, insomnia, weight issues, ADHD, or fears, I am here to help. During our initial session, besides establishing a rapport between you and me, we will explore the issues and you concerns, and collaborate to create a systematic therapeutic program specifically for you based on your goals and needs. Through the therapeutic programs consists of monthly treatment plans, you may see signs of relief from these anxieties within the first month and experience sustained improvement on a continuing basis.Ultimately, my mission is to help you free yourself of limitations, and put you on the path of success.
I often use Hypnotherapy in my practice.
If you are struggling with anxiety, insomnia, weight issues, ADHD, or fears, I am here to help. During our initial session, besides establishing a rapport between you and me, we will explore the issues and you concerns, and collaborate to create a systematic therapeutic program specifically for you based on your goals and needs. Through the therapeutic programs consists of monthly treatment plans, you may see signs of relief from these anxieties within the first month and experience sustained improvement on a continuing basis.Ultimately, my mission is to help you free yourself of limitations, and put you on the path of success.
(571) 630-3953 View (571) 630-3953
Photo of Ji-Hae Park, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ji-Hae Park
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170
Waitlist for new clients
I employ mindfulness meditation, clinical hypnotherapy, Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to fashion treatment to your unique wants and needs.
Let your genuine self, which has been silenced by habitual patterns and external pressures, shine through. If you’re looking to break from fears and phobias as well as unwanted habits, we can collaboratively work to ground you in your core truth and you can be with yourself in a new way.
I employ mindfulness meditation, clinical hypnotherapy, Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to fashion treatment to your unique wants and needs.
Let your genuine self, which has been silenced by habitual patterns and external pressures, shine through. If you’re looking to break from fears and phobias as well as unwanted habits, we can collaboratively work to ground you in your core truth and you can be with yourself in a new way.
(703) 596-3372 View (703) 596-3372
Photo of Louis V Schwebius, MEd, MDiv, CHT, GC-C, FAAGC, Pastoral Counselor
Louis V Schwebius
Pastoral Counselor, MEd, MDiv, CHT, GC-C, FAAGC
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170
Are you wanting to move away from negative patterns which block one from becoming a more complete & loving human being? Are you looking for grief support or emotional clarity? As an interfaith pastoral/grief counselor and hypnotherapist, I can help you to discover/reaffirm a more positive sense of self. I am certified by the American Institute of Healthcare Professionals and the National Association of Transpersonal Hypnotherapists to address issues such as self-esteem, relief of anxiety, healing of trauma, stress management, the mind-body-spirit connection, breath awareness/control, meditation techniques, & fears/phobias.
Are you wanting to move away from negative patterns which block one from becoming a more complete & loving human being? Are you looking for grief support or emotional clarity? As an interfaith pastoral/grief counselor and hypnotherapist, I can help you to discover/reaffirm a more positive sense of self. I am certified by the American Institute of Healthcare Professionals and the National Association of Transpersonal Hypnotherapists to address issues such as self-esteem, relief of anxiety, healing of trauma, stress management, the mind-body-spirit connection, breath awareness/control, meditation techniques, & fears/phobias.
(571) 339-5494 View (571) 339-5494
Photo of Chad Runyon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chad Runyon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20171  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Virginia who believes that a tailored mix of experiential processes and existential discussions can contribute to a greater awareness of self and a more meaningful life. I work best with adults who feel stuck, trapped or left behind and are also willing to to take healthy, manageable risks that can open new doors to their future.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Virginia who believes that a tailored mix of experiential processes and existential discussions can contribute to a greater awareness of self and a more meaningful life. I work best with adults who feel stuck, trapped or left behind and are also willing to to take healthy, manageable risks that can open new doors to their future.
(571) 506-7109 View (571) 506-7109
Photo of Eric Weinstein
Eric Weinstein
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170  (Online Only)
Want to change your life, but not sure about (or done with) conventional therapy? Want less talk and more action? A holistic approach? I combine coaching, energetic, and therapeutic techniques to help clients solve problems by quickly figuring out what's keeping them from getting what they want out of life, "healing" the past, and changing limiting beliefs, troubling emotions, and unwanted behaviors. Clients (including therapists) describe me as "compassionate, knowledgeable, dedicated, perceptive, productive. . . " And while I don't take insurance, I try to be affordable to anyone who thinks I might be right for them.
Want to change your life, but not sure about (or done with) conventional therapy? Want less talk and more action? A holistic approach? I combine coaching, energetic, and therapeutic techniques to help clients solve problems by quickly figuring out what's keeping them from getting what they want out of life, "healing" the past, and changing limiting beliefs, troubling emotions, and unwanted behaviors. Clients (including therapists) describe me as "compassionate, knowledgeable, dedicated, perceptive, productive. . . " And while I don't take insurance, I try to be affordable to anyone who thinks I might be right for them.
(240) 201-2733 View (240) 201-2733
Photo of Fereshteh Khodaei Shahrokhi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fereshteh Khodaei Shahrokhi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170
My name is Fereshteh Shahrokhi. Have worked decades as clinical & school social worker with K-12 students & families. Worked at day treatment, children & adolescents & juvenile delinquents residential placements with emotional & behavioral difficulties. In particular is skilled working with people with ADHD/Executive Function Deficits (EFD). Provided local, state, and national level presentations in ADHD/EFD, Depression Awareness & Prevention, Bullying & did Depression Screening. Also have been nominated as "The Social Worker of the Year" in 2011 by Fairfax County Association of School Social Workers, the second one ever nominated. Also worked with traumatized children & adolescents & sex offenders.
My name is Fereshteh Shahrokhi. Have worked decades as clinical & school social worker with K-12 students & families. Worked at day treatment, children & adolescents & juvenile delinquents residential placements with emotional & behavioral difficulties. In particular is skilled working with people with ADHD/Executive Function Deficits (EFD). Provided local, state, and national level presentations in ADHD/EFD, Depression Awareness & Prevention, Bullying & did Depression Screening. Also have been nominated as "The Social Worker of the Year" in 2011 by Fairfax County Association of School Social Workers, the second one ever nominated. Also worked with traumatized children & adolescents & sex offenders.
(703) 609-9387 View (703) 609-9387
Photo of Leon Sankofa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leon Sankofa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20171
Hi, I’m a licensed clinical social worker and a trained psychotherapist. I am licensed to practice in Virginia and Texas. I help clients resolve symptoms of anxiety, depression, posttraumatic, stress disorder‘s, and childhood sexual trauma.
Hi, I’m a licensed clinical social worker and a trained psychotherapist. I am licensed to practice in Virginia and Texas. I help clients resolve symptoms of anxiety, depression, posttraumatic, stress disorder‘s, and childhood sexual trauma.
(757) 231-3704 View (757) 231-3704
Photo of Leah Fontaine Edmonds, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah Fontaine Edmonds
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20171  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Virginia with 5 years of professional counseling experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional intimacy with each other. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
I am licensed in Virginia with 5 years of professional counseling experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional intimacy with each other. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
(571) 536-6049 View (571) 536-6049
Photo of Maura Lesko, LPC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maura Lesko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20172
Not accepting new clients
I love to work with adolescents, young adults and adults to help support them with a variety of different concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, interpersonal relationship difficulties, self-esteem, trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, serious mental illness, and difficult life events and transitions, as well as other mental health issues.
I love to work with adolescents, young adults and adults to help support them with a variety of different concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, interpersonal relationship difficulties, self-esteem, trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, serious mental illness, and difficult life events and transitions, as well as other mental health issues.
(540) 329-2201 View (540) 329-2201
Photo of Cynthia Rogers, DMin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DMin, LCSW
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you searching for peace, happiness, and wellness? Do you feel anxious or depressed? Have you experienced stress or trauma from relationships or other life events? Do you worry about life transitions or other issues? Has a physical illness caused pain? Do you have concerns or questions associated with aging or dying? Perhaps you have wondered about deeper meanings in life or your spirituality? I will compassionately listen to your unique situation. We will collaboratively work together to assess your strengths and needs in developing a therapeutic approach to your life challenges. There is hope to feel better!
Are you searching for peace, happiness, and wellness? Do you feel anxious or depressed? Have you experienced stress or trauma from relationships or other life events? Do you worry about life transitions or other issues? Has a physical illness caused pain? Do you have concerns or questions associated with aging or dying? Perhaps you have wondered about deeper meanings in life or your spirituality? I will compassionately listen to your unique situation. We will collaboratively work together to assess your strengths and needs in developing a therapeutic approach to your life challenges. There is hope to feel better!
(571) 200-2471 View (571) 200-2471

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Philip Cerrato, LCSW, MSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Philip Cerrato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I work with adults and older adolescents using strength-based, solution focused and hypnotherapy to address all issues including religious, spiritual questions.
Seek counseling is a sign of inner strength and a desire to be a better person. No matter what the reason you will feel better once you meet with me, a non-judgmental therapist. As a Clinical Social Worker and therapist I am part of a profession that is well known for helping others cope with the passages of life and meeting you where you are. All races, genders and orientations are welcome here. I will walk with you to help you overcome your challenges and assist your growth into loving kindness for yourself and others. Feel free to call me with any questions at 703.508.4578
I work with adults and older adolescents using strength-based, solution focused and hypnotherapy to address all issues including religious, spiritual questions.
Seek counseling is a sign of inner strength and a desire to be a better person. No matter what the reason you will feel better once you meet with me, a non-judgmental therapist. As a Clinical Social Worker and therapist I am part of a profession that is well known for helping others cope with the passages of life and meeting you where you are. All races, genders and orientations are welcome here. I will walk with you to help you overcome your challenges and assist your growth into loving kindness for yourself and others. Feel free to call me with any questions at 703.508.4578
(703) 349-7034 View (703) 349-7034
Photo of Rose-Marie Phillips - ZenMind Therapy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
ZenMind Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031  (Online Only)
That’s why I offer and integrated evidence-based practices, such as EMDR, IFS (Level 1), somatic, ART, hypnotherapy, and more.
Do you wake up in the mornings with a feeling of dread? Does it seem like you can never fully let your guard down? I know these struggles, because I’ve helped people work through them for over 15 years. Many of my clients have dealt with traumas, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. I find they often go hand in hand. At some point it all becomes too much, and it’s time to get support. I offer treatment for those who want to overcome high stress, effects of trauma, depression, and more. As you begin this road of healing, you can find the relief and confidence to live your life with more confidence and less fear.
That’s why I offer and integrated evidence-based practices, such as EMDR, IFS (Level 1), somatic, ART, hypnotherapy, and more.
Do you wake up in the mornings with a feeling of dread? Does it seem like you can never fully let your guard down? I know these struggles, because I’ve helped people work through them for over 15 years. Many of my clients have dealt with traumas, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. I find they often go hand in hand. At some point it all becomes too much, and it’s time to get support. I offer treatment for those who want to overcome high stress, effects of trauma, depression, and more. As you begin this road of healing, you can find the relief and confidence to live your life with more confidence and less fear.
(571) 520-8900 View (571) 520-8900
Photo of Dr. Jon L. Thomas, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jon L. Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
In addition to a doctorate in counseling from George Washington University, my education and training includes post doctoral studies in marriage and family therapy at Virginia Tech, pscyhodrama, neurolinguistics programming, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral (CBT) and solution-focused therapy.
I created and direct The ADHD College Success Guidance Program to help high school and college students succeed academically and grow successful careers. We offer college readiness/success training, individual, family, and group therapy, parent education/support, and academic coaching. These services are designed and integrated around a unique model developed during my 30+ years of clinical and research activities with people who have ADHD.
In addition to a doctorate in counseling from George Washington University, my education and training includes post doctoral studies in marriage and family therapy at Virginia Tech, pscyhodrama, neurolinguistics programming, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral (CBT) and solution-focused therapy.
I created and direct The ADHD College Success Guidance Program to help high school and college students succeed academically and grow successful careers. We offer college readiness/success training, individual, family, and group therapy, parent education/support, and academic coaching. These services are designed and integrated around a unique model developed during my 30+ years of clinical and research activities with people who have ADHD.
(703) 935-5280 View (703) 935-5280
Photo of Dr. Heidi A. Roth, PhD, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Heidi A. Roth
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tysons, VA 22102
I utilize mindfulness-based & depth psychology, along with hypnotherapy & breathwork to help you uncover & resolve the thoughts, feelings, beliefs, stressors, or past traumas that have created blocks in your life.
Welcome! Together we will explore and seek to resolve your current emotional & life challenges and enhance your overall sense of wellness. I am a holistic licensed psychotherapist, certified hypnotherapist, & certified functional wellness coach with over 20 years of experience helping clients, with in-person sessions in DC & Northern Virginia. I work with adults & teens who struggle with issues of depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationships, trauma, self-esteem, & lack of meaning or purpose in life. Every person is a complex individual, which is why I believe in a holistic & depth approach to get at the root causes of your struggles.
I utilize mindfulness-based & depth psychology, along with hypnotherapy & breathwork to help you uncover & resolve the thoughts, feelings, beliefs, stressors, or past traumas that have created blocks in your life.
Welcome! Together we will explore and seek to resolve your current emotional & life challenges and enhance your overall sense of wellness. I am a holistic licensed psychotherapist, certified hypnotherapist, & certified functional wellness coach with over 20 years of experience helping clients, with in-person sessions in DC & Northern Virginia. I work with adults & teens who struggle with issues of depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationships, trauma, self-esteem, & lack of meaning or purpose in life. Every person is a complex individual, which is why I believe in a holistic & depth approach to get at the root causes of your struggles.
(571) 450-8897 View (571) 450-8897
Photo of Jacqueline Barnes - Self-Care & Counseling LLC, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Self-Care & Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191  (Online Only)
Depending on your situation, I'll utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), internal family systems therapy (IFS), EMDR, Narrative Therapy, Hypnotherapy, coaching, and/or brain retraining techniques to help you move forward, break free, connect, get to the next level, become more fulfilled, and ultimately feel more peaceful—more like your true self.
If you’re looking for a safe space where you can be heard by an empathetic therapist who's experienced, look no further—that’s me. I provide virtual couple counseling and adult therapy for depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, work stress, and health issues: Chronic Pain, Sleep Difficulties, Coping with diagnoses/conditions, Health Anxiety, Stress, or Burnout. We'd be a good fit for therapy if you're ready to commit to meeting regularly and open to examining your concerns in new ways. I believe most people have what they need to overcome their issues, but they may need a shift in perspective or support through change.
Depending on your situation, I'll utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), internal family systems therapy (IFS), EMDR, Narrative Therapy, Hypnotherapy, coaching, and/or brain retraining techniques to help you move forward, break free, connect, get to the next level, become more fulfilled, and ultimately feel more peaceful—more like your true self.
If you’re looking for a safe space where you can be heard by an empathetic therapist who's experienced, look no further—that’s me. I provide virtual couple counseling and adult therapy for depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, work stress, and health issues: Chronic Pain, Sleep Difficulties, Coping with diagnoses/conditions, Health Anxiety, Stress, or Burnout. We'd be a good fit for therapy if you're ready to commit to meeting regularly and open to examining your concerns in new ways. I believe most people have what they need to overcome their issues, but they may need a shift in perspective or support through change.
(240) 730-4266 View (240) 730-4266
Photo of Kimberly A Milam - Neurofeedback Therapeutic Solutions, LLC, MA, LPC, BCN, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Neurofeedback Therapeutic Solutions, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BCN, NCC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
We specialize in helping individuals heal from past traumas using a variety of interventions to include: Talk-therapy, Neurofeedback Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, Hypnotherapy, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) - Tapping, Auriculotherapy (ear acupuncture).
Have you experienced a traumatic event? Have you felt depressed, anxious, irritable, numb, hopeless, worthless, hypervigilant, shame, mistrust, a loss of self, or emotionally overwhelmed? Are you experiencing nightmares, flashbacks, panic attacks, insomnia, headaches, or problems concentrating? Have you thought about or participated in self-destructive behaviors or felt a loss of self? You are not alone most victims of trauma experience some of these symptoms. You can become more present emotionally and psychologically for yourself, your family, and friends.
We specialize in helping individuals heal from past traumas using a variety of interventions to include: Talk-therapy, Neurofeedback Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, Hypnotherapy, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) - Tapping, Auriculotherapy (ear acupuncture).
Have you experienced a traumatic event? Have you felt depressed, anxious, irritable, numb, hopeless, worthless, hypervigilant, shame, mistrust, a loss of self, or emotionally overwhelmed? Are you experiencing nightmares, flashbacks, panic attacks, insomnia, headaches, or problems concentrating? Have you thought about or participated in self-destructive behaviors or felt a loss of self? You are not alone most victims of trauma experience some of these symptoms. You can become more present emotionally and psychologically for yourself, your family, and friends.
(571) 200-2229 View (571) 200-2229
Photo of Dr. Desirée N. Robinson, LCSW-C, ACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Desirée N. Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Great Falls, VA 22066  (Online Only)
Are intimacy challenges holding you back from the deep connections you deserve? Whether it's in your relationship with yourself, your partner, or your family, emotional wounds can quietly erode intimacy, leaving you feeling disconnected or unfulfilled. These challenges are often normalized, but healing is possible!
Are intimacy challenges holding you back from the deep connections you deserve? Whether it's in your relationship with yourself, your partner, or your family, emotional wounds can quietly erode intimacy, leaving you feeling disconnected or unfulfilled. These challenges are often normalized, but healing is possible!
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Photo of Patricia A Morgan, PhD, LCSW, NLP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia A Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, NLP
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I specialize in helping people with transitions due to some loss or change within their life. These usually include relationship issues,mid-life issues,career change, toxic workplaces as well as other life crises that bring forth anxiety and depression. I provide testing and coaching for career/job issues. Right brain techniques using Neurolinguistic Programming makes changing faster and deeper. I have been in practice for over thirty years. Within 3 months of weekly sessions you will notice positive changes in your relationship with yourself and/or others. See YouTube to view my award winning program Spotlight on Mental Health.
I specialize in helping people with transitions due to some loss or change within their life. These usually include relationship issues,mid-life issues,career change, toxic workplaces as well as other life crises that bring forth anxiety and depression. I provide testing and coaching for career/job issues. Right brain techniques using Neurolinguistic Programming makes changing faster and deeper. I have been in practice for over thirty years. Within 3 months of weekly sessions you will notice positive changes in your relationship with yourself and/or others. See YouTube to view my award winning program Spotlight on Mental Health.
(703) 596-8846 View (703) 596-8846
Photo of Kim Swett Havenner, PsyD, Psychologist
Kim Swett Havenner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in the healing potential of therapy. I respect the sanctity of the therapeutic partnership and find it an extraordinary privilege to play a collaborative role in the healing process. I work with a broad age-range of clients in individual and family therapy focused on issues including depression, anxiety, relational conflict, and behavioral problems. I ALSO HAVE SPECIALIZED TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE with ATTACHMENT TRAUMA, SEXUAL and RITUAL ABUSE, and POSTTRAUMATIC and DISSOCIATIVE DISORDERS. Finally, I am adept at providing comprehensive psychological assessments.
I believe in the healing potential of therapy. I respect the sanctity of the therapeutic partnership and find it an extraordinary privilege to play a collaborative role in the healing process. I work with a broad age-range of clients in individual and family therapy focused on issues including depression, anxiety, relational conflict, and behavioral problems. I ALSO HAVE SPECIALIZED TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE with ATTACHMENT TRAUMA, SEXUAL and RITUAL ABUSE, and POSTTRAUMATIC and DISSOCIATIVE DISORDERS. Finally, I am adept at providing comprehensive psychological assessments.
(571) 200-8688 View (571) 200-8688
Photo of Deborah Evans, LCSW, BCD, CSOTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, CSOTS
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20151
Believing firmly in Cochran and Cochran's (2015) assertion that the therapeutic relationship between counselor and client is a potent force for change, I dedicate myself to guiding individuals through life's transitions with resilience and compassion. My specialized approach empowers clients to navigate challenging periods, fostering greater well-being through personalized support and collaboration. Together, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, ensuring no challenge is insurmountable.
Believing firmly in Cochran and Cochran's (2015) assertion that the therapeutic relationship between counselor and client is a potent force for change, I dedicate myself to guiding individuals through life's transitions with resilience and compassion. My specialized approach empowers clients to navigate challenging periods, fostering greater well-being through personalized support and collaboration. Together, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, ensuring no challenge is insurmountable.
(571) 347-2585 View (571) 347-2585
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.