Hypnotherapists in Marysville, WA

Photo of Kathie Stratmeyer - Fountaingate Wellness, LMHC, LMFT, LMT, HP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fountaingate Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, LMFT, LMT, HP
Verified Verified
Marysville, WA 98270
Fountaingate Wellness offers trauma informed mental health services through traditional methods (cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered) and alternative methods such as neurofeedback and hypnotherapy to address a wide variety of concerns.
Do you feel overwhelmed, lost, or burned out? Maybe you are stuck in an unsuccessful and unfulfilling place and you need tools and encouragement to set and achieve your goals. Fountaingate is ready to assist you in recognizing and managing the obstacles preventing you from walking in that place of confidence and security.
Fountaingate Wellness offers trauma informed mental health services through traditional methods (cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered) and alternative methods such as neurofeedback and hypnotherapy to address a wide variety of concerns.
Do you feel overwhelmed, lost, or burned out? Maybe you are stuck in an unsuccessful and unfulfilling place and you need tools and encouragement to set and achieve your goals. Fountaingate is ready to assist you in recognizing and managing the obstacles preventing you from walking in that place of confidence and security.
(360) 854-3581 View (360) 854-3581
Photo of Kristin Schaaf, PhD, Psychologist
Kristin Schaaf
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Marysville, WA 98270
Waitlist for new clients
I provide psychotherapy to individuals and couples. I also do hypnotherapy and psychological evaluations. My theoretical orientation depends on your needs and the type of therapy you are seeking. In order for psychotherapy to be effective, there must be openness and trust, commitment to change, and an attitude of collaboration between client and therapist. Together we will explore the problems that led you into therapy, discuss your past as it is relevant to your present situation, and establish goals for your treatment.
I provide psychotherapy to individuals and couples. I also do hypnotherapy and psychological evaluations. My theoretical orientation depends on your needs and the type of therapy you are seeking. In order for psychotherapy to be effective, there must be openness and trust, commitment to change, and an attitude of collaboration between client and therapist. Together we will explore the problems that led you into therapy, discuss your past as it is relevant to your present situation, and establish goals for your treatment.
(425) 321-0299 View (425) 321-0299
Photo of Tina Worthey - Open Heart Open Mind Therapy, SUDPT, HP, Counselor
Open Heart Open Mind Therapy
Counselor, SUDPT, HP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marysville, WA 98270
Hypnotherapy, when delivered as client-centered and individually tailored sessions, has been proven to be one of the most effective ways to bring about desired changes in the shortest period of time.
If we don’t have the tools to address our fear, our grief, our deep hurt - it emerges as depression, anxiety, resentment, hate, chronic pain, or compulsive, habitual patterns. My motto is: “When we apply love to hurt we heal” I listen to your needs with respect and empathy as we explore heart-centered solutions. This approach uses both evidence-based clinical psychological approaches and Spirituality. It is NOT associated with any religion. I also utilize hypnosis, NLP (neuro-linguistic programming, relaxation techniques, and a client-centered to discover and unlock the keys to re-discovery that work for YOU!
Hypnotherapy, when delivered as client-centered and individually tailored sessions, has been proven to be one of the most effective ways to bring about desired changes in the shortest period of time.
If we don’t have the tools to address our fear, our grief, our deep hurt - it emerges as depression, anxiety, resentment, hate, chronic pain, or compulsive, habitual patterns. My motto is: “When we apply love to hurt we heal” I listen to your needs with respect and empathy as we explore heart-centered solutions. This approach uses both evidence-based clinical psychological approaches and Spirituality. It is NOT associated with any religion. I also utilize hypnosis, NLP (neuro-linguistic programming, relaxation techniques, and a client-centered to discover and unlock the keys to re-discovery that work for YOU!
(425) 250-9390 View (425) 250-9390
Photo of Dr. Vance Whippo, DMin, MA, LMHCA, CCC, MHP, Counselor
Dr. Vance Whippo
Counselor, DMin, MA, LMHCA, CCC, MHP
Verified Verified
Marysville, WA 98270
Most clients come to me from the military and emergency services but I also work with many relationships as they struggle with anxiety and mild depression, largely stemming from work-related stress and a lack of work-life balance. They are highly motivated and self-aware, acknowledging their need for help and actively seeking it. They have a supportive network but feel isolated in their experiences, yearning for a space to express their feelings without judgment. They also want to explore underlying issues contributing to their mental health challenges, such as perfectionism and fear of failure.
Most clients come to me from the military and emergency services but I also work with many relationships as they struggle with anxiety and mild depression, largely stemming from work-related stress and a lack of work-life balance. They are highly motivated and self-aware, acknowledging their need for help and actively seeking it. They have a supportive network but feel isolated in their experiences, yearning for a space to express their feelings without judgment. They also want to explore underlying issues contributing to their mental health challenges, such as perfectionism and fear of failure.
(360) 964-5415 View (360) 964-5415
Photo of Rebecca Barrett, MSW, LICSW, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Barrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marysville, WA 98271  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is healing trauma. I know how much strength it requires to make the decision to seek a therapist. It’s important to make time for mental self-care just like you would schedule a workout or physical. Sometimes we all need a little extra help or an outside perspective. My goal is you feel welcomed, accepted, and validated by being your true self with me. If you are seeking to heal toxic patterns or to implement positive changes toward new growth, I provide a non-judgmental, safe place for you to explore the changes that are healthiest and doable for you. I am a skilled listener who offers unconditional acceptance and hope.
My focus is healing trauma. I know how much strength it requires to make the decision to seek a therapist. It’s important to make time for mental self-care just like you would schedule a workout or physical. Sometimes we all need a little extra help or an outside perspective. My goal is you feel welcomed, accepted, and validated by being your true self with me. If you are seeking to heal toxic patterns or to implement positive changes toward new growth, I provide a non-judgmental, safe place for you to explore the changes that are healthiest and doable for you. I am a skilled listener who offers unconditional acceptance and hope.
(360) 233-8052 View (360) 233-8052
Photo of Dan Abshere - Camano Counseling, Consulting, and Wellness, NCC, LMHCA
Camano Counseling, Consulting, and Wellness
Mental Health Counselor, NCC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Marysville, WA 98270
Looking for a therapist who understands you, and the problems you’re facing? Everyone is different, and the challenges we face are complex, which is why I offer therapies that suit your needs while integrating sleep, diet, fitness, relationships, and careers. I provide stress, communication, and social and emotional training for organizations; and specialize in supporting veterans, students, and their families.
Looking for a therapist who understands you, and the problems you’re facing? Everyone is different, and the challenges we face are complex, which is why I offer therapies that suit your needs while integrating sleep, diet, fitness, relationships, and careers. I provide stress, communication, and social and emotional training for organizations; and specialize in supporting veterans, students, and their families.
(360) 525-2759 View (360) 525-2759
Photo of Hee Yung Kim Akins - Snohomish Child and Family Therapy, LLC, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Snohomish Child and Family Therapy, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marysville, WA 98270
Not accepting new clients
CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I specialize in treating the following client populations: high functioning autism, ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression and trauma. The needs of my clients include: struggles with impulse control, emotional regulation, mood disorders, bullying and social anxiety, to name a few. I work to help my clients develop impulse control strategies, teach coping skills, positive internal dialogue and socially acceptable behavior. I use social stories to support and reinforce therapeutic goals as well as role playing and behavioral rehearsal.
CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I specialize in treating the following client populations: high functioning autism, ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression and trauma. The needs of my clients include: struggles with impulse control, emotional regulation, mood disorders, bullying and social anxiety, to name a few. I work to help my clients develop impulse control strategies, teach coping skills, positive internal dialogue and socially acceptable behavior. I use social stories to support and reinforce therapeutic goals as well as role playing and behavioral rehearsal.
(425) 406-3129 View (425) 406-3129

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amber Birchard - Women's Hypnotherapy & EP Coaching, CHT
Women's Hypnotherapy & EP Coaching
CHT
Verified Verified
Stanwood, WA 98292  (Online Only)
I invite you into Transpersonal Hypnotherapy & Coaching sessions that are emotionally gentle, short term solution-focused, deeply personalized, spiritually led & encouraging.
No matter how much heartbreak you have survived, you can always bounce back & you can become more yourself then you ever were before. The fact that you are on here solidifies that you are already healing, hopeful & ready to return to yourself. You have suffered long enough for real meaning making, you have learned from experience (the greatest teacher) & now it's time to perceive your past as what makes you one of a kind; not what holds you back, or what occupies your mind most. You are here to live fully in your present experience, in accepting love with who you are & powerful feminine drive for who you are becoming.
I invite you into Transpersonal Hypnotherapy & Coaching sessions that are emotionally gentle, short term solution-focused, deeply personalized, spiritually led & encouraging.
No matter how much heartbreak you have survived, you can always bounce back & you can become more yourself then you ever were before. The fact that you are on here solidifies that you are already healing, hopeful & ready to return to yourself. You have suffered long enough for real meaning making, you have learned from experience (the greatest teacher) & now it's time to perceive your past as what makes you one of a kind; not what holds you back, or what occupies your mind most. You are here to live fully in your present experience, in accepting love with who you are & powerful feminine drive for who you are becoming.
(206) 558-5979 View (206) 558-5979
Photo of Meara Harrington, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Meara Harrington
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201  (Online Only)
I'm trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Gottman Method, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy.
Congratulations on taking the first steps to becoming the person you want to be. I believe in empowering people to overcome the difficulties in their lives. My passion is helping clients to overcome barriers to living their best life by bringing out their inner strength, using therapy for insight, self-exploration, healing, and personal growth. My theoretical approach is eclectic and relational. Together we can explore how your personal history and learned habits may influence your emotions, coping patterns, and behaviors,- ultimately affecting your sense of self for the better.
I'm trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Gottman Method, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy.
Congratulations on taking the first steps to becoming the person you want to be. I believe in empowering people to overcome the difficulties in their lives. My passion is helping clients to overcome barriers to living their best life by bringing out their inner strength, using therapy for insight, self-exploration, healing, and personal growth. My theoretical approach is eclectic and relational. Together we can explore how your personal history and learned habits may influence your emotions, coping patterns, and behaviors,- ultimately affecting your sense of self for the better.
(425) 225-3775 View (425) 225-3775
Photo of Kristin Whitelaw, PhD, CHT
Kristin Whitelaw
PhD, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98201  (Online Only)
These effective methods include conscious awareness techniques, inner child work, cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnotherapy, guided visualization to heal and connect on the deepest level.
Do you want to live your life as who you truly are rather than who you think you ‘should’ be? Overcome the thoughts that tell you you're not enough, aren’t deserving or that there’s something wrong with you. Release old patterns that take you to the same places, relationships and feelings over and over again. Heal your past, relieve anxiety and fear and feel happier, more peaceful and powerful, more confident and inspired. Feel more deeply connected, - body, mind and spirit. Fulfill your passions, your divine purpose and live the life you are truly meant to live. The power to bring these changes into your life is within you
These effective methods include conscious awareness techniques, inner child work, cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnotherapy, guided visualization to heal and connect on the deepest level.
Do you want to live your life as who you truly are rather than who you think you ‘should’ be? Overcome the thoughts that tell you you're not enough, aren’t deserving or that there’s something wrong with you. Release old patterns that take you to the same places, relationships and feelings over and over again. Heal your past, relieve anxiety and fear and feel happier, more peaceful and powerful, more confident and inspired. Feel more deeply connected, - body, mind and spirit. Fulfill your passions, your divine purpose and live the life you are truly meant to live. The power to bring these changes into your life is within you
(310) 299-8091 View (310) 299-8091
Photo of Jamie Keyes, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Jamie Keyes
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98206
October 2024 – I’m Moving my Practice – See Address North Seattle Practice is primarily full (few AM times, none after school). AM available for COGnitive (dementia; adhd; learning) & Autism Evaluations. I am one of a dozen Board Certified Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychologists in Washington. I specialize in working on the types of thoughts, feelings and actions that can help us ... or alternatively are creating problems in our lives. I would utilize evidence based approaches proven to work, & tailor those to the unique & individual situation going on in your life, working toward solutions that make things run more smoothly.
October 2024 – I’m Moving my Practice – See Address North Seattle Practice is primarily full (few AM times, none after school). AM available for COGnitive (dementia; adhd; learning) & Autism Evaluations. I am one of a dozen Board Certified Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychologists in Washington. I specialize in working on the types of thoughts, feelings and actions that can help us ... or alternatively are creating problems in our lives. I would utilize evidence based approaches proven to work, & tailor those to the unique & individual situation going on in your life, working toward solutions that make things run more smoothly.
(425) 276-6752 View (425) 276-6752
Photo of Kathryn Kerby - Success Coaching Services, CCHt
Success Coaching Services
CCHt
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
I am a licensed hypnotherapist and success coach. I help people with a variety of mild to moderate issues that cause chronic personal discomfort or frustration, and/or interfere with achieving personal and professional goals. Examples include dealing with mild to moderate fears and phobias, reaching and maintaining a healthy weight, improving body image, reducing mild anxiety, building confidence and motivation, smoking cessation and eliminating other bad habits, reducing or eliminating stuttering, reducing test anxiety / performance anxiety, improving sports and musical performance, and reaching elusive goals.
I am a licensed hypnotherapist and success coach. I help people with a variety of mild to moderate issues that cause chronic personal discomfort or frustration, and/or interfere with achieving personal and professional goals. Examples include dealing with mild to moderate fears and phobias, reaching and maintaining a healthy weight, improving body image, reducing mild anxiety, building confidence and motivation, smoking cessation and eliminating other bad habits, reducing or eliminating stuttering, reducing test anxiety / performance anxiety, improving sports and musical performance, and reaching elusive goals.
(360) 226-8362 View (360) 226-8362
Photo of Issy K Kleiman - Counseling Services for Wellbeing, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Counseling Services for Wellbeing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
(206) 426-0366 View (206) 426-0366
Photo of Amy S Marohn, MS, CHT, BMsc
Amy S Marohn
Hypnotherapist Registration , MS, CHT, BMsc
Verified Verified
Lake Stevens, WA 98258
Join me for my self-hypnosis zoom workshop on 7/24 at 5pm. Email me for details. If you want something much deeper than the conventional approach, my self-healing intervention may be the solution. My practice is based on the following beliefs: 1) The answers are within 2) You are the most powerful healer of all 3) Spirituality plays a key role in recovery 4) Therapy should be brief & solution focused 5) Divine timing, a clear road map & growth mindset are the most important determinants of positive outcomes. Schedule a free 30-minute consult from my website.
Join me for my self-hypnosis zoom workshop on 7/24 at 5pm. Email me for details. If you want something much deeper than the conventional approach, my self-healing intervention may be the solution. My practice is based on the following beliefs: 1) The answers are within 2) You are the most powerful healer of all 3) Spirituality plays a key role in recovery 4) Therapy should be brief & solution focused 5) Divine timing, a clear road map & growth mindset are the most important determinants of positive outcomes. Schedule a free 30-minute consult from my website.
(425) 406-1997 View (425) 406-1997
Photo of Crystal Blankinship - Higher Vibration Counseling Mental Coaching PLLC, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Higher Vibration Counseling Mental Coaching PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everett, WA 98203  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Email preferred. Virtual Only Starting September. Feeling stuck? Ready to make changes but are unsure where to start? Do you find yourself self-sabotaging before you reach your goals? Have you experienced past trauma that seems to be impacting your present? I'm here to lend a hand through collaboration and therapeutic modality's designed to address your needs, and help you get "Unstuck".
Email preferred. Virtual Only Starting September. Feeling stuck? Ready to make changes but are unsure where to start? Do you find yourself self-sabotaging before you reach your goals? Have you experienced past trauma that seems to be impacting your present? I'm here to lend a hand through collaboration and therapeutic modality's designed to address your needs, and help you get "Unstuck".
(425) 470-4185 View (425) 470-4185
Photo of Patrick A Gray, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Patrick A Gray
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
I offer individual and group services to people with different kinds of life circumstances, disabilities and goals. I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor & Certified Rehabilitation Counselor providing evidenced based mental health care and vocational counseling for adolescents and adults. I specialize working with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorders & have since 1996. I enjoy working with individuals facing difficult life circumstances, challenging adjustments, and reconciling past issues. My specialties include working with people with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Learning Disabilities and ADD/ ADHD.
I offer individual and group services to people with different kinds of life circumstances, disabilities and goals. I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor & Certified Rehabilitation Counselor providing evidenced based mental health care and vocational counseling for adolescents and adults. I specialize working with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorders & have since 1996. I enjoy working with individuals facing difficult life circumstances, challenging adjustments, and reconciling past issues. My specialties include working with people with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Learning Disabilities and ADD/ ADHD.
(425) 728-7416 View (425) 728-7416

Online Therapists

Photo of Jamila Coleman, MA, CC, HT, MHP, CMHS, Counselor
Jamila Coleman
Counselor, MA, CC, HT, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057
Through a trauma-sensitive and culturally responsive lens, I utilize a combination of the following approaches: feminist, womanist, hypnotherapy, narrative, poetry, and restorative yoga therapies into my practice.
For over 15 years, I have been a practicing mental health professional and professional coach with a specialization in social justice counseling, hypnotherapy and expressive arts therapy, specifically narrative, poetry and restorative yoga. I received my master’s degree in Social Justice Counseling from Antioch University, yoga teacher training certifications from My Vinyasa Practice, LLC and American Sports and Fitness Association and I currently hold several Department of Health credentials in Washington State.
Through a trauma-sensitive and culturally responsive lens, I utilize a combination of the following approaches: feminist, womanist, hypnotherapy, narrative, poetry, and restorative yoga therapies into my practice.
For over 15 years, I have been a practicing mental health professional and professional coach with a specialization in social justice counseling, hypnotherapy and expressive arts therapy, specifically narrative, poetry and restorative yoga. I received my master’s degree in Social Justice Counseling from Antioch University, yoga teacher training certifications from My Vinyasa Practice, LLC and American Sports and Fitness Association and I currently hold several Department of Health credentials in Washington State.
(253) 316-8621 View (253) 316-8621
Photo of Brenda Ruttenberg, PhD, Psychologist
Brenda Ruttenberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Snohomish, WA 98290
Use of hypnotherapy, visualization, and art therapy, in addition to, Interpersonal, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Transpersonal and Humanistic techniques.
My clients seek counseling, guidance, support and new skills to resolve issues. We work together to explore personal and family relationships which can include work-related problems and trauma. A deeper understanding results. We work on improving communication skills, perspectives and attitudes. With therapy, self confidence and depressive states show improvement. I specialize in the treatment of depression and mood disorders, anxiety, panic, trauma, PTSD, and chronic health issues in a safe and comfortable environment. I work mainly with adults of all ages and orientations.
Use of hypnotherapy, visualization, and art therapy, in addition to, Interpersonal, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Transpersonal and Humanistic techniques.
My clients seek counseling, guidance, support and new skills to resolve issues. We work together to explore personal and family relationships which can include work-related problems and trauma. A deeper understanding results. We work on improving communication skills, perspectives and attitudes. With therapy, self confidence and depressive states show improvement. I specialize in the treatment of depression and mood disorders, anxiety, panic, trauma, PTSD, and chronic health issues in a safe and comfortable environment. I work mainly with adults of all ages and orientations.
(206) 745-0939 View (206) 745-0939
Photo of James Rose - James Rose Hypnotherapy & Executive Coaching, MS, MBPsS, MNCH, FHEQ
James Rose Hypnotherapy & Executive Coaching
MS, MBPsS, MNCH, FHEQ
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
As an award-winning therapist with a Master’s in Psychology from the University of London, I use a powerful blend of Cognitive Hypnotherapy & Executive Coaching to help you overcome stress, anxiety, and more.
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, or burnout, or facing challenges like insomnia, addiction, or phobias? Whether you're a high-achieving professional feeling overwhelmed by career pressures or someone seeking relief from personal struggles, you want effective, evidence-based solutions. If traditional methods haven’t worked, you’re looking for a tailored approach that helps you regain control and achieve lasting well-being.
As an award-winning therapist with a Master’s in Psychology from the University of London, I use a powerful blend of Cognitive Hypnotherapy & Executive Coaching to help you overcome stress, anxiety, and more.
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, or burnout, or facing challenges like insomnia, addiction, or phobias? Whether you're a high-achieving professional feeling overwhelmed by career pressures or someone seeking relief from personal struggles, you want effective, evidence-based solutions. If traditional methods haven’t worked, you’re looking for a tailored approach that helps you regain control and achieve lasting well-being.
(253) 331-2365 View (253) 331-2365
Photo of Cassie Salewske, MA, LMHC, ACHt, Counselor
Cassie Salewske
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ACHt
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bremerton, WA 98310
Doing deep personal work (be it through therapy, coaching, or hypnotherapy) is a journey of recovery and discovery.
As a transpersonal therapist and coach, the bulk of my work is holistic in nature. This means that we are working with your whole being (light and shadow, seen and unseen, conscious and unconscious, mind and soul) with the intention of healing old wounds and patterns—personally, ancestrally, collectively.
Doing deep personal work (be it through therapy, coaching, or hypnotherapy) is a journey of recovery and discovery.
As a transpersonal therapist and coach, the bulk of my work is holistic in nature. This means that we are working with your whole being (light and shadow, seen and unseen, conscious and unconscious, mind and soul) with the intention of healing old wounds and patterns—personally, ancestrally, collectively.
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See more therapy options for Marysville

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.