Hypnotherapists in Mercer Island, WA

Photo of Megan Sherer, CCH, RTTP
Megan Sherer
CCH, RTTP
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040  (Online Only)
My mission is to help women connect to the most authentic expression of love in their lives in order to have more self-confidence, healthier relationships, and a stronger sense of purpose. My clients want to have a better relationship with themselves, as well as to attract and experience healthy romantic love, and to break any patterns, beliefs or habits that are standing in the way of that. As a Holistic Therapist who specializes in love, relationships/breakups, self-worth and personal health, my goal is to help you get there.
My mission is to help women connect to the most authentic expression of love in their lives in order to have more self-confidence, healthier relationships, and a stronger sense of purpose. My clients want to have a better relationship with themselves, as well as to attract and experience healthy romantic love, and to break any patterns, beliefs or habits that are standing in the way of that. As a Holistic Therapist who specializes in love, relationships/breakups, self-worth and personal health, my goal is to help you get there.
(206) 466-0370 View (206) 466-0370
Photo of Kelsey Staub, LCMHC, CH
Kelsey Staub
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, CH
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040  (Online Only)
As a licensed therapist and hypnotherapist, I have a wide range of experience with varying ages that include depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, self-worth/esteem, negative habits, relationship/family issues, ADHD, sexuality, and intellectual/developmental differences. I provide a welcoming space for processing what arises in therapy, manage and regulate challenging feelings in a healthily, develop effective coping skills, re program thought/behavior patterns, heal unresolved emotions, and create a plan for life improvement. Unconditional positive regard, warmth, and acceptance are key elements to our therapeutic work
As a licensed therapist and hypnotherapist, I have a wide range of experience with varying ages that include depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, self-worth/esteem, negative habits, relationship/family issues, ADHD, sexuality, and intellectual/developmental differences. I provide a welcoming space for processing what arises in therapy, manage and regulate challenging feelings in a healthily, develop effective coping skills, re program thought/behavior patterns, heal unresolved emotions, and create a plan for life improvement. Unconditional positive regard, warmth, and acceptance are key elements to our therapeutic work
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Photo of Joseph S Weiss, PhD, Psychologist
Joseph S Weiss
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040  (Online Only)
Do you have repetitive thoughts, worry or overthink things and can't perform as well as you could? Do you want to enhance your success socially or at work, on tests, public speaking or at sports? You can achieve your goals by learning the skills that Olympic athletes use to be calmer and more focused. You can be coached to be more consistently relaxed, and to more effectively handle stress. Call me to identify how you can be helped effectively and more rapidly. I have integrated Western & Eastern methods that complement and enhance the speed and quality of your results.
Do you have repetitive thoughts, worry or overthink things and can't perform as well as you could? Do you want to enhance your success socially or at work, on tests, public speaking or at sports? You can achieve your goals by learning the skills that Olympic athletes use to be calmer and more focused. You can be coached to be more consistently relaxed, and to more effectively handle stress. Call me to identify how you can be helped effectively and more rapidly. I have integrated Western & Eastern methods that complement and enhance the speed and quality of your results.
(206) 745-4933 View (206) 745-4933
Photo of Ian L Weiner - Ian L Weiner M.A. L.M.H.C., MA, LMHC, Counselor
Ian L Weiner M.A. L.M.H.C.
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040
I embrace a solution focused cognitive behavioral approach to treatment within a humanistic framework. I help clients understand how underlying thoughts and belief systems impact behavior and trigger emotion. The outcome of healthy and integrated thinking opens up the opportunity for clients to grow and discover new modes of thinking and feeling. The result of which allows for a more meaningful and healthier way of living and relating to one's self and to the world.
I embrace a solution focused cognitive behavioral approach to treatment within a humanistic framework. I help clients understand how underlying thoughts and belief systems impact behavior and trigger emotion. The outcome of healthy and integrated thinking opens up the opportunity for clients to grow and discover new modes of thinking and feeling. The result of which allows for a more meaningful and healthier way of living and relating to one's self and to the world.
(425) 979-2156 View (425) 979-2156
Photo of Benjamin Rhodes, MA, LMHC, MHP, BCPC, DAPA, Counselor
Benjamin Rhodes
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP, BCPC, DAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist,Board Certified Professional Counselor, Diplomate of the American Psychotherapy Association and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington I'm committed to grounding my work in a spirit of curiosity and collaboration. .I use an integrative/relational approach in therapy. I actively help my clients to better understand and gain clarity of their concerns in order to make necessary changes to facilitate personal growth. Psychotherapy can improve the quality and intimacy of your relationships, provide solutions to specific life problems, and significantly reduce feelings of distress.
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist,Board Certified Professional Counselor, Diplomate of the American Psychotherapy Association and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington I'm committed to grounding my work in a spirit of curiosity and collaboration. .I use an integrative/relational approach in therapy. I actively help my clients to better understand and gain clarity of their concerns in order to make necessary changes to facilitate personal growth. Psychotherapy can improve the quality and intimacy of your relationships, provide solutions to specific life problems, and significantly reduce feelings of distress.
(206) 429-4741 View (206) 429-4741
Photo of Kathy Sarin: Emdr-Hypnosis Intensives Available, EdS, LMHC, Counselor
Kathy Sarin: Emdr-Hypnosis Intensives Available
Counselor, EdS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040
Are you tired of feeling upset? Do you find yourself overreacting to situations? Have you tried talk therapy that didn't quite work? You're not alone. Traditional talk therapy often focuses on the mind, but what if the problem goes deeper? These experiences can get "stuck" in our bodies, leading to automatic reactions that hold us back. Many of our beliefs and emotional responses are formed early on, when we are too young to fully understand what is happening. EMDR addresses the body, emotions, and stored past experiences. I'll help you rewrite negative beliefs, process your past, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Are you tired of feeling upset? Do you find yourself overreacting to situations? Have you tried talk therapy that didn't quite work? You're not alone. Traditional talk therapy often focuses on the mind, but what if the problem goes deeper? These experiences can get "stuck" in our bodies, leading to automatic reactions that hold us back. Many of our beliefs and emotional responses are formed early on, when we are too young to fully understand what is happening. EMDR addresses the body, emotions, and stored past experiences. I'll help you rewrite negative beliefs, process your past, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
(425) 357-7099 View (425) 357-7099

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melinda Stone, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Melinda Stone
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I have trained in the use of hypnotherapy, which can be tremendously useful if you are experiencing intrusive traumatic memories, chronic pain, phobias, or if you are hoping to change habits, particularly around losing weight and increasing motivation to exercise and eat a healthier diet.
Good therapy is a gift that you give yourself: a gift of understanding, compassion, and clarity. It can lead to better relationships and the ability to enjoy what is good in life, even when bad things happen. The saying, "What is shareable is bearable," forms the backbone of my philosophy. Being able to talk about what is troubling you can help you deal with stress and relationships. I help individuals process the issues causing them stress and I help couples get to the heart of their issues.
I have trained in the use of hypnotherapy, which can be tremendously useful if you are experiencing intrusive traumatic memories, chronic pain, phobias, or if you are hoping to change habits, particularly around losing weight and increasing motivation to exercise and eat a healthier diet.
Good therapy is a gift that you give yourself: a gift of understanding, compassion, and clarity. It can lead to better relationships and the ability to enjoy what is good in life, even when bad things happen. The saying, "What is shareable is bearable," forms the backbone of my philosophy. Being able to talk about what is troubling you can help you deal with stress and relationships. I help individuals process the issues causing them stress and I help couples get to the heart of their issues.
(206) 745-5807 View (206) 745-5807
Photo of Drue Larson, MA-ABS, CC, ACHt, Counselor
Drue Larson
Counselor, MA-ABS, CC, ACHt
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Take your next step. Experience what Counseling and Hypnotherapy can do for you. Life often demands more than we are able to handle on our own. Although we do our best, we may reach a point where we feel emotionally overwhelmed, spiritually adrift; stuck in the past, afraid of the future; unable to resolve our issues or move forward in life. If this sounds familiar, recognizing this is the first step. Reaching out for help starts your journey toward healing and creating the life you desire.
Take your next step. Experience what Counseling and Hypnotherapy can do for you. Life often demands more than we are able to handle on our own. Although we do our best, we may reach a point where we feel emotionally overwhelmed, spiritually adrift; stuck in the past, afraid of the future; unable to resolve our issues or move forward in life. If this sounds familiar, recognizing this is the first step. Reaching out for help starts your journey toward healing and creating the life you desire.
(425) 406-3843 View (425) 406-3843
Photo of Dr. Ivy Loney, DBH, LSWAIC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Ivy Loney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LSWAIC, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I'm a therapist who believes healing goes beyond just talking about your struggles. I offer a unique approach that integrates mind, body, and experience to help you move through life's transitions and create lasting change. I'm trained in Somatic Experiencing (SE), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), CBT, Mindfulness, Meditation, Hypnotherapy and Sound Therapy. These powerful tools help us access and release the physical sensations and emotions held within the body, making space for safety and nervous system regulation. Laughter is great medicine and I offer compassion and levity to work through dense challenges.
I'm a therapist who believes healing goes beyond just talking about your struggles. I offer a unique approach that integrates mind, body, and experience to help you move through life's transitions and create lasting change. I'm trained in Somatic Experiencing (SE), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), CBT, Mindfulness, Meditation, Hypnotherapy and Sound Therapy. These powerful tools help us access and release the physical sensations and emotions held within the body, making space for safety and nervous system regulation. Laughter is great medicine and I offer compassion and levity to work through dense challenges.
(425) 640-7009 x1 View (425) 640-7009 x1
Photo of Laura Rude' - HealthWise Hypnosis, CCHT
HealthWise Hypnosis
CCHT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006  (Online Only)
*Private, 1-1 Online Hypnotherapy* Through a process of self-discovery using hypnosis, I help my clients find what might be standing in their way or holding them back. With clinical hypnosis techniques, I help clients make positive changes and remove blocks as well as change limiting beliefs and perceptions that are keeping them from moving forward and living a life full of peace, happiness and success. I am deeply passionate about helping people discover their own powers for change.
*Private, 1-1 Online Hypnotherapy* Through a process of self-discovery using hypnosis, I help my clients find what might be standing in their way or holding them back. With clinical hypnosis techniques, I help clients make positive changes and remove blocks as well as change limiting beliefs and perceptions that are keeping them from moving forward and living a life full of peace, happiness and success. I am deeply passionate about helping people discover their own powers for change.
(425) 642-1189 View (425) 642-1189
Photo of Rebecca A Housel - Stellium Integrative Wellness, MA, PhD
Stellium Integrative Wellness
MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
Stellium Integrative Wellness is compassion-based & uses tools like positive psychology, meditation & hypnotherapy techniques to build confidence & resiliency. Clients include Millennials 20-45, Gen Xers 45-55, & Baby Boomers 56-74 dealing with relationships, career, concerns surrounding parenting, health issues/chronic illness (cancer, diabetes, thyroid disorders, COVID-19), LGBTQIA, disability, & grief from loss (job, parent/family member/friend, partner, child, home, bankruptcy, divorce/separation). Areas of expertise include life coaching, hypnosis, love-relationships/dating, & confidence/self-esteem building.
Stellium Integrative Wellness is compassion-based & uses tools like positive psychology, meditation & hypnotherapy techniques to build confidence & resiliency. Clients include Millennials 20-45, Gen Xers 45-55, & Baby Boomers 56-74 dealing with relationships, career, concerns surrounding parenting, health issues/chronic illness (cancer, diabetes, thyroid disorders, COVID-19), LGBTQIA, disability, & grief from loss (job, parent/family member/friend, partner, child, home, bankruptcy, divorce/separation). Areas of expertise include life coaching, hypnosis, love-relationships/dating, & confidence/self-esteem building.
(503) 461-7881 View (503) 461-7881
Photo of Tracy Barrett Adams, CHT
Tracy Barrett Adams
CHT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
Why hypnotherapy? Because it is solution oriented, not problem oriented.
Hypnosis creates a natural bridge between mind and body, and it's a proven method for relieving pain, improving sleep, releasing anxiety, and replacing self-sabotage with new choices. Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention creating a heightened openness and awareness. This state allows the mind to gently access deep creative resources, and in clinical hypnosis, we can then apply these resources to your goals for change.
Why hypnotherapy? Because it is solution oriented, not problem oriented.
Hypnosis creates a natural bridge between mind and body, and it's a proven method for relieving pain, improving sleep, releasing anxiety, and replacing self-sabotage with new choices. Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention creating a heightened openness and awareness. This state allows the mind to gently access deep creative resources, and in clinical hypnosis, we can then apply these resources to your goals for change.
(206) 800-7535 View (206) 800-7535
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 98104
What is Cognitive Hypnotherapy? This evidence-based approach combines the power of hypnosis with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to create impactful and lasting change.
I'm an award winning licensed therapist, cognitive hypnotherapist, & executive coach from the UK, now bringing my expertise to the USA. With a Master of Science in Psychology from University of London and membership in the British Psychological Society, my training is further enhanced by Cognitive Hypnotherapy from the renowned Quest Institute at Regents College London. Over 15 years, I've helped clients manage stress & anxiety, recover from addiction, overcome sleep disorders, and navigate burnout, relationship issues, and phobias. Awarded 'Corporate Therapy Specialist of the Year' by UK Healthcare & Pharmaceutical Awards in 2021.
What is Cognitive Hypnotherapy? This evidence-based approach combines the power of hypnosis with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to create impactful and lasting change.
I'm an award winning licensed therapist, cognitive hypnotherapist, & executive coach from the UK, now bringing my expertise to the USA. With a Master of Science in Psychology from University of London and membership in the British Psychological Society, my training is further enhanced by Cognitive Hypnotherapy from the renowned Quest Institute at Regents College London. Over 15 years, I've helped clients manage stress & anxiety, recover from addiction, overcome sleep disorders, and navigate burnout, relationship issues, and phobias. Awarded 'Corporate Therapy Specialist of the Year' by UK Healthcare & Pharmaceutical Awards in 2021.
(253) 331-2365 View (253) 331-2365
Photo of Jeffrey Tipp, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeffrey Tipp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
I am certified in EMDR and Clinical Hypnotherapy and was trained directly by Michael White, the developer of Narrative Therapy.
My therapy practice is client centered, so I place full attention on precisely what you hope for , what you dream of, and what gets in the way. I tailor our work to achieve meaningful change that will endure, regardless of outer circumstances.I combine Zen awareness training and cutting edge modalities that are innovative yet accessible and invite the inner courage of my clients.I recognize and honor the native wisdom of clients regarding their own lives. Clients report they experience the beginnings of change almost immediately. Over half of my clients work with me via Skype video conferencing.
I am certified in EMDR and Clinical Hypnotherapy and was trained directly by Michael White, the developer of Narrative Therapy.
My therapy practice is client centered, so I place full attention on precisely what you hope for , what you dream of, and what gets in the way. I tailor our work to achieve meaningful change that will endure, regardless of outer circumstances.I combine Zen awareness training and cutting edge modalities that are innovative yet accessible and invite the inner courage of my clients.I recognize and honor the native wisdom of clients regarding their own lives. Clients report they experience the beginnings of change almost immediately. Over half of my clients work with me via Skype video conferencing.
(206) 651-4972 View (206) 651-4972
Photo of Vicki Keough, CHT, BHS
Vicki Keough
CHT, BHS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
Incorporating hypnotherapy and NLP into the counseling process allows Vicki's patients to fully integrate change using both parts of their brain.
Vicki Keough, Behavioral Health Specialist, develops strategies and tools for each patient to address their presenting concerns. Collaborating together we explore new approaches to create positive sustainable change. Incorporating the subconscious mind through the use of hypnotherapy allows issues to be addressed at their root. Vicki studies the thoughts and triggers that create undesirable patterns and consequences in your life. To address these patterns she combines neuro linguistic programming, therapeutic hypnotherapy and coaching developing a counseling relationship that fits your needs and supports you in actualizing your goals. To learn more about Vicki and how she can help you visit vickikeough.com
Incorporating hypnotherapy and NLP into the counseling process allows Vicki's patients to fully integrate change using both parts of their brain.
Vicki Keough, Behavioral Health Specialist, develops strategies and tools for each patient to address their presenting concerns. Collaborating together we explore new approaches to create positive sustainable change. Incorporating the subconscious mind through the use of hypnotherapy allows issues to be addressed at their root. Vicki studies the thoughts and triggers that create undesirable patterns and consequences in your life. To address these patterns she combines neuro linguistic programming, therapeutic hypnotherapy and coaching developing a counseling relationship that fits your needs and supports you in actualizing your goals. To learn more about Vicki and how she can help you visit vickikeough.com
(206) 866-6227 View (206) 866-6227
Photo of Jamila Coleman, MA, CC, HT, MHP, CMHS, Counselor
Jamila Coleman
Counselor, MA, CC, HT, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057
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.
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 Marian Gonzales, MA LMHC, Counselor
Marian Gonzales
Counselor, MA LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
To this I bring additional training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Polyvagal Theory and Practice; Clinical Hypnotherapy; Sensory Processing Disorder/Sensitivity; Play Therapy; Positive Behavior Interventions and Support; ARC.
My practice is client centered, child centered and family centered. My goal is to partner with you in your journey towards healing and empowerment. Every healing journey is unique. Each of us is tasked with being the champion of our own quest for wholeness. I believe that we are all hardwired for healing and becoming ourselves; that this is a natural process working through us and supported by nature. I am committed to partner with you, walk alongside you and support you on your way. I will need your guidance and participation to do my part.
To this I bring additional training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Polyvagal Theory and Practice; Clinical Hypnotherapy; Sensory Processing Disorder/Sensitivity; Play Therapy; Positive Behavior Interventions and Support; ARC.
My practice is client centered, child centered and family centered. My goal is to partner with you in your journey towards healing and empowerment. Every healing journey is unique. Each of us is tasked with being the champion of our own quest for wholeness. I believe that we are all hardwired for healing and becoming ourselves; that this is a natural process working through us and supported by nature. I am committed to partner with you, walk alongside you and support you on your way. I will need your guidance and participation to do my part.
(360) 525-2975 View (360) 525-2975
Photo of Katerina Lamola - Harmony Hypnotherapy and Counseling, LICSW, ACHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Harmony Hypnotherapy and Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACHT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Waitlist for new clients
I use a combination of psychodynamic therapy, psychedelic-assisted therapy and hypnotherapy to create a deeply healing experience.
Accepting New Clients for Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy. Whether your goal is to achieve greater self awareness, build stronger personal relationships, heal past wounds, or just feel better about yourself, a therapeutic relationship can help meet that goal. I would like to join you on your journey of self discovery as an advocate and guide. My particular approach is help you discover your own natural resources by tapping into your subconscious to uncover blockages to healing and actualizing your fullest potential thru hypnotherapy, psychedelics - ketamine.
I use a combination of psychodynamic therapy, psychedelic-assisted therapy and hypnotherapy to create a deeply healing experience.
Accepting New Clients for Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy. Whether your goal is to achieve greater self awareness, build stronger personal relationships, heal past wounds, or just feel better about yourself, a therapeutic relationship can help meet that goal. I would like to join you on your journey of self discovery as an advocate and guide. My particular approach is help you discover your own natural resources by tapping into your subconscious to uncover blockages to healing and actualizing your fullest potential thru hypnotherapy, psychedelics - ketamine.
(206) 693-4339 View (206) 693-4339
Photo of Katharine Fitzpatrick - Dr. Katharine Fitzpatrick, ND
Dr. Katharine Fitzpatrick
ND
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Clinical hypnotherapy is a powerful treatment strategy with broad applications. Hypnosis engages with the subconscious mind by offering new ideas and new stories to help shift unhelpful or harmful patterns of behavior. Hypnosis can be used to treat a variety of clinical conditions (e.g. insomnia, jaw clenching), phobias (dogs, flying), and even addiction.
Clinical hypnotherapy is a powerful treatment strategy with broad applications. Hypnosis engages with the subconscious mind by offering new ideas and new stories to help shift unhelpful or harmful patterns of behavior. Hypnosis can be used to treat a variety of clinical conditions (e.g. insomnia, jaw clenching), phobias (dogs, flying), and even addiction.
(206) 800-7547 View (206) 800-7547
Photo of Janet Douglas, LICSW, ACHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027  (Online Only)
I use counselling, hypnotherapy and mindfulness techniques to help heal your past and coaching techniques to help improve your future.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or a past that's holding you back? I can help. Are you wanting to make a change, and are feeling stuck, or out of control? Are you ready to heal yourself from within? I can help! Counselling and hypnotherapy allow you to get to the source of negative beliefs and patterns so that you can heal from old wounds. You are better able to see how these patterns may have carried forward and left you feeling stuck in your current situation. Through this healing, you can release what no longer serves you and become who we truly want to be.
I use counselling, hypnotherapy and mindfulness techniques to help heal your past and coaching techniques to help improve your future.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or a past that's holding you back? I can help. Are you wanting to make a change, and are feeling stuck, or out of control? Are you ready to heal yourself from within? I can help! Counselling and hypnotherapy allow you to get to the source of negative beliefs and patterns so that you can heal from old wounds. You are better able to see how these patterns may have carried forward and left you feeling stuck in your current situation. Through this healing, you can release what no longer serves you and become who we truly want to be.
(425) 292-5064 View (425) 292-5064

See more therapy options for Mercer Island

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.