Hypnotherapists in Delaware County, NY

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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in New York below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Milagros Sanchez-Nester, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware County, NY
Milagros Sanchez-Nester
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
Verified Verified
With over 35 years of practice, I provide psychotherapy and hypnotherapy to individual in adolescence, adulthood and couples.
Worries, fears and stress can be very disruptive to our lives. Developing an understanding of why we feel so vulnerable and developing better coping strategies can be the product of psychotherapy. It takes courage to confront our stressors. With the proper guidance we can master these challenges and have a more enriching life. One mode of treatment is psychodynamic psychotherapy. Hypnotherapy fosters a deep meditative state allowing client to access inner resources to facilitate change. I am also a trained Couples Therapist with clients at various stages of adjustment or imbalance.
With over 35 years of practice, I provide psychotherapy and hypnotherapy to individual in adolescence, adulthood and couples.
Worries, fears and stress can be very disruptive to our lives. Developing an understanding of why we feel so vulnerable and developing better coping strategies can be the product of psychotherapy. It takes courage to confront our stressors. With the proper guidance we can master these challenges and have a more enriching life. One mode of treatment is psychodynamic psychotherapy. Hypnotherapy fosters a deep meditative state allowing client to access inner resources to facilitate change. I am also a trained Couples Therapist with clients at various stages of adjustment or imbalance.
(914) 221-1336 View (914) 221-1336
Photo of Nicki Huebbe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware County, NY
Nicki Huebbe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Brewster, NY 10509
I have post-masters training in family therapy and hypnotherapy.
My style is active and collaborative, warm and respectful. These factors consistently combine to help clients clarify their goals and supports them in the process of making these goals a reality. I have experience with children, adults, and families in a variety of settings. These settings include private practice, community mental health, school-based special education, home-based early intervention, and advocacy.
I have post-masters training in family therapy and hypnotherapy.
My style is active and collaborative, warm and respectful. These factors consistently combine to help clients clarify their goals and supports them in the process of making these goals a reality. I have experience with children, adults, and families in a variety of settings. These settings include private practice, community mental health, school-based special education, home-based early intervention, and advocacy.
(845) 481-2202 View (845) 481-2202
Photo of Patricia Quinn, Art Therapist in Delaware County, NY
Patricia Quinn
Art Therapist, MS, LCAT, ATR-BC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Warwick, NY 10990
The addition of hypnotherapy, or energetic healing with Reiki, if desired, helps the client access inner resources for self-calming, restoration and clarity.
Even when we have received the ideal nurturing, secure, validating childhood, which can help us to negotiate complexities and challenges we may face later in life, our inner resources can become depleted. The capacity to find joy and comfort may elude us. Rebalancing areas of outer life, and planning steps toward change may be in order. I make time to learn about the myriad ways that using art, energetic, somatic and stress reducing therapies can help each person who comes in, to restore their inner lives as well.
The addition of hypnotherapy, or energetic healing with Reiki, if desired, helps the client access inner resources for self-calming, restoration and clarity.
Even when we have received the ideal nurturing, secure, validating childhood, which can help us to negotiate complexities and challenges we may face later in life, our inner resources can become depleted. The capacity to find joy and comfort may elude us. Rebalancing areas of outer life, and planning steps toward change may be in order. I make time to learn about the myriad ways that using art, energetic, somatic and stress reducing therapies can help each person who comes in, to restore their inner lives as well.
(845) 262-2143 View (845) 262-2143
Photo of Diane L Nadler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware County, NY
Diane L Nadler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, BCD, MSW
Verified Verified
Hurley, NY 12443
I have trained in Psychotherapy, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, EMDR, Somatic Re-Integration of body-mind-emotions and Non-invasive Bi-lateral brain stimulation.
I am available for in person and remote therapy. The decision to enter Psychotherapy is a courageous one. When you have tried everything you can think of to feel better emotionally, but nothing quite works, it can be disheartening. Fortunately, that's where the help of a Psychotherapist can come in. With determination and commitment to the therapy process, it is never too late for anyone to change and live a happier more fulfilled life. For the past 33 years I have been in Private Practice working with clients (adults 18 and older) to do just that, change their lives. What makes me a unique psychotherapist is discussed below.
I have trained in Psychotherapy, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, EMDR, Somatic Re-Integration of body-mind-emotions and Non-invasive Bi-lateral brain stimulation.
I am available for in person and remote therapy. The decision to enter Psychotherapy is a courageous one. When you have tried everything you can think of to feel better emotionally, but nothing quite works, it can be disheartening. Fortunately, that's where the help of a Psychotherapist can come in. With determination and commitment to the therapy process, it is never too late for anyone to change and live a happier more fulfilled life. For the past 33 years I have been in Private Practice working with clients (adults 18 and older) to do just that, change their lives. What makes me a unique psychotherapist is discussed below.
(646) 807-4176 View (646) 807-4176
Photo of Tamie Lobel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware County, NY
Tamie Lobel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Those who struggle with anxiety, addictions, phobias and early trauma and who are open to the benefits of EMDR, hypnotherapy and also interested in exploring their past experience and its impact on current beliefs about themselves and the world around them. I help people break through personal and interpersonal roadblocks often based on a a lack of self acceptance the belief in their ability to change.
Those who struggle with anxiety, addictions, phobias and early trauma and who are open to the benefits of EMDR, hypnotherapy and also interested in exploring their past experience and its impact on current beliefs about themselves and the world around them. I help people break through personal and interpersonal roadblocks often based on a a lack of self acceptance the belief in their ability to change.
(914) 752-4968 View (914) 752-4968
Photo of Helen M. Crohn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware County, NY
Helen M. Crohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beacon, NY 12508  (Online Only)
My training in sex therapy, hypnotherapy, and specialty in working with couples are unique to my practice.
My practice is with couples and adult individuals. Some of the clients I work with have sexual concerns and/or relational problems. I have worked with all kinds of couples who have been together two weeks to fifty years including same sex and heterosexual couples. I am an active therapist and tailor interventions to your style. Each person is unique,and I don't believe that one size fits all. I also believe in the power of humor. And in the power of appreciation of ourselves, respect and acceptance of each other with all our human imperfections.. NOTE DURING THE VIRUS CRISIS, i CAN MEET WITH YOU BY VIDEO THROUGH ZOOM
My training in sex therapy, hypnotherapy, and specialty in working with couples are unique to my practice.
My practice is with couples and adult individuals. Some of the clients I work with have sexual concerns and/or relational problems. I have worked with all kinds of couples who have been together two weeks to fifty years including same sex and heterosexual couples. I am an active therapist and tailor interventions to your style. Each person is unique,and I don't believe that one size fits all. I also believe in the power of humor. And in the power of appreciation of ourselves, respect and acceptance of each other with all our human imperfections.. NOTE DURING THE VIRUS CRISIS, i CAN MEET WITH YOU BY VIDEO THROUGH ZOOM
(917) 983-1314 View (917) 983-1314
Photo of Psychological Consultation and Therapy Services, Psychologist in Delaware County, NY
Psychological Consultation and Therapy Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Millerton, NY 12546
As a clinical psychologist, I offer cognitive behavior therapy, hypnotherapy, stress management, and psychological testing.
I specialize in working with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression. They may be having health problems, causing anxiety and depressed feelings. In addition, many of my patients are experiencing chronic pain, and I have helped them cope with reductions in pain levels. I am now offering ADHD Evaluations for adolescents and adults. I offer In-Person (through December) and Virtual telehealth sessions. I provide testing in my office in Millerton, NY, or online. Biofeedback treatments will also be available.
As a clinical psychologist, I offer cognitive behavior therapy, hypnotherapy, stress management, and psychological testing.
I specialize in working with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression. They may be having health problems, causing anxiety and depressed feelings. In addition, many of my patients are experiencing chronic pain, and I have helped them cope with reductions in pain levels. I am now offering ADHD Evaluations for adolescents and adults. I offer In-Person (through December) and Virtual telehealth sessions. I provide testing in my office in Millerton, NY, or online. Biofeedback treatments will also be available.
(914) 559-9577 View (914) 559-9577
Photo of Nancy Lee Dunn, Licensed Master Social Worker in Delaware County, NY
Nancy Lee Dunn
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I primarily utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and ACT, and hypnotherapy.
After 27 years as a high school teacher, I followed my long-held interest and returned to school to become a licensed social worker (LMSW) and a substance abuse counselor (CASAC.) I work with clients who are suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, ADHD/ADD and I also work with couples. I primarily use CBT, ACT and DBT. Data shows that most people who experience substance use disorders also meet the criteria for a mental health disorder such as depression, anxiety, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (70-80%), or some form of trauma (50%.) Treating substance abuse means treating the whole person.
I primarily utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and ACT, and hypnotherapy.
After 27 years as a high school teacher, I followed my long-held interest and returned to school to become a licensed social worker (LMSW) and a substance abuse counselor (CASAC.) I work with clients who are suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, ADHD/ADD and I also work with couples. I primarily use CBT, ACT and DBT. Data shows that most people who experience substance use disorders also meet the criteria for a mental health disorder such as depression, anxiety, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (70-80%), or some form of trauma (50%.) Treating substance abuse means treating the whole person.
(518) 201-1128 View (518) 201-1128
Photo of Laurie Ciavardini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware County, NY
Laurie Ciavardini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bedford, NY 10506
I have a wealth of experience working with those struggling with addiction, codependency, mood disorder, anxiety, trauma and a multitude of life issues such as grief, coping with medical diagnosis, injury and illness, loss of career, and divorce. I am certified in Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, EAGALA, Animal-Assisted Therapy and Integrative Meridian Therapy. In addition, I am a Certified Clinical Military Counselor and have years of experience working with Veterans.
I have a wealth of experience working with those struggling with addiction, codependency, mood disorder, anxiety, trauma and a multitude of life issues such as grief, coping with medical diagnosis, injury and illness, loss of career, and divorce. I am certified in Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, EAGALA, Animal-Assisted Therapy and Integrative Meridian Therapy. In addition, I am a Certified Clinical Military Counselor and have years of experience working with Veterans.
(914) 895-5633 View (914) 895-5633
Photo of Christina Celmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware County, NY
Christina Celmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866  (Online Only)
Hypnotherapy and EMDR are effective therapies I offer to treat trauma.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for 40 years. Throughout all of my years in practice, I have been amazed by the resilience of the human spirit. I work with clients who have endured and survived traumatic histories or devastating losses, and are now presenting with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or Complex PTSD. Recovery from trauma is hard work, but with support, effective therapeutic tools, and the commitment to recover, I believe healing is possible.
Hypnotherapy and EMDR are effective therapies I offer to treat trauma.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for 40 years. Throughout all of my years in practice, I have been amazed by the resilience of the human spirit. I work with clients who have endured and survived traumatic histories or devastating losses, and are now presenting with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or Complex PTSD. Recovery from trauma is hard work, but with support, effective therapeutic tools, and the commitment to recover, I believe healing is possible.
(518) 901-2670 View (518) 901-2670
Photo of Aileen Blitz, Psychologist in Delaware County, NY
Aileen Blitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bedford Hills, NY 10507
Dr. Blitz is a licensed Clinical Psychologist working with adults in psychoanalytically oriented psychotherapy. Her practice is grounded in the principals of interpersonal/relational psychotherapy, object relations , early development and attachment theory. She utilizes clinical hypnotherapy to treat symptoms of anxiety. She works in a collaborative manner. She is currently working virtually and plans to see people virtually and in person, in Mount Kisco/ Bedford, NY in 7/2023. Her specialty is in medical psychology, depression and anxiety, divorce, infertility, family/ work issues and life transitions. She also works with couples.
Dr. Blitz is a licensed Clinical Psychologist working with adults in psychoanalytically oriented psychotherapy. Her practice is grounded in the principals of interpersonal/relational psychotherapy, object relations , early development and attachment theory. She utilizes clinical hypnotherapy to treat symptoms of anxiety. She works in a collaborative manner. She is currently working virtually and plans to see people virtually and in person, in Mount Kisco/ Bedford, NY in 7/2023. Her specialty is in medical psychology, depression and anxiety, divorce, infertility, family/ work issues and life transitions. She also works with couples.
(917) 831-4237 View (917) 831-4237
Photo of Stephanie Kristal in Delaware County, NY
Stephanie Kristal
MA, CHT
Verified Verified
Hurley, NY 12443
I work with Hypnotherapy as an adjunct modality - not as a stand alone treatment.
If you feel stuck, limited, habitually repeating unwanted behaviors; caught up in negative thoughts/feelings; have experienced trauma and its long lasting effects, I offer you a gentle, compassionate, safe space as well as tools and skills to grow, change and heal. If you are blocked or lacking in passion, I will help you develop resources and pathways to a more joyous and fulfilling life. My work with couples/families focuses on improving communication, connection, problem solving; growing conscious, loving relationships. If you are wanting to embrace/embody graceful aging, let's help you live your most joyful, vital life.
I work with Hypnotherapy as an adjunct modality - not as a stand alone treatment.
If you feel stuck, limited, habitually repeating unwanted behaviors; caught up in negative thoughts/feelings; have experienced trauma and its long lasting effects, I offer you a gentle, compassionate, safe space as well as tools and skills to grow, change and heal. If you are blocked or lacking in passion, I will help you develop resources and pathways to a more joyous and fulfilling life. My work with couples/families focuses on improving communication, connection, problem solving; growing conscious, loving relationships. If you are wanting to embrace/embody graceful aging, let's help you live your most joyful, vital life.
(845) 538-4385 View (845) 538-4385
Photo of Kelly Virkler, LMHC, NCC, Counselor in Delaware County, NY
Kelly Virkler, LMHC, NCC
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Hartford, NY 13413
I am well versed in individual psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma and crisis intervention, suicide awareness and prevention, clinical heart- centered hypnotherapy, and alternative wellness options.
My counseling style leans toward a person-centered, solution focused approach. This approach remains eclectic in nature as each individual brings unique issues to the table and should be treated with the type of therapy most beneficial to their recovery. Over the last 15 years, I have worked with individuals of all ages, with a multitude of reasons in which to seek therapeutic resolve.
I am well versed in individual psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma and crisis intervention, suicide awareness and prevention, clinical heart- centered hypnotherapy, and alternative wellness options.
My counseling style leans toward a person-centered, solution focused approach. This approach remains eclectic in nature as each individual brings unique issues to the table and should be treated with the type of therapy most beneficial to their recovery. Over the last 15 years, I have worked with individuals of all ages, with a multitude of reasons in which to seek therapeutic resolve.
(315) 915-2741 View (315) 915-2741
Photo of Ellyn Gamberg, Counselor in Delaware County, NY
Ellyn Gamberg
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, nbcch
Verified Verified
Carmel, NY 10512
My goal as an integrated heath care professional is to treat the whole body; so patients can experience changes in sensation, perception, thought or behavior corresponding to his or their mental or physical health needs. My success in treating chronic illness is founded in the idea that all therapeutic relationships are a partnership of patient and clinician in restoring the body to health. The use of Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy can address a variety of physical and mental health issues in a shorter time; with longer lasting effects.
My goal as an integrated heath care professional is to treat the whole body; so patients can experience changes in sensation, perception, thought or behavior corresponding to his or their mental or physical health needs. My success in treating chronic illness is founded in the idea that all therapeutic relationships are a partnership of patient and clinician in restoring the body to health. The use of Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy can address a variety of physical and mental health issues in a shorter time; with longer lasting effects.
(646) 663-4639 View (646) 663-4639
Photo of Lawrence T Force, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware County, NY
Lawrence T Force
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-R, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Chappaqua, NY 10514
With the combined use of traditional therapeutic intervention, guided imagery, relaxation techniques and Clinical Hypnotherapy - I have seen great results with the use of short-term based work.
My clinical training is in the area of Cognitive-Behaviorism & Task-Centered Therapy; I practice short-term Dimensional Solution-Based Therapy (DSBT). I am of the belief that DSBT psychotherapy is one of the most effective tools for change - as long as you are willing to make a change. The idea & responsibility for change can be overpowering. I see my role, as a Psychotherapist and Clinical Hypnotherapist, as a way to help you identify patterns in your life that you want to modify - act on...and act on them now. (Now working with a extended network of: Life Coaches, Energy Healers, Reiki & Yoga Masters & Recovery Coaches).
With the combined use of traditional therapeutic intervention, guided imagery, relaxation techniques and Clinical Hypnotherapy - I have seen great results with the use of short-term based work.
My clinical training is in the area of Cognitive-Behaviorism & Task-Centered Therapy; I practice short-term Dimensional Solution-Based Therapy (DSBT). I am of the belief that DSBT psychotherapy is one of the most effective tools for change - as long as you are willing to make a change. The idea & responsibility for change can be overpowering. I see my role, as a Psychotherapist and Clinical Hypnotherapist, as a way to help you identify patterns in your life that you want to modify - act on...and act on them now. (Now working with a extended network of: Life Coaches, Energy Healers, Reiki & Yoga Masters & Recovery Coaches).
(845) 539-0318 View (845) 539-0318
Photo of Kristen Harrington, Marriage & Family Therapist in Delaware County, NY
Kristen Harrington
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AIBT
Verified Verified
Kingston, NY 12401
I use psychotherapy and hypnotherapy to improve thinking and emotions.
People who want to think better, feel better and love themselves and others better find my help invaluable.
I use psychotherapy and hypnotherapy to improve thinking and emotions.
People who want to think better, feel better and love themselves and others better find my help invaluable.
(845) 377-0602 View (845) 377-0602
Photo of CNY True North Mental Health Counseling, PLLC in Delaware County, NY
CNY True North Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
LMHC, CCTP, ATR
Verified Verified
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York and a graduate of Eastern Virginia Medical School. I have over 18 years of experience of helping people heal emotional wounds. I specialize in trauma related issues and abuse, depression and anxiety. I am EMDR certified, a certified trauma professional and a register art therapist. I have an experience in traditional talk therapy, but also have qualifications in hypnotherapy, and equine assisted therapy (psychotherapy with horses).
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York and a graduate of Eastern Virginia Medical School. I have over 18 years of experience of helping people heal emotional wounds. I specialize in trauma related issues and abuse, depression and anxiety. I am EMDR certified, a certified trauma professional and a register art therapist. I have an experience in traditional talk therapy, but also have qualifications in hypnotherapy, and equine assisted therapy (psychotherapy with horses).
(315) 509-8380 View (315) 509-8380
Photo of Joel F. Jaro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware County, NY
Joel F. Jaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Irvington, NY 10533
My training includes Psychoanalysis, Cognitive Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Hypnotherapy.
Are you in emotional distress and feeling alone with these feelings? I specialize in forging close, interactive relationships with my clients to help you ease your suffering and begin taking the necessary steps in achieving personal fulfillment and to begin the process of eliminating DIS-EASE... It is my belief that although it is important to develop insight in to your areas of stress and conflict; I feel that thoughts that don't lead to action steps are at the end of the day, hollow. * Please note that my extensive training in teletherapy and video will be directly applied to people who have worries related to Covid-19.
My training includes Psychoanalysis, Cognitive Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Hypnotherapy.
Are you in emotional distress and feeling alone with these feelings? I specialize in forging close, interactive relationships with my clients to help you ease your suffering and begin taking the necessary steps in achieving personal fulfillment and to begin the process of eliminating DIS-EASE... It is my belief that although it is important to develop insight in to your areas of stress and conflict; I feel that thoughts that don't lead to action steps are at the end of the day, hollow. * Please note that my extensive training in teletherapy and video will be directly applied to people who have worries related to Covid-19.
(917) 746-0395 View (917) 746-0395
Photo of O Zotique in Delaware County, NY
O Zotique
EdM, IAYT, RYT
Verified Verified
Hudson, NY 12534  (Online Only)
As a PhD candidate & multidimensional life coach, my specialities include hypnotherapy, yogatherapy, dream analysis, and neurolinguistic programming.
I believe in the inherent well being of all of my patients and clients. I am looking forward to connecting with clients on this platform who are ready to explore possibilities, transversing across gender, sexual orientation, and all other identity markers (Sanskrit term: samskaras) which encompass our internal mapping of experience. I am passionate about witnessing my clients step forward into deeper and more expansive embodiment and joy on a daily basis. My clients are dedicated to their own curiosity and unfoldment. My clients will be able to access deep healing on multiple levels as well as vital life coaching through this portal
As a PhD candidate & multidimensional life coach, my specialities include hypnotherapy, yogatherapy, dream analysis, and neurolinguistic programming.
I believe in the inherent well being of all of my patients and clients. I am looking forward to connecting with clients on this platform who are ready to explore possibilities, transversing across gender, sexual orientation, and all other identity markers (Sanskrit term: samskaras) which encompass our internal mapping of experience. I am passionate about witnessing my clients step forward into deeper and more expansive embodiment and joy on a daily basis. My clients are dedicated to their own curiosity and unfoldment. My clients will be able to access deep healing on multiple levels as well as vital life coaching through this portal
(646) 504-4093 View (646) 504-4093
Photo of Michael N Rosenbaum in Delaware County, NY
Michael N Rosenbaum
ACHT, MP, OM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Kisco, NY 10549
Using tools like hypnotherapy, regression therapy, and guided meditation, I can help you break free from destructive patterns holding you back.
You wake up in the morning, and here we go again. The stress usually begins before you even open your eyes. An endless stream of worries races through your mind at dizzying speeds. your stomach is probably churning. Hey, what happened to my confidence? No matter how well you’ve planned, or what you've accomplished in the past, the constant negative self-talk seems to never let up. You’ve tried finding a solution on your own, but the self-help books, yoga, and positive affirmations are never really lasting. So you think, maybe there is something inherently wrong with me. I guess I'll never find peace. It can feel hopeless.
Using tools like hypnotherapy, regression therapy, and guided meditation, I can help you break free from destructive patterns holding you back.
You wake up in the morning, and here we go again. The stress usually begins before you even open your eyes. An endless stream of worries races through your mind at dizzying speeds. your stomach is probably churning. Hey, what happened to my confidence? No matter how well you’ve planned, or what you've accomplished in the past, the constant negative self-talk seems to never let up. You’ve tried finding a solution on your own, but the self-help books, yoga, and positive affirmations are never really lasting. So you think, maybe there is something inherently wrong with me. I guess I'll never find peace. It can feel hopeless.
(914) 281-2734 View (914) 281-2734

See more therapy options for Delaware County

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.