Hypnotherapists in Amherst, MA

Photo of Activated By Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amherst, MA
Activated By Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01004  (Online Only)
There are times in our life where we reach a point when we realize something may not be manageable anymore or has gotten bigger than we expected but you are here and you are taking the steps to implement change. Coming into a therapy session provides a safe space to explore this and challenge yourself to identify what is going on and how we can work together to accomplish that. We serve clients 16 years old and up.
There are times in our life where we reach a point when we realize something may not be manageable anymore or has gotten bigger than we expected but you are here and you are taking the steps to implement change. Coming into a therapy session provides a safe space to explore this and challenge yourself to identify what is going on and how we can work together to accomplish that. We serve clients 16 years old and up.
(617) 307-4892 View (617) 307-4892
Photo of Dr. Andreya Wilde Phd in Amherst, MA
Dr. Andreya Wilde Phd
PhD
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
WHAT GOOD IS A THERAPY IF YOU CAN'T COMPLETELY TRUST YOUR THERAPIST? CONFIDENTIALITY MUST BE "CARVED IN STONE". There is an illusion of privacy that truly doesn't exist when using insurance for your therapy. Personal details and a "Clinical Diagnosis" labeling you with a MENTAL ILLNESS is entered into permanent files, and can be accessed far more easily than you realize. FOR YOU TO FEEL SAFE & AUTHENTIC IN YOUR THERAPY, I DO NOT TAKE INSURANCE, OR KEEP CLINICAL NOTES & HAVE NO "PAPER TRAIL". What I Do Have is a Deep Devoted Love for this Work, and Great Respect for your Very Personal Choices on Your Life's Journey.
WHAT GOOD IS A THERAPY IF YOU CAN'T COMPLETELY TRUST YOUR THERAPIST? CONFIDENTIALITY MUST BE "CARVED IN STONE". There is an illusion of privacy that truly doesn't exist when using insurance for your therapy. Personal details and a "Clinical Diagnosis" labeling you with a MENTAL ILLNESS is entered into permanent files, and can be accessed far more easily than you realize. FOR YOU TO FEEL SAFE & AUTHENTIC IN YOUR THERAPY, I DO NOT TAKE INSURANCE, OR KEEP CLINICAL NOTES & HAVE NO "PAPER TRAIL". What I Do Have is a Deep Devoted Love for this Work, and Great Respect for your Very Personal Choices on Your Life's Journey.
(413) 216-2079 View (413) 216-2079
Photo of Mark Lange, Counselor in Amherst, MA
Mark Lange
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
With over 20 years in the field of psychotherapy, I bring a breadth and depth of experience to therapy sessions and a commitment to assisting people in their move towards change. I work with individual adults and couples and a broad range of presenting issues.
With over 20 years in the field of psychotherapy, I bring a breadth and depth of experience to therapy sessions and a commitment to assisting people in their move towards change. I work with individual adults and couples and a broad range of presenting issues.
(413) 547-1243 View (413) 547-1243
Photo of Norbert Arthur Belliveau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amherst, MA
Norbert Arthur Belliveau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01003
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, EMDR Practitioner, and Reiki Master/Teacher. I specialize in Trauma-Focused work with adults to manage a wide range of issues. My approach is Person-Centered and Trauma Focused through a compassionate lens, with an emphasis on client's strengths. I'm trained in Advanced EMDR, Clinical Hypnosis including advanced training in Age Regression/Progression, and Reiki Level III. I utilize complementary therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, EMDR Practitioner, and Reiki Master/Teacher. I specialize in Trauma-Focused work with adults to manage a wide range of issues. My approach is Person-Centered and Trauma Focused through a compassionate lens, with an emphasis on client's strengths. I'm trained in Advanced EMDR, Clinical Hypnosis including advanced training in Age Regression/Progression, and Reiki Level III. I utilize complementary therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
(413) 835-1299 View (413) 835-1299
Photo of Andrea E. Cole, Psychologist in Amherst, MA
Andrea E. Cole
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice in Northampton, Massachusetts. I have worked with adults and college students for over 25 years. My areas of specialization include depression, bereavement, loss, anxiety/stress and sleep difficulties. I also provide treatment to people with relationship, self-esteem, life transition and academic issues.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice in Northampton, Massachusetts. I have worked with adults and college students for over 25 years. My areas of specialization include depression, bereavement, loss, anxiety/stress and sleep difficulties. I also provide treatment to people with relationship, self-esteem, life transition and academic issues.
(413) 587-0728 View (413) 587-0728
Photo of Mary R Kolodny, Counselor in Amherst, MA
Mary R Kolodny
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are facing a crisis, feeling a vague sense of unease, or suffering from long-standing issues with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, relationships, or addiction, I can help you find greater awareness and identify tools you can use to achieve healing and greater meaning in your individual journey through life. Using my expertise in applying cognitive, expressive, and mindfulness-based techniques, I can assist you in self-discovery, personal growth, and transformation of self-defeating attitudes and behavioral patterns. I now offer online counseling on a HIPAA-secure website, doxy.me and have availability.
Whether you are facing a crisis, feeling a vague sense of unease, or suffering from long-standing issues with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, relationships, or addiction, I can help you find greater awareness and identify tools you can use to achieve healing and greater meaning in your individual journey through life. Using my expertise in applying cognitive, expressive, and mindfulness-based techniques, I can assist you in self-discovery, personal growth, and transformation of self-defeating attitudes and behavioral patterns. I now offer online counseling on a HIPAA-secure website, doxy.me and have availability.
(857) 342-1817 View (857) 342-1817
Photo of Jim Sharp, Psychologist in Amherst, MA
Jim Sharp
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
Not accepting new clients
I have a background in hypnotherapy as well as EMDR.
I offer a pragmatic, heart-centered approach when working with clients. I believe that a good therapeutic outcome is more than just the reduction of symptoms; it must include the cultivation of positive states as well. In other words, feeling less bad is not the same as feeling good.
I have a background in hypnotherapy as well as EMDR.
I offer a pragmatic, heart-centered approach when working with clients. I believe that a good therapeutic outcome is more than just the reduction of symptoms; it must include the cultivation of positive states as well. In other words, feeling less bad is not the same as feeling good.
(413) 992-6704 View (413) 992-6704
Jim Helling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMPC
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The findings of modern neuroscience are coming together with the practices of ancient traditions in the service of people whose lives have been marked by experiences of extreme stress and loss. I identify my practice as part of this international effort to expand our understanding of the human mind, body, spirit and community. My work with clients is based on scientific evidence, guided by traditional wisdom, and dedicated to the art of moving together toward balance, realization and integration in the present moment.
The findings of modern neuroscience are coming together with the practices of ancient traditions in the service of people whose lives have been marked by experiences of extreme stress and loss. I identify my practice as part of this international effort to expand our understanding of the human mind, body, spirit and community. My work with clients is based on scientific evidence, guided by traditional wisdom, and dedicated to the art of moving together toward balance, realization and integration in the present moment.
(413) 314-3028 View (413) 314-3028

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brooke Donatone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amherst, MA
Brooke Donatone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01063  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence-based treatment such as CBT, DBT, and clinical hypnotherapy.
Starting therapy can be daunting. I blend irreverence with a solution-focused approach to therapy. I enjoy helping clients tailor therapy to fit their needs and have been trained in many skills-based approaches. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families and a wide variety of issues. I have worked with people from many different cultures, ethnicities, religious backgrounds, genders, sexualities, abilities, and ages.
I utilize evidence-based treatment such as CBT, DBT, and clinical hypnotherapy.
Starting therapy can be daunting. I blend irreverence with a solution-focused approach to therapy. I enjoy helping clients tailor therapy to fit their needs and have been trained in many skills-based approaches. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families and a wide variety of issues. I have worked with people from many different cultures, ethnicities, religious backgrounds, genders, sexualities, abilities, and ages.
(332) 249-7925 View (332) 249-7925
Photo of Leslie Gould-Barkman Ladybug Body-Mind Healing in Amherst, MA
Leslie Gould-Barkman Ladybug Body-Mind Healing
MSW, MCLC, LMT, CHT
Verified Verified
West Hatfield, MA 01088
Somatic counseling to address root causes and the past, life coaching techniques to stay focused on the future, hypnotherapy to update deep seeded beliefs at the source, and energy work to help move what's stuck.
My ideal client is someone who thinks they're not enough or who holds back or hides their best selves. I enjoy working with over-thinkers, worriers, and perfectionists as well as clients who have many reasons to be happy but aren't. I am particularly adept at helping people who feel "different" learn to find their truth and finally own and celebrate their uniqueness. By removing the layers that often bury our authentic selves a sense of ease can replace the constant churn of worrying, and confidence can replace self doubt simply by updating old beliefs that no longer serve us so we can finally relax into who we really are.
Somatic counseling to address root causes and the past, life coaching techniques to stay focused on the future, hypnotherapy to update deep seeded beliefs at the source, and energy work to help move what's stuck.
My ideal client is someone who thinks they're not enough or who holds back or hides their best selves. I enjoy working with over-thinkers, worriers, and perfectionists as well as clients who have many reasons to be happy but aren't. I am particularly adept at helping people who feel "different" learn to find their truth and finally own and celebrate their uniqueness. By removing the layers that often bury our authentic selves a sense of ease can replace the constant churn of worrying, and confidence can replace self doubt simply by updating old beliefs that no longer serve us so we can finally relax into who we really are.
(413) 923-6351 View (413) 923-6351
Photo of Corey Kopinto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amherst, MA
Corey Kopinto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
I have experience in assisting clients in the processing of both simple and complex trauma utilizing EMDR, Hypnotherapy, and Ego State Therapy.
I believe psychotherapy is first about listening and endeavoring to understand each individual and the experiences that have shaped their life. As the therapist, I bring and shape the skills that I have acquired to assist each client in the resolution of their individual challenges. I understand that successful psychotherapy is determined by trust established between the therapist and client within the therapeutic relationship. Throughout my life an career I have come to understand this that pain is an inevitable part of all of our lives, but suffering does not have to be; we can all find our way back to joy and fulfillment.
I have experience in assisting clients in the processing of both simple and complex trauma utilizing EMDR, Hypnotherapy, and Ego State Therapy.
I believe psychotherapy is first about listening and endeavoring to understand each individual and the experiences that have shaped their life. As the therapist, I bring and shape the skills that I have acquired to assist each client in the resolution of their individual challenges. I understand that successful psychotherapy is determined by trust established between the therapist and client within the therapeutic relationship. Throughout my life an career I have come to understand this that pain is an inevitable part of all of our lives, but suffering does not have to be; we can all find our way back to joy and fulfillment.
(413) 327-9215 View (413) 327-9215
Irene H Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
My years of experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, clinical therapy. I provide supportive space to individuals, families, and couples. I specialize in treating people for anxiety, depression, recovery from trauma, grief, substance abuse, school phobia, learning disabilities and neurological and cognitive differences. As an adjunct to traditional talk therapy, I am certified in and use the following techniques to enhance treatment as needed: Clinical Hypnosis, Emotional Freedom Technique (Tapping) and ear acupressure as part of therapy sessions.
My years of experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, clinical therapy. I provide supportive space to individuals, families, and couples. I specialize in treating people for anxiety, depression, recovery from trauma, grief, substance abuse, school phobia, learning disabilities and neurological and cognitive differences. As an adjunct to traditional talk therapy, I am certified in and use the following techniques to enhance treatment as needed: Clinical Hypnosis, Emotional Freedom Technique (Tapping) and ear acupressure as part of therapy sessions.
(413) 531-1943 View (413) 531-1943
Photo of Catherine M Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amherst, MA
Catherine M Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Easthampton, MA 01027
At times in our lives, we have all experienced confusing and sometimes painful events, whether it be the loss of a loved one, an unexpected illness or health issue, a life transition or trauma. Sometimes, the things we have done in the past to seek relief no longer work as they once did. Therapy can be helpful to find new ways to adjust to the challenges and complications of human life, whether it is rooted in a current life event needing temporary support or a more involved issue requiring long term exploration.
At times in our lives, we have all experienced confusing and sometimes painful events, whether it be the loss of a loved one, an unexpected illness or health issue, a life transition or trauma. Sometimes, the things we have done in the past to seek relief no longer work as they once did. Therapy can be helpful to find new ways to adjust to the challenges and complications of human life, whether it is rooted in a current life event needing temporary support or a more involved issue requiring long term exploration.
(413) 216-6189 View (413) 216-6189
Photo of Barbara J Dreyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amherst, MA
Barbara J Dreyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
You want a therapist who works well with the problem(s) you are having. I have 40+ years experience and am proficient with relationship problems and loss, workplace problems, and emotional turmoil. I am particularly interested in challenges to self-fulfillment. We meet initially to understand the key problems and strengths you bring and the goals and directions for our work. I've taught brief and long term psychotherapy, crisis intervention, and trained students and professional therapists for Smith College School for Social Work and at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in NYC.
You want a therapist who works well with the problem(s) you are having. I have 40+ years experience and am proficient with relationship problems and loss, workplace problems, and emotional turmoil. I am particularly interested in challenges to self-fulfillment. We meet initially to understand the key problems and strengths you bring and the goals and directions for our work. I've taught brief and long term psychotherapy, crisis intervention, and trained students and professional therapists for Smith College School for Social Work and at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in NYC.
(413) 366-1943 View (413) 366-1943
Photo of Paul Harris Sandman, Counselor in Amherst, MA
Paul Harris Sandman
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Belchertown, MA 01007
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
(774) 768-0617 View (774) 768-0617
Photo of Taylor Haaf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amherst, MA
Taylor Haaf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northampton, MA 01060
Not accepting new clients
I offer individual & couples/relationship therapy to adolescents & adults where I provide an integrative, client-centered, relational approach to treatment. I’m influenced by psychodynamic, attachment, & social justice theories, as well as contemplative psychology, somatic, & strengths-based approaches. I draw on multiple modalities, including relational psychoanalysis, DBT, mindfulness, hypnosis, ACT, & body-based approaches in order to provide individualized treatment. I understand feelings & patterns of behavior as pieces in a complex network of motivation & influence & I treat people as the complex beings they are.
I offer individual & couples/relationship therapy to adolescents & adults where I provide an integrative, client-centered, relational approach to treatment. I’m influenced by psychodynamic, attachment, & social justice theories, as well as contemplative psychology, somatic, & strengths-based approaches. I draw on multiple modalities, including relational psychoanalysis, DBT, mindfulness, hypnosis, ACT, & body-based approaches in order to provide individualized treatment. I understand feelings & patterns of behavior as pieces in a complex network of motivation & influence & I treat people as the complex beings they are.
(617) 644-4856 View (617) 644-4856

Online Therapists

Photo of Thomas R Plunkett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amherst, MA
Thomas R Plunkett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Williamstown, MA 01267
These include: Individual, family and group therapies; Mindfulness based stress reduction; hypnotherapy; bio/neurofeedback for pain, addiction, sleep problems, ADD and other issues; life coaching; medical issues.
Whether seeing individuals, couples or families, my primary focus is on helping clients find effective tools to move beyond obstacles which prevent them from experiencing satisfying levels of lovability, and capability - obstacles which arise in the realms of: their inner world of thoughts, mood and feelings; relationships: family, friends, partners, workmates and others; ilness, loss, pain management; work, school; and being in the world in general. I believe that everyone has the capacity and the ability to become skillful in navigating these various realms, and to learn how to identity new resources and tools when needed.
These include: Individual, family and group therapies; Mindfulness based stress reduction; hypnotherapy; bio/neurofeedback for pain, addiction, sleep problems, ADD and other issues; life coaching; medical issues.
Whether seeing individuals, couples or families, my primary focus is on helping clients find effective tools to move beyond obstacles which prevent them from experiencing satisfying levels of lovability, and capability - obstacles which arise in the realms of: their inner world of thoughts, mood and feelings; relationships: family, friends, partners, workmates and others; ilness, loss, pain management; work, school; and being in the world in general. I believe that everyone has the capacity and the ability to become skillful in navigating these various realms, and to learn how to identity new resources and tools when needed.
(413) 642-2365 View (413) 642-2365
Photo of Darwin Gillett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amherst, MA
Darwin Gillett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, ACH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newburyport, MA 01950
He is certified in Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapy (5Path) and has been practicing hypnosis for 15 years.
Are you suffering from limiting fears, depression, grief, anger, stress, anxiety or addictions? If so, I can help. I help clients break free from these and other issues using different mind/body therapies (including hypnosis) to quickly and powerfully integrate health, happiness and peace into people's lives. My intent is always to guide clients to a path of insight and understanding that allow them to fully utilize their inherent inner healing and creativity that we as human beings all possess.
He is certified in Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapy (5Path) and has been practicing hypnosis for 15 years.
Are you suffering from limiting fears, depression, grief, anger, stress, anxiety or addictions? If so, I can help. I help clients break free from these and other issues using different mind/body therapies (including hypnosis) to quickly and powerfully integrate health, happiness and peace into people's lives. My intent is always to guide clients to a path of insight and understanding that allow them to fully utilize their inherent inner healing and creativity that we as human beings all possess.
(978) 743-9903 View (978) 743-9903
Photo of Deborah L Singer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amherst, MA
Deborah L Singer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC, CEAP, SAP, CGT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lee, MA 01238
I am certified in hypnotherapy, E.
Are you looking for a way to deepen your connection and strengthen your relationship with your partner? Look no further. As a certified Gottman therapist, I use evidence-based techniques to help couples improve their communication, increase intimacy, and resolve conflicts in a healthy and effective manner. With over 40 years of research and success, the Gottman Method has been proven to significantly improve relationships and increase relationship satisfaction. Let's work together to build a happier and healthier future for your relationship. I am licensed in CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, TX and VT.
I am certified in hypnotherapy, E.
Are you looking for a way to deepen your connection and strengthen your relationship with your partner? Look no further. As a certified Gottman therapist, I use evidence-based techniques to help couples improve their communication, increase intimacy, and resolve conflicts in a healthy and effective manner. With over 40 years of research and success, the Gottman Method has been proven to significantly improve relationships and increase relationship satisfaction. Let's work together to build a happier and healthier future for your relationship. I am licensed in CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, TX and VT.
(516) 693-2027 View (516) 693-2027
Photo of Whitney Lew, Counselor in Amherst, MA
Whitney Lew
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCH
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02139  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Some of the frameworks I pull from include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic methods, and hypnotherapy, but I tend to create personalized treatment plans that address the underlying causes of distress.
In these times of uncertainty and change, I am offering a space of hope and connection. I believe that therapy is a space to be seen and valued - a space to slow down, reflect, and engage in vulnerability. I understand the unique challenges faced by POC and immigrants, such as navigating cultural differences, acculturation stress, and intergenerational conflicts. In addition, I have a focus on working with college students and working professionals. In our work, we'll explore how cultural factors intersect with your mental health, nurturing a strong sense of identity, helping you to navigate life's complexities.
Some of the frameworks I pull from include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic methods, and hypnotherapy, but I tend to create personalized treatment plans that address the underlying causes of distress.
In these times of uncertainty and change, I am offering a space of hope and connection. I believe that therapy is a space to be seen and valued - a space to slow down, reflect, and engage in vulnerability. I understand the unique challenges faced by POC and immigrants, such as navigating cultural differences, acculturation stress, and intergenerational conflicts. In addition, I have a focus on working with college students and working professionals. In our work, we'll explore how cultural factors intersect with your mental health, nurturing a strong sense of identity, helping you to navigate life's complexities.
(339) 229-5610 View (339) 229-5610
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.