Hypnotherapists in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA

Transitional Hypnosis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT, CCM
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70809  (Online Only)
My 40 years of experience in behavioral health, combined with my extensive skills in hypnosis and hypnotherapy, allow me to offer a unique and exciting approach to addressing trauma. Hypnotherapy is uniquely able to address all types of trauma. We do this in a safe, secure, private, individualized, and accepting environment. Hypnosis and hypnotherapy have now established decades of proven results for almost any behavioral problem and even many physical challenges.
My 40 years of experience in behavioral health, combined with my extensive skills in hypnosis and hypnotherapy, allow me to offer a unique and exciting approach to addressing trauma. Hypnotherapy is uniquely able to address all types of trauma. We do this in a safe, secure, private, individualized, and accepting environment. Hypnosis and hypnotherapy have now established decades of proven results for almost any behavioral problem and even many physical challenges.
(225) 725-1567 View (225) 725-1567
Photo of Shannon Raday, Counselor in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Shannon Raday
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
I offer face-to face and online counseling, healthcoaching, and hypnotherapy.
Let's face it, life can be tough and without someone to talk to, it can seem isolating and overwhelming. I consider it an honor and privilege to have my clients trust me to share their experiences. Talk about their struggles and learn new effective ways to cope with life challenges. I pledge to listen to you, without judgement and help you overcome the challenges you’re currently facing. I believe attention your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health is important to healthy wellbeing, so I offer a holistic approach to help you live your best life now.
I offer face-to face and online counseling, healthcoaching, and hypnotherapy.
Let's face it, life can be tough and without someone to talk to, it can seem isolating and overwhelming. I consider it an honor and privilege to have my clients trust me to share their experiences. Talk about their struggles and learn new effective ways to cope with life challenges. I pledge to listen to you, without judgement and help you overcome the challenges you’re currently facing. I believe attention your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health is important to healthy wellbeing, so I offer a holistic approach to help you live your best life now.
(727) 286-3835 View (727) 286-3835
Photo of Joleena Abrams in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Joleena Abrams
CCTSA, MA, CLC, CMEMI
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70802  (Online Only)
She uses state of the art therapies, based off of the newest research, such as Hypnotherapy, Multichannel Eye Movement Integration (MEMI), EMDR (Bilateral Stimulation), CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Restoration Therapy techniques and the CSAT model.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
She uses state of the art therapies, based off of the newest research, such as Hypnotherapy, Multichannel Eye Movement Integration (MEMI), EMDR (Bilateral Stimulation), CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Restoration Therapy techniques and the CSAT model.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(414) 441-5732 View (414) 441-5732
Photo of Mind Path Therapies LLC, Counselor in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Mind Path Therapies LLC
Counselor, CCHt, CAHA
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70804  (Online Only)
Mind Path Therapies uses the latest techniques in hypnotherapy, therapeutic imagery and NLP, while applying consistent, strategic processes to effectively lead every person, group or business we serve down a path of Transformation and Triumph.
Our clients range in ages between 25 and 75. Their needs are varied but so are our services. Except for age, we do not limit ourselves to a particular niche of service. We provide help for over 200 presenting issues. From Addiction to Writers' Block and everything in between. The majority of our clients come to us for smoking cessation, weight loss, generalized anxiety and depression, trauma, relationship issues, OCD, ADHD and ADD.
Mind Path Therapies uses the latest techniques in hypnotherapy, therapeutic imagery and NLP, while applying consistent, strategic processes to effectively lead every person, group or business we serve down a path of Transformation and Triumph.
Our clients range in ages between 25 and 75. Their needs are varied but so are our services. Except for age, we do not limit ourselves to a particular niche of service. We provide help for over 200 presenting issues. From Addiction to Writers' Block and everything in between. The majority of our clients come to us for smoking cessation, weight loss, generalized anxiety and depression, trauma, relationship issues, OCD, ADHD and ADD.
(337) 473-2126 View (337) 473-2126
Photo of Bob Waggener, MDiv, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Bob Waggener, MDiv, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
I have a great deal of respect for my clients and believe the solution to their problems is well within their reach. In my early training, there was a great emphasis on listening. It's a skill I use in every session to figure out the next right step toward growth and development for my clients. Listening is a skill I teach, so my clients can have more effective and intimate relationships with others, not only personally but professionally as well. My job is to teach myself out of a job and give you skills to live a better life.
I have a great deal of respect for my clients and believe the solution to their problems is well within their reach. In my early training, there was a great emphasis on listening. It's a skill I use in every session to figure out the next right step toward growth and development for my clients. Listening is a skill I teach, so my clients can have more effective and intimate relationships with others, not only personally but professionally as well. My job is to teach myself out of a job and give you skills to live a better life.
(225) 435-5031 View (225) 435-5031
Photo of Rachel Bennett in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Rachel Bennett
LMSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70809  (Online Only)
I work with all types of issues with people of all ages and backgrounds and specialize in working with victims and survivors of Narcissistic Abuse. I work with depression and anxiety issues/mood disorders and focus on finding your unique strengths to help you develop effective coping skills. Please reach out to me if you or a loved one are seeking therapy for mental health issues, and I will help guide you toward healing and wellness.
I work with all types of issues with people of all ages and backgrounds and specialize in working with victims and survivors of Narcissistic Abuse. I work with depression and anxiety issues/mood disorders and focus on finding your unique strengths to help you develop effective coping skills. Please reach out to me if you or a loved one are seeking therapy for mental health issues, and I will help guide you toward healing and wellness.
(225) 269-4822 View (225) 269-4822
Photo of David Walton Earle, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
David Walton Earle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Stressed out? Angry? Depressed? Something missing? Unhappy? Relationship not working? Is there something or someone controlling you? Are you restless, irritated, or discontented? Do you want to be happy, joyous, and free? My Life Will Change ... When I Change! Follow that advice and receive many gifts. Each of us already has the solutions to our problems; together we can discovery what roadblocks there are to your peace and serenity. I supply the necessary tools for change you provide the work. Books - check out Barnes and Noble and Amazon.com for David Walton Earle
Stressed out? Angry? Depressed? Something missing? Unhappy? Relationship not working? Is there something or someone controlling you? Are you restless, irritated, or discontented? Do you want to be happy, joyous, and free? My Life Will Change ... When I Change! Follow that advice and receive many gifts. Each of us already has the solutions to our problems; together we can discovery what roadblocks there are to your peace and serenity. I supply the necessary tools for change you provide the work. Books - check out Barnes and Noble and Amazon.com for David Walton Earle
(225) 627-8491 View (225) 627-8491
Photo of Integrated Behavioral Health in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Integrated Behavioral Health
MD, PhD, PMHNP, LCSW, LPC, PLPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70817
At IBH we are a multidisciplinary team focused on providing comprehensive care to patients ages 5 and older through In-Person visits and Telehealth. Our team includes: Morgan Feibelman, M.D., Jill McCall, M.D., Aldo Mejia, M.D., Jennifer Greco, M.D., Andrew Sander, M.D., Asa Pharr, M.D., Kellie Newman, PMHNP-BC, Blaine Grice, PMHNP-BC (also in BR), Karen Pellerin, PhD, Jonathan Nierman, LCSW, Frances Maples-LPC, Daja Williams, M.S.,LPC, Valeria Rodriguez, PLMFT, Marcel Albritton, PHD, C-IAYT. Please visit our website www.IBHpsych.com for both Baton Rouge and New Orleans bios .
At IBH we are a multidisciplinary team focused on providing comprehensive care to patients ages 5 and older through In-Person visits and Telehealth. Our team includes: Morgan Feibelman, M.D., Jill McCall, M.D., Aldo Mejia, M.D., Jennifer Greco, M.D., Andrew Sander, M.D., Asa Pharr, M.D., Kellie Newman, PMHNP-BC, Blaine Grice, PMHNP-BC (also in BR), Karen Pellerin, PhD, Jonathan Nierman, LCSW, Frances Maples-LPC, Daja Williams, M.S.,LPC, Valeria Rodriguez, PLMFT, Marcel Albritton, PHD, C-IAYT. Please visit our website www.IBHpsych.com for both Baton Rouge and New Orleans bios .
(225) 424-1822 View (225) 424-1822
Photo of Robyn Sonnier, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Robyn Sonnier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCMHC, NCC, CCTP-II, CMCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70805  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling to heal from trauma, OCD, grief, or making the necessary changes to better your life? I'm Robyn, an LPC-S and LCHMC with a passion for working with trauma survivors & adults wanting to heal wounds & grow in life. Starting therapy, especially to heal trauma, can feel overwhelming & difficult. But you don’t have to do it alone. If you are looking for someone to help guide you on this journey, want a relaxed environment, but a straightforward & direct therapist who vows to treat you with respect & compassion, let’s talk. I have evening & telehealth appointments available to best meet your needs.
Are you struggling to heal from trauma, OCD, grief, or making the necessary changes to better your life? I'm Robyn, an LPC-S and LCHMC with a passion for working with trauma survivors & adults wanting to heal wounds & grow in life. Starting therapy, especially to heal trauma, can feel overwhelming & difficult. But you don’t have to do it alone. If you are looking for someone to help guide you on this journey, want a relaxed environment, but a straightforward & direct therapist who vows to treat you with respect & compassion, let’s talk. I have evening & telehealth appointments available to best meet your needs.
(225) 800-3556 View (225) 800-3556
Photo of Angela K Waggoner, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Angela K Waggoner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, VA LPC, LA LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70801  (Online Only)
Dr. Waggoner has a passion for working with individuals and couples who struggle with trauma, crisis, suicidal ideation, self-harm, abuse (physical, emotional, mental, sexual, spiritual), and complex trauma. She also works with the grief, loss, depression, and anxiety that stems from these issues.
Dr. Waggoner has a passion for working with individuals and couples who struggle with trauma, crisis, suicidal ideation, self-harm, abuse (physical, emotional, mental, sexual, spiritual), and complex trauma. She also works with the grief, loss, depression, and anxiety that stems from these issues.
(281) 712-2967 View (281) 712-2967
Photo of Jason Montalbano, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Jason Montalbano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70803
(318) 414-5637 View (318) 414-5637

Online Therapists

Photo of Sean Ransom, Psychologist in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Sean Ransom
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70115
Finally, hypnotherapy can be added to CBT for some.
Change takes effort. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help you make that change. CBT is like finding a map to a more ideal life and learning that life is much closer than you had thought. This form of therapy teaches you how to change your thinking, with an initial focus on improving the here-and-now with smaller focus on the past. Practice is essential and CBT involves work, but that work often yields results. CBT can help improve mood, reduce anxiety and fears, change unhelpful behaviors, make relationships better, and lead to a richer, more satisfying life.
Finally, hypnotherapy can be added to CBT for some.
Change takes effort. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help you make that change. CBT is like finding a map to a more ideal life and learning that life is much closer than you had thought. This form of therapy teaches you how to change your thinking, with an initial focus on improving the here-and-now with smaller focus on the past. Practice is essential and CBT involves work, but that work often yields results. CBT can help improve mood, reduce anxiety and fears, change unhelpful behaviors, make relationships better, and lead to a richer, more satisfying life.
(504) 264-5520 View (504) 264-5520
Photo of Dr. Hope Gersovitz-Duncan, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Dr. Hope Gersovitz-Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LMFT, LPC-S, CCHt
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70119
In 2011, I received my PhD in Behavioral Science with a concentration in Hypnotherapy through California University.
Are you having trouble adjusting to changes in your life, such as a loss of a relationship, difficult event, or shifts in career/job? Therapy can be useful in helping individuals cope with stress, and improve relationships with significant others, family members, and self. New Orleans Counseling & Hypnosis Center (NOCHC) values the healing qualities of a strong relationship between client and therapist. At NOCHC we use psycho-education to encourage better coping skills and self-care. NOCHC provides options to incorporate clinical hypnosis into treatment for those that are interested.
In 2011, I received my PhD in Behavioral Science with a concentration in Hypnotherapy through California University.
Are you having trouble adjusting to changes in your life, such as a loss of a relationship, difficult event, or shifts in career/job? Therapy can be useful in helping individuals cope with stress, and improve relationships with significant others, family members, and self. New Orleans Counseling & Hypnosis Center (NOCHC) values the healing qualities of a strong relationship between client and therapist. At NOCHC we use psycho-education to encourage better coping skills and self-care. NOCHC provides options to incorporate clinical hypnosis into treatment for those that are interested.
(504) 684-7364 View (504) 684-7364
Photo of Sarah (Sally) Johns, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Sarah (Sally) Johns
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CCHt
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70119
I am certified in hypnotherapy(CCHt) for relaxation, smoking cessation, weight mgmt, and overcoming fears.
Welcome to the first step in helping yourself. Therapy can be intimidating at first. It takes strength and awareness to ask for help. It is that strength that will help you through your situation. Through the counseling process, you can simplify and manage your life so it can be enjoyed vs. tolerated. Valued concepts are safety, self-care, confidentiality, and communication. New Orleans Counseling and Hypnosis Center emphasizes the importance of the safe relationship between client and therapist. Psycho-education is also used to encourage and develop healthy coping skills and self-care. Register at www.counselingnola.com to start your self care today!
I am certified in hypnotherapy(CCHt) for relaxation, smoking cessation, weight mgmt, and overcoming fears.
Welcome to the first step in helping yourself. Therapy can be intimidating at first. It takes strength and awareness to ask for help. It is that strength that will help you through your situation. Through the counseling process, you can simplify and manage your life so it can be enjoyed vs. tolerated. Valued concepts are safety, self-care, confidentiality, and communication. New Orleans Counseling and Hypnosis Center emphasizes the importance of the safe relationship between client and therapist. Psycho-education is also used to encourage and develop healthy coping skills and self-care. Register at www.counselingnola.com to start your self care today!
(504) 777-3844 View (504) 777-3844
Photo of OM Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
OM Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, LA 70508
I am a licensed professional counselor with a background working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have experience working with people struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anger management, codependency, and low self-esteem. I have worked with families with divorce and help with parenting. I am certified in Trauma Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Hypnotherapy. If you or your children find it challenging to adjust to changes in life, I might be able to help. My approach is Eclectic, as I believe is compatibility of theory with personality.
I am a licensed professional counselor with a background working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have experience working with people struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anger management, codependency, and low self-esteem. I have worked with families with divorce and help with parenting. I am certified in Trauma Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Hypnotherapy. If you or your children find it challenging to adjust to changes in life, I might be able to help. My approach is Eclectic, as I believe is compatibility of theory with personality.
(337) 415-0689 View (337) 415-0689
Photo of Michael Jon VanderWaal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Michael Jon VanderWaal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70121  (Online Only)
We will also utilize experiential methods including guided meditation, breathwork, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, guided imagery, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.
Allow me to be a fellow traveler on your journey into the unknown parts of yourself. I'll ask for a deep commitment from you to participate in this process of self-discovery and self-healing. I believe that everyday stress has roots in your past. It is important for us to bravely move into those spaces when you are ready. Your sense of safety is vital in this process and we will develop our therapeutic alliance so you feel grounded beforehand. With deep trust for one another, we can bring about lasting transformations.
We will also utilize experiential methods including guided meditation, breathwork, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, guided imagery, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.
Allow me to be a fellow traveler on your journey into the unknown parts of yourself. I'll ask for a deep commitment from you to participate in this process of self-discovery and self-healing. I believe that everyday stress has roots in your past. It is important for us to bravely move into those spaces when you are ready. Your sense of safety is vital in this process and we will develop our therapeutic alliance so you feel grounded beforehand. With deep trust for one another, we can bring about lasting transformations.
(816) 323-4314 View (816) 323-4314
Photo of Rebecca A Housel in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Rebecca A Housel
MA, PhD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70130  (Online Only)
A compassion-based coaching practice, I work with Gen Z (18-22), Millennials (22-47), Gen X (47-56), Baby Boomers (57-75), and Traditionalists (75+) using positive psychology to help with life transitions (college, LGBTQ, change of career, unemployment, grief, disability, relationships, abandonment, chronic illness, COVID-19, loss of a loved one/parent/child/spouse, loss of a beloved pet, etc.). Guided meditation/hypnotherapy, custom affirmations and sound therapy (Nepalese & Tibetan singing bowls) are just some of the coping strategies to help people release the past and move toward their future success!
A compassion-based coaching practice, I work with Gen Z (18-22), Millennials (22-47), Gen X (47-56), Baby Boomers (57-75), and Traditionalists (75+) using positive psychology to help with life transitions (college, LGBTQ, change of career, unemployment, grief, disability, relationships, abandonment, chronic illness, COVID-19, loss of a loved one/parent/child/spouse, loss of a beloved pet, etc.). Guided meditation/hypnotherapy, custom affirmations and sound therapy (Nepalese & Tibetan singing bowls) are just some of the coping strategies to help people release the past and move toward their future success!
(978) 307-8221 View (978) 307-8221
Photo of Frank Trupiano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Frank Trupiano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Marrero, LA 70072
I provide individual, marriage, and family counseling services. I also create health and wellness programs . Whether you want to quit smoking, lose weight, manage stress, or improve your relationships, I can help. I also offer a number of complementary therapies: Reiki , hypnotherapy, (EFT) Emotional Freedom Techniques, the Sedona Method,and Psych-k . For clients experiencing a lack of direction, purpose, or meaning in their life, I offer psycho-spiritual counseling, utilizing the Akashic Records and Wisdom Teachings from the Bible and other spiritual tradition.
I provide individual, marriage, and family counseling services. I also create health and wellness programs . Whether you want to quit smoking, lose weight, manage stress, or improve your relationships, I can help. I also offer a number of complementary therapies: Reiki , hypnotherapy, (EFT) Emotional Freedom Techniques, the Sedona Method,and Psych-k . For clients experiencing a lack of direction, purpose, or meaning in their life, I offer psycho-spiritual counseling, utilizing the Akashic Records and Wisdom Teachings from the Bible and other spiritual tradition.
(504) 358-0517 View (504) 358-0517
Photo of Kathryn Dietzway-The Therapy Garden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Kathryn Dietzway-The Therapy Garden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lafayette, LA 70503
You came into this world knowing intuitively how to meet your needs. Infants know when they are hungry and when they are satiated. Emotions are the bodies way of getting natural born needs met. There is no shame attached to feeling your feelings as a newborn baby. Then, your experiences, relationships and communities shape your natural born intuition around needs and expression, for better or worse. Perhaps you are here reading this because your family of origin, community or society has harmed your intuition. You have slowly developed shame around your human needs and anxiety around who YOU even are authentically.
You came into this world knowing intuitively how to meet your needs. Infants know when they are hungry and when they are satiated. Emotions are the bodies way of getting natural born needs met. There is no shame attached to feeling your feelings as a newborn baby. Then, your experiences, relationships and communities shape your natural born intuition around needs and expression, for better or worse. Perhaps you are here reading this because your family of origin, community or society has harmed your intuition. You have slowly developed shame around your human needs and anxiety around who YOU even are authentically.
(318) 228-2867 View (318) 228-2867
Photo of Ellen Santolucito, LPC, LLC, Counselor in East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
Ellen Santolucito, LPC, LLC
Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70005
Hello, I have 25 years of experience having worked with various populations and issues. I believe that life is a journey that presents to us constant experiences for learning and growth to become your best self, whatever that means to you. Change is challenging as one becomes comfortable in the uncomfortable. But as you become aware of the routines and patterns that you continue with that are not working for you, you will be moving toward making lifelong changes that not only affect you positively but also your relationships with others. Change is possible, anxiety and depression are manageable and you are well worth your time.
Hello, I have 25 years of experience having worked with various populations and issues. I believe that life is a journey that presents to us constant experiences for learning and growth to become your best self, whatever that means to you. Change is challenging as one becomes comfortable in the uncomfortable. But as you become aware of the routines and patterns that you continue with that are not working for you, you will be moving toward making lifelong changes that not only affect you positively but also your relationships with others. Change is possible, anxiety and depression are manageable and you are well worth your time.
(504) 420-7944 View (504) 420-7944

See more therapy options for East Baton Rouge Parish

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.