Photo of Wendy Rawlings, Counselor in Tacoma, WA
Wendy Rawlings
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NBCC, DCC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402
Not accepting new clients
Offering insight in a safe, accepting environment can be a game changer. In this loud and confusing time we live in it's important to explore your internal resources, acknowledge your own wisdom and develop the skills you lack. That's what we do in my practice. The goal of treatment is to empower you in every way to take control of your life and soar above the obstacles becoming who you were meant to be.
Offering insight in a safe, accepting environment can be a game changer. In this loud and confusing time we live in it's important to explore your internal resources, acknowledge your own wisdom and develop the skills you lack. That's what we do in my practice. The goal of treatment is to empower you in every way to take control of your life and soar above the obstacles becoming who you were meant to be.
(253) 242-8990 View (253) 242-8990
Photo of Jeffrey Tipp, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tacoma, WA
Jeffrey Tipp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98406
I am certified in EMDR and Clinical Hypnotherapy and was trained directly by Michael White, the developer of Narrative Therapy.
My therapy practice is client centered, so I place full attention on precisely what you hope for , what you dream of, and what gets in the way. I tailor our work to achieve meaningful change that will endure, regardless of outer circumstances.I combine Zen awareness training and cutting edge modalities that are innovative yet accessible and invite the inner courage of my clients.I recognize and honor the native wisdom of clients regarding their own lives. Clients report they experience the beginnings of change almost immediately. Over half of my clients work with me via Skype video conferencing.
I am certified in EMDR and Clinical Hypnotherapy and was trained directly by Michael White, the developer of Narrative Therapy.
My therapy practice is client centered, so I place full attention on precisely what you hope for , what you dream of, and what gets in the way. I tailor our work to achieve meaningful change that will endure, regardless of outer circumstances.I combine Zen awareness training and cutting edge modalities that are innovative yet accessible and invite the inner courage of my clients.I recognize and honor the native wisdom of clients regarding their own lives. Clients report they experience the beginnings of change almost immediately. Over half of my clients work with me via Skype video conferencing.
(206) 651-4972 View (206) 651-4972
Photo of Russell Alfaro in Tacoma, WA
Russell Alfaro
CHT
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98405
First, I believe it is my duty to be able to actively listen to my client, obtain a good understanding of where they are and where they want to go. Together, we will move you and/or your team or organization in the desired direction to reach your goals. As a young man growing up in North Chicago, I quickly learned that life is full of rewards and upsets, if I allowed it to happen. At 3 months old, I was abandoned by my mother, left inside of a garbage can in an alley waiting to die. However, life had other plans for me. A passerby heard my faint cries and pulled me from the garbage can. Later, I was adopted but went on to experience years of physical and emotional abuse by my adopted mother. At the age of 12, I ran away from home and was placed in foster care. I was adopted again, but I experienced more mental and physical abuse. I dropped out of the 9th grade and began running away again. At the age of 16, the authorities declared me an emancipated teenager. With a story like mine, you would probably think there was no hope for finding happiness or for finding quality of life. However, I have learned to use my negative experiences as a testimony to reach out and help others.
First, I believe it is my duty to be able to actively listen to my client, obtain a good understanding of where they are and where they want to go. Together, we will move you and/or your team or organization in the desired direction to reach your goals. As a young man growing up in North Chicago, I quickly learned that life is full of rewards and upsets, if I allowed it to happen. At 3 months old, I was abandoned by my mother, left inside of a garbage can in an alley waiting to die. However, life had other plans for me. A passerby heard my faint cries and pulled me from the garbage can. Later, I was adopted but went on to experience years of physical and emotional abuse by my adopted mother. At the age of 12, I ran away from home and was placed in foster care. I was adopted again, but I experienced more mental and physical abuse. I dropped out of the 9th grade and began running away again. At the age of 16, the authorities declared me an emancipated teenager. With a story like mine, you would probably think there was no hope for finding happiness or for finding quality of life. However, I have learned to use my negative experiences as a testimony to reach out and help others.
(253) 780-6061 View (253) 780-6061
Photo of Bonny L Snyder, Counselor in Tacoma, WA
Bonny L Snyder
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98405  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in what is sometimes referred to as “Energy Psychology”- processing trauma with EMDR and Hypnotherapy and EFT (Tapping) as well as CBT, CBT-Mindfulness, MI and Solution-Focused therapy.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety, fear, depression, shame, guilt and worthlessness? Have you experienced trauma and continue to be triggered? Want a change? Embrace the grace, power and strength that enabled you to survive challenging circumstances in the past! If you are ready for some transformative work, then I am happy and excited to help guide you on your inner journey of exploration and transformation! I will support you and provide a safe place for this journey to unfold.
I specialize in what is sometimes referred to as “Energy Psychology”- processing trauma with EMDR and Hypnotherapy and EFT (Tapping) as well as CBT, CBT-Mindfulness, MI and Solution-Focused therapy.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety, fear, depression, shame, guilt and worthlessness? Have you experienced trauma and continue to be triggered? Want a change? Embrace the grace, power and strength that enabled you to survive challenging circumstances in the past! If you are ready for some transformative work, then I am happy and excited to help guide you on your inner journey of exploration and transformation! I will support you and provide a safe place for this journey to unfold.
(253) 264-0859 View (253) 264-0859
Photo of Donna Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tacoma, WA
Donna Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Donna, MSW Therapist and Wholistic Life Coach. I’m elated to serve you during your most vital transitions and help you succeed on the path that best suits your ability to live optimally. Life can be a challenge, I know. I am also aware that with every obstacle comes solutions that are viable for maintaining better outcomes. Particularly, there are times when we have to identify and examine uncomfortable behavioral patterns and dynamics that impede on our ability to function at our best. Confronting these limitations can often times feel like shame and guilt, and disassemble our ability to possess compassion for our process
Hi, I’m Donna, MSW Therapist and Wholistic Life Coach. I’m elated to serve you during your most vital transitions and help you succeed on the path that best suits your ability to live optimally. Life can be a challenge, I know. I am also aware that with every obstacle comes solutions that are viable for maintaining better outcomes. Particularly, there are times when we have to identify and examine uncomfortable behavioral patterns and dynamics that impede on our ability to function at our best. Confronting these limitations can often times feel like shame and guilt, and disassemble our ability to possess compassion for our process
(360) 502-4111 View (360) 502-4111
Photo of Christina H Rasmussen, Psychologist in Tacoma, WA
Christina H Rasmussen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98405
I have been in private practice since 1994, providing services for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I have learned to treat a variety of conditions including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Personality Disorders, marital problems, and other issues. I also provide a variety of assessment services including disability evaluations, psychological evaluations, custody evaluations, intelligence and academic achievement assessment, and personality assessments. I provide in person and telehealth options for treatment.
I have been in private practice since 1994, providing services for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I have learned to treat a variety of conditions including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Personality Disorders, marital problems, and other issues. I also provide a variety of assessment services including disability evaluations, psychological evaluations, custody evaluations, intelligence and academic achievement assessment, and personality assessments. I provide in person and telehealth options for treatment.
(253) 906-1906 View (253) 906-1906
Photo of Eugenia Kang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tacoma, WA
Eugenia Kang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSWA
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402
Not accepting new clients
I am a clinical social worker based in Tacoma, Washington! I have experience working with children, teens, and adults in residential, school, and community settings.
I am a clinical social worker based in Tacoma, Washington! I have experience working with children, teens, and adults in residential, school, and community settings.
(253) 400-3565 View (253) 400-3565
Photo of Susan P Moser, Counselor in Tacoma, WA
Susan P Moser
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98404
Waitlist for new clients
I am a mental health counselor who believes therapy is a process in which you will gain greater self-awareness, that can change how you live in the world and relate to others. We all have issues from our past, big and small traumas, being triggered by our current situations that prevent us from living a more meaningful life. Creating healthy connections with the parts of you that are challenging, builds the resources for you to be more authentic and comfortable in your own skin. By doing this, you find your strengths and face your fears.
I am a mental health counselor who believes therapy is a process in which you will gain greater self-awareness, that can change how you live in the world and relate to others. We all have issues from our past, big and small traumas, being triggered by our current situations that prevent us from living a more meaningful life. Creating healthy connections with the parts of you that are challenging, builds the resources for you to be more authentic and comfortable in your own skin. By doing this, you find your strengths and face your fears.
(253) 252-1671 View (253) 252-1671
Photo of Jennifer R Trefonas, Counselor in Tacoma, WA
Jennifer R Trefonas
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98405
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I am Jennifer R. Trefonas, MS, LMHC, MHP. I was initially licensed in FL in 1992, moved to WA 2002; licensed WA 2001. I ENJOY assisting INDIVIDUALS, FAMILIES, COUPLES, & CHILDREN in overcoming obstacles. I AM ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Contact me for HELP with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction issues, bullying, grief, feeling shamed, taken advantage of, abuse of any kind, trouble at work, getting along with others, HOW TO BE HAPPY and POSITIVE, hypnosis, and most anything! I'm NOT PARANOID, but that is funny,,,:)
Hello, I am Jennifer R. Trefonas, MS, LMHC, MHP. I was initially licensed in FL in 1992, moved to WA 2002; licensed WA 2001. I ENJOY assisting INDIVIDUALS, FAMILIES, COUPLES, & CHILDREN in overcoming obstacles. I AM ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Contact me for HELP with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction issues, bullying, grief, feeling shamed, taken advantage of, abuse of any kind, trouble at work, getting along with others, HOW TO BE HAPPY and POSITIVE, hypnosis, and most anything! I'm NOT PARANOID, but that is funny,,,:)
(253) 352-3122 View (253) 352-3122
Photo of Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching, Counselor in Tacoma, WA
Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98401
We practice EMDR, Couples EFT, Gottman, Lifespan Integration, Carnes 30 Task Model, CBT, Hypnotherapy, Christian Counseling.
Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching is group practice of therapists and coaches who specialize in addiction including alcohol and drug addiction, sex addiction, pornography addiction, love addiction and partner betrayal trauma. All of the therapists and coaches at Fourth Dimension are in long term substance abuse recovery themselves and are experts in the field of addiction. They also have extensive training in couples therapy, infidelity, codependency, family of origin, women's issues, domestic violence, trauma and life transitions. We offer individual, couples and group therapy and coaching for both men and women.
We practice EMDR, Couples EFT, Gottman, Lifespan Integration, Carnes 30 Task Model, CBT, Hypnotherapy, Christian Counseling.
Fourth Dimension Counseling & Coaching is group practice of therapists and coaches who specialize in addiction including alcohol and drug addiction, sex addiction, pornography addiction, love addiction and partner betrayal trauma. All of the therapists and coaches at Fourth Dimension are in long term substance abuse recovery themselves and are experts in the field of addiction. They also have extensive training in couples therapy, infidelity, codependency, family of origin, women's issues, domestic violence, trauma and life transitions. We offer individual, couples and group therapy and coaching for both men and women.
(425) 652-1690 View (425) 652-1690
Photo of Bao Dinh Ngo in Tacoma, WA
Bao Dinh Ngo
SUDP, LMHCA, LMFTA, EMDR, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402
I specialized training in EMDR and I have experience working in a variety of settings, including outpatient and inpatient treatment centers, since 2019. I have experience working with diverse populations in the social services sector since 2018. Every person is unique and has the capacity to change for the better in order to become their ideal selves, in my opinion. To help you comprehend the value of both positive and negative experiences that contribute to the development of strength and resiliency, my main strategies include EMDR, hypnosis, motivational interviewing (MI) and cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT).
I specialized training in EMDR and I have experience working in a variety of settings, including outpatient and inpatient treatment centers, since 2019. I have experience working with diverse populations in the social services sector since 2018. Every person is unique and has the capacity to change for the better in order to become their ideal selves, in my opinion. To help you comprehend the value of both positive and negative experiences that contribute to the development of strength and resiliency, my main strategies include EMDR, hypnosis, motivational interviewing (MI) and cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT).
(253) 342-4002 View (253) 342-4002
Charaine E Herald
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98406  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with adults of all ages, individuals and couples, who are experiencing problems with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress (including stress related to prior abuse and neglect), eating disorders, and relational problems (repairing and strengthening current relationships;identifying and changing relational patterns that cause problems in living). I work with persons who are experiencing panic attacks, phobic avoidance, intrusions, maladaptive anger, grief, and stress-related physical problems. I also work with persons challenged with a variety of adjustment problems and life transitions (e.g.,transition to young adulthood, family communication difficulties, divorce, career change, mid-life crisis, retirement).
I work with adults of all ages, individuals and couples, who are experiencing problems with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress (including stress related to prior abuse and neglect), eating disorders, and relational problems (repairing and strengthening current relationships;identifying and changing relational patterns that cause problems in living). I work with persons who are experiencing panic attacks, phobic avoidance, intrusions, maladaptive anger, grief, and stress-related physical problems. I also work with persons challenged with a variety of adjustment problems and life transitions (e.g.,transition to young adulthood, family communication difficulties, divorce, career change, mid-life crisis, retirement).
(253) 343-0876 View (253) 343-0876
Photo of Chere Clark, Counselor in Tacoma, WA
Chere Clark
Counselor, MA, MSEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life challenges can become struggles. Normal transitions, like a job change or an “empty nest” can be daunting--maybe even overwhelming. Big issues, like relationship stress, illness, divorce, job loss, losing someone close, can weigh heavily, steal our energy, derail us. You may suffer from depression, anxiety, or other difficulties. For struggles with food and body issues, or distressing habits, I would love to help you with these challenges, as well. Accepting new clients; teletherapy appts available.
Life challenges can become struggles. Normal transitions, like a job change or an “empty nest” can be daunting--maybe even overwhelming. Big issues, like relationship stress, illness, divorce, job loss, losing someone close, can weigh heavily, steal our energy, derail us. You may suffer from depression, anxiety, or other difficulties. For struggles with food and body issues, or distressing habits, I would love to help you with these challenges, as well. Accepting new clients; teletherapy appts available.
(360) 842-8840 View (360) 842-8840
Photo of Jessica E Frost, Counselor in Tacoma, WA
Jessica E Frost
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98418  (Online Only)
I have a history of working with many different types of people and concerns. I work best with people who are willing to do self-observation as that is the key to learning about your own thinking and feeling patterns, which is what we are trying to modify. I take a holistic approach and self-observation provides the basis for all of the other work. It is important to start noticing and working with the sensations in the body that accompany our thoughts and feelings, as our body holds the memories of everything we have ever experienced and is the vehicle in which we move and feel in the world.
I have a history of working with many different types of people and concerns. I work best with people who are willing to do self-observation as that is the key to learning about your own thinking and feeling patterns, which is what we are trying to modify. I take a holistic approach and self-observation provides the basis for all of the other work. It is important to start noticing and working with the sensations in the body that accompany our thoughts and feelings, as our body holds the memories of everything we have ever experienced and is the vehicle in which we move and feel in the world.
(253) 398-8472 View (253) 398-8472

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Patricia Eslava Vessey in Tacoma, WA
Patricia Eslava Vessey
CHT, BA
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98003  (Online Only)
With over 30 years’ experience in social work, coaching, NLP, hypnotherapy and others, I will support you in healing those past pains and traumas while helping you build inner strength and confidence so you can face anything.
Are you struggling with unhealthy habits and lack of motivation? Is pain and trauma from the past interfering with your life today? Are you struggling with anxiety, fears, shame, or depression and nothing has helped? Do you just want to feel worthy, confident, productive, empowered, and successful? If you are ready to heal your past, love yourself, and gain control of your thoughts, feelings, and behavior, I can help. Even though I don't accept insurance, you'll discover quicker, more effective, and longer-lasting results with the services I provide with fewer sessions Contact me and let's talk, so you can begin feeling better now.
With over 30 years’ experience in social work, coaching, NLP, hypnotherapy and others, I will support you in healing those past pains and traumas while helping you build inner strength and confidence so you can face anything.
Are you struggling with unhealthy habits and lack of motivation? Is pain and trauma from the past interfering with your life today? Are you struggling with anxiety, fears, shame, or depression and nothing has helped? Do you just want to feel worthy, confident, productive, empowered, and successful? If you are ready to heal your past, love yourself, and gain control of your thoughts, feelings, and behavior, I can help. Even though I don't accept insurance, you'll discover quicker, more effective, and longer-lasting results with the services I provide with fewer sessions Contact me and let's talk, so you can begin feeling better now.
(206) 900-8511 View (206) 900-8511
Photo of Edward L Coyle, Psychologist in Tacoma, WA
Edward L Coyle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466
Currently accepting new patients, Saturday and evening appointments available. My practice focuses on working with individuals who are processing significant transitions within their lives, particularly those related to developmental processes such as career change, retirement and family care-giving challenges. With an emphasis on creating meaning and exploring new potentials, our work together will help you act intentionally rather than reacting in response to old patterns that may no longer fit the person you are becoming.
Currently accepting new patients, Saturday and evening appointments available. My practice focuses on working with individuals who are processing significant transitions within their lives, particularly those related to developmental processes such as career change, retirement and family care-giving challenges. With an emphasis on creating meaning and exploring new potentials, our work together will help you act intentionally rather than reacting in response to old patterns that may no longer fit the person you are becoming.
(253) 201-3215 View (253) 201-3215

Online Therapists

Photo of Kipp D Trembley, Counselor in Tacoma, WA
Kipp D Trembley
Counselor, MA, MATP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366
As a Transpersonal Psychotherapist, and fundamentally client-centered, I believe in an inherent tendency and ability for people to grow and learn about themselves and the world around them. I also believe each one of us has an inner wisdom to tap into. A client is encouraged to boldly explore their own thoughts and emotions in a safe, warm and collaborative therapeutic environment and find new solutions, skills, insight and awareness around life's challenges, both within the person and the persons' life experience. I meet you where you are at, conforming my therapeutic approach to your presenting needs.
As a Transpersonal Psychotherapist, and fundamentally client-centered, I believe in an inherent tendency and ability for people to grow and learn about themselves and the world around them. I also believe each one of us has an inner wisdom to tap into. A client is encouraged to boldly explore their own thoughts and emotions in a safe, warm and collaborative therapeutic environment and find new solutions, skills, insight and awareness around life's challenges, both within the person and the persons' life experience. I meet you where you are at, conforming my therapeutic approach to your presenting needs.
(360) 345-3765 View (360) 345-3765
Photo of Stephanie Diltz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tacoma, WA
Stephanie Diltz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Do you feel stuck, confused, and unsure of your true purpose? Have difficulty communicating with confidence? Have a strong need and/or calling to explore your inner Self and discover who you truly are? Suffer chronic illness or repeated relationship, health, or job problems? Feel uninspired in a job/career that no longer serves you? You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning!
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Do you feel stuck, confused, and unsure of your true purpose? Have difficulty communicating with confidence? Have a strong need and/or calling to explore your inner Self and discover who you truly are? Suffer chronic illness or repeated relationship, health, or job problems? Feel uninspired in a job/career that no longer serves you? You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning!
(360) 515-9969 View (360) 515-9969
Photo of Mary Guay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tacoma, WA
Mary Guay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CPC
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011  (Online Only)
Would you like more out of life? Life has much to offer! What's the quality of your relationships, especially the one you have with yourself? I'm here to support and facilitate you living true to yourself. Going through a time of transition? This time in life may be a threshold that seems intimidating and confusing. You may be suffering from depression or anxiety. Lonliness and hurt may lead to healing and awakening to inner resource when collaborating with me.Therapy and life coaching help you to see the growth opportunities that are a part of your challenge. You can turn problems into opportunities!
Would you like more out of life? Life has much to offer! What's the quality of your relationships, especially the one you have with yourself? I'm here to support and facilitate you living true to yourself. Going through a time of transition? This time in life may be a threshold that seems intimidating and confusing. You may be suffering from depression or anxiety. Lonliness and hurt may lead to healing and awakening to inner resource when collaborating with me.Therapy and life coaching help you to see the growth opportunities that are a part of your challenge. You can turn problems into opportunities!
(425) 954-6880 View (425) 954-6880
Photo of Ali Clark, Counselor in Tacoma, WA
Ali Clark
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98136
Using a combination of psychotherapy and Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy, let's finally get to the root of this struggle.
You're here because you can't do it alone anymore. You need help to shake the stuck feeling and wonder if depression, anxiety, co-dependency [or insert struggle of choice] are winning this battle. You try to quit old habits and form healthier habits, but to no avail. You want to be in relationships that build you up but, more often than not, you feel doubt. Your self-esteem is in question. You don't feel like yourself anymore... whoever that may be. It's time to find help that will really move you out of this stuck place.
Using a combination of psychotherapy and Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy, let's finally get to the root of this struggle.
You're here because you can't do it alone anymore. You need help to shake the stuck feeling and wonder if depression, anxiety, co-dependency [or insert struggle of choice] are winning this battle. You try to quit old habits and form healthier habits, but to no avail. You want to be in relationships that build you up but, more often than not, you feel doubt. Your self-esteem is in question. You don't feel like yourself anymore... whoever that may be. It's time to find help that will really move you out of this stuck place.
(425) 329-8783 View (425) 329-8783
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.