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What is Hypnotherapy?

Updated: Oct 23, 2025

What is hypnotherapy? Are hypnotherapy and hypnosis the same?

How does hypnosis work? Does hypnotherapy work?


Yes, they work. Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic approach that utilizes hypnosis (yes, they're essentially the same thing though hypnosis can be used for entertainment purposes) to help individuals make positive changes in their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is a form of holistic psychotherapy that accesses the subconscious mind and activates the imagination to address various issues, including psychological, emotional, and even physical concerns. 


Here's how hypnotherapy works and what it can be used for:

  1. Goal-Oriented Approach: Hypnotherapy is goal-oriented. You will identify your specific goal or desired outcome, and I will structure the session to help you achieve your goal.

  2. Hypnosis: Hypnosis is a state of fixed, focused attention and deep relaxation. During your hypnotherapy session, I will guide you into this relaxed state through deep breathing and verbal suggestions. This relaxed state is sometimes referred to as a trance, but it's important to note that you are fully aware and in control during this process.

  3. Accessing the Subconscious Mind: In the hypnotic state, your conscious mind becomes more relaxed and less critical, while the subconscious mind becomes more receptive to suggestions. Healing the Inner Child work is some of the most important and impactful therapy you'll ever do. We heal the inner child by working with the subconscious mind.

  4. Suggestion and Therapy: Once you're in a state of hypnosis, I offer suggestions or therapeutic interventions tailored to your specific needs. These suggestions are designed to help you make positive changes, such as overcoming fears, managing pain, reducing stress and anxiety, improving sleep, or breaking unhealthy habits.

  5. Addressing Underlying Issues: Hypnotherapy is used to explore and address the underlying emotional or psychological factors contributing to a person's issues. This can include unresolved trauma, past experiences, and deeply rooted beliefs. By accessing the subconscious mind, I can help you process and resolve these issues.


Most clients recline in the chair.
Most clients recline in the chair.

Hypnotherapy can be effective for a wide range of issues, including:

  • Smoking cessation: Helping individuals quit smoking by changing their perception of cigarettes and smoking.

  • Weight loss: Aiding in weight management by addressing emotional eating or unhealthy habits.

  • Phobias and fears: Reducing or eliminating phobias and anxieties, such as fear of flying, public speaking, or spiders.

  • Stress and anxiety: Teaching relaxation techniques and providing tools to manage stress and anxiety.

  • Pain management: Alleviating or reducing chronic pain, often in collaboration with medical treatment.

  • Sleep disorders: Improving sleep quality and addressing insomnia.

  • Self-esteem and confidence: Boosting self-esteem and self-confidence.

  • Habit control: Breaking unwanted habits, such as nail-biting or overeating.

  • Managing emotional issues: Addressing issues like depression, trauma, or grief. Healing past traumas and the inner child.

What Hypnotherapy/Hypnosis IS NOT

The media often misrepresents hypnosis and hypnotherapy. This is what hypnotherapy IS NOT: 

  • Hypnotherapy is not mind control (no one can be hypnotized without wanting to be). All hypnosis is self hypnosis. 

  • Hypnotherapy is not a replacement for medical treatment.

  • Hypnotherapy is not dangerous when conducted by a trained, certified professional.


Is hypnotherapy or hypnosis dangerous?

Hypnosis or hypnotherapy is safe when practiced by a trained professional (look for a certification from ACHE or other governing body). It's important to note hypnotherapy is not a replacement for medical treatment. Additionally, hypnotherapy is most effective when conducted by a qualified and experienced hypnotherapist.


Have more questions? Book your free consult call and we'll chat!

 
 
 
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