Hypnotherapy, also known as hypnosis therapy or clinical hypnosis, is a therapeutic approach that uses guided relaxation, focused attention and suggestion to help individuals achieve a heightened state of awareness. In this state, often called a trance, people are more open to exploring emotions, addressing fears and making positive behavioral changes.
While it may sound like something out of a stage act, clinical hypnotherapy is a legitimate form of treatment used by trained professionals to manage pain, anxiety, phobias and more. It’s not about mind control or losing consciousness; rather, it’s a collaborative process between therapist and client that taps into the subconscious mind to promote healing and change.
How Does Hypnotherapy Work?
During hypnotherapy, the client is guided into a deeply relaxed yet alert state. In this trance-like state, the conscious mind becomes less active, while the subconscious mind is more receptive to positive suggestions and therapeutic exploration.
Three key steps are generally involved:
- Induction. The therapist helps the client relax using breathing, visualization or other calming techniques.
- Deepening. The person is guided into a deeper state of focus to increase suggestibility.
- Therapeutic suggestions. The therapist introduces ideas or affirmations related to the client’s goals, such as reducing anxiety, building confidence or changing behaviors.
- Return to awareness. The therapist brings the client back to normal awareness, often followed by discussion or reflection.
This process is not about control. The client remains aware of their surroundings and can accept or reject suggestions at any time.
What Is Hypnotherapy Used For?
Hypnotherapy is used to support treatment for a variety of mental, emotional and physical concerns. While not a replacement for medical care, it can be an effective complementary therapy.
Common Uses Include:
- Anxiety and stress management
- Phobias and fears (e.g., fear of flying, public speaking)
- Panic attacks
- Sleep disturbances and insomnia
- Chronic pain
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Smoking cessation
- Weight management
- Low self-esteem or confidence
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Some people also use hypnotherapy to prepare for surgery, childbirth (hypnobirthing) or dental work, especially when they experience high levels of stress or fear.
Hypnotherapy for Anxiety
One of the most well-researched and common uses of hypnotherapy is for anxiety. People with anxiety often experience racing thoughts, muscle tension and an overactive nervous system. Hypnotherapy helps calm the body and reduce the intensity of anxious thoughts by accessing the subconscious mind.
In a relaxed hypnotic state, individuals can explore the root causes of their anxiety, reframe negative thought patterns and create new internal narratives that foster a sense of calm and control.
Hypnotherapy is especially helpful for people who find traditional talk therapy overwhelming or struggle to access deep-seated fears in a conscious state.
Is Hypnotherapy Effective?
Clinical studies suggest that hypnotherapy can be effective for many conditions, particularly when used alongside other treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or medication.
Effectiveness varies, depending on the condition being treated, the skill of the practitioner and the person’s responsiveness to hypnosis. Some people are more easily hypnotized than others, but most people can enter a light trance with practice.
Research shows that hypnotherapy can be especially beneficial for:
- Reducing chronic pain
- Managing IBS symptoms
- Decreasing stress and general anxiety
- Breaking habits such as smoking
It’s important to work with a qualified hypnotherapist who tailors the sessions to your individual goals and needs.
What Happens in a Hypnotherapy Session?
Sessions typically last between 50 and 90 minutes and may include:
- A discussion of your goals or symptoms
- Relaxation and breathwork exercises
- A guided hypnotic induction into a calm, focused state
- Positive suggestions or therapeutic techniques
- Post-session reflection and possible assignments to reinforce progress
Most people feel relaxed and refreshed after a session, similar to the calm experienced after deep meditation.
Can Everyone Be Hypnotized?
Not everyone is equally susceptible to hypnosis, but most people can achieve some level of trance with the right guidance and environment. People who are open-minded, imaginative or able to concentrate deeply may find it easier to enter a hypnotic state.
If you’re unsure whether hypnotherapy will work for you, a trained practitioner can assess your hypnotic suggestibility and tailor the approach accordingly.
Is Hypnotherapy Safe?
Yes, hypnotherapy is generally safe when conducted by a licensed mental health professional or certified hypnotherapist. It has few to no side effects and is considered a low-risk treatment. However, it’s not appropriate for everyone.
Who should avoid hypnotherapy?
- Individuals with psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia)
- Those with severe dissociative disorders
- People who are unwilling or uncomfortable with hypnosis
Always consult your health care provider before starting hypnotherapy, especially if you have complex mental health needs.
How to Find a Hypnotherapist
Look for a provider who’s certified by a recognized board such as:
- American Society of Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH)
- National Guild of Hypnotists (NGH)
- British Society of Clinical Hypnosis (BSCH) (for UK-based individuals)
Make sure your hypnotherapist is also licensed in a health care field like counseling, psychology or nursing, as certification in hypnosis alone may not be sufficient for clinical treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Hypnotherapy Real or Just a Placebo?
Hypnotherapy is real and supported by clinical research, especially for anxiety, pain and IBS. While suggestibility plays a role, the mind-body connection in hypnosis has measurable effects. - How Many Sessions Do I Need?
It depends on the issue. Smoking cessation may only take 1–2 sessions, while anxiety or trauma might require ongoing support for several weeks or months. - Will I Lose Control Under Hypnosis?
No. You remain in control at all times and can come out of hypnosis whenever you wish. You can’t be made to do anything against your will. - Does Insurance Cover Hypnotherapy?
Sometimes. It depends on your provider and the credentials of your therapist. Hypnotherapy may be more likely to be covered if it’s used to treat a diagnosed medical or mental health condition. - Is Hypnotherapy Like Stage Hypnosis?
Not at all. Clinical hypnotherapy is structured, therapeutic and grounded in psychology. Stage hypnosis is entertainment and involves voluntary audience participation.
Hypnotherapy offers a unique and empowering path for people looking to address anxiety, trauma or unwanted habits by working with, not against, the subconscious mind. While it’s not a magic cure, it’s a valuable tool for those open to deeper self-exploration and lasting change.
