Hypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic modality that involves several steps. With guidance from a hypnotherapist, an individual may work through mental and emotional challenges that hinder them from their goals. The process of hypnotherapy may involve the following steps: 

Pre-therapy stage

During the pre-therapy stage, an initial consultation occurs between the therapist and the individual to create goals and set expectations. This stage is followed by obtaining informed consent to ensure the individual understands the process, including its potential risks and benefits. The therapist can then gather detailed information about specific symptoms, medical history, and one’s emotional state.

Induction stage

In the induction stage, a therapist seeks to build rapport and develop a trusting relationship with the client to ensure the process can go smoothly. The therapist may then explain the hypnosis process and ensure the individual is comfortable and ready to proceed. The induction itself guides the client into a relaxed, focused state, commonly using techniques like progressive relaxation or guided imagery.

Deepening stage

During the deepening stage, hypnotic techniques deepen the trance state to increase the person’s suggestibility. The therapist may also confirm that the individual is sufficiently relaxed and receptive to therapeutic work.

Therapeutic stage

In the therapeutic stage, the therapist can provide suggestions and interventions to help individuals achieve their treatment goals. Imagery and visualization techniques may be used to make the suggestions more impactful. If there are more profound challenges to explore, the therapist might use other interactive methods like age regression or guided discovery to get to the root of these challenges. 

Awakening stage

The awakening stage may start with a transition phase in which the therapist prepares the client to return fully conscious. Awakening follows, during which the client is gradually brought out of the trance state, often through counting or other gentle cues.

Post-therapy stage

The post-therapy stage involves reviewing the session and discussing follow-up treatment if necessary. This stage can offer an opportunity for the therapist and client to evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy and allow the client to rest and relax before returning to daily life.  

During a hypnotherapy session, you might expect a calm, therapeutic environment in which a trained therapist guides you into a relaxed, focused state. The process often involves the therapist using techniques to achieve an altered state of consciousness and increased relaxation. 

To ensure the best possible experience, those undergoing hypnotherapy may consider the following preparation techniques:

• Arrive with a clear, open mind, free from any distractions.
• Wear comfortable clothing for the session.
• Set realistic expectations about the outcomes and timeframes for tangible improvements.
• Establish trust and rapport with the therapist, asking questions or addressing concerns upfront.

Individuals may have a range of experiences during hypnotherapy. Some may notice immediate effects, while others may require multiple sessions before seeing progress. Depending on the individual's unique needs, the hypnotherapist may use techniques like direct suggestions, metaphors, or visualization exercises. 

Following a hypnotherapy session, individuals may report feeling calm and relaxed. However, processing and integrating the experience can be vital before jumping back into daily activities. A hypnotherapist may also recommend regular follow-up visits to evaluate progress and discuss concerns. 

Hypnotherapy is a versatile therapy that may benefit various individuals facing different challenges. People living with various physical and mental health challenges may find relief through hypnotherapy, as it can promote a state of deep relaxation to induce change. Examples of people who may benefit from hypnotherapy include the following: 

• Individuals with anxiety or stress: Hypnotherapy may relax the mind and teach stress management techniques, reducing general anxiety and situational stress.
• People who smoke: With hypnosis, smokers may find it easier to break the psychological dependency linked to smoking.
• Individuals with chronic pain: Individuals with conditions like fibromyalgia or arthritis may use hypnotherapy to reframe and manage pain symptoms.
• People with insomnia: Hypnotherapy may help individuals relax and alter sleep patterns that contribute to insomnia.
• Individuals with phobias: Hypnotherapy can be used to confront and reduce the impact of irrational fears or phobias.
• Individuals with low self-esteem: Hypnotherapy may boost confidence and self-esteem by guiding clients to change negative thought patterns.
• Students and professionals: Techniques learned in hypnotherapy may improve focus and performance in academic or professional settings.
• Athletes: Hypnotherapy might boost mental clarity and focus, benefiting athletic performance.
• Individuals with digestive problems: Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may improve with hypnotherapy.
• People seeking personal development: Hypnotherapy may be helpful for those who want to manage their time better, improve relationships, or develop other personal skills.

Hypnotherapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Every person's response to hypnotherapy can differ, and the outcomes may vary depending on the challenges brought to sessions. 

Mental health goals

Mental health goals for hypnotherapy could include the following: 

• Reduce anxiety: Decrease symptoms of anxiety and promote relaxation
• Tackle depression: Reframe negative thought patterns that may be contributing to depressive symptoms 
• Improve emotional stability: Manage emotional swings and achieve a balanced mood
• Boost self-esteem: Develop a more positive self-image and sense of self-worth
• Phobia management: Desensitize oneself to fears and phobias
• Work through addiction: Reduce addiction behaviors associated with substance use disorders⁵ 

Physical health goals

Below are some of the potential physical health goals people may set in hypnotherapy: 

• Pain management: Alleviate chronic pain through mind-body techniques
• Improving sleep: Overcome insomnia and improve overall sleep quality
• Reducing substance dependence: Quit smoking or reduce alcohol consumption

Personal development goals

Potential goals based on personal development might include: 

• Boost focus and concentration: Improve attention span and the ability to concentrate on tasks
• Increase motivation: Improve drive and enthusiasm for personal or professional projects
• Develop confidence: Strengthen self-belief in abilities and decision-making
• Promote healthy habits: Encourage regular exercise and nutritious meals 
• Prepare for significant life events: Mentally prepare for milestones such as childbirth or career changes
• Improve athletic performance: Improve focus and mental preparation in sports and activities

Relationship goals

Relationship goals that might be addressed in hypnotherapy could include: 

• Improve communication skills: Learn healthy interpersonal communication techniques 
• Resolve conflicts: Find constructive solutions for interpersonal conflict 
• Increase intimacy: Connect more profoundly and emotionally with a partner

Creating clear and realistic goals can be useful to keep track of progress from therapy sessions. These goals may help the therapist and client focus on achieving specific outcomes. 

For those struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.

Various studies support the potential of hypnotherapy in treating mental health conditions and symptoms. In a worldwide survey of almost 700 hypnotists from 31 countries, researchers found that hypnosis is often used to reduce stress, build self-esteem, lessen anxiety, and promote mindfulness. 

The survey found that the success of the therapy was often influenced by the relationship between the hypnotist and the client, as well as how motivated the client was to make changes. In addition, some hypnotists carried out their sessions over the internet, and more than 50% found online hypnotherapy as effective as meeting in person.

One systematic review evaluated how effective hypnotherapy could be for sleep problems. In total, researchers looked at 44 studies. They found that in almost half of these studies (47.7%), hypnotherapy helped people sleep better. About a quarter of the studies (22.7%) had mixed results, and in the remaining 29.5%, hypnotherapy didn’t make a difference.

In a recent study, 38 women living with chronic migraines were randomly assigned to mindful hypnotherapy or regular medical treatment. The research found that mindful hypnotherapy significantly improved the participants’ ability to cope with their pain, reduced the effects of migraines on their daily lives, and reduced the intensity of their headaches.

Another study showed that cognitive behavioral therapy plus hypnosis significantly improved emotional well-being in women receiving radiotherapy for breast cancer. The therapy reduced emotional distress by more than 50% at various stages of treatment and follow-up. This approach is brief, noninvasive, and does not cause side effects. The positive effects lasted even four weeks after the therapy ended, suggesting this method could be beneficial for broader use in cancer care.

When looking for hypnotherapy, seek a qualified, experienced therapist to ensure a positive experience. You can start by searching for reputable sources, such as the Nationally Accredited College of Hypnotherapy, the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis, and the National Hypnotherapy Society, which provide a list of hypnotherapists sorted by location and expertise. Another way to find a therapist is by asking for personal recommendations from friends, family, or medical professionals.

Several online platforms may offer remote hypnotherapy sessions for those who prefer virtual treatment options. For example, online platforms like BetterHelp may provide hypnotherapy services through video, phone, or messaging sessions. When signing up, note your interest in being matched with a hypnotherapist.