Focused attention.
Space for change.
Hypnotherapy uses hypnosis: a guided state of focused attention, often accompanied by deep relaxation. It can involve suggestion, imagery and reflection to explore thoughts, feelings and habits.
You remain in control and can choose to stop. The absorbed feeling may be similar to being immersed in a book or a daydream.
Common applications to discuss
People explore hypnotherapy for a range of goals. Evidence and suitability vary by concern; discuss the available services and your needs with your practitioner.
- Habit change
- Smoking cessation, nail-biting, eating habits and other unwanted patterns. Evidence for smoking cessation is mixed.
- Stress & anxiety
- Relaxation practice and support with performance, tests or public speaking.
- Fears & phobias
- Concerns such as flying, needles, dental work or heights.
- Sleep & relaxation
- Exploring relaxation routines and difficulties settling into sleep.
- Pain & IBS support
- Hypnosis has been studied for some painful conditions and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a specific approach with some supporting evidence, although the evidence has limitations. Discuss specialist availability and medical care needs.
- Confidence & performance
- Goals related to self-esteem, motivation, sport and creative performance.
- Self-hypnosis training
- Learning techniques to practise independently between sessions.
- Group formats
- Guided relaxation, stress reduction or habit-change workshops. Ask about current offerings.
Approaches you may encounter
Suggestion-based hypnotherapy
Direct, positive suggestions connected to an agreed goal.
Ericksonian hypnotherapy
An indirect, conversational approach using stories and metaphors.
Cognitive-behavioural hypnotherapy
An approach combining cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with hypnosis.
Exploratory or regression approaches
Exploring feelings and interpretations associated with past experiences. Hypnosis is not a reliable way to recover or verify memories and can contribute to false memories. Discuss the purpose and limits of any exploratory work with your practitioner.
Choosing the right support
Ask which approaches our practitioner offers and whether they fit your goals. For pain, IBS or other medical concerns, coordinate with your healthcare provider. Hypnotherapy does not replace medical assessment or prescribed treatment. Confirm fees and any applicable coverage before booking.
Further reading: NCCIH: hypnosis research · Johns Hopkins: hypnosis and memory
Ask about hypnotherapy