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Learn more about hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic approach that uses a guided state of deep relaxation and focused attention, known as a hypnotic state, to help people access and change patterns that are difficult to shift through ordinary conscious effort. In this state, the mind becomes more open to suggestion and to working with thoughts, feelings, and physical responses in new ways.
Hypnotherapy is not like stage hypnosis. The client remains aware and in control throughout. Nothing happens against the person's will. It is practised by trained therapists and is used in medical and psychological settings for a range of conditions.
At the start of a hypnotherapy session, the therapist guides the client into a relaxed, focused state using calm, directed speech. Once in this state, the therapist introduces suggestions, imagery, or techniques designed to address the presenting concern.
Sessions may involve:
- Suggestions that help reduce fear responses to specific situations
- Imagery techniques to support relaxation and sleep
- Working with physical sensations, such as pain, in a more manageable way
- Building new associations to replace unhelpful automatic responses
Hypnotherapy is most effective for presentations involving specific fear responses, physical tension, and unwanted automatic reactions.
Panic attacks
Panic attacks involve an intense fear response that feels out of control. Hypnotherapy is used to help the nervous system respond differently to the triggers that set off a panic response, reducing both frequency and intensity. It is typically used alongside other clinical support.
Insomnia
Sleep difficulties are one of the most well-supported applications of hypnotherapy. The deep relaxation of the hypnotic state can directly interrupt the cycle of mental arousal that keeps people awake, and suggestions around sleep associations can be built in during sessions.
Chronic pain
Hypnotherapy is used in pain management settings to change how the brain processes pain signals. It does not remove the underlying cause but can meaningfully reduce the experience of pain and improve daily functioning for people living with long-term pain conditions.
Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia, a fear of situations where escape feels difficult or where help would not be available, responds well to hypnotherapy techniques that reduce the automatic fear response associated with specific environments. It is usually combined with other therapeutic approaches.
Choosing an approach isn't something you have to do alone. IC's matching can pair you with a therapist whose approach suits your situation. Get matched
It's Complicated is a therapist-founded mental health platform connecting clients with verified practitioners across Europe and globally, in over 60 languages. We work with over 2,500 vetted therapists, with in-person availability in Berlin, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Lisbon, Vienna, and other major cities, alongside online sessions worldwide. It's Complicated is free to use, and you pay your chosen therapist directly at rates they set.
Finding a hypnotherapist with proper clinical training, rather than a wellness background alone, makes a significant difference for the presentations listed here. Our matching service is built to remove that friction. You complete a short survey, our psychologists combine data-driven insights with human judgement to identify the right therapists for your situation, and you choose from a shortlist of strong candidates. You can also browse our directory directly if you'd prefer to choose yourself.
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