Hypnotherapy explained

While popular culture has added a lot of mystery (and fear) to the idea of hypnotherapy, clinical hypnosis is actually very different from what you might have seen on TV.

Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic tool used to support change, ease discomfort, and help you engage with goals in a focused, calm state of mind. It’s grounded in science, delivered by trained professionals, and tailored to each person’s needs.

If you're curious about what hypnotherapy actually involves and whether it might be right for you, this article will walk you through the key facts.

What is hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is a structured form of therapy that uses focused attention, guided imagery, and suggestion to help you shift patterns of thinking, feeling, or behaviour.

During a session, a therapist will guide you into a deeply relaxed but alert state, sometimes called a trance or hypnotic state. It's similar to the kind of focus you might experience while reading a book or daydreaming.

In this state, you're more open to working with therapeutic suggestions that reflect your personal goals. That might include changing how you respond to anxiety, managing physical discomfort, or reinforcing healthier habits.

An APA article titled “Uncovering the new science of clinical hypnosis” says that “clinical hypnosis has clear benefits in psychotherapy, improving outcomes in areas such as pain management, anxiety, depression, sleep, and more.”

It's important to know that hypnotherapy is not about losing control or being unconscious. You’ll remain aware of your surroundings, and you’ll be able to stop the session at any time. You stay in charge of your experience.

When to consider hypnotherapy?

People turn to hypnotherapy for many reasons. It may be helpful if you are:

• Feeling anxious, tense, or overwhelmed

• Struggling with chronic pain or physical discomfort

• Preparing for a medical or dental procedure

• Trying to change a long-standing habit like smoking or nail biting

• Living with symptoms that don’t have a clear medical cause, like tension headaches or IBS

In many cases, hypnotherapy works best as part of a broader treatment plan, complementing other therapeutic approaches.

What can it help with?

The research behind hypnotherapy has grown steadily. While results vary depending on the condition and the individual, several areas show strong or promising outcomes.

Anxiety and stress

Hypnotherapy has been shown to help reduce anxiety, both general and situational. A 2019 study published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis found that hypnosis led to meaningful reductions in anxiety, especially as a part of a broader psychological intervention.

Chronic pain

Hypnotherapy can play a role in managing chronic pain, especially when used alongside other treatments. In a review of 13 studies about hypnotherapy and chronic pain, results consistently showed that hypnosis does result in a significant reduction of pain. However, do note that different practitioners tend to facilitate hypnotherapy somewhat differently, so individual experiences also vary.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

This is one of the most well-researched areas. Gut-directed hypnotherapy has been shown to improve symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and bowel discomfort. Monash University and other Australian researchers have reported long-lasting improvements in people with IBS, sometimes even a year after treatment.

Medical procedures

Hypnotherapy is sometimes used before surgery or dental work to ease fear, reduce the need for medication, and support recovery.

A 2025 systematic review and meta‑analysis of randomised controlled trials found that hypnosis was effective in reducing both anxiety and pain during invasive medical procedures when compared with standard care alone, with minimal adverse effects reported. It also showed that physiological stress markers such as heart rate and blood pressure tended to decrease when hypnosis was used alongside usual treatment.

Sleep, migraines, and mind-body conditions

While the evidence is still developing, early studies suggest hypnotherapy may also support people dealing with sleep issues, migraines, and somatic conditions where stress affects the body. More research is underway in these areas.

What to expect in a session?

The first appointment

Your first session usually begins with a conversation. The therapist will ask about your goals, your health history, and any concerns you may have. They’ll also explain how the process works and answer your questions before beginning.

The hypnosis process

The therapist will help you settle into a calm, focused state using gentle breathing, imagery, or verbal cues. You might feel deeply relaxed, or simply very focused. Once you’re in that state, the therapist may offer suggestions or guide you through a scenario that supports the outcome you’re aiming for, like feeling more confident or easing physical tension.

After the session

You’ll be brought back to full awareness gradually. Most people feel relaxed, sometimes a bit reflective, and occasionally surprised by how natural the process feels. Changes may happen subtly or gradually, though some people notice shifts after just a few sessions.

Are there any risks?

Hypnotherapy is considered very safe when provided by a qualified and experienced therapist. Most people find it relaxing and beneficial, and adverse effects are rare. 

Occasionally, some individuals may experience emotional release or discomfort if sensitive topics come up during a session. A good therapist will support you through that process and check in regularly to ensure your wellbeing.

Hypnotherapy isn’t suitable for everyone. For example, it may not be recommended if you're experiencing untreated psychosis or certain severe mental health conditions. Your therapist will help assess whether hypnotherapy is appropriate for you.

Final thoughts

Hypnotherapy is a gentle and collaborative way to work with your inner experience. It’s not about being put under or giving up control. Instead, it creates space for you to engage with change in a deeply focused and supported way.

For many people, it complements other therapies and offers new tools for managing anxiety, pain, or behavioural challenges. If you’re considering giving it a try, speaking with a trained hypnotherapist can help you decide whether it’s the right fit for your needs and goals.