What Really Happens in Hypnotherapy?

What Really Happens in Hypnotherapy? Myths vs. Facts

When most people hear the word hypnosis, they picture someone swinging a pocket watch or making people cluck like chickens on stage. In reality, hypnotherapy is a deeply therapeutic, science-backed approach that helps individuals heal from trauma, anxiety, and emotional pain. It is not about control or trickery. Instead, it is about creating a calm, focused state of awareness where real change can happen.

At Cultivate, trauma therapist Allison Gaydos, LCSW, NBCCH, uses hypnotherapy along with EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help clients heal from painful or traumatic experiences. Her approach is grounded in neuroscience and focused on working with the brain’s natural healing mechanisms to reprocess and release emotional wounds.

What Is the Purpose of Hypnotherapy?

The purpose of hypnotherapy is to help people access the subconscious part of the mind, where many emotional patterns, beliefs, and memories are stored. During this relaxed yet focused state, the mind becomes more open to new perspectives and healing experiences.

According to Allison, hypnotherapy allows clients to connect with the emotional brain, where trauma and distress often remain stuck. By entering a state of calm focus, clients can safely revisit old experiences, reframe them, and release the emotional charge that keeps them feeling triggered or stuck.

Hypnotherapy can be used to help with a variety of issues, including:

• Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias
• Low self-esteem and self-worth
• Emotional eating and body image issues
• Unhealthy relationship patterns

The goal is not to erase memories, but to help the brain store them in a healthier way so that they no longer create distress.

Does Hypnotherapy Really Work?

Yes, hypnotherapy has been shown through research to be effective in reducing anxiety, trauma symptoms, and emotional pain. Clinical hypnosis is recognized by organizations such as the American Psychological Association and the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis as a legitimate therapeutic method.

In therapy, hypnosis is often combined with other evidence-based approaches such as EMDR or IFS. Allison uses these methods together to create powerful, lasting change. Because hypnotherapy works directly with the subconscious mind, many clients experience progress faster than with talk therapy alone.

For example, a client who has spent years managing anxiety may discover through hypnotherapy that the root of their distress is connected to an old memory or belief. Once that memory is reprocessed in a relaxed, safe state, the anxiety often begins to fade naturally.

What Does a Hypnotherapist Do?

A hypnotherapist is a trained clinician who guides clients into a state of focused relaxation, similar to deep meditation or daydreaming. The client remains fully aware and in control throughout the session.

During a session with Allison, clients are invited to settle into a comfortable position and use breathing or imagery to relax the body and quiet the mind. Once in this calm state, Allison may use gentle suggestions, imagery, or therapeutic techniques to help the client explore emotions, memories, or beliefs that are influencing their present-day experiences.

Sessions are collaborative and personalized. Some clients work on trauma integration, while others focus on confidence, anxiety, or relationship patterns. Hypnotherapy is not about “being hypnotized” but rather about accessing deeper awareness and self-understanding in a guided, supportive way.

How Safe Is Hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is very safe when performed by a trained, licensed clinician. You are always aware of your surroundings and cannot be made to say or do anything against your will. The process is designed to help you feel calm and in control.

In fact, most clients describe hypnotherapy sessions as deeply relaxing and even enjoyable. The relaxed state allows the brain to process information differently, making it easier to reframe thoughts and release emotional tension.

Allison, a National Board Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, has advanced training in trauma-informed hypnosis and uses this method as part of an integrative treatment plan. Her approach helps clients calm the nervous system, engage with the emotional brain, and create real, lasting healing from within.

Myths vs. Facts About Hypnotherapy

Healing from the Inside Out

Hypnotherapy offers a path to healing that goes beyond surface-level symptom management. By working directly with the subconscious mind, it helps rewire emotional patterns, reduce distress, and strengthen a sense of inner calm and self-trust.

If talk therapy has not helped you move past painful memories or emotions, you are not alone. Healing is still possible.

At Cultivate, Allison, LCSW, NBCCH, specializes in trauma-informed care using EMDR, IFS, and hypnotherapy to help clients heal deeply and sustainably.

Ready to explore a new way of healing?
Get Started – Cultivate Therapy – Book a free consultation with Allison and learn how hypnotherapy can help you unlock your mind, heal your past, and move forward with confidence.