Naturally Healing with Hypnotherapy in Brooklyn, NY
in Brooklyn, NY and Online
At Mind Body Psychiatry, we offer specialized hypnotherapy as part of our integrative approach to mental health care in Brooklyn. Hypnotherapy is a powerful, evidence-based therapeutic technique that uses focused attention, guided imagery, and therapeutic suggestion to help you access your mind’s natural healing abilities.
Far from the stage hypnosis portrayed in entertainment, clinical hypnotherapy is a respected therapeutic approach backed by substantial research. Our practitioners are specifically trained in medical and clinical hypnosis to address a wide range of psychological and physical concerns.
Understanding Hypnosis
A Natural State of Focused Awareness
Hypnosis is a natural mental state of heightened focus and receptivity that we all experience daily—when absorbed in a good book, during deep meditation, or while engaged in creative pursuits. It’s not sleep or unconsciousness, but rather a state of relaxed awareness where your conscious mind becomes less dominant, allowing deeper access to your subconscious.
During hypnotherapy, you remain aware and in control throughout the process. You cannot be made to do anything against your will or values. Instead, the hypnotic state simply allows you to access internal resources and capabilities that might otherwise be overlooked in your everyday conscious state.
Physical changes often accompany hypnosis, including:
- Slowed breathing and heart rate
- Reduced blood pressure
- Pleasant sensations of warmth or heaviness
- Deep physical relaxation
- Heightened mental clarity
This natural state can be therapeutically directed to help create positive changes in thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and even certain physiological processes.
How Hypnotherapy Can Help
Research has demonstrated hypnotherapy’s effectiveness for numerous mental health concerns:
Anxiety and Stress Management
Hypnotherapy helps calm the nervous system's fight-or-flight response, creating deep relaxation while establishing new mental patterns that promote calm and confidence. Studies show significant reduction in anxiety symptoms following hypnotherapeutic interventions.
Depression
Hypnotherapy can help address negative thought patterns, boost motivation, and reconnect with positive emotional states. Research suggests it may be comparable to cognitive behavioral therapy for mild to moderate depression.
Trauma Recovery
Hypnosis provides a gentle way to process traumatic experiences with less distress, helping to reframe memories and reduce their emotional impact. It can be particularly helpful for those who find traditional talk therapy too overwhelming.
Sleep Issues
By addressing the mental activity that interferes with sleep and promoting natural relaxation responses, hypnotherapy helps establish healthier sleep patterns without medication.
Phobias and Fears
Hypnotherapy allows you to mentally rehearse facing feared situations while in a calm, controlled state, gradually reducing fear responses and building confidence.
Pain Management
Through hypnotic suggestion and imagery, the brain can modify how pain signals are processed, reducing suffering even when the physical sensation remains.
Habit Change
Hypnotherapy helps address unwanted habits by working with the subconscious patterns that maintain them, while building motivation and confidence for positive change.
Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy
This specialized application has shown remarkable success for irritable bowel syndrome and other functional digestive disorders by addressing the brain-gut connection.
Many clients find that hypnotherapy complements and enhances other forms of therapy, often accelerating progress by addressing both conscious and subconscious aspects of their challenges.
The Hypnotherapy Experience at Mind Body Psychiatry
What to Expect in Your Sessions
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Comprehensive Assessment
We begin with a thorough understanding of your concerns, goals, and previous experiences to tailor the hypnotherapeutic approach specifically to your needs.
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Learn about Hypnotherapy
Before beginning hypnosis, your therapist will explain the process, answer your questions, and address any concerns to ensure you feel comfortable and informed.
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Induction and Deepening
Your therapist will guide you into the hypnotic state through gentle, progressive relaxation techniques. This might involve focusing on your breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or visualization.
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Guidance and Suggestion
Once you've reached an appropriate level of hypnotic focus, your therapist will introduce therapeutic suggestions, metaphors, or guided imagery specifically designed to address your goals.
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Re-alerting
At the conclusion of the therapeutic work, you'll be gently guided back to your normal waking state, typically feeling refreshed and relaxed.
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Talk about Your Experience
After the hypnotic work, you'll have time to discuss your experience and integrate insights gained during the session.
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Self-Hypnosis Training
Many clients learn self-hypnosis techniques to extend the benefits of their therapy between sessions and after formal treatment ends.
Most people find hypnotherapy to be a deeply relaxing, interesting, and empowering experience. The number of sessions needed varies based on your specific concerns and goals, with some issues responding in just a few sessions while others benefit from a more extended approach.
The Science Behind Hypnotherapy
Research-Backed Benefits
Hypnotherapy’s effectiveness is supported by a growing body of scientific research:
- Neuroimaging studies show that hypnosis creates measurable changes in brain activity, particularly in areas related to attention, pain perception, and emotional regulation
- Meta-analyses have demonstrated hypnotherapy’s effectiveness for conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, irritable bowel syndrome, and chronic pain
- The American Psychological Association recognizes hypnosis as a valuable therapeutic tool with empirical support
- The American College of Chest Physicians has endorsed hypnosis for managing symptoms in cancer care, including anxiety, pain, and nausea
Research published in prestigious journals indicates that hypnotherapy can modulate the brain’s perception of anxiety and stress, involving regions such as the dorsal anterior cingulate gyrus and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex—key areas involved in emotional processing and regulation.
Where Mental Wellness Meets Lasting Change
Get in touch today and receive a complimentary consultation.
Elena Man, MD
At Mind Body Psychiatry, our hypnotherapy services are provided by licensed mental health professionals with specialized training in clinical and medical hypnosis. Our team includes Dr. Elena Man, who specializes in hypnotherapy for children and young adults, combining her medical expertise with advanced hypnotherapy training.
Hypnotherapy for Children and Teens
Behavioral Concerns
- Anxiety, fears, and specific phobias
- School-related stress and test anxiety
- Sleep issues including insomnia and nightmares
- Bed wetting and toilet training challenges
- Habits such as thumb-sucking, nail-biting, or hair pulling
- Tics, including both motor and vocal manifestations
- Attention and focus difficulties
Physical Concerns
- Procedural anxiety (fear of medical procedures, injections, etc.)
- Chronic pain management
- Recurrent headaches or stomach aches
- Nausea (including anticipatory nausea before treatments)
- Functional digestive issues
Coping with Chronic Conditions
- Asthma (reducing the stress-wheezing cycle)
- Cancer treatment support (managing stress, procedure tolerance, pain, and nausea)
- Dermatological conditions with stress components
- Other chronic illnesses requiring emotional adaptation
The Child Hypnotherapy Process
Your child’s hypnotherapy journey typically includes:
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Initial Parent Consultation
We begin with a thorough discussion with parents about the child's needs, history, and goals for therapy
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Child-Friendly Assessment
An age-appropriate meeting with your child to establish rapport and explain hypnotherapy in terms they can understand and find interesting
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Collaborative Session Design
Creating hypnotic experiences that incorporate your child's interests, favorite characters, or activities to maximize engagement
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Skill Building
Teaching self-hypnosis techniques your child can use independently between sessions and after formal therapy concludes
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Recording for Home Practice
Sessions are often recorded (on a family device) to allow for regular practice at home, reinforcing the therapeutic benefits
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Parent Guidance
Instructions for parents on how to support their child's practice and reinforce positive changes
Most children learn basic hypnotic skills within just a few sessions, though the number of visits needed depends on the specific concern and your child’s individual response.
Is Hypnotherapy Right for You?
Common Questions and Considerations
Hypnotherapy may be particularly beneficial if you:
- Find yourself “stuck” despite understanding your challenges intellectually
- Experience physical symptoms connected to emotional states
- Want to supplement traditional therapy with a complementary approach
- Prefer approaches that engage your imagination and creativity
- Are looking for techniques that promote relaxation along with change
While most people can benefit from hypnotherapy, the depth of hypnotic response varies between individuals. Your therapist will assess your hypnotic responsiveness and tailor their approach accordingly.
During your initial consultation, we’ll help determine if hypnotherapy is appropriate for your specific needs or might be beneficial as part of a more comprehensive treatment plan.
The Ericksonian Approach to Hypnotherapy
Beyond Direct Suggestion
Indirect Communication
Metaphors, stories, and conversational language that bypass resistance and speak directly to the unconscious mind
Utilization
Working with, rather than against, a person's unique experiences, beliefs, and patterns
Tailored Approach
Customizing the hypnotherapeutic experience to each individual rather than following rigid scripts
Resource Activation
Helping people discover and mobilize their own internal capabilities rather than imposing external solutions
This approach is particularly effective because it honors your uniqueness and works with your natural mental processes rather than attempting to override them. The Ericksonian method is gentle yet powerful, creating lasting change through collaboration rather than direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose control or reveal secrets during hypnosis?
No. Hypnosis is not a state of unconsciousness or surrender of control. Throughout the hypnotic experience, you remain aware and in control. You cannot be made to do or say anything against your will or values. Think of hypnosis as a collaborative process where you're an active participant, not a passive recipient. Your mind maintains protective mechanisms even in the hypnotic state, and you'll only accept suggestions that align with your goals and values. Many people report feeling more in control during hypnosis as they access inner resources and capabilities.
How does hypnotherapy differ from stage hypnosis I've seen in entertainment?
Clinical hypnotherapy is fundamentally different from stage hypnosis in purpose, methods, and ethics. Stage hypnosis selects highly suggestible volunteers willing to perform for entertainment and uses techniques designed for dramatic effect. In contrast, clinical hypnotherapy is a confidential, therapeutic process focused on your wellbeing and goals. Your hypnotherapist creates a safe, respectful environment without any interest in making you perform or act in unusual ways. The clinical approach uses scientifically-backed methods to help you access your own internal resources rather than creating a spectacle.
How many sessions will I need to see results?
The number of sessions varies depending on your specific concerns, goals, and individual response to hypnotherapy. Some issues, like simple phobias or habit changes, may show significant improvement in just 2-6 sessions. More complex or longstanding concerns typically benefit from 8-12 sessions or more. Many clients notice some positive changes after their very first session, though lasting transformation usually requires reinforcement. During your initial consultation, your therapist will discuss a recommended treatment plan based on your unique situation, with regular progress assessments to adjust as needed.
Will hypnotherapy work if I'm skeptical?
Yes, hypnotherapy can still be effective even if you're skeptical. In fact, a healthy skepticism often indicates good critical thinking rather than resistance. The most important factors are your willingness to participate in the process and your desire for change. Many initially skeptical clients find themselves pleasantly surprised by their hypnotic experience. Your hypnotherapist will take time to address your questions and concerns before beginning, and the educational component of treatment often helps overcome initial skepticism. The hypnotic state is natural and accessible regardless of your beliefs about hypnosis itself.
What does hypnosis feel like?
Most people describe hypnosis as a pleasant state of focused relaxation with heightened awareness of certain aspects of their experience. You might notice physical sensations like warmth, heaviness in your limbs, or a pleasant floating feeling. Mentally, you may experience enhanced imagery, creative thinking, and emotional responsiveness. Time perception often shifts, with sessions seeming shorter than their actual duration. While deeply relaxed, you remain aware of your surroundings and can speak, adjust your position, or end the hypnotic state if desired. The experience varies between individuals—some experience profound trance states, while others maintain a lighter level of hypnotic focus with equally beneficial results.
Can hypnotherapy replace my medication?
Hypnotherapy is complementary to medical treatment, not a replacement for medication. If you're currently taking prescribed medication for mental health or other conditions, continue following your doctor's guidance. Hypnotherapy can work alongside your medical treatment, potentially enhancing its effectiveness or helping manage side effects. Some clients, in consultation with their prescribing physician, may eventually reduce medication as their symptoms improve with hypnotherapy, but this should always be done under proper medical supervision. We're happy to collaborate with your healthcare providers to ensure an integrated approach to your care.
Is hypnotherapy covered by insurance?
As an out-of-network provider, Mind Body Psychiatry does not directly bill insurance for hypnotherapy services. However, many clients receive partial reimbursement by submitting our detailed superbills to their insurance companies. Coverage depends on your specific plan and whether hypnotherapy is provided as part of treatment for a recognized diagnosis. We recommend checking with your insurance provider about your mental health benefits and reimbursement policies for out-of-network providers. For those concerned about costs, we offer package options and some sliding scale availability. Your initial consultation will include a clear discussion of fees and payment options.
How does hypnotherapy for children differ from adult hypnotherapy?
Children are naturally imaginative and often excellent hypnotic subjects. Our approach to hypnotherapy with children is developmentally appropriate, using more playful language, storytelling, and age-relevant metaphors. Sessions are typically shorter for younger children, with parents sometimes included in the room depending on the child's age and comfort level. Our specialists in child hypnotherapy, including Dr. Elena Man, have additional training in working with young people. Children often learn self-hypnosis techniques they can use independently for challenges like test anxiety, sleep problems, or pain management. Parental involvement varies based on the child's age, with more guidance provided for helping younger children practice between sessions.
Can hypnotherapy help with chronic pain?
Yes, hypnotherapy has shown considerable effectiveness for chronic pain management. Rather than eliminating pain entirely, hypnotherapy helps change your relationship with pain by addressing how your brain processes pain signals. Through techniques like glove anesthesia, pain transformation, and time distortion, many clients experience significant reduction in pain intensity and suffering. Hypnotherapy can also address emotional components of chronic pain, including frustration, anxiety, and catastrophizing. For optimal results, hypnotherapy for chronic pain is usually provided as a series of sessions with self-hypnosis training, allowing you to apply pain management techniques independently. We often collaborate with medical providers as part of a comprehensive pain management plan.
What is gut-directed hypnotherapy and how does it work?
Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a specialized protocol developed specifically for functional gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This approach focuses on the brain-gut connection, using hypnotic suggestion to normalize digestive function, reduce sensitivity, and calm the nervous system's response to gut sensations. Research shows impressive success rates, with approximately 70-80% of IBS patients experiencing significant symptom improvement through this approach. The protocol typically involves 6-12 sessions addressing specific digestive functions, stress responses, and emotional factors that may be contributing to symptoms. Gut-directed hypnotherapy is especially valuable for those who haven't responded adequately to dietary changes or medication alone.
Can anyone be hypnotized?
Most people can experience hypnosis to some degree, though hypnotic responsiveness varies naturally between individuals. Research suggests that about 85% of people can achieve a light to medium trance state, while about 15% are highly responsive to hypnosis. Very few people (less than 5%) are extremely resistant to hypnotic induction. Factors influencing hypnotic responsiveness include your trust in the therapist, your motivation for change, and your natural ability to focus and engage your imagination. Your hypnotherapist will assess your hypnotic responsiveness and tailor their approach accordingly. Even those who experience only lighter levels of hypnotic focus can benefit significantly from hypnotherapy when the approach is adapted to their responsiveness level.
How is Ericksonian hypnotherapy different from traditional approaches?
Ericksonian hypnotherapy, developed by Dr. Milton Erickson, differs from traditional approaches in several key ways. Rather than using direct suggestions or scripts, it employs conversational language, metaphors, and stories tailored to the individual's unique experiences and language patterns. Ericksonian approaches often induce trance indirectly or conversationally rather than through formal induction procedures. This method works with a person's existing patterns and beliefs rather than attempting to override them, making it particularly effective for those who might resist more authoritarian approaches. The Ericksonian method also emphasizes utilization—finding usefulness in whatever the client brings to therapy—creating a more collaborative and creative therapeutic process that respects the client's autonomy and inner resources.