Hypnotherapy

The cost is $95 per session. We offer both telehealth and in-person sessions. Hypnotherapy is a self-pay service and we accept Visa or Mastercard. We do not accept gratuity.

Winchester Hospital does not bill insurance for hypnotherapy. If your insurance covers hypnotherapy, we can provide you with the documentation you need to submit a claim for reimbursement.

New Patients will be asked to complete a New Patient Intake Form and Questionnaire when making an appointment.

Avinoam Lerner, CH joined the Center for Healthy Living in August 2026. He is a certified hypnotherapist with more than twenty years of experience working alongside conventional medical treatment in a range of settings, including cancer care, surgical preparation and recovery, trauma, chronic illness, and stress and sleep-related concerns. His work draws on psychoneuroimmunology and hypnosis to help patients manage anxiety, pain, and sleep disruption during active treatment and recovery. He is the author of The New Cancer Paradigm: Mobilizing the Mind to Heal the Body and Mindful Remission: The Mental Science of Healing. Avinoam holds a certification in hypnotherapy through the National Guild of Hypnotists. He also studied Holistic Therapy at Reidman International College for Complementary and Integrative Medicine in Tel Aviv, Israel, focusing on integrative mind-body practice and meditation instruction

Our hypnotherapy team offers hypnosis services for teens ages 15+ facing a variety of health conditions and situations, including:

• Sleep difficulties
• Phobias
• Healthy eating
• Stress management
• Social Anxiety
• Visualization and confidence for sports performance
• Nervous habits (nail biting, hair pulling)

What is hypnotherapy, and how does it work?

Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic technique that uses guided relaxation and focused attention to achieve a heightened state of awareness, often referred to as a trance. In this state, individuals are more open to suggestions, which can help them address specific challenges, such as changing habits, managing pain or reducing anxiety. It essentially taps into the subconscious mind, where deeply rooted beliefs and behaviors reside, allowing for transformation and healing.

Is hypnotherapy the same as being hypnotized on stage?

Not at all. Stage hypnosis is primarily entertainment, where the hypnotist is trained to find the most hypnotizable participants who may in part be playing along for fun. Clinical hypnotherapy, on the other hand, is a professional and therapeutic practice. It's about creating a safe space for personal growth and healing. The individual remains in control and aware throughout the session, contrary to common myths about losing control.

In what areas can the hypnotherapist help?

Common issues addressed by hypnotherapy includestress, sleep difficulties, weight management, fears, phobias, chronic pain and smoking or vaping cessation.

Hypnotherapy is helpful to prepare for a calm and positive childbirth experience, or as an added support when recovering from surgery, maintaining a healthy lifestyle in the face of a chronic condition, or for improved well-being before, during and after cancer treatment.

Children and teens often seek hypnotherapy for stress management, confidence in school and sports, relief from nervous habits (skin picking, hair pulling, etc.), and worries or phobias.

What happens during a typical hypnotherapy session?

A session usually begins with a discussion to understand the client’s goals and concerns. This is followed by:

• Induction: The hypnotherapist guides the client into a relaxed state using techniques like deep breathing, visualization or progressive muscle relaxation.
• Deepening: The client’s relaxation deepens to enhance focus and receptivity.
• Suggestion work: While in this state, the hypnotherapist provides positive suggestions or therapeutic guidance aligned with the client’s goals.
• Reorientation: The client is gently brought back to a fully alert state, often feeling refreshed and calm.

Each session is tailored to the individual’s needs, and trust is a key component of the process.

Will the hypnotherapist fix my problem? I just want the issue removed from my memory.

The hypnotherapist does not have the ability to fix or simply remove the problem.The problem has been repeated for a certain amount of time, which led you to seek hypnotherapy. Therefore, to establish a new healthy behavior, a person has to be willing to change and committed to practicing the new pattern. Hypnotherapy helps rewire the thoughts and emotional triggers around the problem, making change easier.

What is expected of me after the hypnotherapy session?

The therapeutic hypnosis portion of each appointment is audio recorded. You are expected to listen to your audio recording daily for one to three months. Listening to it regularly increases your long-term success.

How does hypnotherapy address specific issues like anxiety or smoking cessation?

For anxiety,identifying triggers, reframing negative thought patterns and cultivating a sense of calm may be used. For smoking cessation, the session may focus on the desire for health, alteringassociations with smoking triggers and visualizing life as a non-smoker. By addressing subconscious beliefs that drive behaviors, hypnotherapy facilitates lasting change.

Is everyone hypnotizable?

Most people can be hypnotized to some extent if they are willing and open to the process. However, the depth of trance varies from person to person. Factors like trust in the hypnotherapist and a genuine desire for change play a significant role in the effectiveness of the session.

How many sessions are typically needed?

The number of sessions depends on the individual and the issue being addressed. Some may need one or two sessions, while others may benefit from a series.

Are there any risks or side effects?

Hypnotherapy is generally safe when conducted by a trained professional. Side effects are rare but can include temporary emotional discomfort if deep issues are being explored. If you experience a new awareness of an intense feeling, the hypnotherapist will provide support and tools to manage any emotional responses. This is not common; a person usually feels calm and comfortable afterwards.

What does it feel like to be hypnotized?

Most people describe it as a deeply relaxed and enjoyable state, like being absorbed in a good book or daydream. You may also experiencebody sensations such as heaviness or lightness of the arms and legs, notice changes in temperature/tingling or there may be no obvious change in sensations. You remain aware and in control, and you can end the session at any time, if you wish. It’s a state of heightened focus rather than unconsciousness. It is not sleep.

Can hypnotherapy be used alongside other treatments?

Yes, hypnotherapy is often used alongside traditional medical or psychological treatments. It’s especially effective for enhancing relaxation, reducing stress and supporting other therapeutic goals. Always inform your healthcare provider if you’re incorporating hypnotherapy into your treatment plan.

Does hypnotherapy replace traditional psychotherapy, such as CBT or trauma therapy?

No. If you are experiencing a mental health issue, such as depression, anxiety or PTSD, it is best to seek more comprehensive mental health support, such as a regular talk therapist to work together on managing symptoms. Adding hypnotherapy alongside talk therapy can offer another tool for improving mental health.

Any advice for someone considering hypnotherapy?

Keep an open mind and ensure you’re clear about your goals. Hypnotherapy is a collaborative process — active participation and commitment are key to your success.