Skip to content
  • Mental Health Issues
    • Anxiety
    • ADHD
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Depression
    • Grief
    • Narcissism
    • OCD
    • Personality Disorders
    • PTSD
  • Relationships
    • Dating
    • Marriage
    • Sex & Intimacy
    • Infidelity
    • Relationships 101
    • Best Online Couples Counseling Services
  • Wellness
    • Anger
    • Burnout
    • Stress
    • Sleep
    • Meditation
    • Mindfulness
    • Yoga
  • Therapy
    • Starting Therapy
    • Types of Therapy
    • Best Online Therapy Providers
    • Online Therapy Reviews & Guides
  • Medication
    • Anxiety Medication
    • Depression Medication
    • ADHD Medication
    • Best Online Psychiatrist Options
  • Reviews
    • Best Online Therapy
    • Best Online Therapy with Insurance
    • Best Online Therapy for Teens
    • Best Online Therapy for Anxiety
    • Best Online Therapy for Depression
    • Best Online ADHD Treatments
    • Best Online Psychiatry
    • Best Mental Health Apps
    • All Reviews
  • Therapy Worksheets
    • Anxiety Worksheets
    • Depression Worksheets
    • Relationship Worksheets
    • CBT Worksheets
    • Therapy Worksheets for Kids
    • Therapy Worksheets for Teens
    • ADHD Worksheets
    • All Therapy Worksheets
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Find a Local Therapist
    • Join Our Free Directory

Join our Newsletter

Get helpful tips and the latest information

Choosing Therapy on Facebook
Choosing Therapy on Instagram
Choosing Therapy on Twitter
Choosing Therapy on Linkedin
Choosing Therapy on Pinterest
Choosing Therapy on Tiktok
Choosing Therapy on Youtube
ChoosingTherapy.com Logo

Newsletter

Search Icon
  • Mental Health Issues
    • Anxiety
    • ADHD
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Depression
    • Grief
    • Narcissism
    • OCD
    • Personality Disorders
    • PTSD
  • Relationships
    • Dating
    • Marriage
    • Sex & Intimacy
    • Infidelity
    • Relationships 101
    • Best Online Couples Counseling Services
  • Wellness
    • Anger
    • Burnout
    • Stress
    • Sleep
    • Meditation
    • Mindfulness
    • Yoga
  • Therapy
    • Starting Therapy
    • Types of Therapy
    • Best Online Therapy Providers
    • Online Therapy Reviews & Guides
  • Medication
    • Anxiety Medication
    • Depression Medication
    • ADHD Medication
    • Best Online Psychiatrist Options
  • Reviews
    • Best Online Therapy
    • Best Online Therapy with Insurance
    • Best Online Therapy for Teens
    • Best Online Therapy for Anxiety
    • Best Online Therapy for Depression
    • Best Online ADHD Treatments
    • Best Online Psychiatry
    • Best Mental Health Apps
    • All Reviews
  • Therapy Worksheets
    • Anxiety Worksheets
    • Depression Worksheets
    • Relationship Worksheets
    • CBT Worksheets
    • Therapy Worksheets for Kids
    • Therapy Worksheets for Teens
    • ADHD Worksheets
    • All Therapy Worksheets
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Find a Local Therapist
    • Join Our Free Directory
  • What Is Hypnotherapy?What Is Hypnotherapy?
  • Hypnotherapy for DepressionHypnotherapy for Depression
  • What Does It Address?What Does It Address?
  • Course of HypnotherapyCourse of Hypnotherapy
  • How Hypnosis for Depression WorksHow Hypnosis for Depression Works
  • Is It Effective?Is It Effective?
  • Pros & ConsPros & Cons
  • How to Find a HypnotherapistHow to Find a Hypnotherapist
  • ConclusionConclusion
  • InfographicsInfographics
  • Additional ResourcesAdditional Resources
Hypnosis Articles Hypnotherapy Hypnosis for Anxiety Hypnosis for Stress Hypnosis for Depression

Hypnosis for Depression: How It Works, Examples, & Effectiveness

Headshot Chris Lemig CHT

Author: Chris Lemig, CHT

Headshot Chris Lemig CHT

Chris Lemig CHT

Chris blends ancient wisdom with modern science in hypnotherapy, guiding clients toward healing, transformation, and personal empowerment.

See My Bio Editorial Policy
Headshot of Dena Westphalen, Pharm. D.

Medical Reviewer: Dena Westphalen, Pharm.D Licensed medical reviewer

Headshot of Dena Westphalen, Pharm. D.

Dena Westphalen PharmD

Dr. Dena Westphalen is a pharmacist with expertise in clinical research and drug information. She has interests in neurology, oncology, and global health.

See My Bio Editorial Policy
Published: August 11, 2023
  • What Is Hypnotherapy?What Is Hypnotherapy?
  • Hypnotherapy for DepressionHypnotherapy for Depression
  • What Does It Address?What Does It Address?
  • Course of HypnotherapyCourse of Hypnotherapy
  • How Hypnosis for Depression WorksHow Hypnosis for Depression Works
  • Is It Effective?Is It Effective?
  • Pros & ConsPros & Cons
  • How to Find a HypnotherapistHow to Find a Hypnotherapist
  • ConclusionConclusion
  • InfographicsInfographics
  • Additional ResourcesAdditional Resources

Hypnotherapy for depression is a short-term, solution-based treatment that takes a natural approach to problem-solving. By entering the physically and mentally relaxed state of hypnosis, people are more easily able to make emotional and behavioral changes. In conjunction with other therapies, hypnotherapy has been shown to be effective treating depression, as well as anxiety and seasonal affective disorder.

Best Online Therapy for Depression

Best Online Therapy for Depression

Depression is a very common mental health concern. To find the best online therapy for depression, we spent hundreds of hours personally using and researching over 50 platforms. Our resulting list offers options with easy access to appointments, affordable pricing, coverage for major insurance plans, and some of the best therapist availability in the industry. Read on to see our top picks for the best online therapy for depression.

Read more

What Is Hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is an intervention used by certified hypnotherapists. In this intervention, a person is taken into a state of relaxation and lowered inhibitions. A professional will give verbal commands and help the client resolve some subconscious thoughts contributing to a mental health or behavioral concern.

How Can Hypnotherapy Help Someone With Depression?

Hypnotherapy differs from other depression treatments in that it focuses on solutions to problem states and behaviors rather than simply seeking to alleviate symptoms of depression. Some areas hypnosis for depression might address include subconscious causes, behaviors, self-image, and core identity.

Resolving Subconscious Elements of Depression

Some people report feeling depressed with no obvious or apparent reason. In these cases, there may be hidden, subconscious causes for their depression. One of the main objectives of hypnosis is to bring subconscious elements of the mind to the foreground.

In the relaxed state of hypnotic trance, it is possible to recall long-forgotten memories, recognize unhealthy thought patterns or beliefs, and identify previously unconscious biases and assumptions. The therapist will then guide the person to resolve these subconscious elements so emotional change occurs.

Addressing Depressive Behaviors

Depression can sometimes be linked to various behavioral factors such as diet, sleep, and exercise.3 If the client is amenable, they can work on these issues with their hypnotist. In some cases, behavioral changes are enough to alleviate the symptoms of depression.

Improving Self-Image & Self-Esteem

Whether the cause or result of depression, self-image and low self-esteem can play a major role in the condition.4 Hypnosis can help people recognize and change flawed, habitual thinking about their inherent value and increase their self-worth and self-love. This can be accomplished through guided imagery, positive affirmations, and post-hypnotic suggestions while in the trance state.

What Does Hypnosis for Depression Address?

Most people who are willing and ready to change can benefit from hypnotherapy. However, because many people suffering from depression also experience low self-esteem, they may believe that change is impossible.1

Regulations for hypnotherapy vary by cand region. Some regulatory agencies limit how hypnotists can treat mental disorders. It’s still possible to receive hypnotherapy as an adjunct treatment (perhaps alongside depression therapy and/or medication for depression) when referred by a licensed health provider.

Self-efficacy, the belief that a person has the ability to succeed in achieving their goals, plays an important part in the outcome of any program involving hypnosis treatment.2 If a person lacks self-confidence, the hypnotherapist will take that into account and work with the person to reframe any doubts or hesitations that may limit the effectiveness of the treatment.

Because hypnotherapy is a solution-based therapy, much time will be spent addressing underlying subconscious causes of depression rather than the symptoms.

Causes addressed in hypnotherapy may be related to:

  • Stressful life events such as divorce or losing a job
  • Grief and loss
  • Physical and emotional abuse
  • Sexual trauma
  • Early childhood trauma
  • Alcoholism and addiction
  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Nutritional or exercise deficiencies

Any of these issues can be serious in and of themselves. As a result, it is important to consider all available treatment methods. Consulting with medical, mental health, and other professionals can increase the chances of success.

Typical Course of Hypnotherapy

A typical course of hypnotherapy treatment tends to be short, with clients attending 60-minute sessions weekly over several months. Hypnotherapy is often not covered by insurance. Check with your insurance provider before committing to a course of hypnosis treatment if you cannot pay out of pocket.

How Hypnosis Works For Depression

Hypnosis treatment for depression or other mood disorders includes an initial assessment, sessions, and aftercare. During the initial assessment, a person may be asked about their past and current experience with depression. Depression can be a severe medical and mental health issue, so a hypnotherapist will likely ask about any past or current treatments so they can coordinate with other providers as needed. These may include counselors, primary care physicians, and other mental health therapists.

The therapist may also review recent major life events, noticeable mood swing patterns, nutritional routines, and relationship problems. Using all this information, the person will work with the therapist to create hypnotic suggestions and a plan of treatment that will best work towards alleviating the depression.

What Is a First Session Like?

During the first session, the therapist will induce a hypnotic trance, guiding the person into deep relaxation and focused awareness. In addition to the strategies mentioned above, a therapist can then employ various techniques to relieve the symptoms of depression and address the underlying causes.

Hypnosis techniques for depression may include:

  • Post hypnotic suggestions that encourage and reinforce positive beliefs and behaviors
  • Anchoring positive resource states such as confidence and optimism that can be accessed after formal sessions
  • Memory regression to address any correlation between depression and past experiences
  • Teaching pattern interruption techniques that help a person break out of depressive thought cycles

Best Online Therapy for Depression

Best Online Therapy for Depression

Depression is a very common mental health concern. To find the best online therapy for depression, we spent hundreds of hours personally using and researching over 50 platforms. Our resulting list offers options with easy access to appointments, affordable pricing, coverage for major insurance plans, and some of the best therapist availability in the industry. Read on to see our top picks for the best online therapy for depression.

Read more

Is Hypnotherapy Effective For Depression?

Promising research suggests that hypnotherapy can be an effective depression or mood disorder treatment. Some studies found that hypnosis significantly improved depression symptoms, possibly offering a viable alternative to pharmacological treatments.5 Hypnosis may be especially effective for symptoms such as agitation and rumination, helping to decrease helplessness and hopelessness.6,7 Additionally, other research concluded that self-hypnosis should be considered more regularly as a primary care option.8

Pros & Cons of Hypnotherapy For Depression

Hypnotherapy is an all-natural and non-intrusive alternative to traditional mood disorder treatments. However, as with any course of treatment, all the pros and cons should be considered.

The pros of utilizing hypnosis for depression can include:

  • Drug-free alternative: Pharmacological solutions are common when treating depression. Medications pose risks of unpleasant side effects, including sleep problems, sexual side effects, and, in some cases, worsening symptoms.
  • Safe and effective: Hypnosis is a non-invasive form of treatment. In addition, the person in a trance is always aware of their experience and is in no danger of doing anything against their will. A 2016 review of five meta-analyses concluded that hypnotherapy is safe and effective for treating various issues.9
  • Self-empowering: Most hypnotherapy treatments will include learning some form of self-hypnosis. This is an effective way of treating many issues and allows the person to take their mental health and well-being into their own hands.

The cons of using hypnosis for depression can include:

  • May not solve all the issues: Although hypnosis has been proven to be effective for depression, not every case will yield successful results. As a result, additional therapy for depression, or medication for some, should be considered with the advice of a medical professional.
  • Insurance: Hypnotherapy is not always covered by insurance. Check with your insurance provider before committing to a course of hypnosis treatment if paying out of pocket is prohibitive.
  • Results vary: Not all hypnosis treatments are the same. As of yet, there are no definitive industry-wide standards for how to treat any given issue. Ask your therapist about their specific treatment plan for depression when deciding what course of action to take.

How to Find a Hypnotherapist to Help With Depression

The mental health consumer has more choices available to them than ever before. This applies to all forms of treatment, including hypnotherapy. Therefore, it is helpful to begin looking for a hypnotherapist armed with as much information as possible to help with your depression symptoms.

A little knowledge goes a long way when it comes to making decisions about your health and well-being. Before you begin to shop for a therapist, learn the basics of hypnosis. Next, check the credentials of any prospective therapist and make sure they are qualified to practice in your state or region. Credentials can include degrees in other fields, or the types of hypnosis training your prospective therapist has received.

Take advantage of free consultations to meet several different therapists and compare their services. You can also “get the feel” of the person through your conversation. Do you feel comfortable sharing your issues with this therapist? Do they seem to empathize with you? Ask yourself these questions before moving forward with treatment.

Final Thoughts

There are a lot of treatment options for depression. However, hypnosis for depression may be worth trying if other interventions aren’t seeming to give you results. Together, you and your practitioner will develop a plan to help you improve your depression symptoms.

Hypnosis for Depression Infographics

How Can Hypnotherapy Help Someone With Depression? How Hypnosis Works For Depression Pros & Cons of Hypnotherapy For Depression

Additional Resources

To help our readers take the next step in their mental health journey, ChoosingTherapy.com has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. ChoosingTherapy.com is compensated for marketing by the companies included below.

Online Therapy

BetterHelp – Get support and guidance from a licensed therapist. BetterHelp has over 30,000 therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy. BetterHelp starts at $65 per week and is FSA/HSA eligible by most providers. Take a free online assessment and get matched with the right therapist for you. Free Assessment

Therapy for Depression & Medication Management

Brightside Health – If you’re struggling with depression, finding the right medication can make a difference. Brightside Health treatment plans start at $95 per month. Following a free online evaluation and receiving a prescription, you can get FDA approved medications delivered to your door. Free Assessment

Depression Newsletter

A free newsletter from the experts at ChoosingTherapy.com for those impacted by depression. Get helpful tips and the latest information. Sign Up

ChoosingTherapy.com Directory 

Find local therapists that offer online and in-person therapy. Search for therapists by specialty, experience, insurance, and location. Find a therapist near you.

For Further Reading

  • Mental Health America
  • Hypnosis Basics
  • HMI College of Hypnotherapy
  • The Anxiety and Depression Association of America

SPONSORED
Online Depression Test

Online Depression Test

A few questions from Talkiatry can help you understand your symptoms and give you a recommendation for what to do next.

Take Test
Best Online Therapy for Depression

Best Online Therapy for Depression

Depression is a very common mental health concern. To find the best online therapy for depression, we spent hundreds of hours personally using and researching over 50 platforms. Our resulting list offers options with easy access to appointments, affordable pricing, coverage for major insurance plans, and some of the best therapist availability in the industry. Read on to see our top picks for the best online therapy for depression.

Read more
Best Online Psychiatry Services

Best Online Psychiatry Services

Online psychiatry, sometimes called telepsychiatry, platforms offer medication management by phone, video, or secure messaging for a variety of mental health conditions. In some cases, online psychiatry may be more affordable than seeing an in-person provider. Mental health treatment has expanded to include many online psychiatry and therapy services. With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming to find the one that is right for you.

Read more

Depression Newsletter

A free newsletter for those impacted by depression. Get helpful tips and the latest information.

Sources Update History

ChoosingTherapy.com strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.

  • Manna, G., et al. (2016b). The Relationship between Self-Esteem, Depression and Anxiety: Comparing Vulnerability and Scar Model in the Italian Context. Mediterranean Journal of Clinical Psychology, 4(3), 1–17. https://doi.org/10.6092/2282-1619/2016.4.1328

  • Barker, J. B., Jones, M. V., & Greenlees, I. A. (2010b). Assessing the immediate and maintained effects of hypnosis on Self-Efficacy and Soccer Wall-Volley performance. Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology, 32(2), 243–252. https://doi.org/10.1123/jsep.32.2.243

  • Lopresti, A. L., Hood, S., & Drummond, P. D. (2013). A review of lifestyle factors that contribute to important pathways associated with major depression: Diet, sleep and exercise. Journal of Affective Disorders, 148(1), 12–27. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2013.01.014

  • Sowislo, J. F., & Orth, U. (2013). Does low self-esteem predict depression and anxiety? A meta-analysis of longitudinal studies. Psychological Bulletin, 139(1), 213–240. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0028931

  • Shih, M., Yang, Y., & Koo, M. (2009). A Meta-Analysis of Hypnosis in the Treatment of Depressive Symptoms:A Brief Communication. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 57(4), 431–442. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207140903099039

  • Yapko, M. D. (2001). Hypnosis in treating symptoms and risk factors of major Depression. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 44(2), 97–108. https://doi.org/10.1080/00029157.2001.10403465

  • Milling, L. S., et al. (2019). A Meta-Analysis of Hypnotic Interventions for Depression Symptoms: High hopes for hypnosis? American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 61(3), 227–243. https://doi.org/10.1080/00029157.2018.1489777

  • Dobbin, A., Maxwell, M., & Elton, R. (2009). A Benchmarked Feasibility Study of a Self-Hypnosis Treatment for Depression in Primary Care. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 57(3), 293–318. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207140902881221

  • Häuser, W., et al. (2016). The Efficacy, Safety and Applications of Medical Hypnosis: A Systematic Review of Meta-analyses. Deutsches Arzteblatt International. https://doi.org/10.3238/arztebl.2016.0289

Show more Click here to open the article sources container.

We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.

August 11 2023
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Updated for readability and clarity; Reviewed and added relevant resources.
April 11, 2023
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Updated for readability and clarity; Reviewed and added relevant resources. Added “What Is Hypnotherapy?”. New material written by Silvi Saxena, MBA, MSW, LSW, CCTP, OSW-C and reviewed by Dena Westphalen, PharmD.
May 6, 2022
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Updated for readability and clarity; Reviewed and added relevant resources.
November 20, 2020
Author: Chris Lemig, CHT
Reviewer: Dena Westphalen, PharmD
Show more Click here to open the article update history container.

Your Voice Matters

Can't find what you're looking for?

Request an article! Tell ChoosingTherapy.com’s editorial team what questions you have about mental health, emotional wellness, relationships, and parenting. Our licensed therapists are just waiting to cover new topics you care about!

Request an Article

Leave your feedback for our editors.

Share your feedback on this article with our editors. If there’s something we missed or something we could improve on, we’d love to hear it.

Our writers and editors love compliments, too. :)

Leave Feedback
ChoosingTherapy.com Logo White
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Write for Us
  • Careers
  • Editorial Policy
  • Advertising Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service

FOR IMMEDIATE HELP CALL:

Medical Emergency: 911

Suicide Hotline: 988

View More Crisis Hotlines
Choosing Therapy on Facebook
Choosing Therapy on Instagram
Choosing Therapy on X
Choosing Therapy on Linkedin
Choosing Therapy on Pinterest
Choosing Therapy on Tiktok
Choosing Therapy on Youtube

© 2025 Choosing Therapy, Inc. All rights reserved.

X