Hypnosis and hypnotherapy are related but distinct practices. Hypnosis refers to the induction of a trance-like state of focused attention, deep relaxation, and heightened suggestibility. It is a mental state that can be induced for various purposes, including entertainment.
Hypnotherapy, on the other hand, is a therapeutic technique that utilizes hypnosis to facilitate positive changes in an individual’s thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. During a clinical hypnotherapy session, the hypnotic state is used to access the subconscious mind and address specific issues, such as smoking cessation, weight management, stress reduction, or pain management. While hypnosis is the state of mind, hypnotherapy is the therapeutic application of that state to achieve therapeutic goals.