1. Live Today Hypnosis – Paul Bishop
Specialization: Clinical hypnosis focused on smoking cessation, weight management, stress reduction, fears and phobias, sports performance, and sleep improvement. Certified in 5-PATH (5-Phase Advanced Transformational Hypnosis), an advanced methodology for identifying and addressing root causes of issues.
Conditions Addressed: Smoking addiction, overeating and weight issues, stress and anxiety, irrational fears and phobias, test anxiety, learning difficulties, insomnia and sleep issues, anger management, pain management, public speaking fear, sports performance anxiety, self-esteem issues, and motivation problems.
Services Offered: Individual hypnotherapy sessions, online remote sessions via video conference, self-hypnosis instruction, 5-PATH advanced transformational hypnosis, visualization techniques, and stress management training. Sessions incorporate subconscious reframing techniques to neutralize emotions associated with problematic issues.
Background: Paul Bishop holds MA and CH (Certified Hypnotist) credentials and is certified as a Hypnosis Instructor (CI). He received his NGH certification (Certificate #45989) in 2014 and maintains membership with the National Guild of Hypnotists. He adheres to the NGH Code of Ethics and has completed advanced training in 5-PATH hypnosis methodology. Paul also holds a certificate from Atlantic University and has additional training in transpersonal approaches.
Location: 501 Darby Creek Road, Suite 56B, Lexington, KY 40509
Contact: (859) 230-1754 | livetodayhypnosis.com | https://www.livetodayhypnosis.com
Session Info: Sessions available by appointment Monday through Thursday 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Friday 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM. Most issues other than smoking require at least four sessions. Free consultations available. Online remote hypnosis sessions offered for clients unable to attend in person.
2. Joanna Rodes, LCSW – Clinical Hypnotherapy
Specialization: Clinical hypnosis integrated with psychotherapy for treating anxiety, depression, habit control, and limiting beliefs. Uses a solution-focused therapeutic approach combining clinical hypnosis with cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques.
Conditions Addressed: Anxiety disorders, depression, irrational beliefs and fears, weight management challenges, limiting thoughts and behaviors, stress, and other conditions responsive to cognitive and behavioral intervention.
Services Offered: Individual psychotherapy with emphasis on clinical hypnosis, solution-focused brief therapy, mindfulness-based techniques, DBT-informed practices, internal family systems informed approaches, and telehealth sessions for follow-up appointments.
Background: Joanna Rodes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 14 years of experience in clinical practice. She completed her postgraduate training at the University of Kentucky. As a licensed mental health professional, she integrates clinical hypnosis within a comprehensive therapeutic framework rather than offering hypnosis as a standalone service.
Location: 501 Darby Creek Road, Suite 1, Lexington, KY 40509
Contact: (859) 712-7464 | joannarodes.com | https://www.joannarodes.com
Session Info: In-person sessions available Monday afternoons and evenings. Follow-up telehealth sessions considered on Thursdays and Fridays. Free 15-minute phone consultations offered. Open Path Collective rates available at $40-$70 per individual session. Does not bill insurance directly but provides statements for client self-filing.
3. KY Hypnosis – LuAnn Hamon
Specialization: Clinical hypnotherapy focused on personal development, behavioral change, relationship improvement, weight management, career success, and stress reduction. Offers comprehensive approach including classes, workshops, meditation instruction, and audio recordings.
Conditions Addressed: Smoking cessation, weight loss, loss and separation, relationship issues, fear of flying, phobias and anxiety, depression, concentration difficulties, post-trauma relief, self-esteem issues, stress, motivation problems, and public speaking fear.
Services Offered: Individual hypnosis sessions, group hypnosis classes, meditation workshops, self-hypnosis training, audio hypnosis recordings, weekend workshops, and ongoing educational programs. Practice emphasizes safe, comfortable, and relaxed environment.
Background: LuAnn Hamon, M.P.S., is a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist with over 15 years in helping professions including social work, recreation, and adult daycare administration. She is a member of the American Alliance of Hypnotists and the National Guild of Hypnotists. She holds a master’s degree and previously provided mental health counseling services in South Florida. She has taught classes at Palm Beach Community College and provided parenting, anger management, and stress management classes in both Florida and Kentucky.
Location: Lexington, Kentucky (contact for specific address)
Contact: kyhypnosis.com | https://www.kyhypnosis.com
Session Info: Sessions, classes, meditation workshops, and audio recordings available on an ongoing basis. Contact directly for scheduling and pricing information.
4. Center for Holistic Behavioral Health – Megan Begley, MSW, LCSW
Specialization: Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy (same methodology used in Cleveland Clinic’s Holistic Psychotherapy program) focused on memory regression and insight into emotional patterns rather than habit change. Specializes in trauma therapy using somatic, transpersonal, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy approaches.
Conditions Addressed: Fear, shame, non-specific anger, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, chronic pain syndrome, eating disorders, trauma and PTSD, religious trauma, spiritual crisis, identity issues, and nervous system dysregulation underlying psychogenic pain or illness.
Services Offered: Clinical hypnotherapy for memory regression, EMDR therapy, EFT Tapping, Internal Family Systems therapy, somatic therapy, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, transpersonal therapy, wellness planning, and mental health nutrition counseling.
Background: Megan Begley holds MSW and LCSW credentials with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Kentucky. She has been practicing Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy since 2016 and is certified in clinical hypnotherapy, EMDR Therapy, EFT Tapping, Internal Family Systems, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, Psychedelic Somatic Interactional Psychotherapy, and Mental Health Nutrition. Note: She is currently certified in clinical hypnotherapy but no longer actively offering hypnotherapy as a standalone service, though it informs her practice.
Location: Inside Wellward, 101 N Eagle Creek Drive, Lexington, KY 40509
Contact: (859) 275-4878 | centerforhbh.com | https://www.centerforhbh.com
Session Info: Services offered five days a week. Daytime and in-person sessions only. Accepts most major commercial insurance plans. Contact for consultation and specific pricing. Works primarily with adults age 27 and older.
5. Erica Adams, PhD, ABPP – Integrative Hypnotherapy
Specialization: Integrative approach combining hypnotherapy with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, and yoga therapy. Specializes in working with individuals navigating chronic medical conditions including chronic pelvic pain, digestive issues, and medically unexplained symptoms.
Conditions Addressed: Chronic medical conditions, chronic pelvic pain, digestive disorders, medically unexplained symptoms, anxiety, stress, and the emotional and psychological difficulties accompanying chronic illness.
Services Offered: Individual psychotherapy with hypnotherapy integration, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based techniques, yoga-informed therapy, and comprehensive treatment for mind-body health concerns.
Background: Dr. Erica Adams holds a PhD in Psychology and is Board Certified by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). She is a dedicated, compassionate psychotherapist specializing in the complex emotional landscape of chronic medical conditions. Her integrative approach draws from multiple evidence-based modalities.
Location: Lexington, KY 40509 (contact for specific address)
Contact: (859) 470-2136 | Psychology Today profile available
Session Info: Contact for session availability, length, and pricing information. Offers a safe and non-judgmental space for clients.
Hypnosis Regulations in Kentucky
Kentucky is among the states that do not specifically regulate the practice of hypnosis or hypnotherapy at the state level. There is no mandatory state licensing, registration, or certification requirement for individuals who wish to practice hypnosis in Kentucky. However, practitioners should be aware of the following considerations:
Licensing Status: Kentucky does not have specific statutes requiring hypnotists or hypnotherapists to obtain state licensure. The practice of hypnosis falls outside the purview of dedicated regulatory oversight, meaning individuals may practice hypnosis without a state-issued hypnosis license.
Scope of Practice Considerations: While hypnosis itself is unregulated, practitioners must be careful not to engage in activities that fall within the scope of licensed professions. This means hypnotists should avoid diagnosing medical or psychological conditions, treating diseases or mental disorders, or presenting themselves as psychologists, counselors, or medical professionals unless properly licensed in those fields.
Title Protection: Kentucky does not have title protection laws specific to hypnotists. However, practitioners should avoid using titles that might suggest credentials they do not possess. Terms like “clinical psychologist” or “licensed therapist” are reserved for appropriately licensed professionals.
Professional Certifications: While not required by law, many Kentucky hypnotists voluntarily obtain certification from national organizations such as the National Guild of Hypnotists (NGH), the International Association of Counselors and Therapists (IACT), or the American Council of Hypnotist Examiners (ACHE). These certifications demonstrate professional training and adherence to ethical standards.
Health Professional Exemptions: Licensed healthcare professionals in Kentucky, including physicians, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), licensed professional clinical counselors (LPCCs), and licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs), may incorporate hypnosis into their practice as part of their existing scope of practice without additional hypnosis-specific licensure.
Referral Practices: For therapeutic applications addressing medical or psychological conditions, ethical practitioners typically require or recommend referrals from licensed healthcare providers. This practice protects both clients and practitioners by ensuring appropriate professional oversight.
Business Requirements: Like any business operating in Kentucky, hypnosis practices must comply with general business registration, taxation, and local zoning requirements. Practitioners should verify local ordinances that may apply to their practice location.
Insurance and Liability: Kentucky does not mandate specific insurance requirements for hypnotists, but professional liability insurance is strongly recommended. Many certification organizations offer or require liability insurance for their members.
Advertising Guidelines: Kentucky consumer protection laws apply to hypnosis practitioners. Advertising must be truthful and not misleading. Practitioners should avoid claims of guaranteed results or language that could be interpreted as promising medical cures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I verify that a hypnotist in Lexington is legitimately certified?
A: Since Kentucky does not require state licensure for hypnotists, verification involves checking credentials with the certifying organization directly. For NGH-certified practitioners, you can verify membership through the National Guild of Hypnotists directory at ngh.net. For IACT-certified practitioners, contact the International Association of Counselors and Therapists. Ask practitioners directly about their certification number, training hours completed, and whether their certification is current. Practitioners certified through nationally recognized organizations typically display their certification status and can provide documentation upon request.
Q: Can a hypnotist in Kentucky help me with a medical or mental health condition?
A: Hypnosis practitioners in Kentucky who are not licensed healthcare professionals should work on issues of motivation, habit change, stress reduction, and self-improvement rather than diagnosing or treating medical or mental health conditions. If you seek hypnosis for a condition like anxiety, depression, pain management, or other health-related concerns, look for practitioners who either hold additional mental health licenses (LCSW, LPCC, PhD) or work with referrals from your physician or mental health provider. Many Lexington-area practitioners who work with therapeutic issues are dually credentialed as both licensed mental health professionals and certified hypnotherapists.
Q: Does health insurance cover hypnotherapy in Kentucky?
A: Standard health insurance plans in Kentucky typically do not cover hypnotherapy as a standalone service when provided by a non-licensed hypnotist. However, if hypnotherapy is provided by a licensed mental health professional (such as a psychologist, LCSW, or LPCC) as part of psychotherapy treatment, it may be billed as part of the therapy session and covered under mental health benefits. Check with your specific insurance plan regarding coverage for mental health services and whether hypnotherapy integrated into licensed therapy is included. Some practitioners offer superbills that clients can submit for potential out-of-network reimbursement.
Q: What training should I expect a qualified hypnotist in Lexington to have?
A: Reputable hypnotists in Kentucky typically have completed at least 100-200 hours of formal hypnosis training through recognized schools or organizations. Many have obtained certification from the National Guild of Hypnotists (NGH), which requires a minimum of 100 hours of training, or from the American Council of Hypnotist Examiners (ACHE), which requires 200 hours for Hypnotherapist certification and 300 hours for Clinical Hypnotherapist certification. Advanced practitioners may have additional certifications in specialized techniques such as 5-PATH, NLP, Ericksonian hypnotherapy, or past life regression. Practitioners who are also licensed mental health professionals will have additional graduate-level education and supervised clinical experience.
Q: Are there local professional organizations for hypnotists in the Lexington or Kentucky area?
A: Kentucky does not have a state-specific hypnotherapy association. However, practitioners in Lexington often maintain membership in national organizations including the National Guild of Hypnotists (NGH), the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH, primarily for licensed healthcare providers), and the International Association of Counselors and Therapists (IACT). The American Alliance of Hypnotists also has Kentucky members. These organizations provide ethical guidelines, continuing education requirements, and professional networking opportunities. Licensed mental health professionals who use hypnosis may belong to the Kentucky Board of Licensed Professional Counselors or the Kentucky chapter of the National Association of Social Workers.