1. Absolute Hypnosis, LLC
Specialization: Clinical hypnosis, neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), individual sessions, group sessions, educational seminars on hypnosis
Conditions Addressed: Anxiety, life transitions, mood disorders, chronic pain, depression, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, peer relationship issues, self-esteem concerns, sleep issues, emotional disturbance, relationship and vocational issues
Services Offered: Individual hypnotherapy sessions, group sessions, educational seminars, couples discounts, repeat client discounts, customized sessions
Background: Donna L. Varen is a clinical hypnotist and neuro-linguistic practitioner with over 25 years of experience. She was initially certified by the American Board of Hypnotherapy in Irvine, California, and has also been certified by the National Guild of Hypnotists (NGH). The practice provides personalized and customized sessions to meet individual needs.
Location: Madison, WI (wheelchair-accessible parking available)
Contact: Listed in local directories
Session Info: Couples and group discounts available, discounted prices for repeat clients, customized approach for each individual
2. Spirit Tree Hypnosis
Specialization: Emotional trauma healing, stress reduction, fear elimination, overeating, procrastination, memory improvement, skin picking cessation, public speaking anxiety, depression support, bad habit modification, medical board exam anxiety, fear of flying, performance enhancement, self-confidence building, nail biting cessation, low self-esteem, insomnia, eating disorder support, past life regression, Reiki
Conditions Addressed: Emotional trauma, stress, fears, overeating, procrastination, memory issues, skin picking, public speaking fear, anxiety, depression, bad habits, test anxiety, fear of flying, performance anxiety, self-confidence issues, nail biting, insomnia, eating concerns
Services Offered: Hypnotherapy sessions, past life regression, Reiki (Grand Master level), spiritual mentoring
Background: Philana Friede, CHT, ORDM, CRM, is a certified hypnotherapist and spiritual mentor. She guides clients to use their inner strengths, abilities, and memories to access healing from within. Spirit Tree Hypnosis does not accept health insurance as hypnosis and regression are not covered by insurance. The practice has a branch location in Stoughton, Wisconsin.
Location: Madison, WI (also Stoughton branch), wheelchair-accessible
Contact: Listed in local directories
Session Info: Sessions by appointment, Reiki and spiritual mentoring available, insurance not accepted
3. Brita Larson Counseling
Specialization: Clinical hypnotherapy, clinical social work, hypnoanalysis, traditional talk therapy, anxiety treatment, depression treatment, phobia treatment, panic disorder treatment, weight loss support, smoking cessation, relationship counseling, self-esteem building, mind-body issues, chronic pain management, chronic fatigue support
Conditions Addressed: Anxiety, depression, phobias, panic disorder, weight management, smoking addiction, relationship issues, self-esteem problems, chronic pain, chronic fatigue, mind-body concerns
Services Offered: Clinical hypnotherapy (hypnoanalysis), traditional talk therapy, hypnotherapy as part of healing process, root cause discovery and resolution, positive suggestion therapy
Background: Brita Larson, MSSW, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker trained in traditional, evidence-based talk therapies in addition to clinical hypnotherapy. She uses hypnoanalysis, a protocol that diagnoses the reason for symptoms and resolves the root of issues. This approach treats a variety of mental health issues and is also effective for mind-body issues including chronic pain and chronic fatigue.
Location: 715 Hill Street, Suite 260B, Madison, WI 53705
Contact: (608) 571-7289 | https://britalarsoncounseling.com
Session Info: Customized therapy process, combines talk therapy with hypnotherapy as appropriate
4. Madison Counseling Solutions
Specialization: Psychotherapy, psychotherapeutic hypnosis, solutions-oriented therapy, barrier removal, healing, personal development, career concerns, health issues, parenting challenges, life purpose exploration
Conditions Addressed: Barriers to success, career challenges, health concerns, parenting difficulties, life direction confusion, stress, anxiety, personal development needs
Services Offered: Psychotherapy sessions, psychotherapeutic hypnosis, complimentary 20-minute initial phone conversation
Background: Madison Counseling Solutions is operated by a practitioner with a Rogerian, client-centered approach. The work follows a theme of collaboratively unveiling the cause or location of problems, removing barriers through healing, unveiling core truth and worth, and helping clients move forward with tools and lasting core strength. The practitioner also conducts clinical hypnosis at a Chicago practice location.
Location: Madison, WI (also Chicago practice location)
Contact: Website | https://www.madisoncounselingsolutions.com
Session Info: Complimentary 20-minute initial phone conversation available, sessions focused on relatively quick processes
5. Highest Potential Hypnotherapy and EFT
Specialization: Advanced hypnotherapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), life coaching, obstacle removal, personal transformation, self-improvement, potential maximization
Conditions Addressed: Fear, doubt, low energy, negativity, fear of success, limiting beliefs, guilt, anger, relationship struggles, shame, weight challenges, personal barriers
Services Offered: Phone sessions, Skype sessions, in-person sessions, advanced hypnotherapy, EFT, life coaching, personalized programs
Background: Paula Winchel is a Certified Hypnotherapist and EFT Practitioner. The practice offers sessions via phone, Skype, and in-person in the Madison, Wisconsin area. The approach combines advanced hypnotherapy, EFT, and life coaching to help clients let go of obstacles and create the life they desire.
Location: Madison, WI area
Contact: Website | https://www.breakfreefromyourlimits.com
Session Info: Phone, Skype, and in-person sessions available, personalized programs
Hypnosis Regulations in Wisconsin
Wisconsin does not have mandatory state licensing or registration requirements specifically for hypnotists or hypnotherapists.
Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 455 defines the practice of psychology, which includes activities such as hypnosis when performed for therapeutic purposes and for a fee. However, the use of hypnosis for non-therapeutic purposes like smoking cessation or weight control is not regulated under this statute.
The Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing has indicated that hypnosis for non-therapeutic purposes is not regulated. The definition of “for therapeutic purposes” is considered somewhat vague, but is generally interpreted as relating to the diagnosis or treatment of recognized psychological disorders rather than general self-improvement.
The phrase “application of psychological principles, methods or procedures” in the psychology practice act is broad. It is not reasonable to assume this is exclusively the domain of licensed psychologists, as many fields use basic psychological principles in areas like advertising, human resources, and training.
Licensed healthcare professionals (psychologists, licensed professional counselors, clinical social workers) in Wisconsin who use hypnosis remain subject to their respective licensing boards.
The title “hypnotherapist” or “hypnotist” is not protected under Wisconsin state law. Individuals may use these titles without state certification.
Wisconsin practitioners have indicated that while there are no clear, specific laws on hypnosis practice, hypnotists can help people with self-improvement but cannot provide therapy. Working on therapeutic issues generally requires a referral from a licensed therapist, doctor, psychologist, or psychiatrist.
Research indicates many unlicensed individuals advertise and practice hypnotherapy in Wisconsin. There are no widely known legal cases in the state where someone has faced legal action solely for practicing hypnosis.
Standard business regulations apply, including truth in advertising requirements and general business licensing at the local level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Wisconsin require a license to practice hypnosis?
A: Wisconsin does not require a specific state license or registration to practice hypnosis or hypnotherapy for non-therapeutic purposes. Hypnosis for self-improvement (such as smoking cessation, weight management, stress reduction) is generally unregulated. However, hypnosis performed for therapeutic purposes (treating recognized psychological disorders) falls under the practice of psychology and requires appropriate licensing. Practitioners offering hypnosis for general self-improvement may operate without a psychology license, though professional certifications are recommended.
Q: How can I find a qualified hypnotist in Madison?
A: Look for practitioners certified by recognized organizations such as NGH (National Guild of Hypnotists), IMDHA (International Medical and Dental Hypnotherapy Association), ABH (American Board of Hypnotherapy), or ACHE (American Council of Hypnotist Examiners). For therapeutic concerns, consider licensed professionals (psychologists, LPCs, LCSWs) who incorporate hypnosis into their practice. Ask about training hours, certification credentials, and areas of specialization. Check online reviews and request references. Many Madison-area hypnotists offer initial consultations.
Q: Will my health insurance cover hypnotherapy in Wisconsin?
A: Most health insurance plans in Wisconsin do not cover hypnotherapy provided by non-licensed practitioners. Hypnosis and regression therapy are typically not covered by insurance. If hypnosis is provided by a licensed psychologist, licensed professional counselor, or licensed clinical social worker as part of treatment for a diagnosed mental health condition, some plans may provide coverage as part of behavioral health services. Contact your insurance provider to inquire about specific coverage. Some practitioners accept HSA or FSA payments.
Q: What is the difference between therapeutic and non-therapeutic hypnosis in Wisconsin?
A: In Wisconsin, therapeutic hypnosis refers to hypnosis used to diagnose or treat recognized psychological disorders, which falls under the practice of psychology and requires appropriate licensing. Non-therapeutic hypnosis refers to self-improvement services such as smoking cessation, weight management, stress reduction, confidence building, and performance enhancement. Non-therapeutic hypnosis practitioners can help clients with habit change and personal development but should not provide therapy for psychological disorders without appropriate licensure or a referral from a licensed healthcare provider.
Q: Are there professional resources for clinical hypnosis in Wisconsin?
A: The Wisconsin Society of Clinical Hypnosis is a component section of the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH) that serves licensed healthcare professionals who use clinical hypnosis. ASCH provides training, certification, and a directory of approved consultants. For consumers seeking clinical hypnosis for medical or psychological conditions, ASCH recommends working with licensed healthcare professionals (physicians, psychologists, dentists, nurses, counselors, social workers) who have received additional training in clinical hypnosis through ASCH-approved programs.