Is hypnotherapy approved by the APA?

The American Psychological Association (APA) does not “approve” or certify specific therapies in the way a regulatory body would. However, the APA recognizes hypnosis as a legitimate psychological technique when used by trained professionals. The APA also has Division 30 – the Society of Psychological Hypnosis, which supports research, education, and ethical use of hypnosis in psychology.

Because of this recognition, hypnotherapy is often used as a complementary approach for issues like stress, sleep problems, habits, and anxiety. Today, many people also explore guided and AI-based hypnotherapy tools for relaxation and self-care, which apply the same evidence-based principles in a modern, accessible way.