The Power of Symbols in Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy

The Power of Symbols in Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy

By Michelle Walters

When I work with clients in hypnosis or hypnotherapy, one of the most effective tools I use is symbolism. Whether you’re brand new to hypnotherapy or just curious about how the subconscious mind communicates, understanding symbols can unlock powerful inner transformation.

The subconscious mind doesn’t speak the same language we do in everyday conversation. Instead, it thrives on imagery, metaphor, and feeling. That’s why certain symbols come up again and again in hypnosis sessions—because they resonate deeply and universally.

Let’s explore some of the most common and powerful symbols I use with clients during hypnotherapy and hypnosis work. These may inspire your own self-hypnosis practice or meditative journey.

1. Doors – Opportunities and Choices

In hypnotherapy, doors are a beautiful metaphor for possibility. They represent choices, new directions, and untapped potential. Visualizing a door can signal your subconscious to explore what lies ahead—whether that’s healing, insight, or growth. Doors can also be a gateway to what lies behind—including memories and past choices. I often guide clients to imagine stepping through doors, leading to the scenes and memories pertinent to their situation. This imagery helps open the mind to new possibilities.

2. Books – Wisdom and Knowledge

Even in the digital age, books hold deep symbolic meaning. They represent learning, wisdom, and accessing inner truth. In hypnosis, imagining a book can help a client “read” the story of their life, or gain guidance from their deeper self. I frequently use this symbol when clients are searching for wisdom, insight, understanding, or clarity.

3. Boxes – Containment and Safety

I use boxes in hypnotherapy as tools for containment or discovery. Sometimes, I use a box to safely put away painful memories. Other times, I lead my client to open a box to find hidden resources or forgotten emotions. The box serves as a boundary—a way for the subconscious mind to organize and process thoughts and feelings in a manageable way.

4. Knots – Problems and Resolution

Visualizing knots can be extremely healing. When clients feel tangled up in confusion or emotional overwhelm, I guide them in imagining a knot slowly being untied. This symbolic action, practiced in hypnosis, helps reinforce the belief that resolution is possible. The mind sees the knot loosen, and the body and mind often follows with a sense of relief and relaxes away from feeling of discomfort or anxiety.

5. Butterflies – Transformation and Change

Few symbols are more universally associated with change than the butterfly. From caterpillar to chrysalis to flight, butterflies mirror our own capacity to evolve. In hypnotherapy, imagining oneself as a butterfly in various stages of transformation can be both comforting and empowering—reminding us that growth is always within reach.

6. Doves – Peace and Hope

Doves symbolize peace, hope, and renewal. During emotionally charged hypnosis sessions, the image of a dove can help calm the nervous system and offer reassurance. Clients who are grieving, overwhelmed, or anxious often find the presence of this symbol to be a grounding and restorative force.

7. Bridges – Transition and Forward Movement

In hypnotherapy, I use bridges to guide the subconscious from one state to another. Whether you’re transitioning from fear to confidence, or from grief to acceptance, or from an old life to a new life, bridges offer a symbolic path forward. Bridges acknowledge that change can feel uncertain—but also that it is navigable.

8. Water – Flow, Cleansing, and Renewal

Water is one of my favorite symbols. It can take the form of a cleansing shower, a peaceful river, or powerful ocean waves. Water represents emotional flow and the ability to shift, cleanse, and move forward. Depending on the client’s needs, we may visualize floating gently downstream or standing under a waterfall of healing energy.

Weaving Symbols Into Your Own Hypnosis Practice

These symbols—doors, books, boxes, knots, butterflies, doves, bridges, and water—are just a few of the many metaphors I use in clinical hypnotherapy. They can also be powerful tools in your personal journey. If you practice self-hypnosis, create meditations, or simply enjoy reflecting deeply, try incorporating these symbols into your inner work.

And remember, the most powerful symbols are the ones that come uniquely from you. Your subconscious already knows the language it needs—hypnosis simply helps you remember how to listen.

If you’re curious about how these symbols might work in a personalized hypnotherapy session, feel free to reach out. I’d be honored to guide you on a symbolic journey toward transformation.

Until next time,

Michelle Walters

Clinical Hypnotherapist

Host of Mind Power Meets Mystic

This article originally appeared as an episode on Michelle’s podcast “Mind Power Meets Mystic.” You can listen on any podcast player or on apple podcasts here.