Dr. Michael Yapko on Hypnosis, Depression, and the Skills That Build Resilience

In this episode of Thursday Tea with Sami, clinical psychologist and internationally recognized expert Dr. Michael Yapko joins me to demystify hypnosis and share practical, evidence-based ways people can reduce depression and anxiety. We explore what hypnosis really is (hint: focused attention you already know how to do), why skill-building beats “quick fixes,” and how everyday choices—sleep, movement, relationships, media diet—powerfully shape mood. We also discuss the “contagion” of emotion in families and communities, what helps protect your mental health, and one small step you can take today to feel better.

What you’ll learn

• How clinical hypnosis works and why focus + relaxation can accelerate learning and change
• Why depression is best addressed through learnable skills (thinking, problem-solving, coping, and social skills)
• How mood spreads in relationships—and ways to protect your wellbeing
• Everyday levers that matter more than we think: sleep, movement, connection, and what we consume
• Why alcohol is a poor coping tool for low mood and sleep
• Telehealth, access, and how digital programs are expanding care

Key moments

• 00:00 Welcome & setup
• 02:34 Michael’s origin story with hypnosis
• 09:26 What hypnosis is (and isn’t)
• 16:10 Self-guided vs. guided hypnosis; access and apps
• 19:45 Telehealth and outcomes
• 21:31 Storytelling & therapeutic metaphor
• 28:47 “Depression is contagious” — social mechanisms and risk
• 35:24 Four core skill sets for recovery
• 44:46 Everyday habits that shift mood; alcohol & sleep
• 49:44 Hypnosis going mainstream in healthcare
• 56:23 One simple step to start today
• 58:45 Where to learn more

Resources mentioned

• Dr. Yapko’s website and books (including Breaking the Patterns of Depression)
• Public lecture on depression (YouTube)
• Claria program for mood and anxiety (via Mindset Health)
• APA’s brief modules on critical thinking

If this episode resonates, share it with a friend who could use practical hope. And as always: Your journey to wellness starts here.