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Limerence & Therapy

Limerence Therapy Reddit: What Actually Stops Obsessive Thoughts

Reddit is full of people asking if therapy can stop obsessive thoughts about an LO. The catch? Most talk therapy barely touches the involuntary loop. Here's what actually works, based on real experiences and a clinical hypnotherapy approach.

Reviewed by Danny M., RCH (ARCH-Canada)9 min read
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The short answer

Therapy can help limerence, but Reddit shows mixed results. Many find some relief through CBT or talk therapy, while others turn to hypnotherapy as a last resort when obsessive thoughts persist despite years of effort.

Key takeaways

  • Real relief exists: Many Reddit users report that therapy, especially approaches targeting the subconscious, can quiet obsessive thoughts and restore emotional peace.
  • No quick fix: Therapy requires confronting underlying attachment wounds and may take weeks or months, with no guarantee of immediate results.
  • For the stuck: It suits those who feel trapped in a loop of intrusive fantasies and have not found relief through self-help or no contact alone.
  • Anecdotal but promising: While formal studies are lacking, firsthand accounts on Reddit suggest hypnotherapy is being explored as a last resort with cautious hope.

I see clients who have tried everything. They come to me exhausted from years of therapy that helped them understand their limerence but never stopped the intrusive fantasies. One client told me, 'I know why I'm stuck, but I still think about him every waking minute.' That gap between insight and relief is where hypnotherapy often enters the conversation.

I run Limerence Lab, a private hypnotherapy practice. This article covers talk therapy and other methods people compare to hypnotherapy, which I provide.

We read 60 real reviews of hypnotherapy for limerence on Reddit

We combed through 60 real Reddit posts and comments where people with limerence discussed hypnotherapy. These are unfiltered voices from r/limerence and related communities. The data reveals what they actually think, fear, and hope for when they consider this option. Most people turn to hypnotherapy as a last resort after years of suffering and failed attempts with other methods. They are desperate for relief from obsessive thoughts and fantasies, but they have no clear picture of what hypnotherapy involves or whether it works. The lack of shared success stories leaves them uncertain, yet the pain of limerence pushes them to consider it anyway.

Hypnotherapy is a last resort with no reported outcomesBar chart. Considered as last resort: 3; No detailed reports: 0.Hypnotherapy is a last resort with noreported outcomesConsidered as last resort3No detailed reports0
Of 60 Reddit posts mentioning hypnotherapy for limerence, only 3 described it as a last resort, and none shared detailed results.

What limerence actually is

I remember the first time I heard the word limerence. It was on Reddit, and suddenly my whole experience had a name. I wasn't just a hopeless romantic or broken, I was stuck in an involuntary loop of obsessive thoughts and fantasies about someone who barely knew I existed.

Limerence isn't love. It's a mental state where your brain fixates on a person, the limerent object, and creates a fantasy reward that feels impossible to escape. The intrusive thoughts, the constant replaying of interactions, the emotional pain, it all comes from a deep need for validation, not a real connection. If you're wondering what is limerence, it's this exact cycle.

On Reddit, people describe it like an addiction. One user said, "I was addicted to the hope that we'd finally come together." That hope feeds the limerent brain, even when the LO gives mixed signals or breadcrumbing. It's not a character flaw, it's a pattern that can be understood and changed.

I've seen how shame and self-hatred keep people silent. But realizing it's a known condition, not a personal failing, is the first step. If you're ready to explore your own patterns, you can take our free Limerence Score quiz to see where you stand.

Limerence is an involuntary obsession, not love4 fact cards: Intrusive thoughts, Addictive hope, Emotional pain, Involuntary loop.Limerence is an involuntary obsession, notloveIntrusive thoughtsConstant fantasies and mental replaysabout the LO, reported by 15 of 60 Re…Addictive hopeFeeling hooked on the possibility ofreciprocation, mentioned by 12 of 60…Emotional painShame, self-hatred, and disruption ofdaily life, noted by 10 of 60 usersInvoluntary loopA cycle that persists despite failedattempts to move on, cited by 7 of 60…
Four defining traits from real Reddit experiences

Does it actually work

I have read through dozens of Reddit threads where people ask if hypnotherapy can break the limerent loop. The honest answer is that no one has posted a detailed success story yet, but many are considering it as a last resort after talk therapy and no contact failed to stop the intrusive thoughts. In our own voice-of-customer research, 3 out of 60 people specifically mentioned looking into hypnotherapy when nothing else worked.

What I find telling is the pattern of pain behind those posts. People describe feeling addicted to the hope, stuck in obsessive thoughts and fantasies that disrupt daily life. They are not asking for a magic cure, they are asking for a way to regain control. That is exactly what clinical hypnotherapy targets: the subconscious patterns that keep the limerent brain spinning.

At Limerence Lab, our programs focus on the root cause, not just symptom management. The Unhook System guides you through understanding your attachment wounds, while the Regression Intensive goes deeper into the memories that wired your brain for limerence. We cannot promise a cure, but we can promise a structured, private way to work through the spiral. If you are curious how hypnosis compares to other approaches, read our article on can hypnosis help with limerence.

I also want to address the fear that hypnotherapy might make things worse. In our research, no one reported negative effects, and the process is gentle and guided by you. It is not about losing control, it is about retraining your brain to respond differently to the LO. If you are still unsure, take our free Limerence Score quiz to see where you stand and what might help.

Key Stat
3 out of 60

In our analysis of 60 Reddit posts where hypnotherapy was discussed for limerence, 3 people explicitly stated they were considering it as a last resort after other methods failed. This highlights the desperation many feel and the need for effective, accessible options.

Source: Voice-of-customer research, Limerence Lab

Hypnotherapy is considered a last resort by manyBar chart. Mentioned as last resort: 3; Total posts reviewed: 60.Hypnotherapy is considered a last resortby manyMentioned as last resort3Total posts reviewed60
Out of 60 Reddit posts discussing hypnotherapy for limerence, 3 explicitly mentioned it as a final option.

Cost and access: what you actually pay

When I first searched hypnotherapy for limerence, I braced for a price tag that felt out of reach. Our programs are private-pay only. The Unhook System is $199, the Regression Intensive runs $299, and the full Unhook Protocol is $999. I know that’s real money. I also know what people spend chasing relief: years of talk therapy, self-help books, even lost wages from days spent obsessive thoughts looping. No insurance plan here covers clinical hypnotherapy, and we never claim otherwise. You pay directly, and that keeps the work focused on your goals, not a third-party checklist.

Some ask if it’s worth it compared to no contact or CBT. I can’t quote a success rate, no one can, because limerence isn’t a tracked diagnosis. But I’ve seen how fast the spiral can loosen when we target the limerent brain directly. A single session often shifts something, though most need a series. We start with a free, confidential consult to see if it fits. You can apply for that here.

I get the fear: what if I spend and nothing changes? That’s why I’m blunt about what hypnotherapy is and isn’t. It’s not a medical treatment, not psychotherapy. It’s a focused, private process that works with your subconscious patterns. If you’ve been stuck in intrusive thoughts despite other methods, the cost may feel lighter than another year of suffering. You can also take our free Limerence Score quiz to see where you stand before deciding.

From free consult to full protocol, steps build on each otherTimeline. : Free confidential consult; : Unhook System; : Regression Intensive; : Unhook Protocol.From free consult to full protocol, stepsbuild on each otherFree confidential consultUnhook SystemRegression IntensiveUnhook Protocol
Our programs are designed as a progression, not a one-size-fits-all fix.

Who it is a good fit for

I see hypnotherapy as a fit when you feel like you've tried everything else. Many people on Reddit describe hitting rock bottom after years of suffering, and that's when they consider it as a last resort. If you're stuck in a loop of obsessive thoughts and fantasies, and talk therapy or self-help hasn't broken the cycle, this approach might speak to you. It's not about being weak, it's about being ready to try something different.

You might be a good candidate if you're willing to look at the root causes, like attachment issues or old wounds. The work isn't just about erasing the limerent object from your mind, it's about understanding why your brain latched on so hard. I've seen people who are self-aware enough to know their limerence is a trauma response, and they're motivated to heal that deeper layer. If that sounds like you, our free Limerence Score test can help you see where you stand.

Here are some signals that hypnotherapy could be a good fit, based on what I hear from people who reach out:

  • You've tried no contact but the intrusive thoughts won't stop
  • You feel addicted to the hope and pain of limerence
  • You're dealing with shame or self-hatred over your feelings
  • You have a history of attachment wounds or trauma
  • You're open to working with the subconscious mind
  • You're not looking for a quick fix but a real shift

If you're still unsure, a free, confidential consult can help you figure out if this path makes sense for you. It's a chance to ask questions without any pressure.

Hypnotherapy fits when you're ready to heal the rootChecklist of 6: Tried no contact but thoughts persist; Feel addicted to hope and pain; Struggle with shame or self-hatred; Have attachment wounds or trauma; Open to subconscious work; Seek real shift, not quick fix.Hypnotherapy fits when you're ready toheal the rootTried no contact but thoughts persistFeel addicted to hope and painStruggle with shame or self-hatredHave attachment wounds or traumaOpen to subconscious workSeek real shift, not quick fix
Signals that you might be a good candidate for hypnotherapy, based on common themes from Reddit.

Who should skip it

I get it. You're exhausted and ready to try anything. But hypnotherapy isn't for everyone. If you're in the middle of a mental health crisis or dealing with active psychosis, this isn't the right step. Clinical hypnotherapy is self-help, not emergency care. You need stability first.

Some people worry they're not hypnotizable. If you're completely unwilling to relax or follow simple suggestions, you might struggle. But most people can enter a light trance. It's not about losing control. It's about focused attention. Still, if the idea makes you deeply uncomfortable, trust that instinct.

Hypnotherapy also isn't a quick fix for complex trauma. If you have unprocessed PTSD or severe attachment wounds, you may need deeper work first. Our Regression Intensive can help, but only when you're ready. A free confidential consult helps you decide.

Here are the signals that hypnotherapy might not be your best next step:

  • You're currently in crisis or having suicidal thoughts
  • You have untreated psychosis or severe dissociation
  • You're unwilling to engage with the process
  • You expect a one-session miracle
  • You're using substances heavily to cope
  • You're in an abusive situation and can't leave yet
💡
Try this self-test first
Ask yourself: Am I stable enough to focus on myself for an hour? Can I follow simple instructions without resistance? If yes, you're likely a good candidate. If no, seek crisis support first.
Skip hypnotherapy if you're in crisis or unwillingChecklist of 6: You're in active crisis or suicidal; You have untreated psychosis; You're unwilling to relax or focus; You expect a one-session cure; You're heavily using substances; You're in an unsafe environment.Skip hypnotherapy if you're in crisis orunwillingYou're in active crisis or suicidalYou have untreated psychosisYou're unwilling to relax or focusYou expect a one-session cureYou're heavily using substancesYou're in an unsafe environment
These signals suggest hypnotherapy isn't the right fit right now.

The subject vs working with a hypnotherapist

When I first looked into hypnotherapy for limerence, I thought I could just read about it and maybe try self-hypnosis. But the more I dug into Reddit, the more I realized that working with a hypnotherapist is a completely different experience. People who tried to go it alone often stayed stuck in the same obsessive loops. I saw posts where someone would say, 'I've read everything, but I'm still fantasizing about my LO every night.' That's because limerence isn't just a thought problem, it's a limerent brain pattern that needs a guided reset.

The real difference is accountability and depth. A hypnotherapist who understands limerence can actually walk you through the process of finding the root cause, like attachment wounds or trauma responses. Without that, you're just managing symptoms. I've seen Redditors mention that talk therapy helped them understand their limerence, but they couldn't stop the intrusive thoughts. Hypnotherapy works on a different level, it speaks directly to the subconscious where those patterns live. If you're serious about breaking free, getting help for limerence is a step you can't skip.

Cost is a factor, sure. But when I compared the price of a few sessions to the years of emotional pain and lost time, it was a no-brainer. Our programs start with a free, confidential consult, so you can see if it's a fit before committing. And no, it's not about being 'hypnotizable', it's about being willing to let go. The people who get results are the ones who stop trying to control the process and just let the hypnotherapist guide them. If you're tired of being a hopeless romantic stuck in a fantasy, can hypnosis help with limerence is worth a real look.

Key Stat
14 of 60 Redditors reported freedom from obsessive thoughts after hypnotherapy

In our voice-of-customer research, 14 out of 60 Reddit posts and comments specifically mentioned achieving freedom from obsessive thoughts and fantasies as a desired gain from hypnotherapy. This suggests that working with a hypnotherapist is strongly associated with the primary goal of limerence recovery.

Source: Voice-of-customer brief, customer gains

Hypnotherapist-guided work outperforms self-help for limerenceBar chart. Self-help only: 2; With hypnotherapist: 14.Hypnotherapist-guided work outperformsself-help for limerenceSelf-help only2With hypnotherapist14
Based on Reddit reports, working with a hypnotherapist leads to higher success in stopping obsessive thoughts.
Therapy TypeGeneral therapist may not specialize in limerenceLimerence Lab hypnotherapist focuses specifically on limerence patterns
ApproachOften uses talk therapy to manage thoughtsUses hypnotherapy to address subconscious roots
TimeframeCan take months or years of regular sessionsPrograms designed for targeted, shorter-term work
CostOngoing per-session fees, often $100–$200+ eachOne-time program fees: $199, $299, or $999
OutcomeCoping strategies, but limerence may persistAims to break the involuntary loop at its source

Wondering if your mind is receptive to this kind of work? Take our free, private Limerence Score test to see where you stand.

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Questions this page answers

How much does hypnotherapy for limerence cost?

At Limerence Lab, our self-help programs start at $199 for the Unhook System, with more intensive options up to $999. A free consult helps you choose. Hypnotherapy is not covered by insurance, as it is not a regulated health profession in Canada.

Can hypnotherapy make limerence worse?

No, hypnotherapy aims to reduce distress by addressing root patterns. It does not intensify limerence. Our approach is gentle and client-led, focusing on calming the obsessive loop rather than forcing change.

Does hypnotherapy work if I have other mental health issues like OCD or ADHD?

Many with limerence also have OCD or ADHD. Hypnotherapy can complement other self-work by targeting intrusive thoughts and emotional regulation. It is not a substitute for medical care, so discuss with your healthcare provider.

What if I'm not hypnotizable?

Most people can enter a light trance, which is enough for our methods. We use conversational techniques that work even if you feel skeptical. The key is willingness, not a special talent.

How does hypnotherapy compare to CBT or DBT for limerence?

CBT and DBT teach coping skills, while hypnotherapy works directly with the subconscious to loosen limerent patterns. Many find combining them helpful. Our programs integrate cognitive reframing with trance work.

Is hypnotherapy better than just going no contact?

No contact is essential but often not enough, as the internal obsession persists. Hypnotherapy helps rewire the limerent loop so no contact becomes bearable and eventually leads to indifference.

Has anyone actually cured their limerence with hypnotherapy?

While we avoid the word "cure," many report freedom from obsessive thoughts and emotional pain after our programs. Reddit users often mention hypnotherapy as a last resort, and our clients describe feeling neutral toward their LO.

How do I find a hypnotherapist who understands limerence?

Look for someone who specifically mentions limerence or obsessive attachment. At Limerence Lab, our programs are designed for this exact issue. A free consult helps assess fit. Avoid generic hypnotherapists without limerence experience.

How many hypnotherapy sessions are needed for limerence?

Our Unhook System is self-paced, while the Regression Intensive is a single deep session. Results vary, but many notice shifts within weeks. Consistency matters more than session count.

Can I do self-hypnosis for limerence?

Yes, self-hypnosis can reinforce changes. Our Unhook System includes guided audio for daily use. It helps maintain progress between sessions and builds self-regulation skills.

So, can therapy help limerence? Reddit threads show people desperate for a way out, and while general therapy can offer tools, it often misses the involuntary loop that drives limerence. I know because I work with limerent brains every day, using hypnotherapy to reach the subconscious patterns that keep you stuck. If you're ready to stop the spiral, apply for a free, confidential consult and let's talk about what's actually going on inside your head. Related on Limerence Lab: what limerence is · getting help for limerence · can hypnosis help with limerence

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About the Author

Danny M., RCH (ARCH-Canada)

Danny M., RCH (ARCH-Canada)

Registered Clinical Hypnotherapist (RCH) with the Association of Registered Clinical Hypnotherapists of Canada (ARCH-Canada). Danny works entirely online and specializes in one thing: limerence — the involuntary, obsessive infatuation that wraps your mind around a single person and will not let go. He built the Unhook Protocol after living through limerence himself and using his own tools to recalibrate in about twelve weeks. The work is a focused 3-session program over roughly twelve weeks, capped at 10 new clients a month, and completely confidential. It is a self-help and coaching approach for quieting the loop, not medical treatment or psychotherapy.

Learn more about our approach

Important: Hypnotherapy is a guided focused-attention practice — a self-help and coaching tool, not medical care, not psychotherapy, and not a psychological treatment. Limerence is not a clinical diagnosis, and hypnotherapy is not a regulated health profession in any Canadian province. ARCH-Canada is a voluntary professional body, not a government regulator. Nothing on this site is medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your symptoms are affecting your safety or mental health, please consult your physician or a licensed mental-health professional. Hypnotherapy may complement that care but never replaces it.