Michael D. Yapko, PhD


About Michael D. Yapko, Ph.D.

Michael D. Yapko, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist residing near San Diego, California.  He is internationally recognized for his work in advancing clinical hypnosis and outcome-focused psychotherapy, routinely teaching to professional audiences all over the world.  To date, he has been invited to present his ideas and methods to colleagues in more than 30 countries across six continents, and all over the United States. Dr. Yapko is the recipient of numerous major awards for his innovative contributions in advancing the fields of hypnosis and brief therapy, including lifetime achievement awards from The American Psychological Association’s Division 30 (Society of Psychological Hypnosis), the International Society of Hypnosis, and The Milton H. Erickson Foundation.  Dr. Yapko is the author of 15 books and editor of three others, as well as numerous book chapters and articles on the subjects of hypnosis and the use of strategic psychotherapies. These include his most recent book, The Discriminating Therapist: Asking “How” Questions, Making Distinctions, and Finding Direction in Therapy, as well as his widely used hypnosis text, Trancework: An Introduction to the Practice of Clinical Hypnosis (4th ed.), and award-winning Mindfulness and Hypnosis: The Power of Suggestion to Transform Experience. He has also produced many CD and DVD programs. His works have been translated into nine languages. More information about Dr. Yapko’s teaching schedule and publications can be found on his website: www.yapko.com.