Diet and exercise programs focus on calories in/ calories out. The motivation to take care of yourself is a positive, but diets do not work. Long term, lasting change requires an adjustment in thinking and behavior. Emotional eating is a coping mechanism, a survival tactic. This self soothing technique is learned early in life to numb uncomfortable feelings. Dieting focuses on the external rather than the internal cues which fuel overeating. The repetitive cycle of gaining and losing weight leads to feelings of hopelessness, shame, failure, and desperation. In order to shift dysfunctional eating patterns, one must identify underlying experiences and belief systems that perpetuate emotional eating. Hypnotherapy is a non-diet approach which leads to improved self esteem, self acceptance, and balanced, healthy eating.