Light-Induced Guided Healing Therapy (LIGHT)

Person standing on a grassy hill above coastal fog at sunrise, overlooking a glowing horizon and distant hills.

Light-Induced Guided Healing Therapy (LIGHT) is an evidence-informed mind-body protocol that blends guided imagery and hypnotherapy into a structured, personalized approach designed to engage creative imagination and support emotional resilience and self-reflection.

LIGHT is offered through both individual and group-based experiences. Many participants continue using LIGHT as a self-guided practice after completing sessions or educational programs.

Currently, we offer LIGHT through:

LIGHT Booster Sessions

LIGHT Booster Sessions are a seasonal 4-week guided group experience designed to help participants reconnect with the LIGHT framework through structured practice, reflection, and community support. While originally developed for returning participants, the current format is also open to individuals who are new to LIGHT.

These live, guided sessions offer an opportunity to revisit the LIGHT framework, reflect on current experiences, and continue building consistency through structured practice and community support.

Recent peer-reviewed research involving UC San Diego-affiliated researchers found that medical professionals participating in guided imagery hypnosis showed improvements in aspects of emotional resilience, including increased self-compassion and reduced emotional exhaustion.1

  • 4-week guided group experience
  • Live Zoom sessions
  • Structured LIGHT protocol walkthroughs
  • Reflection, discussion, and ongoing practice support
  • Led by Certified LIGHT Professionals and LIGHT faculty

Tuition: $950

Register for Booster Sessions

1 Wu et al., 2026. Journal for Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2515690X261418396

TestimonialFoundational Hypnotherapy Certification Program

Embark on a transformative journey with our Foundational Hypnotherapy Certification Program presented by UC San Diego Centers for Integrative Health (CIH) at the School of Medicine. Led by esteemed instructors Dorthy Tyo and Isabela Tena, this 8-week pilot program combines in-class learning with at-home study to provide a comprehensive exploration of hypnotherapy. This program is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to make a difference in the lives of others.

For more information, visit us here. 

Group Programs

The LIGHT Self-Efficacy Educational (SEE) programs are available either as an 8-week program that meets once weekly or a 3-day weekend intensive. Both programs constitute roughly twenty hours of material divided into theory, discussions, and experiential sessions. Anyone looking to develop new habits and modify their lifestyle should consider the 8-week program. The 3-day weekend is a compacted Bootcamp model to introduce the fundamentals and acquire the tools for self-care suitable for the busy professional. 

Our educational programs implement the foundational principles of this novel, evidence-based protocol and offer ample practice to embody LIGHT for self-care and continued personal growth.  

Why should one care to build self-efficacy?  

Efficacious people set challenging goals and maintain a solid commitment to them. In the face of impending failure, they increase and sustain their efforts to be successful. They approach difficult or threatening situations with confidence that they have control over them. Having this type of outlook reduces stress and lowers the risk of depression. (Bandura, 1994) 

Conversely, people who doubt their ability to accomplish complex tasks see these tasks as threats. They avoid them based on their weaknesses or on the obstacles preventing them from being successful. They give up quickly in the face of difficulties or failure, and it does not take much for them to lose faith in their capabilities. An outlook like this increases stress and the risk of depression (Bandura, 1994). 

The first pilot study at UC San Diego aimed at exploring the effectiveness of LIGHT concluded that the subjects experienced a 75% decrease in depressed mood. Additionally, LIGHT users also reported desirable benefits such as increased vitality, improved sleep, and pain management (Case et al, 2018). 

The LIGHT framework empowers us to face negative influences and see them transformed in our minds. This simulation of life-affirming images and positive outcomes, when repeated as part of a daily routine, is believed to create new mental pathways that enhance the quality of life. In time, with persistence and repetition, one may eventually cultivate a habit of naturally favoring problem-solving and self-affirming strategies over procrastination or self-defeating practices of the past. 

A second smaller study employed electroencephalogram (EEG) reading and found a broad network of brain systems became increasingly engaged as individuals progressed through the visualization sequence. Notably, in the central and occipital regions, power in the theta (4 - 7 Hz) and alpha (8 - 12 Hz) range declines during post-session relative to pre-session rest baseline (Hsu et al, 2018). 

Alpha-Theta training can create an increase in sensation, abstract thinking and self-control. Suppressed Theta states can improve concentration and ability to focus attention (nhahealth.com). 

Wouldn't it be marvelous to have a simple self-care tool that is always available, especially when we are in the thick of it?

Now, we can use every challenging situation as a playground to build our reserve and visualize our goals fulfilled. 

We have designed the LIGHT protocol to invoke and engage the user's full attention toward visualizing an intention fulfilled at its highest. We achieve this by expanding the consciousness within a safe space created mentally for the non-judgmental and unlimited exploration of possibilities. 

Now we can get back in control. 

LIGHT is easy to use and does not require any prior experience with meditation or other forms of mental training. All we require is simple language comprehension skills to enjoy the full benefits of LIGHT. With the continued use of LIGHT, it is possible to build emotional resilience and promote new mental pathways that conform to newly inculcated confident attitudes.  

 With LIGHT, participants have a standard framework that remains the same for every session. However, this framework is pliable and customizable to each individual and their changing needs from moment to moment and day to day. Participants can gain familiarity quickly, and with consistent practice, we can now address momentary challenges with the cumulative efficiency accrued over time. 

Sample Schedule for 8-Week LIGHT Self-Efficacy Educational Program:  testimonial_light

(The programs are subject to alterations as we gain more insights from further research activity and the active participation of our growing community.) 

  • Week 1: What is LIGHT? Explore the tools you have always possessed that you will now have the ability to implement fully in maximizing your expression of self and the experience of life  
  • Week 2: Affirmations - Understand the power of words and explore their potential to transform your life  
  • Week 3: Basic Meditation Exercises - Simple visualization exercises to establish clear communication pathways with your mind  
  • Week 4: Self-Hypnosis - Go deeper and explore the recesses of your subconscious mind  
  • Week 5: Training and Discipline - Repetition and consistency is the key to developing a habit  
  • Week 6: LIGHT framework - Personalize and create your heaven on Earth  
  • Week 7: Success Stories - Testimonials from LIGHT users  
  • Week 8: Conclusion - Tie all the loose ends and commit to staying on course  

Course Highlights  

Explore simple exercises to sharpen your mind and expand your imagination. In the process, discover more of your inherent gifts and dormant potentialities that are waiting to be actualized.  

Discover ways to identify stressors early and methods to put out the sparks in your mind before they turn into forest fires.  

Experience self-love and self-compassion to activate within your being all that you wish to experience in the world. 

testimonials

In the Certified LIGHT Professional program, students are expected to complete each of the two phases—40 hours of online education and practical application with mentorship—within two months. Delays in completing these phases not only hinder your learning and certification process but also impact our administrative efficiency and mentor availability. To encourage timely progress, a fee of $250 will be imposed on students who fail to commence the mentorship phase within two months after completing the online education. Additionally, students will be required to revisit and successfully revise the initial 40-hour online content before proceeding to the mentor-supervised sessions with volunteer clients. These conditions will be enforced to maintain the integrity and scheduling of our program. Further details will be provided upon your registration for the mentorship phase and in subsequent communications. Should this fee be applicable, your mentor will bill you directly.

Private LIGHT One-on-One Sessions

If you are interested in private one-on-one LIGHT sessions, please complete the inquiry form below and allow 24–48 hours for a response. We look forward to speaking with you.

Ready to register for a private session package? Click here.

*These sessions are only offered as a package. Please refer to the FAQs to learn why.

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LIGHT One-on-One Sessions - FAQs

How many sessions will you need?

The LIGHT one-on-one instructor-led experiential sessions are always delivered as a package of five sessions. In special cases, eight to ten sessions may be recommended. Each session lasts around 60-90 minutes. You will receive one session per week for five consecutive weeks. Ideally, it is recommended that the sessions be slotted for the same time each week to cultivate a routine and assimilate its benefits.

What benefits of LIGHT were observed in research studies?

The first pilot study to test the efficacy of LIGHT was commenced at UC San Diego in 2011. The results were peer-reviewed and published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine in February 2018. [Link to the Publication]

The researchers then named the protocol Healing Light Guided Imagery (HLGI), which has since been renamed Light-Induced Guided Healing Therapy (LIGHT). The study participants reported a 75% decrease in depressed mood, a 24% decrease in fatigue, a 38% increase in physical quality of life, and a 30% increase in mental quality of life.

A second pilot study was conducted at the Swartz Center for Computational Neuroscience using EEG to observe what transpired in the participants’ brains while experiencing the protocol. [Link to the Publication] The researchers observed that a broad network of brain systems became increasingly engaged as individuals progressed through the visualization sequence. Notably, in the central and occipital regions, power in the theta (4 – 7 Hz) and alpha (8 – 12 Hz) range declines during post-session relative to pre-session rest baseline.

Paraphrasing and summarizing the process and benefits as observed by the researchers at UCSD:

During the intake session, the client sets an intention and identifies a guided imagery “go-to place” that is returned to and developed with successive sessions. Clients are introduced to the induction process, educating them about systems of affirmations and guided imagery used to improve creative imagination and evoke positive thoughts as often as possible.

LIGHT uses a repeatable framework that helps the client relax into a mild trance. Here they are guided through consistent visual cues to access their beliefs and concerns related to the intention. The framework empowers the client to face negative influences and see them transformed in their mind.

When repeated by the client as part of their daily routine, the simulation of life-affirming images and positive outcomes is believed to create new pathways for thought processing and improve their overall outlook and ability to attain their goals. Researchers have identified this trait promoted by the regular use of LIGHT as self-efficacy.

What are the benefits of LIGHT, as reported by clients, research participants, and students?

“My LIGHT experience allowed me to explore my inner self and provided me a foundation to develop a sustainable practice for my life from now on. Working with Paula via Skype was truly an amazing opportunity. Her energetic work inspired me to look deeper and release my self-imposed restrictions.

“I have had Multiple Sclerosis for over 30 years, and it does not have me! During my weeks of LIGHT sessions, I became a fierce leader again and landed the position of my dreams. I am an Information Systems Disaster Recovery Specialist Manager for the U.S. government in Washington, D.C. THANK YOU, LIGHT.”

— Valerie B.

“It took me a few weeks to liberate myself from these other practices and not be in this state of conflict of 'Wait a minute, that's not meditation. That's how you do Gnosis.' I'd be like, 'okay, just get on the roller coaster ride.' Once I could get on the roller coaster, I just went to some crazy places. I realized how much more fun doing LIGHT is than doing meditation. I'd rather do LIGHT and have a great time.

“My whole world turned around. Lots of wonderful little miracles have happened—serendipitous events. I certainly tapped into my creative imagination. Those were the messages I needed at that moment. I have had the most authentic conversations with people. Things I had kept private that I shouldn't have. It was creating buffers in our authentic lives. The walls have just come down. This is the entirety of me. You will accept me for who I am, just like I accept you for who you are. Thank you for the gift you have brought to my life.”

— Amy P.

“When I came here, I wasn't sure what this whole thing was about. I received an email from the center because I did a mindfulness course years ago. For some reason, I decided to open it even though the description was slightly vague. I'm happy that it was vague and I didn’t understand what it was about. Because if I knew, I probably wouldn't have come here. I'd have felt it was not my thing to do. I felt slightly uncomfortable initially because all these concepts were new.

“I wasn't a spiritual person. But the combination of Paula for her story and practical approach to things and Thomas for the spiritual with science thrown in and he is so calm, the two got inside my heart. I'm very grateful that I was here. In life, it's important to have a good teacher. I wasn't disciplined in doing the meditations every day, but whatever I did somehow resonated with me. I feel I'm calmer in every way in all my interactions.

“Waking up at night, usually going back to sleep, was hard. Even other times when I'm getting a little bit anxious, I don't even need to do a whole session or find myself a quiet place. I have to think that I have that in my imagination, the place that I created, and it has a good effect on me. It's great because it's much better than carrying benzodiazepines. Having LIGHT is a wonderful tool. All the materials in class for the homework opened a whole new world for me. I'm happy that I found you.”

— Liora N.

“My journey through LIGHT has been adventurous. Firstly, my experience with meditation was probably doing the 21-day through Oprah Winfrey, but I never got to finish it. So, attending these sessions and listening to 'Oh, trying to be aware in three places at once, the conscious, subconscious, and superconscious.' I was like, 'how is it possible to be aware in three places at once.' Then there are the commander cells. All of this was very new to me. But through practice, it has been a very positive and rewarding experience.

“It has taught me to value myself and let myself know that everything will be okay no matter what issue or problem I encounter.

“For instance, over the holidays, I went skiing. And, of course, I threw out my back. My commander cell is Rosie from the Jetsons. So, I called Rosie. I said, 'Okay, Rosie,' I closed my eyes and took a few breaths. 'Rosie, go to that lower back and ease that pain — just enough for me to get up and get to the lodge.'

“It wasn't automatic, but it took some time. And every time this pain came, I would call on Rosie. Okay, you go to that lower back and apply some warmth. I was in the snow for about 15 or 20 minutes, and it helped me to get to the lodge. And eventually, within 24 hours, I was even feeling well. But then I felt too comfortable and overdid it by twisting and bending.

“I felt confident that I was going to be okay. It gives me faith that 'hey, any problem that comes across my path, I will resolve it.' So, thank you very much.”

— Georgina M.

Do I need to meet any prerequisites?

We only offer LIGHT in English, so a basic understanding of the language is required to engage with the practice fully. Outside of this, there are no prerequisites as such. In your intake session with a LIGHT professional, we recommend that you discuss any health concerns and other apprehensions that you believe may interfere with the practice. On a personal level, the individual willing to commit to the process and be disciplined and consistent is more likely to extract the most benefits from the experience.

Are there any adverse effects?

LIGHT is not a substitute for standard care. It is a self-enhancement tool set to help with focus, awareness, and general well-being.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your primary care physician or a local health emergency service immediately. If you choose to utilize any information provided by the Centers for Integrative Health (CIH), the writers, or any other employees of CIH, you do so solely at your own risk.

The use of LIGHT induces a light trance state which may be discomforting to people unfamiliar with meditation practices or inexperienced with this state of awareness. In self-practice sessions, LIGHT must only be used when you are in safe surroundings and away from interruptions and hazards.

Kindly give yourself a short while to reorient after a LIGHT session before re-engaging with life and your regular activities. You may practice grounding or earthing exercises, such as walking bare feet outdoors on unpaved surfaces like lawns or the beach. Staying hydrated also helps with this. Another method is to have a bath with Epsom salts. Taking long, deep breaths is a good way to feel relaxed and comforted.

How much does it cost?

The package of five LIGHT sessions costs $1250. Additional sessions, if required, are charged at $250 per session.

LIGHT Booster Sessions – FAQs

What Are LIGHT Booster Sessions?

LIGHT Booster Sessions are a seasonal 4-week guided group experience designed to help participants reconnect with the LIGHT framework through structured practice, reflection, and community support. The sessions are open to both returning participants and individuals who are new to LIGHT.

Do I Need Prior Experience With LIGHT?

No prior experience with LIGHT, meditation, or hypnotherapy is required. While Booster Sessions were originally developed for returning participants, the current 4-week format is also open to individuals who are new to LIGHT.

How Much Do The Booster Sessions Cost?

Tuition for the 4-Week LIGHT Booster Sessions is $950.