Hundreds of thousands of U.S. Veterans still smoke, despite decreasing rates. Army Veteran Walter Hauser, who smoked for over 60 years, found success in quitting through clinical hypnosis after struggling with various methods for years. A CT scan revealed lung abnormalities, prompting a recommendation to quit smoking. Initially skeptical, Hauser met with Dr. Meghan Cody at the Salisbury VA Health Care System in September 2024 for hypnosis. During the session, he was guided into a trance-like state, recalling a peaceful riverbank from his youth. After receiving an “anchor” gesture to help him focus, Hauser emerged from the session emotionally transformed. He later tested his resolve by taking a puff from a cigarette, only to find it unappealing. Since then, he has not smoked and has sought further help from Cody for other goals, like reducing lottery ticket purchases. Hauser’s journey highlights the effectiveness of clinical hypnosis, a part of the VA Whole Health System that supports Veterans in managing various health concerns, including anxiety and pain. One year after his initial session, he serves as an example of how clinical hypnosis can aid in achieving health and well-being objectives.