Myths about hypnotherapy

There are common misconceptions about hypnotherapy that are good to be aware of.

Myth: You lose control and surrender the mind.

Fact: Hypnotherapists are not able to control anybody else’s mind. We have a toolkit derived from research in psychotherapies and neuroscience that utilises natural faculties of the mind and body to promote relaxation and facilitate increased responsiveness to desired suggestions. A client will remain in full control and agency the whole time.

Myth: It is a supernatural practice with instant results.

Fact: It is often portrayed in popular culture as if a therapist casts a spell. While wonderful and rapid improvements can take place in hypnotherapy, transformation tends to take time and is always because of the special attention and intention made by the client.

Myth: Hypnosis is like sleep.

Fact: Clients stay wide awake and conscious the whole time. While it is ok to fall asleep in hypnotherapy, the ideal state for a client is relaxed focused attention.

Myth: You can be hypnotised against your will.

Fact: Anyone who wants to resist suggestions cannot be hypnotised. Like any form of therapy, it is a collaborative process that requires commitment and active participation from the client. The role of the therapist is to support the client towards their desired goals.

Myth: You can get stuck in a trance. Fact: A client in hypnotherapy is an active participant who remains responsive and aware of his or her surroundings at all times. It is a familiar state of consciousness, quite similar to watching a favourite tv show. You are totally engaged but can retract your attention whenever you please.