Ten Common Misconceptions About Hypnotherapy

Ten Common Misconceptions About Hypnotherapy

Despite the growing use of hypnotherapy as a legitimate therapeutic tool, many people still carry outdated or inaccurate beliefs about what hypnosis is and how it works. These misconceptions often discourage people who could benefit from hypnotherapy from seeking it altogether. Here I explore ten common myths and provide an accurate understanding of hypnotherapy and how it really works.

• 1. Hypnosis is Magical and Mystical

  

  Historically, hypnosis has been linked to the mystical. Ancient Egyptian priests used trance-like states in religious rituals. Over time, books, movies, and stage shows have painted hypnotists as powerful figures capable of manipulating minds through some magical force.

  In reality, hypnosis is not magical at all. It is a natural state of focused attention that we all experience while daydreaming or when driving on autopilot. Hypnotherapy simply uses this trance state deliberately to help people address their problems. All hypnosis is self-hypnosis, meaning a person cannot be hypnotized unless they are willing to participate.

• 2. The Hypnotherapist Controls You

  

  A common fear is that once you’re under hypnosis, the therapist takes control of your mind and actions. This idea is heavily influenced by stage hypnotists who appear to make people do silly or embarrassing things. However, those participants are willing volunteers, often extroverts, who enjoy the spotlight and choose to go along with the act.

  In clinical hypnotherapy, you are always in control. You cannot be made to do anything you don’t want to do or that goes against your will. Hypnotherapists don’t have the power to control or manipulate you. Instead, they act as facilitators, helping you access your own subconscious resources to make positive changes. Hypnosis is a cooperative process, not mind control.

• 3. Hypnosis is Dangerous

  

  Another myth is that hypnosis can somehow be harmful or cause you to lose your mind. In fact, hypnosis is a very safe process, especially when done by a qualified hypnotherapist. You're always aware of your surroundings and can choose to come out of trance at any moment.

  The real risk lies not in hypnosis itself, but in working with unqualified practitioners. Some stage hypnotists or self-taught individuals may try to practice hypnotherapy without understanding its psychological depth. This is why it’s important to work with a certified professional who has received proper training and adheres to professional standards.

• 4. You’ll Cluck Like a Chicken and Lose Control

  

  The image of people clucking like chickens or barking like dogs on stage is a popular one done for entertainment. Stage hypnosis is designed to make people laugh and to put on a show. Those on stage are willing participants and typically the kind of people who enjoy performing.

  Clinical hypnotherapy is entirely different. It’s a serious therapeutic process focused on helping you overcome issues like anxiety. In clinical sessions, the goal is not to embarrass or control you, but to help you relax, focus, and access inner resources for change.

• 5. You Must Keep Your Eyes Closed and Stay Still

  

  Many people think hypnosis requires you to lie still with your eyes closed in a deep, quiet trance. While that’s one form of hypnosis, it’s not the only way. Trance can occur with eyes open and even while moving.

  For instance, athletes often experience an alert trance state during competitions while fully awake, moving, and deeply focused. Similarly, children can enter trance while playing around. For some individuals with anxiety, closing the eyes may actually trigger fear. Skilled hypnotherapists adapt their approach to each patient’s needs.

• 6. Hypnosis Is the Same as Therapy

  

  Another common misconception is that hypnosis itself is a form of therapy. In truth, hypnosis is a tool used within therapy. It’s a technique that helps clients access the unconscious mind easily, making therapeutic work more effective.

  Hypnotherapy is the practice of using hypnosis alongside therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy and psychodynamic therapy. It can support many kinds of treatment plans, enhancing focus, memory recall, emotional regulation, and behaviour change. It’s not a standalone therapy but rather a technique that boosts therapeutic outcomes when used appropriately.

• 7. You Might Not Wake Up

  

  Some people worry that once they’re in a hypnotic trance, they might not “wake up.” But trance is not sleep, and hypnosis is not like being in a coma. You enter and exit trance states naturally many times each day like when you're absorbed in a movie, a book, or your own thoughts.

  Coming out of trance is just as easy and natural as entering it. You can return to full alertness at any time you choose. A qualified hypnotherapist will also guide you out of trance safely at the end of each session. There’s no danger of getting stuck in a hypnotic state.

• 8. You Fall Asleep During Hypnosis

  

  Although hypnosis often involves relaxation, it is not the same as falling asleep. In fact, many people are surprised to find that they remain aware of everything during the session. You can hear the therapist, notice sounds in the room, and even remember most of what was said.

  The goal in hypnotherapy is not to put you to sleep, but to help you focus inward, similar to meditation or deep concentration. Staying aware helps you work with the therapist and fully benefit from the process. If you did fall asleep, it would limit the effectiveness of the session, so your hypnotherapist will make sure you stay comfortably aware and engaged.

• 9. Some People Can’t Be Hypnotised

  

  While it’s true that some individuals may be harder to hypnotise than others, most people can enter a trance state if they want to. The key factor is willingness. If a person is fearful, skeptical, or resisting the process, it can create unconscious blocks.

  That’s why qualified hypnotherapists spend time building trust and answering questions before starting any formal hypnosis. Once a person understands how it works and feels safe, they’re much more likely to respond well.

• 10. You Can Do Hypnotherapy on Yourself from the Start

  

  There are many books and videos that encourage people to practice self-hypnosis, and while it can be effective, it's not the best starting point. Working with a trained hypnotherapist first gives you the foundation to understand how your mind responds and what techniques suit you.

  Even experienced hypnotherapists seek help from colleagues when dealing with their own personal issues. It’s very difficult to guide yourself through deep psychological work because your own defenses and blind spots can get in the way. After experiencing guided hypnotherapy, you may find self-hypnosis easier and more useful but it should be approached with care and experience.