Myths About Hypnosis

The following is a list of some of the most common myths about hypnosis that have been largely perpetuated by Hollywood hype and even those who pretend to use hypnosos for entertainment purposes.
 

A hypnotist can make you do things against your will

A hypnotist does not have any power over a subject. He or she is simply a 'guide' to help you focus on the issues that need attention. The hypnotist will help guide you into a state of deep relaxation so that your mind is more receptive to images and ideas that you want to actualize. Your subconscious will always reject ideas or suggestions that it does not wish for you - for this reason it is impossible for a hypnotist to have any power over you or your mind.

You are at risk for falling into a permanent state of hypnosis

Because hypnosis is simply a deep state of relaxation (not unconsciousness) you can never remain permanently in that state. When a hypnotherapy session comes to an end (by design or by default for some reason), you will either wake up, or you will fall asleep and naturally wake up later on.

Only weak, gullible people can be hypnotized

For hypnosis to work or be effective, one needs the ability to concentrate, visualize and use his or her imagination. One's IQ or station in life has nothing to do with their ability to be hypnotized.

Hypnosis is a state of being unconscious

Hypnosis cannot work while a subject is unconscious because he or she will not have the power to concentrate or focus on a specific issue or problem. During hypnosis you are deeply relaxed, but you are highly alert and always aware of your surroundings.

One could end up revealing confidential or private information

Under hypnosis one only reveals information he or she wishes to reveal, although hypnosis can help a subject access experiences or memories that have been forgotten.

Hypnosis can be dangerous

On the contrary, hypnosis is recognized by the American Medical Association and the American Psychological Association (among others) as a safe and natural method used to promote health and wellness.

It is important to remember that the patient always retains control during hypnosis - it cannot be imposed. Hypnotherapists are trained to facilitate the process and use hypnotherapy to assist in the development of a patient's emotional and physical well being.