Clinical Hypnosis

The Truth About Hypnosis: Debunking the Myths

As mentioned, hypnosis will not make people lose control or surrender their will. All hypnosis is really self-hypnosis in that the individual is in control of his or her own trance. The hypnotherapist acts as a guide.

Hypnotic states do not produce weakness or gullibility. People do not lose consciousness or experience amnesia. You will be fully aware of your trance state.

Stage hypnotists who use trance as a form of entertainment have created these misconceptions. Many stage hypnotists actually screen their volunteers to select those who are cooperative or who may have exhibitionist tendencies. These entertainers fuel a myth about hypnosis that discourages people from seeking legitimate hypnotherapy. Don't be fooled - hypnosis is considered a traditional form of treatment by the American Medical, Dental, and Psychological Associations.

Hypnosis is not sleep or unconsciousness, but as mentioned, is a state of focused attention.

Common Myths

Only certain people are hypnotizable. On the contrary, experts in the field have found that only certain people are non-hypnotizable.

Hypnosis is dangerous. In the hand of an untrained provider, any counseling or therapeutic technique is dangerous. Hypnosis, when provided by a professional trained in its purpose and practice is a safe and effective helping tool.

Hypnosis is therapy. Hypnosis is a therapeutic intervention and is not, in and of itself, counseling or psychotherapy. Your counselor may use many different techniques to help support understanding and change. Hypnosis is one of those techniques.

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