How it Works in an Hypnosis Session?
Your hypnotherapist will take a detailed history and explain to you how it works. In certain circumstances they will request permission from you to write to your doctor, to let them know your are participating in hypnotherapy. They will discuss your presenting issue, your goals and how you like to see or feel at the end of your session.
Using various techniques the therapist will help you relax, make you comfortable and help you into a trance state. From there they will help you work towards your goal. After the session you will feel uplifted, calmer and more relaxed.
Change can be subtle as the therapist has been working with your sub conscious mind. The whole experience will make you feel positive.
How Does Hypnosis Feel?
Hypnosis is a natural state of mind, Tou will be able to hear sounds around you. But hopefully you will be focused on the therapists voice. You will want to close your eyes and relax into a state which is similar to daydreaming. It can be like the stage when you are not quite awake and not quite asleep. A point where you feel totally relaxed, where all your body relaxes.
Everyone experiences hypnosis in a different way. There is no right way, it is down to how you will feel on the day. Your therapist will guide you through the process, explain everything and help you relax and enjoy the whole experience. You might be very surprised in how relaxing hypnosis can be!
Will I Bark like a Dog or Cluck like a Chicken?
Your own morals, beliefs and mind are all in your control whether you are hypnotised or not!
You will not allow anything to happen to you that you wouldn’t agree with consciously. I mean you may have seen a stage show or film or TV program on which the stage hypnotist has made people do things strange and funny. This is for entertainment only.
A hypnotherapist works in a different way. They work with the client to change a habit, pattern or behaviour.
At Blue Sky Hypnotherapy we will make you feel safe and comfortable. We work with you, focus on your needs and tailor make the therapy to help you. So no you will not not cluck like a chicken or bark like a dog.
Can Anyone Experience Trance?
Unless the person is suffering from brain trauma, dementia or has significant psychiatric illness the answer is YES.
Anyone can allow themselves to experience trance to a greater or lesser extent. If you can imagine it, want it, it will happen. Your therapist will use different techniques as everyone is different. Even light levels of trance can effect powerful change on a sub conscious level.
Often your trance experience will grow over several sessions. If you are already able to meditate or relax you will find it easier to achieve a trance state.
How do I choose a hypnotherapist?
There are some tips and tricks to finding the right hynotherapist.
- Firstly, find someone who you can relate to, a person who will listen to you and understand the issue that you are presenting.
- Secondly make sure that the therapist has a qualification in hypnotherapy which is state registered and that they are a member of a governing body such as the AHA (Australian Hypnotherapy Association).
- Also check that they have all the necessary insurances for their practice. At the end of the day it is about YOU. If you are not happy a good hypnotherapist should always refer you onto another reputable therapist.
Hypnotherapy Is Here To Help You, Help Yourself
What is hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses guided relaxation, intense concentration, and focused attention to achieve a heightened state of awareness or trance. This state is often called a hypnotic state. During hypnotherapy, clients are usually more open to discussion and suggestion, which can be used to explore psychological roots of certain behaviors, perceptions, sensations, and emotions.
Will I Lose Control?
This is a myth. You are always in control and you can always hear what is going on. Hypnosis is a state of relaxed deep focus. You are fully in control and could at anytime wake yourself up and be fully awake. So you can just count to yourself 1 2 3 and open your eyes.
their life.
What issues can hypnotherapy help with?
Applications: Hypnotherapy is often used to help manage numerous issues, including pain control, weight control, anxiety, stress, phobias, and unhealthy habits like smoking. It’s also employed to help improve sleep and learning disorders, communication, and relationship issues.
Is hypnotherapy safe?
Safety: Hypnotherapy is generally safe when conducted by a trained therapist. It is not about being made to do things, it is about empowerment and helping the individual to achieve their potential. It does not involve being put into a deep sleep, and the client cannot be made to do anything they would not ordinarily do.
Are there any side effects of hypnotherapy?
Side Effects: Hypnotherapy is a low-risk intervention with few potential side effects. Occasionally, some individuals may experience headache, dizziness, or lethargy following a session. More complex emotions may also surface during or after sessions as part of the therapeutic process.
How many sessions will I need?
Duration of Treatment: The number of hypnotherapy sessions needed varies based on the individual’s condition and response to therapy. Some issues like simple phobias may be treated in three to five sessions, while more complex issues like depression or eating disorders may require a longer treatment plan.
What qualifications should a hypnotherapist have?
Qualifications: Choose a hypnotherapist who is licensed and certified by reputable organizations. Many countries require hypnotherapists to have specific training and certification in hypnotherapy, alongside a background in medicine or psychology.
Can hypnotherapy be done online?
Online Sessions: Yes, hypnotherapy can be effectively conducted online. This has become a popular format, especially with the advances in video conferencing technologies. Online sessions can be particularly helpful for individuals with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.
How is hypnotherapy different from meditation?
Comparison with Meditation: While both hypnotherapy and meditation involve states of deep relaxation and focus, hypnotherapy involves an active participation in healing and problem-solving processes, guided by a therapist. Meditation typically involves self-guided practices for relaxation and mindfulness without a specific focus on changing behaviors.
How soon will I see results from hypnotherapy?
Results: Some individuals may notice changes very quickly, sometimes even after a single session. However, more substantial and long-lasting changes typically require a series of sessions. The speed of results can vary widely depending on the individual’s issues and their responsiveness to hypnosis.
Hypnosis has long intrigued people, often portrayed in movies and media as a mysterious or even magical process. But in reality, hypnosis is a scientifically supported therapeutic tool that can help people overcome challenges, change behaviours, and improve mental well-being. Despite its many benefits, misconceptions about hypnosis persist, creating unnecessary scepticism and misunderstanding.
From the belief that hypnosis strips individuals of their control to the myth that only certain people can be hypnotized, these false ideas obscure the real potential of this practice. Addressing these myths is crucial, not just to dispel misinformation, but to help people explore how hypnosis can genuinely enhance their lives.
As we journey through the facts and evidence, this article aims to separate fiction from reality, offering a clearer understanding of what hypnosis is—and isn’t.
Myth 1: Hypnosis Causes Loss of Control
One of the most persistent myths about hypnosis is the idea that individuals lose control of their minds and actions while in a hypnotic state. This misconception has been perpetuated by stage performances and sensationalised media portrayals.
In reality, people under hypnosis remain fully aware of their surroundings and retain the ability to make decisions. Hypnosis works by creating a state of focused attention and relaxation, allowing individuals to become more receptive to positive suggestions. However, the capacity for free will and critical thinking remains intact.
Dr. Steven Jay Lynn, a professor of psychology and expert in hypnosis, explains: “Hypnosis cannot force someone to act against their values or moral beliefs.” This reinforces that hypnotherapy is a collaborative process, relying on trust and mutual cooperation between the therapist and the client.
Numerous studies support this claim. A review published in Contemporary Hypnosis highlights that hypnotised individuals can reject suggestions they find inappropriate or uncomfortable. Far from being a state of helplessness, hypnosis empowers clients to access parts of their mind that are typically less available in their everyday conscious state.
Myth 2: Hypnosis Is a Special State of Consciousness
Another common misconception is that hypnosis induces a unique or altered state of consciousness, entirely distinct from everyday experiences. This belief often paints hypnosis as mysterious or otherworldly, adding to its misrepresentation.
However, research suggests that hypnosis is not a special state but rather a natural phenomenon. It involves a focused and heightened state of attention, similar to when you’re deeply engrossed in a book or daydreaming. According to a study published in Nature Neuroscience, brain imaging reveals that hypnosis activates areas responsible for attention and decision-making, rather than creating a separate state of consciousness.
Dr. Steven Jay Lynn elaborates, “Hypnosis is about leveraging normal mental processes to create change.” By fostering a heightened focus, hypnotherapy allows individuals to address issues more effectively without requiring a “magical” mental state.
This perspective demystifies hypnosis, showing it as a practical and scientifically grounded tool. Understanding this helps dispel the notion of hypnosis as an enigmatic experience and instead frames it as a cooperative method of therapy grounded in normal cognitive functions.
Myth 3: Only Certain People Can Be Hypnotized
The idea that only some people can be hypnotised persists, often discouraging individuals from considering hypnotherapy. This myth creates a false divide between those who are “suggestible” and those who are not.
In reality, most people can be hypnotised to some extent. Hypnotisability exists on a spectrum, with some individuals responding more readily than others. Factors like willingness, trust in the therapist, and the ability to focus play significant roles in determining how easily someone enters a hypnotic state.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis found that around 80% of individuals are moderately hypnotisable, with only a small percentage showing very high or very low responsiveness. These findings emphasise that hypnosis isn’t an exclusive process reserved for a select few.
Dr. Lynn stresses, “Hypnosis is a skill that can be developed with practice. Even those who initially struggle can improve their responsiveness over time.” By reframing hypnotisability as a learnable skill, this myth is easily debunked, encouraging more people to explore the benefits of hypnotherapy.
Myth 4: Hypnotic Responses Are Just Compliance or Faking
Some sceptics believe that individuals under hypnosis are merely complying with instructions or faking their responses. This assumption undermines the legitimacy of hypnotic experiences and the therapeutic value of hypnosis.
Scientific evidence debunks this myth. Neuroimaging studies, such as those published in The International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, reveal measurable changes in brain activity during hypnosis. These changes are linked to heightened focus and altered perception, demonstrating that hypnotic responses are genuine, not feigned.
One study conducted at Stanford University used functional MRI scans to examine participants’ brains during hypnosis. The results showed distinct neural activity patterns in areas associated with attention, self-control, and pain regulation. This proves that hypnosis triggers real and observable changes in the brain.
Dr. Steven Jay Lynn notes, “While some individuals may be sceptical, the evidence overwhelmingly supports that hypnotic responses are authentic and not simply acts of compliance.” Understanding these findings helps reinforce hypnosis as a legitimate and valuable therapeutic approach.
Myth 5: Hypnosis Requires Special Skills to Administer
The notion that hypnosis can only be performed by uniquely gifted individuals often stems from dramatic portrayals in popular culture. These depictions paint hypnotherapists as having mystical or magical abilities.
In reality, hypnosis is a learned skill grounded in psychology and clinical practice. Effective hypnotherapy relies on training, experience, and evidence-based techniques, not innate talents. Accredited programs ensure practitioners understand the mechanics of hypnosis and can apply them ethically and effectively.
Dr. Lynn emphasises, “Hypnosis is not about mystical powers but about understanding human behaviour and communication.” A qualified hypnotherapist uses proven strategies to create a supportive and collaborative environment.
Scientific studies have confirmed that trained professionals, regardless of personality or flair, can achieve consistent results with hypnosis. This demystifies the process and reassures individuals that success lies in competence, not supernatural skill.
Myth 6: Hypnotic Age Regression Recovers Accurate Memories
One of the most controversial myths about hypnosis is that it can retrieve precise, accurate memories from the past. This belief is often perpetuated by media and courtroom cases involving hypnotically recalled testimony. However, the science tells a different story.
Research shows that while hypnosis can enhance focus and recall, it doesn’t guarantee accuracy. A study published in the Journal of Psychiatry & Law found that hypnotised individuals are more likely to incorporate false memories into their recollections. This is because hypnosis increases suggestibility, making people more susceptible to external cues and expectations.
Dr. Steven Jay Lynn highlights, “Hypnosis can sometimes blur the line between real memories and suggestions, making it a poor tool for retrieving exact details.” For this reason, most legal systems no longer accept hypnotically retrieved evidence in court.
While hypnosis can help people explore emotions tied to past events, it is not a reliable method for uncovering factual memories. Understanding this limitation is crucial for using hypnosis ethically and effectively in therapy.
The Science Behind Hypnosis
Hypnosis is not magic—it’s a science-backed technique that works by engaging specific areas of the brain to promote focus, relaxation, and suggestibility. Studies using modern technology, such as fMRI scans, have provided a clearer picture of how hypnosis impacts the brain.
A 2016 study by researchers at Stanford University identified distinct changes in three key brain regions during hypnosis:
- The dorsal anterior cingulate, responsible for focus and attention.
- The salience network, which helps decide what’s worth focusing on.
- The default mode network, involved in self-awareness.
These findings show that hypnosis creates a unique mental state that enhances the ability to process suggestions and reframe negative thought patterns.
Clinical trials also demonstrate hypnosis’s effectiveness in treating conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, and phobias. For example, a meta-analysis published in The American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis found that hypnotherapy significantly improved symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
By blending psychological insights with measurable brain activity, hypnosis continues to prove its value as a therapeutic tool grounded in science.
Applications of Hypnosis in Therapy
Hypnosis has evolved into a versatile tool for addressing a wide range of mental, emotional, and physical challenges. It offers solutions that are both effective and supported by research, making it a valuable addition to therapeutic practices.
Anxiety and Stress Management
Hypnosis helps individuals reframe anxious thoughts and develop relaxation techniques to reduce stress. A study in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology found that hypnosis significantly improved outcomes for patients with generalised anxiety disorder.
Pain Relief
Hypnotherapy is increasingly used for managing chronic pain and discomfort. A study published in Pain Medicine demonstrated that hypnosis could reduce pain perception by up to 50% in patients with fibromyalgia. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking alternatives to medication.
Addictions
For those battling addiction, hypnotherapy targets the unconscious triggers that drive destructive behaviours. Research in The International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis revealed that hypnotherapy combined with traditional treatments improved recovery outcomes for alcohol dependence.
Phobias
Hypnosis helps individuals confront and desensitise irrational fears. By altering how the brain associates fear with certain triggers, patients often experience lasting relief.
From improving mental health to aiding physical recovery, hypnosis demonstrates its adaptability and effectiveness in numerous therapeutic contexts.
Choosing a Qualified Hypnotherapist
Selecting the right hypnotherapist is crucial for achieving positive results. Not all practitioners are created equal, so understanding what to look for can ensure you’re in capable hands.
A qualified hypnotherapist should have formal training and credentials from a recognised organisation. Certification from bodies like the Australian Hypnotherapists’ Association (AHA) ensures the practitioner meets professional standards.
Experience also matters. A therapist with a track record of success is more likely to understand your unique challenges and provide effective solutions. Reading reviews or seeking recommendations can offer insights into their reputation.
Ethics and professionalism are equally important. A good hypnotherapist creates a safe, judgement-free environment where you feel comfortable exploring personal issues. They should also explain the process clearly, addressing any questions or concerns you have.
Taking the time to choose a qualified, compassionate hypnotherapist can make all the difference in your journey towards healing and self-improvement.
Author’s Opinion
As a clinical hypnotherapist, I’ve witnessed first-hand the transformative potential of hypnosis. Over the years, I’ve worked with individuals facing a range of challenges—each seeking change, relief, or simply a better understanding of themselves. The beauty of hypnotherapy lies in its ability to provide a safe and supportive space where clients can access their inner resources and reshape their thinking.
One particular case that stands out involved a client struggling with chronic pain. Traditional methods had provided little relief, but through hypnotherapy, they learned to reinterpret their pain signals, significantly reducing their discomfort. This wasn’t about “mind over matter” in a clichéd sense—it was about leveraging the power of the unconscious mind to create meaningful change.
Another client came to me with crippling anxiety tied to public speaking. After a few sessions, they not only felt calmer but also started volunteering for speaking engagements. Watching that transformation reinforced for me just how effective hypnosis can be when used ethically and collaboratively.
I believe in the science and the humanity of hypnotherapy. It’s not a mystical process or a shortcut to success—it’s a practical tool that empowers people to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
If you’ve ever been curious about hypnosis, I encourage you to explore it with an open mind. It’s a journey that can lead to profound personal growth and healing.