Myths and Facts about Hypnotherapy

Myth

Hypnotherapy means losing control or being made to do things against your will.

Fact

In clinical hypnotherapy you stay awake and aware throughout, and you keep control of how you respond. Research shows people can resist suggestions they don't want to follow, and you can end the session whenever you wish. The loss-of-control images people associate with hypnosis come from stage shows and films, not clinical practice.

Myth

Only certain kinds of people can be hypnotised.

Fact

Most people respond to hypnotic suggestion to a moderate or high degree, while a smaller group respond less. Responsiveness is not linked to weakness, gullibility or low intelligence. Expectations and willingness to take part make a real difference, and responsiveness can improve with understanding and practice.

Myth

You could get "stuck" in hypnosis.

Fact

Hypnosis is not sleep or unconsciousness. You remain aware of your surroundings and in control of your responses, so you can come out of it whenever you choose.

Myth

Hypnotherapy is not a recognised clinical technique.

Fact

Hypnosis has been studied in clinical research for decades. Reviews of trials show benefits for conditions such as chronic pain, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and depression, and adding hypnosis to cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been found to improve outcomes compared with CBT alone. It is not a cure-all, not everyone benefits, and it is best used alongside established treatments, not instead of them.

Myth

You won't remember anything from the session.

Fact

Most clients stay aware during hypnosis and remember their sessions. Temporary forgetting can happen only when it is specifically suggested, and it is not a goal of our sessions.