Hypnotherapy Myths
At Remind Solutions we only ever put you in the hands of a qualified and registered hypnotherapist. But we realise many people have pre-conceptions about this very safe and powerful therapy, mainly drawn from stage, film and television. But don’t get confused between entertainment and reality – do you really believe your local hospital works in the same way as the one in Carry On Doctor?! So here’s our quick guide to the most common myths and the truth.
“A hypnotist can put you into a trance without your consent”
Hypnotherapy is a partnership of trust between the client and the therapist. You need a good relationship or rapport to feel comfortable enough to go into a hypnotic state.
“You can get ‘stuck’ in hypnosis”
Even if the hypnotherapist were to go out of the room you’d easily and naturally leave the hypnotic state at your own pace. The worst that can happen is you drift off to sleep, waking later as if you’d had a refreshing nap.
“Hypnosis is like general anaesthetic and you won’t remember anything”
During a session you remain aware of your surroundings at all times. Think of it as sitting with your eyes closed, knowing that you could open them at any time but choosing not to because it is so pleasant. You’re able to move and talk during hypnosis. Sometimes your mind can drift away as you process the therapeutic content of the words, but you will remember what happened throughout the session.
“The hypnotherapist can control you”
Your normal free will and moral standards apply during hypnosis. In fact, if you are asked to do something that goes against your personal ethics and beliefs you will most likely come out of the hypnotic state.
“I can’t be hypnotised”
You go in and out of hypnotic states during everyday life, such as daydreaming, getting absorbed in a good book, watching television or films and even driving. If you’ve ever bought a product because of the advertising you may well have been influenced at a hypnotic level.
“Hypnosis involves re-programming your mind, like brainwashing”
Brainwashing is a negative psychological technique totally different from hypnosis. Hypnotherapists help the client reach a position where they are able to re-evaluate their decisions and opinions using both the conscious and subconscious parts of the mind. Whether change happens ultimately depends on the client.