Hypnotherapy myth busting!

If there is one thing that thwarts the efforts of hypnotherapists everywhere, it is the unhealthy reputation that hypnosis has had since the time it was openly used by Franz Anton Mesmer back in the mid-1700s.

Although Herr Mesmer proved that hypnosis could be used as a force for good, he also used it as a way to dupe people - and a reputation like that very rarely goes away! Needless to say, there are excellent hypnotherapists who will bend over backwards to help people. So what is true and what isn't when it comes to common myths about hypnosis?

Myth 1: Hypnosis allows me to be controlled

False

When a hypnotherapist works with you, they are a guide. They guide you through the process of relaxation so your subconscious comes to the fore and is able to make changes you have agreed to during your consultation.

Myth 2: Some people don't wake up from hypnosis

False

Some people would love to stay in that wonderful state of relaxation but no one has yet! The truth is, if a client is enjoying the relaxed place they found themselves in, it can take a little while to encourage them to come back to conscious awareness but, as I said in the paragraph above, the subconscious is there to keep you safe, simply implying there is danger would snap someone back to full conscious awareness in a second – although it's not the nicest way to end a relaxing session, yelling "fire" will wake anyone up!

Myth 3: Intelligent people can't be hypnotised

False

If you have the ability to relax and go to sleep, you can be hypnotised, and the more intelligent you are, the easier it is generally to follow instructions and imagine/visualise what the hypnotherapist is asking you to do.

Myth 4: I won't remember anything a hypnotherapist says

False

If you want to remember everything the hypnotherapist says, you will. It is important to mention here that there may be parts of your past, for instance, that might be best left alone but your therapist will have discussed this before any regression takes place. If you want to leave it in the past, your hypnotherapist will add wording so that your subconscious will let go of those things so you can then move forward – again, it will be your choice.

Myth 5: Hypnotherapy isn't an effective therapy

False

A comparison study shows:

• Psychoanalysis: 38% recovery after 600 sessions.
• Behaviour therapy: 72% recovery after 22 sessions.
• Hypnotherapy:93% recovery after six sessions.

(Source: American Health Magazine)

Find out more about the research and studies into hypnotherapy. 

Ready to start your hypnotherapy journey? Reach out to a professional on Hypnotherapy Directory today.