Hypnosis Misconceptions

By Jan Duncan Adv Dip Hypnosis AMD TFT

Although hypnosis is becoming more popular these days , and is even recommended to patients by such notable experts as Dr Graham Wicks , who is a senior medical specialist in hypnotherapy at Adelaide Women’s and Children’s Hospital , there are still some old misconceptions floating around in the back of some people’s minds . I would like to set those minds at rest by addressing some of the most voiced worries .

Hypnosis is caused by the power of the hypnotist
In a clinical situation the hypnotist uses his or her skills to make acceptance of new suggestions by the client more possible , but there is no control over the client . Rather it is cooperation between hypnotist and client . If the client does not follow suggestions , no hypnosis will take place.

Only certain people can be hypnotised .
There are definitely people that are more difficult to hypnotise than others , but they are not less capable than other people , simply less responsive for any of a wide range of reasons . They may fear ‘losing control’ , or are possibly have a hard time distinguishing between what are for them ambiguous internal states such as tension or relaxation , or even afraid of making changes etc . Once the nature of the problem is identified and resolved , the ‘difficult’ person is transformed from a poor subject to quite a good one .

Anyone who can be hypnotised is weakminded
Since most people enter spontaneous , informal hypnotic states regularly , the ability to be hypnotised cannot be related to personality traits . This misconception refers to the Svengali image of the ‘ all-powerful ‘ hypnotist removing a persons will .

You can be made to do things against your will
Brainwashing and other untoward influences do exist , but the conditions necessary to effect such a powerful influence are not a part of the normal therapeutic practice .Controlling another person is possible under certain stringent conditions , but those conditions are not in and of themselves hypnosis and are far removed from the kind of hypnosis practised in a clinical situation .

You are asleep or unconscious in hypnosis
Hypnosis is not sleep , even though it may resemble sleep from a physical standpoint . From a mental standpoint , the subject is relaxed yet alert .Even in very deep trance , there is always some level of awareness of current goings on .

You can become ‘stuck, in hypnosis , ‘lost in trance’
Hypnosis is a state of focused attention , either inwardly or outwardly directed . It is controlled by the client , who can initiate or terminate the experience at any time they choose .

Hypnosis is a valuable tool to access the far reaches of the inner subconscious mind . With a willing subject and a skilled practitioner it is very effective at making simple and profound changes in the thoughts , emotions and habits that are the fabric of our lives .


To find a qualified hypnotherapist in your area , visit the PHWA website , or one of the national associations , such as the AHA , or the CCH . These organizations have strict regulations that require members to attend regular training to keep their membership , ensuring that clients always have the benefit of the latest research and techniques .