Hypnotherapy is a rapidly advancing field that is leaving behind the old Svengali-like mind control image, and proving instead to be an effective treatment for a range of psychological and psychosomatic (physical issues exacerbated or created by the mind) problems.

People suffering from negative emotions, bad behaviours and other psychological issues can use the help of a skilfull hypnotherapist to change their patterns and replace them with more positive ones.

Despite its benefits, many people are confused about hypnotherapy and hypnosis in general and they often avoid hypnosis as a potential treatment due to this.

Here is a few of the reservations people have : -

1.”I fear getting stuck in the state of hypnosis”

This is a very common fear up until today. The good news is that there have been no recorded cases of patients getting “stuck” in the state of hypnosis.

To go into a very deep trance often requires a lot of practice and it is rare for a patient to go in such a deep trance that they cannot understand and follow the instructions of the hypnotherapist to open their eyes. Moreover, the patient always remains in control and can open his or her eyes at any time they like.

2.”What if I am controlled by the hypnotherapist?”

This stems from the old portrayal of hypnosis such as the evil Svengali character that was able to use his innate influence to control others. The media and stage hypnosis have also helped to instill the idea that people can be controlled in hypnosis.

Patients are always in control during their session and all the suggestions made by the therapist can be accepted or rejected by the patient. The therapist cannot force a suggestion on to a patient.

3.”What if I can’t be hypnotized?”

Different people have different natural abilities to go in to a hypnotic state similar to the varying abilities people have in sports, music etc. The important thing to remember however, is that with practice, anyone can improve their ability to go in to hypnosis.

A skilled therapist will work individually with each client to make sute that they have the right tools and understandings to get the desired results with hypnosis.

4.”Will I lose consciousness?”

In hypnosis you remain fully aware at all times. Indeed, some hypnotherapists believe that awareness is actually enhanced in hypnosis as the mind becomes more relaxed and stilled. A hypnotized person will hear noises, be aware of sensations, and so on.

5.”Will I disclose things I want to keep secret?”

This is impossible, and is based on the belief that hypnosis involves a loss of control. People feel in control in hypnosis, even though they may experience a willingness to follow the hypnotherapist’s positive programming suggestions.

The reality is, it is just as easy to lie in hypnosis which is part of the reason that material recovered whilst a person is in hypnosis is not admissible in court.

Once people understand hypnosis better, they are more able to use it effectively as a patient and get better results.

Hypnosis is an up and coming field and many people are finding that hypnosis, in the right hands, can help them achieve their goals quicker and more effectively than many of the conventional routes.