Myths About Hypnosis

Hypnosis has an image problem. Decades of stage shows, Hollywood films and sensationalist journalism have created a set of beliefs about hypnosis that bear little resemblance to the clinical reality. These misconceptions put people off trying a therapy that could genuinely help them.

Here are ten of the most persistent myths, along with what the evidence actually says.

Myth 1: "You'll Lose Control"

The truth: You remain in control throughout hypnosis. You can hear everything being said, you can open your eyes at any time, and you cannot be made to do anything against your will. Brain imaging studies confirm that the areas of the brain responsible for decision-making and self-monitoring remain active during hypnosis. It feels more like a state of focused cooperation than a surrender of control.

Myth 2: "You Can Get Stuck in Hypnosis"

The truth: This has never happened. It's physically impossible to become permanently "stuck" in a hypnotic state. Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention. At worst, if the hypnotist left the room (not something that happens in clinical practice), you would simply drift into natural sleep and wake up normally, or emerge from the state on your own within minutes.

Myth 3: "Hypnosis Is Sleep"

The truth: Despite the unfortunate etymology (hypnos = sleep in Greek), hypnosis is not sleep. EEG studies show that brain wave patterns during hypnosis are distinctly different from sleep patterns. During hypnosis, you're in a state of heightened focused attention — more like the opposite of sleep in many ways. You're aware, you can process information, and you can respond to stimuli.

Myth 4: "Only Weak-Minded People Can Be Hypnotised"

The truth: Research consistently shows the opposite. Hypnotic responsiveness correlates with imagination, concentration ability and cognitive flexibility — not with gullibility or weak-mindedness. Some of the most analytically minded people are excellent hypnotic subjects, provided they approach the experience with willingness rather than resistance.

Myth 5: "The Therapist Has Special Powers"

The truth: I don't possess any special abilities. Hypnotherapy is a skill learned through professional training, not a supernatural gift. The therapist guides the process, but the actual hypnotic state is something your brain produces naturally. It's a collaboration, not a performance.

Myth 6: "You'll Reveal Secrets"

The truth: You cannot be made to reveal information you want to keep private. During hypnosis, your moral judgement and personal boundaries remain intact. In fact, you're fully capable of lying during hypnosis if you choose to (though there's obviously no reason to in a therapeutic context).

Myth 7: "Hypnotherapy Is Just Relaxation"

The truth: While relaxation is often a component of hypnotic induction, hypnotherapy involves much more than simply relaxing. The therapeutic work — suggestion, cognitive restructuring, desensitisation, imagery — is what creates change. Relaxation alone, while pleasant, wouldn't produce the clinical outcomes that hypnotherapy achieves. Learn more about the science.

Myth 8: "It Works Instantly for Everyone"

The truth: While some conditions respond very quickly (smoking cessation and simple phobias can sometimes be resolved in one or two sessions), most issues require a course of treatment. Anxiety typically needs four to six sessions. Weight management is an ongoing process. Hypnotherapy is faster than many other therapies, but it's not a magic wand.

Myth 9: "Hypnotherapy Isn't Evidence-Based"

The truth: There is substantial and growing scientific evidence for hypnotherapy. Brain imaging studies from institutions including Stanford and Harvard have demonstrated measurable neurological changes during hypnosis. The NHS recognises it as a complementary therapy. NICE has referenced its use for IBS. Research published in peer-reviewed journals supports its effectiveness for pain, anxiety, phobias and habits.

Myth 10: "Stage Hypnosis = Clinical Hypnotherapy"

The truth: Stage hypnosis and clinical hypnotherapy share a name and some underlying mechanisms, but the similarity essentially ends there. Stage performers select willing, extroverted volunteers who want to participate in a show. The context, goals, techniques and ethics are completely different from clinical practice. Comparing the two is rather like comparing a pub quiz to a university exam — they both involve questions, but the purpose and standards are worlds apart.

Why These Myths Persist

Most of these misconceptions come from film and television portrayals of hypnosis, which tend to emphasise mind control, dramatic instant transformations and sinister hypnotists. Stage hypnosis reinforces some of these ideas. And human beings are naturally wary of anything that seems to involve relinquishing control.

The clinical reality is considerably less dramatic and considerably more useful. Hypnotherapy is a professional, evidence-based therapeutic tool that helps real people with real problems.

If you've been put off by any of these myths, perhaps it's worth reconsidering. A free telephone consultation gives you the chance to ask any questions and get honest answers before committing to anything. You might also find the first session guide reassuring.