Myths and Facts about Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy

Author: Rebecca Sanderson Clinical Hypnotherapist ~Date: 2nd Oct 2025

 

 

The Myths and Facts About Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy

 

There are many myths and misconceptions about hypnosis and hypnotherapy. When people discover I’m a hypnotherapist, they’re often curious — and a little wary. That’s understandable. Hypnotherapy is one of those fascinating fields where ancient healing, modern neuroscience, and cultural storytelling collide.

Let’s unpack the myths, explore their origins, and clarify the safety and science behind hypnosis.

 

Where Do Hypnosis Myths Come From?

Stage Hypnosis & Entertainment

Performers use hypnosis for dramatic effect — making volunteers act silly or forget their names. These shows are carefully staged, and participants are often auditioned or screened to ensure they’re willing to comply before stepping on stage.

 

Pop Culture & Fiction

Movies and books love the trope of the hypnotist as a puppet master. Think swinging watches, blank stares, and people “under a spell.” These images are compelling but inaccurate. I don’t own a pocket watch or swinging crystals.

 

Early Misunderstandings about Hypnosis

In the 18th and 19th centuries, hypnosis was linked to “mesmerism” and “animal magnetism,” which framed it as mysterious and magical. Scottish surgeon James Braid helped shift the narrative, but the old mystique lingered.

Fear of Vulnerability of Hypnosis

Hypnosis involves deep relaxation and openness — which can feel unfamiliar or vulnerable. Some fear they’ll reveal secrets or be manipulated. That’s why it’s important to work with a qualified, ethical hypnotherapist trained to high standards.

 

Let’s Bust Some Myths About Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy

 

Myth 1: Hypnosis is the same as hypnotherapy

Fact: Hypnosis is the state of focused attention.

Hypnotherapy is the therapeutic work done while someone is in the state of hypnosis.

 

Myth 2: You are asleep during hypnosis

Fact: Your eyes may or may not be closed. You are not asleep. You’re in a relaxed, awake state.

The myth comes from the word “hypno” (sleep) and “osis” (condition), coined by James Braid in 1843. He later regretted the name, realizing hypnosis is a unique state of mental concentration — not sleep.

 

Myth 3: You are unaware of your environment

Fact: You are aware — often more focused than usual.

  • Hypnosis is selective attention, like tuning into one radio station.
  • You can hear, respond, and come out of trance at any time.

Myth 4: You lose control during hypnosis

Fact: You are always in control.

  • Hypnosis enhances self-control by helping override automatic habits, fears, or pain responses.
  • You won’t do anything against your will.
  • Think of it like reading a captivating story — absorbed, but still aware.

 

Myth 5: You can get stuck in hypnosis

Fact: You cannot get stuck. Hypnosis is a natural state — like daydreaming or deep focus.

  • You enter and exit it all the time.
  • You can open your eyes or speak at any moment.
  • If a online session ends unexpectedly (e.g., Wi-Fi drops), you’ll either:
    • Drift into sleep and wake naturally
    • Return to full alertness on your own as I include suggestions that you’ll instinctively awaken if the connection is lost.

Myth 6: The hypnotist hypnotises you

Fact: You hypnotise yourself — I guide the process.

  • The hypnotherapist opens the door, but you walk through it.
  • They shine the flashlight, but you choose where to point it. The more engaged and willing the client, the deeper the experience.

 

Myth 7: Memories can be erased with hypnosis

Fact: Hypnosis can make memories harder to access temporarily — not erase them.

  • It can reduce the emotional charge of traumatic memories.
  • This is often used in trauma recovery and pain management.
  • Think of it like placing a curtain over a memory, not deleting it.

 

Hypnotherapy is far more than myth-busting — it’s a gentle, evidence-based approach to real change. Whether you’re looking to break free from smoking, ease anxiety, heal from trauma, overcome a phobia, manage OCD, improve sleep or lift the weight of depression, hypnosis offers a focused, empowering path forward. If you’re curious about how it might support your journey, explore the dedicated pages on my website to learn more. Your mind already holds the tools for healing — hypnotherapy simply helps you unlock them.

 

Rebecca Sanderson Clinical Hypnotherapist

Rebecca Sanderson is a Clinical Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach. She is the Director of The Mindset Clinic in Radlett near Watford, Hertfordshire and uses rapid and dynamic therapeutic interventions to help people live healthier, happier lives. She is a Master Hypnotist, Master Coach and Master Practitioner of NLP as well as being trained in CBT, EMDR and ERPT.

If you would like to discuss how she can help you, She would love to hear from you. Get in touch here.