Explore the Truth About Hypnosis
Clinical hypnosis, also known as Therapeutic hypnosis or hypnosis therapy, is often misunderstood. Media portrayals make it seem mysterious or controlling, leaving many people unsure if it’s safe, effective, or evidence-based. In reality, Clinical hypnosis is a structured, collaborative process that supports focus, learning, and meaningful long-lasting change.
Understanding what hypnosis truly is-and what it is not- is essential before committing to therapy. For a clear, research-based explanation, I encourage you to click and read “21 Myths About Hypnosis” by Arash Emamzadeh in Psychology Today .
Understanding Clinical Hypnosis
Clinical hypnosis is a state of focused attention and heightened awareness, supported by a calm, safe environment. During hypnosis, clients:
Remain fully conscious and aware
Retain control over their thoughts and actions
Actively participate in the process
This is not sleep, mind control, or passive experience. As emphasised in Emamzadeh’s article, hypnosis is a collaborative, client-centred process that relies on your willingness, motivation, and engagement, which is critical for ethical clinical hypnotherapy.
Dispelling Common Hypnosis Myths
This clip offers a light-hearted portrayal of many of the common myths surrounding hypnosis- the idea of being “put under”, losing control, or being influenced against one’s will. While familiar and entertaining, these stereotypes don’t reflect the reality of clinical hypnosis and can understandably feel off-putting for people who are curious but cautious.
I’ve included this video intentionally to acknowledge those misconceptions rather than ignore them. Clinical Hypnotherapy is not about performance, control, or suggestion without awareness. It is a structured, ethical, and collaborative therapeutic process grounded in informed consent, professional integrity, and genuine care for the client’s wellbeing. Clients remain aware, engaged, and in control throughout the process, with a clear understanding of what is happening and why.
By using humour to highlight what hypnosis is not, this clip helps create space for a more accurate understanding of its true therapeutic value- one that prioritise respect, safety, confidence, and autonomy.
In the next section, I explain how I practice clinical hypnotherapy and what you can expect from a supportive, transparent, and client-centred approach.
“Hypnosis is isn’t about losing control- it’s about learning to use your mind with intention. While often portrayed as mysterious or magical, Clinical hypnosis is a grounded, evidence-based process that enhances focus and insight while keeping clients fully aware and in control.”
Understanding the facts is crucial:
Hypnosis does not override free will or force change
It does not recover hidden, repressed, or past-life memories
It is not a quick fix or magical solution
Clients are never unconscious or controlled
Instead Clinical hypnosis works best as an adjunct to evidence-based therapy, supporting learning, skill development, and insight over time. Separating myth from fact ensures hypnosis is used responsibly, ethically, and effectively.
How I Use Hypnosis in Therapy
In my practice, I use Clinical hypnosis as a solution-focused tool to help clients:
Strengthen focus and attention
Practice cognitive restructuring
Identify and reframe unhelpful beliefs
Clarify personal values and priorities
Rehearse healthier emotional and behavioural responses
Hypnosis provides a focused mental space where clients can engage more deeply with therapy. Clients are active participants, learning skills they can apply both in sessions and in daily life. This reinforces autonomy, self-efficacy, and lasting change.
A Client-Centred, Ethical Approach
Ethical Clinical hypnosis always prioritises:
Informed consent
Collaboration and transparency
Adaptation to the client’s readiness and goals
A safe, structured environment
Clinical hypnotherapy is integrated into a broader therapeutic framework, complementing other evidence-based methods such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and stress management techniques.
Benefits of Clinical Hypnotherapy
Clinical Hypnosis can help clients with:
Stress and anxiety reduction
Emotional regulation and resilience
Improved focus and attention
Behavioural change and habit development
Enhanced self-awareness and insight
It is most effective when applied ethically, transparently, and with professional guidance.
Supporting Realistic, Meaningful Change
When used thoughtfully, hypnosis enhances focus, supports emotional regulation, and reinforces behavioural change in a practical, structured, and realistic way.
If you’re considering hypnosis as part of your therapy, I am happy to:
Explain how hypnosis can support your specific goals
Answer any questions about the process
Guide you safely through client-centred, ethical experience
Ready to Explore Clinical Hypnotherapy?
Contact me today to learn how hypnosis can safely and effectively support your therapy goals, helping you gain focus, insight, and emotional resilience.
