Common Fears About Hypnosis

Let’s address other prevalent fears and myths about hypnosis:

1. Fear of Losing Control

Many people worry that they’ll be at the mercy of the hypnotherapist’s commands. In reality, you are always in control. Hypnosis is a partnership, and you will only accept suggestions that align with your values and goals.

  • For example, you cannot be hypnotized to do something against your will, like sharing secrets or acting against your moral code.

2. Fear of Revealing Secrets

Hypnosis does not force you to share personal information. While it can help you explore memories and emotions, you choose what to reveal and discuss during the session.

3. Fear of Being Hypnotized Without Consent

Hypnosis cannot happen without your participation. You must willingly engage in the process for it to work. Stage hypnosis may appear to contradict this, but even in those scenarios, participants are volunteers who agree to play along.

4. Fear of Permanent Effects

Hypnosis is temporary. The suggestions made during a session can have lasting positive effects, but the hypnotic state itself is fleeting and will always come to an end.

What Happens If Something Goes Wrong During Hypnosis?

Even in unlikely scenarios, such as the hypnotherapist losing connection during a virtual session or being interrupted during an in-person session, you remain safe. Here’s how such situations are typically handled:

  1. Virtual Sessions: If the connection drops, you will either drift into natural sleep or wake up naturally after a few minutes of inactivity.
  2. In-Person Interruptions: Unexpected sounds or interruptions may simply bring you out of hypnosis.

In both cases, the state of hypnosis naturally resolves itself without harm.

Why Hypnosis Is Safe

Hypnosis is considered a safe practice when conducted by a trained professional. Here’s why:

  • It Is Natural: Hypnosis mimics states we enter daily, like daydreaming or deep focus.
  • You Remain Aware: You can hear, think, and act during hypnosis, ensuring you stay in control.
  • It Is Non-Invasive: Hypnosis does not require medication or physical interventions.
  • You Can End It Anytime: Simply opening your eyes or focusing on something else will bring you out of hypnosis.

Who Should Avoid Hypnosis?

Although hypnosis is safe for most people, it may not be suitable for:

  1. Individuals with Severe Mental Health Conditions
    Those with schizophrenia, psychosis, or dissociative disorders should only undergo hypnosis under the care of a specialized mental health professional.

  2. People Resistant to the Process
    If someone is skeptical or unwilling, hypnosis is unlikely to be effective.

  3. Medical Concerns Without a Diagnosis
    Hypnosis should not replace medical treatment for undiagnosed physical symptoms or serious health conditions.

How to Feel Safe and Confident with Hypnosis

  1. Choose a Qualified Hypnotherapist
    Look for a certified professional with experience in your area of concern. Check credentials and client reviews if available.

  2. Communicate Openly
    Share any fears or concerns with your hypnotherapist before starting. A good practitioner will address your questions and create a supportive environment.

  3. Understand the Process
    Knowing what to expect can ease apprehension. Hypnosis is a collaborative process designed to help you achieve your goals—not a mystical or uncontrollable experience.

  4. Practice Relaxation
    Engage in mindfulness or relaxation exercises before your session to help you feel more comfortable with the hypnotic state.

Final Thoughts

The idea of getting stuck in hypnosis is a myth, rooted in misconceptions about how hypnosis works. In reality, hypnosis is a safe, natural state of focused relaxation that you can enter and exit at will. It’s an empowering tool that allows you to work on issues ranging from stress and trauma to habits and performance.

When conducted by a qualified professional, hypnosis is an opportunity to harness the power of your subconscious mind for positive, lasting change. If you’ve been hesitant to try hypnosis due to fear, rest assured—you are always in control, and the experience is both safe and transformative.

Hypnosis isn’t about losing control; it’s about gaining a deeper connection to your own mind and unlocking the potential for growth and healing within yourself.

About The Author

Adrienne Wylder CHt, RTT®

Adrienne Wylder is a skilled practitioner in RTT© techniques, utilizing hypnosis, NLP, EMDR, and other powerful tools to support personal growth and lasting change.