Hypnosis, often misunderstood and misrepresented in popular media, holds incredible potential for personal growth and transformation. Despite its proven efficacy and countless success stories, many individuals still harbor fears and misconceptions about this powerful tool. Let's address and debunk the top 10 fears about hypnosis:

1. I might lose control of my mind.

No one can "control" your brain like it's under the mercy of the strings of a puppetteer. Hypnosis allows you to take back control of your mind after it has gone into unhelpful, harmful and unhealthy places. By focusing your attention, using your imagination and using the rights words, you can bring your mind back into balance and harmony, allowing you to think and see clearly, productively and effectively.

2. You could make me do things I don't want to do.

When you see people on stage clucking like chickens, it's because they're willing to have that experience, they are willing to embrace a new reality for a short period of time and try on a new cloak. Contrary to what you might imagine, any behaviour that ensues after being hypnotized is a result of that person’s own will, not the will of the hypnotist. Hypnosis is a collaborative act in which we work as a team to specify your goals then work together to acheive them.

3. It's not scientific, so how do I know it's safe?

Hypnosis is grounded in science and has been extensively researched and studied. Thousands of scientific experiments, studies, journals and meta-analyses have demonstrated its effectiveness in stress reduction, pain management and behavioural change. Every day we are using language, words, ideas and imagination to communicate ideas, to teach, to inspire and create change in the world. Hypnosis is no different.

4. I don't want you crawling inside my mind.

Being a hypnotist doesn't make me a psychic. I can't suddenly see your thoughts and believe me, I wouldn’t want to! You will not spontaneously spill all your darkest secrets just because you've shut your eyes and listened to me talking. Your secrets are safe with you.

5. I might get stuck in a hypnotic trance.

Contrary to popular belief, there is no magical trance state you must be in to experience hypnosis. Instead, think of hypnosis as responding to suggestion automatically. For example, if I say the word “relax” and you feel your shoulders naturally fall and relax, you’ve responded to my suggestion automatically. This can happen while wide awake, alert and with eyes open. There is nowhere to get stuck in.

6. Being hypnotized means I’m weak-minded.

As mentioned above, hypnosis allows us to regain control of our mind, to learn about ourselves and to facilitate change within us. It’s not a battle of wits, nor a competition to see who’s stronger or smarter. Whatever your background, race, culture or creed, you can harness the power of your own mind and utilise that vast imagination of yours for personal growth.

7. I’m afraid of losing touch with reality.

Hypnosis does not disconnect you from reality; instead, it allows you to access deeper levels of awareness and insight. You remain fully present and in control of your thoughts, feelings, and actions throughout the session.

8. Hypnosis could uncover repressed trauma or negative experiences.

While hypnosis can facilitate access to memories, experiences and unconscious processes, skilled hypnotists prioritize the safety and well-being of their clients by creating a safe space to engage in such a process. Engaging in this kind of self-reflection with the support of a professional therapist allows us to change how we think, feel and respond to past experiences in a safe and controlled environment.

9. I might experience adverse side effects or unintended consequences.

During hypnosis, you may experience things coming up in your mind or body that are uncomfortable, perhaps intense emotions or unpleasant memories. This is perfectly normal and since the purpose of hypnosis is to bring more peace, clarity and freedom, the techniques involved can allow these experiences to subside fairly quickly. Additionally, hypnosis is contraindicated for certain individuals with certain mental health conditions and careful screening and assessment protocols are essential to ensure client safety.

10. I don’t believe in it so it won’t work on me.

The belief that hypnosis won't work if one doesn't believe in it is a common misconception. While belief and expectation can influence the effectiveness of hypnosis to some extent, it's not the sole determining factor. Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention and heightened suggestibility that occurs spontaneously in everyday life. Even individuals who are skeptical or doubtful about hypnosis can still experience its effects.