People often look at me with apprehension when I mention that I’m a hypnotherapist. Sometimes I’ll notice a shift in their demeanour, like they're suddenly afraid to make eye contact, as if I might somehow hypnotise them on the spot. It’s amusing how many people assume I have this mysterious power to control their minds or extract their deepest secrets with just a glance.

I get it though, hypnosis has been so misrepresented in films and TV shows that it’s no wonder people have these misconceptions. But the reality of hypnotherapy couldn’t be further from those spurious portrayals.

One of the biggest misconceptions I encounter is the idea that I can surreptitiously take control of someone’s mind. Trust me, I wish I had that kind of power sometimes! But hypnotherapy is really about helping people tap into their own inner resources. It’s a partnership, where the person being hypnotised is always in control. I can’t make anyone do or say anything they don’t want to; the idea that I could is pure fiction.

Another common reaction I get is the fear that they might be hypnotised against their wishes. The truth is, if you don’t want to be hypnotised, it just won’t happen. Hypnosis requires your co-operation. It’s not something that can be forced upon you.

And then there’s the notion that hypnosis is only for the weak-minded or gullible. I’ve heard them all. In reality, hypnosis is a natural state of focused awareness that we all experience in our daily lives, like when we’re daydreaming or completely engrossed in a book. It’s not about being weak-minded; it’s about being open to exploring your mind’s vast potential.

People also seem to worry that they might get "stuck" in hypnosis, unable to wake up. This is another myth with no basis in reality. Hypnosis is a natural, relaxed state — similar to meditation or just beginning to drift off in front of the TV. You can come out of it anytime you want, and if I left you alone, you’d probably simply drift into a normal sleep and wake up naturally.

Finally, there’s the concern that I might make them reveal their deepest secrets under hypnosis. But hypnosis isn’t a truth serum. You’re still fully aware and in control of what you say. Hypnotherapy is about healing and self-improvement, not about spilling secrets.

I wish more people understood that hypnotherapy is a safe, effective tool for personal growth and healing. It’s not about control or manipulation; it’s about empowering you to harness the power of your own mind.

So, the next time you meet a hypnotherapist, don’t be afraid to look them in the eye — we only want to help!

If you’ve ever wondered how hypnotherapy might help you or have questions about the process, I’d love to chat with you. Feel free to get in touch—I’m here to help you explore the possibilities.