Myth or Reality?

There are several myths and false beliefs and misconceptions about hypnosis. Contrary to the way hypnosis is presented in movies, novels and stage hypnosis, a hypnotized person presents a rather “normal” behavior.

The hypnotherapist educates the client in regards to the hypno-therapeutic process at the beginning of the first session. The therapist must inform his / her client of any false or irrational idea that he / she can have in the face of hypnosis to have a clear and informed consent.

The subject is under the control of the hypnotist.

Myth! Hypnosis does not invoke a kind of occult power of the one who uses it. The myth that the hypnotist possesses “special” powers results from different shows or collectively known under the name of stage hypnosis.

Be careful and don’t be wrongly mistaken about the effects of supernatural cures! Indeed, the hypnotherapist has no magic powers to implant in the brain of the subject. In fact, the subject always has free will, and keeps his/her moral sense. Therapeutic hypnosis is a dynamic experience between the hypnotherapist and the client and is very different from stage hypnosis, which is based mainly on the spectacular demonstration of power.

It is generally recognized that any hypnosis is a a form of self-hypnosis, because it is client who possesses the resources and the capacities to plunge into this personal experience. The suggestions of the hypnotherapist can only be effective if they are self-suggestions. Therefore the hypnotherapist only helps the client use their own resources by means of hypnotic communications.

Is self-control maintained during a trance?

Definitely! In a state of hypnosis, the client preserves complete control on himself / herself and agrees to be guided by the suggestions of the hypnotherapist. The participation of the client is voluntary, and he/she always keeps the power to accept or to reject a hypnotic suggestion. He/she is always free to return to a normal state of awakening whenever desired.