Understanding Hypnotherapy

I have had many people ask me about hypnotherapy and how I use it in therapy. In these conversations, I have come to realize that there are many myths, misconceptions and unusual beliefs about hypnotherapy. As such, I want to explain some things, dispel some myths, and bring some clarity to the topic. I will do this by answering some of the most common questions and misconceptions I hear, followed by additional elaboration on more in-depth issues. 

1. If you hypnotize me, can you make me do things that I wouldn't want to do? 

Researchers associated with the Milton Erickson Foundation researched this very question. The research subjects were placed into a hypnotic state, and then suggestions were given that violate the subjects value system or willingness. They found that the individual wouldn't adopt the suggestion, and often developed anger towards the hypnotherapist. There is  a well known adage in hypnotherapy that you cannot get a person to do something that they are not willing to do.