Understanding Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy: Breaking the Myths
- Martin Middleton
- Nov 4, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 26
What is Hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a therapeutic technique that involves inducing a state of focused attention and heightened suggestibility. It is not about being asleep or unconscious. Instead, it is a process where you are fully aware of everything that is happening, allowing you to address various issues, including anxiety and stress.
1. The "Sleep" Myth
❌ Myth: Hypnosis is sleep, unconsciousness, or a "magical trance."
✅ Fact: You are fully aware and in control. It is simply a state of focused attention.
James Braid, the founder of hypnotism, originally called it "neuro-hypnotism" (sleep of the nervous system). He later realised this was a mistake! Modern EEG studies confirm that hypnosis is not the same as sleep. In fact you don't even have to be sitting down with your eyes closed to use hypnosis.
Most clients are surprised to find they hear every word I say. If you are expecting to "blackout," you might think it hasn't worked. But awareness is the norm. Think of it less like sleep, and more like that feeling of being totally absorbed in a good book or movie.
2. The "Mind Control" Myth
❌ Myth: The hypnotist can control you or make you act against your will.
✅ Fact: All hypnosis is self-hypnosis. You cannot be forced to do anything.
We’ve all seen stage hypnotists make people cluck like chickens. That is theatre, involving extroverts who want to perform. Clinical hypnotherapy is completely different.
It is a collaborative process. You retain full agency over your behaviour and can reject any suggestion that doesn't sit right with you. I am not a "controller"; I am a guide helping you use your own imagination to make changes.
3. The "Magic Wand" Myth
❌ Myth: Hypnosis is an instantaneous "quick fix" for all problems.
✅ Fact: It is a skilled therapy that requires your active participation.
Many people hope to sit back, close their eyes, and wake up "fixed." While hypnotherapy is often faster than other therapies (typically 4-5 sessions), it is not magic.
In Cognitive-Behavioural Hypnotherapy (CBH), we look at how your own negative thinking acts as a form of "negative self-hypnosis." We work together to reverse this. You must be motivated and willing to practice the techniques I teach you between sessions.
4. The "Perfect Memory" Myth
❌ Myth: Hypnosis can recover repressed memories like a video recorder.
✅ Fact: Hypnosis does not guarantee accurate recall.
Research consistently shows that hypnosis does not improve factual recall. In fact, because the state involves high imagination, there is a risk of "confabulation" - where the mind unknowingly fills in gaps because of an expectation that the memory should be there.
5. The "Danger" Myth
❌ Myth: You can get "stuck" in hypnosis.
✅ Fact: It is a benign, safe procedure. You can stop whenever you want.
This is a classic movie trope! In reality, if I were to stop talking during a session, you wouldn't stay stuck; you would simply open your eyes or drift into a natural sleep and wake up shortly after. Adverse reactions are rare and usually just temporary (like a slight headache). The risks are no different from any other psychological conversation.
Ready to Experience the Facts for Yourself?
Now that we’ve cleared away the myths regarding swinging watches and mind control, you might be wondering how clinical hypnotherapy can actually help you.
The reality is that hypnotherapy is a powerful, evidence-based tool for change. Whether you are struggling with anxiety and stress, looking to overcome a specific phobia, or simply want to build your workplace confidence, you don't need magic—you just need the right mindset.
In my practice, I combine Hypnosis with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help you take back control.
Don't let the misconceptions hold you back.
If you are in Leicester, Hinckley, Nuneaton, or looking for support Online, let’s have a chat. I offer a free initial consultation where we can discuss your needs—no pressure, no hard sell, and definitely no "clucking like a chicken."
References and Further Reading
Hartland's Medical & Dental Hypnosis (Fourth Edition, by Heap and Aravind)
The Practice of Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy (by Robertson D., 2012)
Essentials of Clinical Hypnosis: An Evidence-Based Approach (by Kirsch I & Lynn S.J., 2006)
Hypnotism, Imagination & Human Potentialities (by Barber, T. X., Spanos, N. P., & Chaves, J. F., 1974)
Integrative CBT for anxiety disorders: an evidence-based approach to enhancing Cognitive Behavioural Therapy with mindfulness and hypnotherapy (by Assen Alladin, 2016)
About Martin Middleton
Martin Middleton is a Clinical Therapist and Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapist based near Leicester and Hinckley. Specializing in anxiety, stress, and confidence, Martin combines the practical tools of CBT with the transformative power of Hypnotherapy to help clients break negative cycles. He provides a calm, judgment-free space where you can learn to manage your mind and move forward with clarity. Martin works with individuals in-person across Leicestershire and online throughout the UK.
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