Hypnosis often conjures up images from movies or stage shows—people seemingly under a spell, doing silly or surprising things on command. Yet, beyond the spectacle, hypnosis has evolved into a respected therapeutic tool embraced by thousands seeking relief from anxiety, pain, phobias, and more. But how exactly does hypnosis work? And why do some people respond so vividly while others don’t?
Let’s peel back the curtain on this intriguing altered state of consciousness.
What Is Hypnosis, Really?
At its core, hypnosis is a process that helps a person imagine experiences so vividly that they feel real. When someone enters this hypnotic state, their mind becomes deeply focused, and usual distractions fade away.
Brain imaging studies reveal that hypnosis quiets parts of the brain involved in self-reflection and daydreaming while strengthening connections between regions responsible for attention and action. This shift means the person is less preoccupied with internal chatter or external noises, allowing them to respond more fully to the hypnotist’s suggestions.
The Hypnotherapy Session: A Gentle Invitation
Typically, a session begins with a hypnotic induction—a calming, step-by-step guide that invites you to relax deeper and deeper. You might hear something like, “I will count from five to one, and with each number, you will feel more relaxed, sinking into a peaceful state.”
Establishing trust and rapport with the hypnotherapist is crucial. If you’re skeptical or unwilling, hypnosis simply won’t take hold. But if you’re open and engaged, you may experience suggestions as involuntary, as if the ideas come to you naturally.
For example, if the therapist asks you to lift your arm, it might feel like it moves on its own—not because you’re consciously deciding to do so, but because your brain temporarily lets go of the usual “monitoring” and control.
Why Do Some People Respond Better Than Others?
You can’t be hypnotized against your will. Factors like motivation, a positive mindset, and the ability to “suspend disbelief” play big roles. Think of it like watching a movie: when fully absorbed, you forget you’re in a theater.
Interestingly, women tend to be slightly more hypnotizable than men, and children and teenagers often show the greatest responsiveness. But overall, people vary widely.
From a neuroscience viewpoint, hypnosis doesn’t hijack your executive brain functions—it tweaks the brain’s self-monitoring system, altering how you perceive your own actions and experiences without forcing behavior outright.
Hypnosis in Therapy: Healing Through Imagined Experience
Hypnotherapy aims to shift negative feelings, perceptions, or habits by guiding you through imagined scenarios that feel real.
Take fear of public speaking. A therapist might help you vividly experience speaking before a crowd in a controlled way, gradually increasing the challenge. This immersive exposure helps you habituate, lowering anxiety and building confidence.
Self-hypnosis is another valuable tool, teaching you to enter a relaxed state on demand—perhaps through a simple gesture like closing your hand—which can calm nerves and foster resilience.
The Science Behind the Calm
Hypnotic suggestions activate the parasympathetic nervous system, the body’s “rest and digest” mode, which slows heart rate and relaxes muscles. At the same time, they reduce activation of the sympathetic “fight or flight” system, easing stress and anxiety.
For some conditions—like childhood insomnia—progress can be rapid, sometimes within 10 sessions. Other issues, such as depression, may require longer treatment.
Still, hypnosis isn’t a cure-all, and not every approach on the market is evidence-based. To ensure safety and effectiveness, seek licensed hypnotherapists affiliated with recognized professional associations. These credentials help verify proper training and ethical standards.
Practical Considerations: Access and Costs
While Medicare generally doesn’t cover hypnotherapy, some private insurers may reimburse part of the cost when performed by licensed mental health professionals. Sessions typically range from $100 to $250 each.
Final Thoughts
Hypnosis unlocks a unique window into the mind’s potential, blending focused attention, imagination, and relaxation to foster healing and change. It’s a partnership between therapist and client, requiring trust, openness, and commitment.
By demystifying hypnosis and understanding how it works, more people can harness this powerful tool for positive transformation.
Looking to explore hypnotherapy or find qualified practitioners? Visit the Spirit of Change Alternative Health Directory for holistic hypnosis and hypnotherapy resources near you.
David J. Acunzo, PhD, is Assistant Professor in the Division of Perceptual Studies at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. This article is adapted from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.
