Can Someone Make You Do Something Under Hypnosis?

One of the first questions people often ask me about hypnosis is, “Will I still be in control?” It is a very reasonable question, especially when so many movies and television shows make hypnosis look like someone can take over another person’s mind.

You remain in control during hypnosis. You are listening, thinking, and making your own choices throughout the experience. You can speak, move, open your eyes, or stop the session whenever you want, and you remain aware of what is happening around you.

This is why I like the idea that all hypnosis is self-hypnosis. I can guide you, suggest ideas, and use my voice to help you relax and focus, but your mind is still your mind. You are the person allowing yourself to enter that relaxed, focused state.

Think about how often you already do this in everyday life. When you watch a movie, you may become so involved in the story that you laugh, cry, or feel your heart race even though you know you are sitting in your living room. You are choosing to stay with the story because you are interested in it, and your mind becomes deeply involved in the experience.

Hypnosis uses that same ability to focus. During a session, instead of becoming absorbed in a movie or a song, you are guided to focus your attention on yourself, your goals, your thoughts, your feelings, or the changes you would like to make.

You also cannot be hypnotized against your will. You have to participate in the process, and you have to be willing to listen, and follow the guidance. If you decide you do not want to continue, you can simply stop.

That is one of the things I love about this work. There is something very peaceful about knowing that you are completely in charge while giving yourself permission to relax, and let someone else guide the process for a while.

Hypnosis also does not mean that you suddenly become unaware of everything around you. You may hear my voice, notice sounds in the room, or have thoughts come and go. Some people even wonder afterward whether they were “really hypnotized” because they remember so much of the experience. That is perfectly normal.

There is no need to perform hypnosis perfectly, or try to make something happen. Your job is simply to listen, relax as much as you can, and allow your mind to follow along in whatever way feels comfortable for you.

For my clients, hypnosis is such a lovely and enjoyable part of the emotional healing. You get to slow down, take a break from the noise of everyday life, and spend some quiet time focusing on what you want.