Myths & Misconceptions about Hypnotherapy
Myths & Misconceptions about Hypnotherapy
Busting the Myths: What Hypnotherapy Really Is (and Isn’t)
By Michelle Korbel CCHt, CIHt, Subconscious Repatterning Specialist, A New Earth Wellness
Hypnotherapy has long been shrouded in mystery, often portrayed in movies and media as something mystical or even manipulative. But the truth is, hypnotherapy is a safe, evidence-based approach to healing and personal transformation. At A New Earth Wellness, I’ve witnessed firsthand how powerful and empowering it can be for individuals looking to break patterns, release trauma, and reconnect with their true selves.
Let’s explore some of the most common myths—and what’s really true.
Myth #1: Hypnotherapy is mind control.
This is by far the most common misconception. Hypnotherapy is not about taking over your mind—it’s about giving you greater access to it. You are always in control and you can choose to come out of your hypnotic state anytime you wish. In fact, hypnosis cannot make you do anything that goes against your morals or values. Instead, it opens a relaxed, receptive state where we can gently shift subconscious patterns that are no longer serving you. When you’re in a relaxed, focused state (aka a light trance), your mind becomes more open to suggestions—but only the ones that align with your values and desires.
It’s not magic—it’s neuroscience.
Myth #2: You’ll be unconscious or asleep.
Many people imagine hypnotherapy as being “put under,” like anesthesia. In reality, you are awake, aware, you can hear everything I’m saying and you are fully capable of engaging with the process. Most clients describe it as feeling deeply relaxed, like being in a meditative state—calm, clear, and focused.
Myth #3: Only certain people can be hypnotized.
Everyone enters trance-like states naturally—while driving, daydreaming, or becoming absorbed in a book or movie. Hypnosis uses this natural ability to help you create positive changes. With the right guidance, most people can be hypnotized to some degree. It’s not about susceptibility—it’s about willingness and trust in the process.
Myth #4: Hypnotherapy is not scientifically supported.
Hypnotherapy has been extensively studied and is recognized by organizations like the American Psychological Association for its effectiveness in treating a range of conditions. It’s been shown to support:
- Anxiety and stress reduction
- Trauma processing
- Phobia relief
- Sleep improvement
- Smoking cessation
- Weight management
- Chronic pain management
- Confidence and performance enhancement
At A New Earth Wellness, I integrate hypnotherapy/subconscious repatterning, NLP, and holistic mind/body coaching to help my clients experience real, lasting change.
Myth #5: One session will fix everything.
While significant breakthroughs can happen in a single session, hypnotherapy is most effective with a series of at least 3 sessions. We are working with deeply rooted beliefs and neural pathways; working to build and strengthen new positive neural pathways that are in alignment with your goals and needs, so that you can move forward to that which you wish to do/be/see/feel/know for your future—it’s not a quick fix, but a transformational process that honors your pace and your unique story.
Final Thoughts
Hypnotherapy isn’t about tricking your mind—it’s about freeing it.
It’s about healing from the inside out and stepping into the most aligned version of yourself. Hypnotherapy is not magic, but it can feel magical when you begin to experience the clarity, freedom, and emotional shifts that come from working with your subconscious mind. If you’re feeling called to explore deeper healing or to break free from patterns that no longer serve you, hypnotherapy might be the tool you’ve been searching for. Whether it’s releasing limiting beliefs, healing past wounds, or finally breaking through patterns that no longer serve you—hypnotherapy might just be the missing key.
I’m here to guide you every step of the way—compassionately, intuitively, and professionally.
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