When most people hear the word “hypnosis,” they picture swinging watches, stage tricks, or people clucking like chickens. In reality, hypnotherapy is a powerful, evidence-based therapeutic tool that has nothing to do with mind control and everything to do with empowering you to make positive changes in your life.
At Inside Out Wellness Therapy, hypnotherapy is used in a safe, supportive way to help you access the inner resources you already have, making it easier to overcome challenges, change habits, and improve your well-being.
So, What Exactly Is Hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a form of guided relaxation and focused attention that helps you enter a state of deep calm and heightened awareness often called a “trance” state. This isn’t sleep, and you are always in control. Think of it as a mental space where your mind is more open to positive suggestions and new perspectives.
During a session, your therapist uses verbal cues, imagery, and gentle guidance to help you relax your conscious mind, allowing your unconscious to play a bigger role. This is where deeply ingrained habits, beliefs, and emotions are stored - and where meaningful change can happen.
How Hypnotherapy Works
Our brains operate on different “waves” depending on our level of alertness. In hypnotherapy, you move into a slower brainwave state (alpha or theta), which feels similar to daydreaming. In this state:
Your mind is calmer and less distracted.
You can focus on positive suggestions without your inner critic getting in the way.
You may uncover new insights or memories that help you understand yourself better.
Common Myths About Hypnotherapy
Myth 1: The therapist can control my mind.
Truth: You are always in control and you cannot be made to do or say anything against your will.
Myth 2: Hypnotherapy is just like stage hypnosis.
Truth: Stage hypnosis is entertainment. Clinical hypnotherapy is a therapeutic process designed to support healing and growth.
Myth 3: It only works on certain people.
Truth: Most people can experience the benefits of hypnotherapy as long as they are willing to participate.
What Hypnotherapy Can Help With
Hypnotherapy is a versatile approach that can be used alongside other forms of therapy. It may help with:
Reducing anxiety, stress, and overthinking
Overcoming phobias or fears
Managing pain or physical symptoms
Improving sleep
Breaking unwanted habits (such as smoking or nail biting)
Boosting confidence and motivation
Supporting weight management
Processing emotional challenges
What to Expect in a Session
At Inside Out Wellness Therapy, every hypnotherapy session starts with a conversation. We’ll talk about your goals, challenges, and any concerns you might have. From there:
You’ll be guided into a relaxed, focused state through breathing techniques and gentle suggestions.
While deeply relaxed, we’ll work on your agreed focus - whether that’s overcoming anxiety, building confidence, or something else.
You’ll be gently guided back to full awareness, feeling calm and refreshed.
You remain aware throughout the session and can stop at any time if you feel uncomfortable.
Is Hypnotherapy Right for You?
If you’ve been feeling stuck, repeating unhelpful patterns, or struggling to move forward, hypnotherapy can be a gentle yet powerful way to make positive change. It’s not magic, it’s a collaborative process where your mind becomes an ally in your healing journey.
Final Thoughts
Hypnotherapy is about tapping into the power of your own mind. By working with your subconscious in a safe, guided way, you can let go of limiting beliefs, gain clarity, and move towards a happier, healthier life.
If you’d like to explore whether hypnotherapy could help you, Inside Out Wellness Therapy offers a welcoming, non-judgemental space where you can begin that journey.