Misconceptions about hypnotherapy probably stem from stage hypnosis. From the audience’s perspective, it can look as if the volunteers are performing against their will. However, those selected to be part of the stage show are likely to be be people that go into hypnosis quickly and introverts. – they love the attention of being on stage. Having granted ‘power’ over to the stage hypnotist, the audience are fooled into thinking that the chosen subjects are under his/her spell. That is all stage hypnosis with some illusion involved. Hypnotherapy is all about empowering the client to reach mutually agreed goals.
There are a few medical conditions where hypnosis is considered unsuitable:
Epilepsy that is not under control with medication and considered inappropriate by the patient’s GP;
- Patients with severe mental health problems (psychosis) or learning disabilities where cooperation is difficult;
- Those under the influence of alcohol or drugs where concentration is impaired;
- Hypnosis is considered inappropriate for very young children (generally under the age of five) where there is a reduced attention span.
If in doubt I will always ask your permission to write to your GP.
But, generally, hypnotherapy is completely safe and beneficial.
