Hypnosis does not cause anyone to lose their free will. The facilitator of the hypnosis cannot make a person do anything against their wishes. During hypnotherapy, you remain aware of everything that is happening. You can reject the suggestions of the hypnotist if you do not like where you are being guided. Clients still have full control over their actions and will do nothing that contradicts their values or personal standards. There is no mind control taking place. In other words, your hypnotist will never make you cluck like a chicken or perform any other embarrassing actions.

Hypnosis does not put you to sleep. You merely enter a relaxed state that resembles unconsciousness due to similar physical reactions such as slowed breathing, relaxed muscles, decreased activity, and closed eyes. A more accurate description is that hypnosis is a state of altered consciousness, which, when achieved, still allows you to be fully aware of your surroundings. It is similar to meditation or any activity that relies on a person’s concentration to narrowly focus. There is also no need to worry about not waking up from a hypnotic trance. Everyone always emerges from their hypnosis state. If a client is failing to exit the trance, they will simply drift to sleep and will no longer be hypnotized upon waking up. There are no known risks when working with a trained hypnotherapy practitioner.

It is commonly assumed that only those who are mentally weak or uneducated can be hypnotized. This is not true, as hypnotism does not require lowered mental capacity. In fact studies have found that those of above average intellect, who have a capacity for creativity and vivid imagination, are better suited for hypnotherapy. Every time we use our imagination, intensely concentrate on something, or daydream, we enter a form of hypnotic trance. This means that everyone is able to undergo hypnosis. The only caveat for hypnotherapy is that the person must be an active and willing participant.

Hypnotized clients will not reveal deep, dark secrets against their will. You will not be forced to share anything about yourself that you do not wish to. However, hypnotherapy is able to help clients learn more about themselves that they may have never known or had previously forgotten. This can aid in creating a greater understanding of actions, feelings, and experiences that might have been confusing to them.

There is also a belief that hypnotherapy does not work, but this is false. There is abundant evidence that proves it is effective. It is backed by a variety of scientific and medical organizations, such as the American Medical Association, British Medical Association, American Psychological Association, and British Psychological Society.

With Pam Greenberg, C.Ht, we utilize hypnotherapy to improve the lives of our clients. We focus on replacing any negatives with favorable ideas, in order to achieve goals and have a more satisfactory life. Our certified hypnotherapist, Pam Greenberg, specializes in hypnotism to treat a variety of conditions and difficulties. We are located in Mount Pleasant, SC and proudly serve the entire Low Country area, including Charleston, Isle of Palms, and Sullivan’s Island.