Can anyone be hypnotised?
Most people can, to some degree, though it comes more easily to some than others. Hypnosis is a focused, relaxed state that you take part in, so it depends far more on your willingness and comfort than on being a particular type of person. If you are curious but unsure, a good hypnotherapist will explain what to expect and adapt to you.
What hypnosis actually asks of you
Hypnosis is not something done to you. It is a state of deep relaxation and narrow focus, a bit like being absorbed in a film and not noticing the room around you. Your hypnotherapist guides you with their voice, but you are the one who follows along. That is why the honest answer is that most people can, and why how easy it feels varies from one person to the next.
Why some people find it easier
- You are willing. Wanting to try it, even with some doubts, helps far more than trying hard.
- You can get absorbed. People who lose themselves in books, music, daydreams or a long drive often settle in quickly.
- You feel safe. Trusting your hypnotherapist and the room makes it easier to let go.
- You are not forcing it. Trying too hard to be hypnotised can get in the way. Letting it happen works better.
Try something tonight
Curious how it feels? A self-guided relaxation recording is a gentle way to find out at home tonight, with nobody watching.
Relaxation recordings are not medical treatment. Please only listen somewhere safe where you can relax, never while driving.
Or see someone: find hypnotherapists near you
3213 hypnotherapists in the Practitioner directory, each with a phone number. Pick your town:
Or by what you would like help with: relaxation and wellbeing
What if it does not seem to work first time?
That is common and nothing to be embarrassed about. Some people feel they were only lightly relaxed the first time and find it deepens with practice. A good hypnotherapist will change their pace and style, perhaps starting with breathing and body relaxation, or using more imagery, until something suits you. Some people also find it easier once they have heard a recording and know what to expect.
What a first session is like
Expect a chat first, often 20 to 30 minutes, about what you would like help with and any worries about hypnosis itself. Then you get comfortable in a chair, your hypnotherapist talks you slowly into relaxation, and afterwards you talk about how it felt. You stay aware throughout, can open your eyes at any point and can stop whenever you like.
How many sessions, and roughly what does it cost?
Many people have around four to six sessions, though some need fewer and some carry on longer. Your hypnotherapist should agree a plan with you early on. Private hypnotherapy in the UK commonly costs from £50 a session, and often more in big cities. Many offer a free first chat so you can see whether it feels right before you commit.
Who it might not suit
Hypnotherapy is not a replacement for medical care, and please don't stop or change any treatment because of it. Tell your hypnotherapist if you have a diagnosed mental health condition, have experienced psychosis, have epilepsy, or are being treated by a mental health team, and check with your GP first if you are unsure. A good practitioner will tell you if another route is better first. If you simply feel uneasy about the idea, you are free to say so, and a free first chat is a low-pressure way to decide.
More questions
Is it true some people cannot be hypnotised?
Some people respond more strongly than others, and a small number find it harder. Most people can relax into at least a light state, and a good hypnotherapist will adjust their approach to suit you.
Does being sceptical stop it working?
Not necessarily. Many sceptical people find it works perfectly well once they see it is simply guided relaxation. What helps most is being willing to try, rather than believing in it.
Do you have to be weak-minded or gullible?
No. People who concentrate well and enjoy imagination often find it easier. You stay in charge throughout and will only accept suggestions you are comfortable with.
Can children be hypnotised?
Many children take to it easily because they are good at imagination. Look for a hypnotherapist who works with young people, and expect a parent or carer to be involved in the first chat.
Can I try before I book?
Yes, in two ways. Many hypnotherapists offer a free first chat, and a self-guided relaxation recording lets you get a feel for it at home first.