I know, an article titled ‘why hypnotherapy doesn't work’ is strange coming from a hypnotherapist. Perhaps a better title is ‘when hypnotherapy does not work’, because the ‘why’ often reflects a person's belief system.
I can’t count the number of times someone has told me they can’t be hypnotised because they’re too strong-minded or their mind is too busy to relax and focus. And they’re right—until they experience a shift in their belief system.
Hypnotherapy is simply about making that change within. It is about a shift in narrative and wanting change. Think of it as meditation but with a goal!
Hypnotherapy is about creating change from within. It’s a shift in narrative and a desire for transformation. Think of it as meditation with a goal. In hypnotherapy, we engage the imagination to build a roadmap to your desired outcome. Your brain doesn’t distinguish between what’s real and what’s imagined, so your desired outcome becomes real (as far as the brain is concerned), sparking a shift in energy and forming new neurological pathways.
So, the question isn’t about being strong-minded; it’s about truly wanting change and being open to it.
Hypnotherapy also isn’t just about relaxation. For example, when working with athletes for peak performance, the goal is to energize them and help them find that "in-the-zone" feeling. I would not be able to achieve this if they are completely relaxed!
Many hypnotherapists, including myself, are also trained in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), which we integrate into our sessions for a hybrid approach. NLP allows for faster results without the need for trance. In essence, NLP helps individuals shift negative thought patterns, enhance communication, and influence behaviour in a positive direction.
In my view, hypnotherapy can work for anyone. But it’s not magic—it requires a genuine desire for change and a willingness to shift the narrative around hypnotherapy itself.
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