Hypnotherapy: 25 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) You May Also Be Asking Yourself

When you hear the word “hypnosis,” what comes to mind? Swinging clocks, people making fools of themselves on stage, fear of “losing control”…

If so, you're not alone. Most people who come to Intuir.cat have many questions, are curious, and also have some apprehension. That's why I've prepared this article of frequently asked questions about hypnotherapy: so you can understand, calmly and thoughtfully, what therapeutic hypnosis really is and what it can contribute to your personal journey.

This article is not intended to be a technical treatise, but a conversation with you.

Here you will find 25 frequently asked questions about hypnosis and hypnotherapy , with clear and honest answers.

Before we begin: a simple look at hypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy uses hypnosis (a state of focused attention and relaxation) to support processes of change, such as overcoming fears and anxiety, changing habits, or addressing self-esteem issues, among others. It is a serious, scientifically based tool that works respectfully with the unconscious mind.

It's not about someone outside of you changing you from the inside out, but about facilitating greater access to your own internal resources.

From here, let's move on to the questions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hypnotherapy

1. What exactly is hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic approach that uses hypnosis as a pathway to the unconscious. In a hypnotic state, your mind is more receptive to new perspectives, resources, and learning, but you still retain your judgment and decision-making abilities . It's not magic; it's a profound and highly practical psychological process.

2. What is the difference between hypnosis and hypnotherapy?

Hypnosis is a trance state: highly focused attention accompanied by physical and mental relaxation. Hypnotherapy is the use of this state within a therapeutic framework: with clear objectives, professional ethics, methodology, and follow-up. A hypnosis show is not the same as a serious therapeutic process.

3. Can I be hypnotized? Is everyone susceptible?

Most people can enter a hypnotic state, as it's a natural process, similar to being deeply immersed in a movie or driving on autopilot, without consciously thinking about every action. What varies is the depth of the trance and the ease with which one can reach it. With proper guidance, motivation, and confidence, almost everyone can benefit from hypnotherapy.

4. Do I become unconscious during hypnosis? Do I lose control?

No. During therapeutic hypnosis, you are neither unconscious nor asleep. You hear my voice, you can move your body, speak if you need to, and at any time you can decide to open your eyes and come out of the trance. You always maintain control over what you want or don't want to do.

5. Is hypnotherapy safe? Does it have side effects?

Hypnotherapy, when performed by a trained professional, is considered a safe tool. You won't become "hooked" on the hypnosis, nor can it force you to go against your values. After a session, you may feel very relaxed, emotionally lighter, or somewhat tired, similar to after a good psychotherapy session.

6. What will I feel during the hypnotherapy session? What is it like?

Everyone experiences it differently. Some feel their body very heavy, others very light, others notice a profound calm. Sometimes images, memories, and emotions surface. Usually, it's a pleasant, contemplative experience, like entering your inner world with a soft, safe light.

7. How many sessions will I need to see results?

It depends on the issue we're working on, your background, and your current life stage. Some very specific processes (for example, a particular fear) can change in just a few sessions, while deeper issues (self-esteem, relationship patterns, chronic anxiety) require longer-term support. In the first session, I usually give you an idea of the frequency and approximate number of sessions.

8. What kind of problems is hypnotherapy useful for (fears, anxiety, emotional blocks, limiting beliefs, etc.)?

Hypnotherapy can help with:

Fears and phobias – Anxiety and stress – Emotional blocks and limiting beliefs – Self-esteem and self-confidence – Grief processes and life change – Relationship with food and weight – Chronic pain (as a medical complement) – Quitting smoking or other habits.

It's not a magic wand, but it is a very direct way to transform deep-seated patterns.

9. What if I don't "fall" into hypnosis or feel like I'm in a trance? Is it not for me?

It's a very common fear. Sometimes we expect to "feel something spectacular," and because the experience is more subtle, we think we haven't entered a trance. The important thing isn't that you feel something very strange, but that your mind opens up to new answers. Many people change even if they think they "didn't notice anything special."

10. Who performs the hypnosis or hypnotherapy? What training do they have?

Hypnotherapy should be conducted by professionals with specific training in hypnosis and a solid foundation in change processes (psychology, therapeutic support, etc.). In my case, I am a certified hypnotherapist and have trained in Gestalt therapy, somatic therapy, communication with the unconscious, and personal development. I am also a health coach and hold a Master's degree in Applied Philosophy, specializing in Freud and the unconscious. Furthermore, I work with supervision and ongoing professional development.

11. How much does a session cost and how does the appointment process work?

The price depends on the practitioner and the format (in-person or online). Sessions typically last between 60 and 90 minutes. At Intuir.cat, you can book an appointment through the website or by contacting me directly. Before starting, I usually offer a brief, free consultation to see if what you need aligns with what I offer.

12. Can I drive or work after a session?

Yes. At the end of the session, I'll guide you back to a state of full alertness. You can drive, work, and go about your day as normal. Sometimes you might want to slow down or integrate the experience with a walk or a cup of tea, but you won't be "out of the game."

13. Can hypnotherapy be combined with other treatments (psychotherapy, medication, etc.)?

Yes, it's often used as a complement to other treatments. If you're in psychotherapy or taking medication, it's important to mention this from the beginning to coordinate approaches and always respect medical advice. Hypnotherapy doesn't replace medical or psychiatric treatment, but it can be a complement.

14. Can I interrupt the session if I feel I want to come out of the trance?

Of course. You set the pace. If at any point you feel uncomfortable, you have inner resources and my guidance to help you open your eyes, move, speak up, or pause. Part of my job is to support you in feeling safe, even at a deep level.

15. What is not hypnotherapy? (common myths)

It's not a process where someone dominates you or where you lose control, as some movies portray. Nor is it a trick to magically erase pain, but a real, conscious, and supported process. It has nothing to do with spectacle, but with serious and profound work on your inner world. And it's not passive therapy either: you actively participate, with presence and openness, so that change can arise from within.

Hypnotherapy is a team process, where you are the most important part.

16. Does hypnosis work even if you are skeptical?

Healthy skepticism is welcome. You don't need to blindly "believe," but you do need to open yourself up to the possibility that something different might happen. If you come only to prove that it doesn't work, it's more difficult. If you come with curiosity and respect, even with doubts, that's usually enough.

17. What is the difference between stage hypnosis and therapeutic hypnosis?

Stage hypnosis aims to entertain, attract attention, and create eye-catching effects. It targets highly suggestible individuals and employs social pressure. Therapeutic hypnosis, on the other hand, is intimate, respectful, non-humiliating, and private, focusing on your well-being, not entertainment.

18. Is it possible to do hypnotherapy online?

Yes, online hypnotherapy works very well when properly prepared. You'll need a quiet space, a good internet connection, and headphones if possible. Many people even feel more comfortable in their own environment. The process, depth, and results can be just as powerful as in-person sessions.

19. Is hypnotherapy effective if "I've already tried everything"?

I hear this phrase a lot. If you come to me tired but also with a genuine desire for change, hypnotherapy can offer you a different path: going beyond "I understand it but I don't change it" and working directly with unconscious patterns. It doesn't promise miracles, but it does offer another way to approach the problem.

20. What happens if painful memories are brought up during the session?

Sometimes the unconscious brings up memories or emotions that were blocked. It's not about reliving the pain senselessly, but about reframing it and releasing what has been trapped. You are not alone: I will accompany you, we will set a safe pace, and we will use techniques to ensure a positive end to the session.

21. Is hypnotherapy suitable for everyone? Are there any contraindications?

There are situations where special care or referral is recommended (for example, certain acute psychotic disorders or people who cannot clearly distinguish between reality and imagination). That's why I always conduct an initial interview to learn about your background, determine if hypnotherapy is appropriate, and, if not, guide you toward another option.

22. How do I prepare for my first hypnotherapy session?

Nothing special is needed: comfortable clothes, a light meal, and a few minutes' notice. It might help to write down what you'd like to work on and what you hope to gain from the process. It's also a good time to bring all your questions (there are no "silly" questions in this field).

23. Is hypnotherapy compatible with my spiritual or religious approach?

Yes. Hypnotherapy doesn't aim to change your spiritual or religious beliefs, but rather to guide you through your inner world while respecting your values. Some people experience the process as something very intimate and profound, almost spiritual; others experience it in a more practical way. All of these approaches are valid.

24. How long does it take to notice the changes?

Sometimes you notice the change in the first few sessions: you sleep better, react differently, and feel calmer. Other times it's more gradual, as if something inside is slowly realigning itself. The important thing is to observe your daily life and discuss what's changing in your sessions, even if it seems small.

25. What happens after the hypnotherapy process is completed?

At the end of a session, we usually review together what has changed, the resources you've gained, and how to continue caring for yourself. It's not about depending on hypnosis forever, but about you feeling freer and more in touch with your intuition and your subconscious. You can always return later if a new opportunity for change arises.

So what now? Next steps if you're curious

If you've made it this far, there's probably a part of you that already senses change is possible. Hypnotherapy isn't about "fixing" you (you're not broken), but about helping you understand yourself better and unlock resources that are already within you.

You can continue reading, researching, and letting the information sink in. And, when you feel ready, take the next step: request an initial session, even if it's just to see if this approach resonates with you.

Whatever path you choose, your subconscious has already begun to move simply by asking yourself these questions.

Author's bio

This article was written by Anna Quadrada, a certified hypnotherapist and founder of Intuir. She guides people through personal transformation and connection with the unconscious, combining the science of hypnosis with a profound and human approach. Learn more at www.intuir.cat/sobre-mi .

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