Hypnosis

What is Hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a natural altered state of awareness. It can happen when you’re fully absorbed or focused—similar to daydreaming. Many people experience hypnotic-like states every day without realising it.

Hypnosis is not sleep or unconsciousness. You stay aware and in control. You don’t lose your will—in fact, hypnosis can strengthen it. Most people feel calm, safe, and deeply relaxed. Some describe a floating or light sensation. Hypnosis is safe, effective, and suitable for adults and children alike.

The Practice of Hypnosis

To become a Full Member of the Australian Society of Hypnosis (ASH), health professionals must complete a 12-month training program and pass a thorough assessment, which includes a case report and a viva.

ASH membership and training are open to AHPRA-registered professionals, as well as Social Workers, Speech Pathologists, and Counsellors who are members of their national professional bodies.

Hypnosis in Clinical Practice

Clinical hypnosis can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, especially those linked to anxiety, stress, or fear. These include:

  • Addictions
  • Anxiety
  • Asthma
  • Bedwetting
  • Burns
  • Coping with Cancer
  • Dentistry
  • Fears and Phobias
  • Gastro Intestinal Disorders
  • Headaches
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Insomnia
  • Labour and Childbirth
  • Nail biting
  • Obesity
  • Pain
  • PTS
  • Sexual Difficulties
  • Skin problems
  • Smoking
  • Stress management
  • Stuttering
  • Tension
  • Thumb-sucking

Hypnosis can also help boost motivation, change unhelpful habits, and support therapy such as CBT or psychotherapy.

The use of Hypnosis in Therapy

The hypnotic state—also called trance—is deliberately created using a technique called an induction. This helps the person focus attention, accept helpful suggestions, and relax deeply.

Once in this state, therapy can begin. Treatment is tailored to the person’s goals, and post-hypnotic suggestions may be used to support lasting change.

Hypnosis is often used alongside other methods. While some people improve in a few sessions, others may need more time. Sessions usually last about an hour and take place every 1–2 weeks.

Therapists may provide audio recordings of the session for use at home.

What Happens During Hypnosis?

Hypnosis involves focused attention and an altered state of awareness. In this state, people may:

  • Experience shifts in memory or consciousness
  • Respond more easily to suggestions
  • Feel or behave in new ways
  • Think differently than they would in their normal waking state

The difference between ‘Stage Hypnosis’ and ‘Clinical Hypnosis’? 

Stage hypnosis is for entertainment.

Clinical hypnosis is a therapeutic tool used by trained health professionals.

The Code of Ethics of the Australian Society of Hypnosis does not allow members of ASH Ltd to conduct Stage Hypnosis.

The Code of Ethics of the Australian Society of Hypnosis Ltd ABN 41 008 576 672 was approved by the Federal Council of the Society – 2019.

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