What Happens in a Hypnotherapy Session? (And What If I Can’t Be Hypnotized?)

If you’ve ever been curious about hypnotherapy, you might have a few questions — and maybe even some doubts or fears. That’s perfectly normal! Hypnosis is often misunderstood, thanks in part to what we see on stage shows or in movies. But clinical hypnotherapy is very different.

I want to explain what a session with me looks like, how hypnosis really works, and why you’ll always be in control — because that’s the heart of this work. You’re the one leading the journey. I’m simply your gentle guide helping you access your own inner wisdom and strength.

Hypnosis Isn’t What You Think

When people think of hypnosis, they often imagine losing control — being “put under” or “taken over.” But the truth is, hypnosis is a natural, everyday state. It’s a focused, relaxed state of mind, like when you’re absorbed in a movie or a good book and everything else fades away.

You can’t be hypnotized against your will. If you don’t want to go along with a suggestion, it simply won’t work. Hypnosis is about giving you what you truly want — not me deciding what you need.

For example, if I try to help you quit smoking, but you don’t actually want to quit, no amount of hypnosis will force you. Hypnotherapy is a collaborative process, and both client and therapist need to be on the same page.

Stage Hypnosis Isn’t Hypnotherapy

If you’ve seen stage hypnosis shows, you might wonder if clinical hypnosis is the same. On stage, performers pick people who are highly suggestible and willing to play along — to entertain the audience. The hypnotized participants actually are hypnotized, but they also want to be part of the show.

You might notice the hypnotist weed people out when they don’t respond exactly as needed. That’s because those participants aren’t fully comfortable with the suggestions or behavior, so they naturally resist and are kindly asked to return to their seats. It’s all for fun — not therapy.

What Happens in a Clinical Hypnotherapy Session

In a session with me, we begin with your questions and concerns. I’ll explain the process, address any doubts, and make sure you feel safe and supported. Good rapport and trust are essential. Your unconscious mind will only relax and let you be led if you feel comfortable and respected.

During hypnosis, I guide you on a gentle, intentional journey. You remain fully aware and in control at all times. You can accept or reject any suggestion based on what feels right for you and your values.

Together, we explore the beliefs, habits, or patterns you want to change, and discover the resources and strengths you already have inside you. It’s a collaboration, step-by-step — a journey from feeling stuck to being free and empowered.

What If I Can’t Be Hypnotized?

This is one of the most common questions I get, and the answer might surprise you: Everyone can be hypnotized.

We naturally enter and exit trance states many times throughout the day — when we daydream, get lost in a book or movie, or even just zone out while driving. Hypnosis is simply a focused, relaxed state of mind.

The real question is: What if I can’t be hypnotized during a session?

That usually depends on how safe, respected, supported, and informed you feel — and how open you are to the process. Hypnosis isn’t about losing control; it’s about trusting your body and unconscious mind, which are deeply wise and want the best for you.

Coming to a session with an open mind, a willingness to follow gentle instructions, and a belief that your unconscious is your ally makes a huge difference. Trust in your hypnotherapist is also essential — that trust grows as you share your fears, ask all your questions (even if they seem “dumb”), and know your therapist truly wants to help you.

People who are genuinely frustrated with their life situation and want the change — people who are ready to quit a habit, overcome a phobia, or break free from self-sabotage — are often the most open and successful in hypnotherapy. Because hypnotherapy is about helping you step onto a new path toward freedom, ease, and joy.

If you come to hypnotherapy to stop biting your nails because you’re getting married and your mom and best friend both said that you must have beautiful long nails for the wedding photos, but deep down you actually enjoy biting your nails and don’t see it as a problem – you aren’t going to stop biting your nails.

“The person with the problem does the work” – so if you don’t have a problem with your nails, then you don’t have to do any work. Your mom and best friend have the problem with your nails, so it’s them who need to do the work around their feelings about your nails.

You Are In Control — Always

Hypnotherapy is about helping you live your best life on your own terms, according to your highest values. Together we can elicit your values (like freedom, authenticity, etc), and align your life in accordance with them. I don’t want control over your life — I want to help you become the best version of yourself, with the tools and inner calm to face challenges and thrive.

The power is yours. My role is to gently guide, support, and uncover what’s already within you.

Ready to Explore Hypnotherapy?

If you’re curious about whether hypnotherapy is the right fit for you — whether you're navigating a life transition, trying to break free from anxiety, or just ready to feel more like yourself again — I’d love to talk.

Let’s start with a free, no-pressure consultation where you can ask anything, feel into the process, and see if we’re a good fit. You deserve to feel safe, supported, and deeply seen.

Click here to book your free Discovery Call

or Email me at robyn@ascendant-hypnotherapy.com to start a conversation.

You don’t have to do it all alone. Let’s explore what becomes possible when you finally feel calm, clear, and confident — from the inside out.