What is the difference between hypnosis and hypnotherapy

You might once have thought that hypnosis and hypnotherapy were one and the same, but different grammatical versions of the same concept. This is not entirely true, although both would say their process included a hypnotic state, they are very different. You can be induced into a state of hypnosis by a hypnotist who can help you shed any bad habits, but hypnotherapy is a lot more than that. It is usually a part of a grander scheme of psychotherapy.

To put it in other words, for a better understanding, hypnosis is like the art that you create, and hypnotherapy is like the art therapy that you can get from creating the art. Of course, there is also a difference between meditation vs hypnosis.

The hypnotist vs hypnotherapist roles

The best way to work out the difference between hypnosis and hypnotherapy is to see what the two offer and those differences typically put it into perspective. Let’s see what a hypnotist can do for you, and what a hypnotherapist can do in contrast.

What is a hypnotist?

A hypnotist is someone who induces hypnosis, and during that hypnotized state of mind, they help you to adopt healthier mindsets that will facilitate your weight loss journey, help with smoking cessation, or any other aspect of yourself that is not based on mental health issues.

What is a hypnotherapist?

A hypnotherapist is trained for hypnotherapy, which is almost like a form of psychotherapy, so you could even refer to them as clinicians.

What is hypnosis, and how does it work?

Hypnosis is not to be confused with stage hypnosis, which can be funny but is not an accurate depiction. Hypnosis works through a hypnotist who uses one of many different techniques to put you into a hypnotic trance, which can be described as a relaxed state of focused attention, or hyper awareness. Whilst you are in this hypno trance state, the hypnotist can use hypnotic suggestibility to access thoughts and memories within your subconscious mind.

What are common uses of hypnosis?

Here are a few things that you could use hypnosis to alleviate. No one likes to be in discomfort, whether it is something physical or not. Hypnosis is able to tap into different mindsets, or make you aware of patterns causing the negative thought process.

• If you want to quit smoking
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Sparking your weight loss journey, or healthy lifestyle
• Pain management
• Stress relief

What is hypnotherapy and how does it work?

How does hypnotherapy work? A hypnotherapist will make use of the same techniques as a hypnotist to induce the hypnotic state of mind to alleviate a number of issues relating to mental health. It is a form of therapy that has been called clinical hypnosis by some hypnotherapy clinicians. The hypnosis brings awareness to your internal thoughts and feelings, and it is then accompanied with a therapy session so that you can integrate those aspects into your conscious mind.

What are common uses of hypnotherapy?

There are many things that you use hypnotherapy to treat, for your benefit, we have listed a few examples.

• Overcoming phobias
• Treating anxiety, depression, or PTSD
• Dealing with eating disorders
• Managing addictions
• Relieving chronic pain from surgeries performed a long time ago
• Relieving pain in the moment like with childbirth.

Our Key takeaways on the difference between hypnotherapy and hypnosis

Hypnosis and hypnotherapy is truly an amazing tool that we can use for healing a number of ailments that can inhibit your persona growth and general well-being. Anyone can be hypnotized, so if you have anything that bothers you, or maybe you are dealing with crippling anxiety, then you might appreciate a hypnotherapy session.

FAQs

Are there other alternatives to hypnotherapy and hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a pretty unique phenomenon that puts you deep into a relaxed state, that can be described similarly to a trance state. You can do this via a hypnotist, or you can perform self-hypnosis, provided you are trained accordingly. You could use meditation as an alternative, because you can also get deep into a similar kind of trance state.

Does hypnotherapy actually work?

The American Psychological Association has stated that hypnotherapy can be a powerful tool, but it should never be used as a sole treatment. You can get the most out of it when you accompany clinical hypnosis therapy with other forms of therapy.

Can hypnosis damage your brain?

This is just one of those silly hypnosis myths people have come up with. No, it is not damaging at all to the brain, in fact, it is quite relaxing for it. You are in control the whole time, and there is no probing involved, so your thoughts that you want to keep hidden are safe. You will not experience any discomfort, but rather a state of deep relaxation. The hypnotist or hypnotherapist will use one of the many different types of hypnosis techniques to induce the hypno state, and none of them will inflict pain.

Resources

• https://web.wellness-institute.org/blog/bid/256330/what-is-the-difference-between-hypnosis-and-hypnotherapy

• https://www.hubofconsciousness.com/what-is-the-difference-between-hypnosis-and-hypnotherapy/

• https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/hypnosis-and-hypnotherapy-whats-the-difference-0609144

A complete Guide to hypnosis methods & models

How many types of hypnosis are there?

Most people do not realize there are several different kinds of hypnosis available. Many do not even know the difference between hypnosis and hypnotherapy. While the general public might only be aware of the most popular type, there are actually 6 forms of hypnotherapy. Each one uses different techniques to conquer phobias, improve mental health, and even reduce chronic pain. Hypnosis for memory is a great tool for remembering past lives, too.

What are the different types of hypnosis?

We will go through and explain what each type of hypnosis is, and how they are used to improve our lives.  The traditional hypnosis, Ericksonian hypnosis, and self-hypnosis each use some form of hypnotic induction -such as visualization or counting backward to induce a hypnotic state. While other forms of hypnosis use suggestion and verbal phrasing to intentionally alter one’s state of mind. Let’s take a look at what each form of therapy is, and how a hypnotherapist may use these to benefit both the conscious mind and subconscious mind.

Traditional Hypnosis

Traditional hypnosis is the most common form of hypnosis. It’s the one you’ve probably seen in the movies, or even at a variety show. Also referred to as “suggestion hypnosis,” this type uses direct suggestions and commands which are given during a hypnotic state. When used correctly, it can affect your behavior, thoughts, or feelings about something. Traditional hypnosis is commonly used to help people quit smoking. Notably, it is also the basis for stage hypnosis, which is a popular method of being put into a trance state that usually happens at public shows.

Ericksonian Hypnotherapy

Ericksonian Hypnosis – named after Milton Erickson – is a type of hypnosis that uses metaphors, conversational hypnosis, and indirect suggestions instead of direct suggestions or commands.

“Milton Erickson was one of the most influential hypnotherapists of the modern era. Using indirect suggestion, Erickson created a permissive style of hypnosis that redefined how hypnosis could help people make positive life changes.“

The theory behind this technique is using indirect suggestions on your unconscious mind. This type of hypnosis is particularly useful for those who are skeptical of traditional hypnosis.

Cognitive-Behavioural Hypnotherapy

Cognitive-Behavioral Hypnotherapy relies heavily on CBT, which is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. This form of hypnotherapy uses various psychotherapy tools to enhance your well-being. CBH uses imagination, conceptualization, and suggestion to help you reach deeper levels of understanding.

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)

NLP is an offshoot of Ericksonian hypnotherapy. This kind of hypnosis explores the relationship between your senses and how you process language. Communication and how we perceive words can actually produce positive changes in your life.

Self-Hypnosis

One of the more complex methods of hypnosis is self-hypnosis. The reason is that you have to be both the hypnotist and the person being hypnotized. When you have someone else helping you get into a state of relaxation, the hypnosis work tends to be much easier. Hypnotic suggestions won’t work as well because you are the one giving and receiving the suggestion. So, you have to be determined and allow plenty of time to practice this method.

Regression Hypnotherapy

Regression hypnotherapy or past life regression takes a look at past events with the goal of uncovering the reason why those issues may be affecting your present. Regression focuses on the root cause of a problem, not the symptoms that are impacting your life. Only a properly trained clinical hypnotherapist can accurately perform this kind of hypnotherapy.

What are the different hypnosis techniques?

There are several different hypnotic techniques available to you. Finding one that works the best may take some time and patience. Whether it is self-hypnosis, or clinical hypnosis, employing the style that works for you can benefit you greatly. If you want to stop smoking, feel less anger, or even improve certain medical conditions, hypnosis is a great option.

Relaxation Technique

Relaxation is commonly used by therapists as a beginner hypnosis technique. When you are relaxed, the mind is open to suggestions and it is easier to enter a trance state, or hypnotic trance.

Visualization

Visualization is an extremely helpful hypno-tool used to easily enter trance states. When the mind is trying to recall specific details through imagination, the mind is primed for suggestive therapy.

Arm “Levitation” Technique

This is a classic Ericksonian technique where a person closes their eyes to begin the hypnosis. Then, through descriptive words and communication, sensations are felt and explained. This can induce a very strong hypnotic state, and is excellent for pain management.

Bodyscan

Most commonly used with self-hypnosis. For this method, a person starts at the top of their head with their eyes closed, and slowly scans down their body to their feet. This technique helps with relaxation, meditation, and stress-related issues.

Are there any types of hypnotherapy techniques in the medical field that don’t fit into the above categories?

There are plenty of misconceptions about different hypnotherapy techniques and types of hypnosis. However, studies have proven time and time again that hypnotherapy can be a  beneficial part of our healthcare. Helping with such ailments as:

• Pain control.
• Hot flashes. 
• Behavior change.
• Cancer treatment side effects.
• Mental health conditions.

Our conclusion about the different forms of hypnosis

There are various types of hypnosis out there, with new ones being perfected every day. Finding the one that works for you may happen immediately, or it may take some time. The most important aspect to remember is that you must be open to change. Otherwise, what’s the point? Learn some reincarnation facts too before you get started.

FAQs

Are hypnosis tools like a pendulum necessary?

Using tools like a pendulum is extremely beneficial for self-hypnosis and beginners who are new to induction. No, they aren’t an absolute necessity, but they certainly do help to allow the subconscious mind to be open to suggestion.

How can beginners learn the basics of hypnosis?

A few basic hypnosis steps to follow are:

• Believe that you can do this, because you can!
• Be patient with yourself. Know this isn’t an overnight process. You will see results the more effort you put into it.
• Read helpful guides and take time out of your day to dedicate to learning.
• Most importantly, be kind to yourself and don’t let distractions or self-doubt get the better of you.

What is the difference between hypnosis and meditation?

Essentially, hypnosis and meditation are the same things, because they are both based on the principles of being in a trance-like state of mind. The hypnotic state can be induced by yourself, with self-hypnosis, or by a hypnotist or hypnotherapist who will use various techniques to get their clients into that state where they are between sleep and consciousness – a total subdued state of extreme self-awareness. You may want to learn more about the difference between hypnosis and hypnotherapy as well.

Meditation is not very different, except that you do not need a hypnotist to get you there, you just need a quiet room and some breathwork exercises, and you will slip into a similar state of heightened self-awareness. There are also different types of meditation. The aim of meditation is to calm one’s mind down, and slow down the thought trajectory, whereas the aim of hypnosis is to tap into the subconscious mind, retrieve hidden memories, or uncover the roots of unexplainable behaviors. Here are some points that highlight some of the main differences:

• Meditation is often a spiritual affair, whereas hypnosis is more psychological
• Hypnosis, unless you are trained in self-h0ypnosis, is guided by a hypnotherapist, whereas meditation is done by oneself. Guided meditations are also available, but they still rely on you getting into that state by yourself
• Meditation is about your self-awareness, mindfulness, and living within the present moment, whereas hypnosis is about tapping into memories from your past that is trapped within your subconscious mind.

How are meditation and hypnosis similar?

Contrary to popular belief, hypnosis and the various types of hypnosis is not some mind-game where the hypnotist sends you into some hypnotic trance state where you have no control. Even though you are within your subconscious mind, you are always aware of what is going on as you would in wakefulness, and you are in control of yourself and your thoughts throughout the entire hypnosis session. A meditative state is similar in that you have all the control over where your thoughts end up. You are simply in a heightened state of awareness that enables you to practice mindfulness within your present moment. Here are a few of the similarities that hypnosis and meditation share.

• In order to achieve either hypnosis or meditation correctly, one must focus their concentration on something specific like words from your hypnotherapist or a certain sound, or even breathwork techniques.
• Both meditation and hypnosis or hypnotherapy have similar dissociative qualities in the state of consciousness they bring forth.
• Both hypnotherapy and meditation are brilliant tools for relieving stress on the mind and body.

Meditation vs hypnosis comparison chart

For your benefit, we have listed some of the possible factors that can be compared with hypnosis and meditation. Keep reading to find some more differences and similarities, as well as the benefits of meditation and hypnotherapy.

Meditation or hypnosis for ease of use?

How easy is it for one to get into a proper trance-like state using either meditation or hypnosis? Is there a difference between the two, or are they both just as achievable as the other? Let’s find out!

Hypnosis

Getting into that state of hypnosis is done through a hypnotherapist, and it depends on whether or not that person is nearby or far away that will determine how easy it is.

Self-hypnosis

Self-hypnosis is not something for anyone to attempt. You will need to have undergone some training with a legitimate hypnotherapist before you will be able to perform self-hypnosis, due to the safety risks and accuracy of what you are doing.

Meditation

Meditation is not easy for every one of us. We all have unique minds that work differently, and it can be a struggle to get into that relaxed state. Practicing mindfulness meditation takes time and effort to induce the desired positive changes, and not everyone has that spare time on hand very often.

Guided meditation

Guided meditations are a beautiful way for the person who struggles to get into that meditative state by themselves. Similar to hypnosis, a voice will guide you through the veil and you will slip into that desired trance-state of mind. This can be quite tricky because the time and place will matter immensely, but a good pair of headphones might help you infinitely.

Winner: There is no winner in terms of how easy hypnosis and meditation are to achieve. This answer will vary from person to person because our minds all work differently. It depends on you which one you find the easiest to practice more regularly.

Hypnosis vs meditation for relaxation

It is time for a bit of relaxation! It is much needed for most of us, we dare say. But, the question is, which will get you more relaxed quicker, hypnosis or meditation? It might not be the most obvious decision for most, but this is all dependent on the person who is in need.

Hypnosis

Hypnosis can easily set you into a state of relaxation via the hypnotherapist, yet this state is more based on your subconscious.

Meditation

Meditation is all about relaxation. The point is to subdue the conscious thoughts that are based on the past and the future and to bring yourself into the present moment. This is done by focusing your thought mindfully.

Guided meditation

Guided meditations allow relaxation to happen infinitely because there is no concentration needed at all to relax your mind, which is ideal because relaxing is not possible with excessive concentration.

Winner: This is dependent on the person, each one of us prefers a certain method to feel relaxed, so it depends if you prefer to get yourself there, or if you like to be guided towards that state of being.

Consciousness

how does hypnosis or meditation affect our consciousness? Essentially they have similar effects with minor differences.

How does hypnosis affect consciousness?

Hypnosis is all about tapping into a sleep-wake cycle. It is helpful because one can access memories that have been hidden by their subconscious or the unconscious mind, which are often caused by traumatic events – no matter how intense they are. Regardless of the misconceptions, we all benefit from unveiling messages we have hidden from ourselves.

How does meditation affect consciousness?

Meditation is more about tapping into the present moment. It is about incorporating the “right now” into our lives, without worrying about the past or the future.

Winner: This depends on what you want out of your healing session. Do you want to subdue the stress in our life that is caused by pressing factors of past events or future possibilities?

Meditation vs guided meditation vs self-hypnosis for sleep

Struggling to sleep? Can you use meditation instead of sleep? Which one will help ease you into that oh-so-desired slumber easier? No one likes to be sleep-deprived, so if this is a pressing matter, you might find this interesting.

Self-hypnosis

Self-hypnosis might help you in the long run, by finding the underlying issues that are causing you issues or underlying stress that is preventing sleep.

Meditation

Meditating is an obvious route to set your mind to relaxation. If you are exhausted, but your mind is racing, you might appreciate a few meditative sounds to help bring your mind from running 1000 miles per hour, down to a more reasonable pace that can fall asleep.

Guided meditation

Guided meditation is better if you are someone who struggles to get into that needed trance-like state by yourself. it helps them to relax their mind, but if you are using it to fall asleep, you might find the voice a bit distracting to fall asleep to.

Winner: Again, this depends on the person. Every person has their preferred method to fall asleep, so not everyone will fall asleep the same way.

Hypnosis vs meditation brain waves

The mind is very receptive to both hypnotherapy as well as meditation. There is evidence in MRIs that are scanned during both of these induced moments.  Let’s take a look at some of the differences in our brainwaves.

How does hypnosis affect the brain?

Hypnosis has this amazing ability to set your mind into theta mode. The theta waves can make you feel so subdued that you might even feel paralyzed at times when you are under the influence. This will pass, it is simply part of the process.

How does meditation affect the brain?

The same happens when you are practicing meditation. Some people have even reported out-of-body experiences from deep meditations.

Winner: Again, this depends on the person, and what they want out of the session. Because both meditation and hypnosis activate the theta waves, in terms of brain waves, they have a similar effect of making you feel like you can not move.

Hypnotism meditation: Is there a hybrid, are they the same anyway?

Because hypnotism and meditation are so similar, they can be used for almost the same reasons. Whether you want to stop smoking or start your weight loss journey, overcome phobias,  or facilitate general well-being, hypnosis and meditation are amazing tools. You can even incorporate self-hypnosis techniques into your meditation practice, which will act as affirmations of some sort when you are feeling overwhelmed, and wish to center yourself.

Which is better: hypnosis or meditation? Our Key takeaways

Ultimately, self-hypnosis and meditation are the same things. Whether you are wanting to quit smoking, rid yourself of self-sabotaging thoughts, inspire your spiritual journey, or bring hidden memories forth so you might bring the roots of unexplained behaviors into the conscious mind, there is a form of meditation, or some form of hypnosis work that will benefit your physical, spiritual and mental health. Not one option is better than the other, it all depends on what works best for you.

FAQs

Is meditation hypnosis in a different form?

Hypnosis and meditation are both very similar, except the one help you to dive into your present moment and revel in it, and the other helps to awaken the subconscious thoughts and memories.

Are hypnosis and meditation both forms of sleep?

Neither hypnosis nor meditation is a form of sleep, but they can instill relaxation in a way that helps you fall asleep easier, which is a god-send for those who struggle. Be wary of hypnosis myths!

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