There is more than one level of hypnosis. "The famous one is actually also the most shallow one, which is usually utilized in stage shows," says Vaknin. "That is not hypnosis 'per se'. Unfortunately, these stage shows have popularized a myth about hypnosis, as if the subject (the person who is being hypnotized) is being under the control of the hypnotist. In reality, it is far away from the truth."
An induction is the act of bringing someone into a hypnotic state. While this can be self-induced, it's usually done by a qualified therapist. There are many techniques in use by professionals, but most prefer to use imagery, making the patient imagine himself in a peaceful, safe place, and then guiding him into the specific problem area. Some therapists use a regressive count, while others employ music or different mechanical devices. The "eye fixation" method, seen in Hollywood movies, was common during the 1800's but very few (if any) therapists use it today.
People experience being hypnotized in different ways. While some people have the feeling of falling asleep, others remain completely conscious and aware of every word said around them. "Some will tell you that their mind went blank, others have flashbacks from childhood," says Vaknin. "Some will feel their feet numb, and others will feel a sense of heaviness or lightness in some parts of the body or in its whole." How the person feels while being hypnotized usually has no relation to the level of relaxation.
What is the Difference Between Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy?
"Hypnotherapy is a professional name to 'therapy with hypnosis'," says Vaknin. Like other forms of therapy, it involves a knowledgeable counselor (in this case, the hypnotherapist) using different methods (here, hypnosis) to help the patient.