Do I lose control in hypnosis?

No. Therapeutic trance is a state of focused attention, not loss of control. You hear everything, can speak at any time, open your eyes and interrupt the session. No one can make you do anything in hypnosis that you don't want to do.

Can everyone be hypnotised?

Most people can experience a trance, though with varying ease and depth. What matters is trust in the therapist and willingness to engage with the exercise. Whether the method is suitable for you is usually evident from the first session.

Is hypnotherapy scientifically recognised?

For certain applications, yes: the evidence is strongest for irritable bowel syndrome, pain and fear of medical procedures. For other goals, such as smoking cessation, the results are mixed. Reputable therapists therefore don't promise miracles, but discuss realistically what can be achieved.

How many sessions will I need?

Hypnotherapy is usually a short-term method: depending on the goal, a few sessions are typical, often between three and ten. For more comprehensive issues, it is frequently embedded within longer-term psychotherapy.

Am I fit to drive after the session?

Generally yes, once you feel alert and clear again. Directly after the trance, some people are still a little dreamy — take a few minutes before you get behind the wheel.

How much does a hypnosis session cost?

Outside medically billed treatment, costs vary depending on the provider and duration, typically ranging from around 120 to 200 francs per session. Whether your supplementary insurance covers part of it depends on the insurer and therapist — enquire beforehand.

Hypnotherapy — Procedure, Preparation & Cost

In hypnotherapy, a state of deep, focused relaxation — trance — is used to relieve symptoms and change ingrained patterns. Contrary to the stage image of 'loss of will', you remain responsive at all times and retain control. For certain applications, such as irritable bowel syndrome, pain or fear of medical procedures, there is scientific evidence; for others, the evidence is limited.

Typical Areas of Use

Irritable bowel syndrome and functional abdominal complaints
Chronic pain
Fears, such as of dental or hospital treatment
Sleep problems and inner tension
Support for smoking cessation

How It Works

1In the initial consultation, the therapist clarifies your symptoms and goals, explains what hypnosis is — and what it isn't — and answers your questions; trust is the most important foundation.
2You sit or lie comfortably. With a calm voice and targeted attention exercises, you are guided into a state of deep relaxation and concentration.
3In the trance, the therapist works with inner images and suggestions tailored to your goal — such as pain relief, calming or new response patterns.
4At the end, you are gently guided back to the wakeful everyday state and briefly discuss what you have experienced.
5You often also learn a simple self-hypnosis exercise that you can use at home.

How to Prepare

Wear comfortable clothing and try not to schedule the session between two hectic appointments.
Inform the therapist about any mental illnesses, current crises and medications.
Come well-rested — severe tiredness tends to make you fall asleep rather than enter a trance.

Side Effects & Risks

Temporary tiredness, drowsiness or vivid dreams after the session can occur.
In the trance, unexpectedly strong feelings or distressing memories may surface — a qualified therapist will manage this.
For certain mental illnesses, such as psychoses, hypnosis is not suitable or only suitable with particular caution; prior assessment is therefore important.
Hypnosis does not replace necessary medical or psychotherapeutic treatment, but complements it.

Afterwards — and When to Seek Help

After the session, take a few minutes to fully return to everyday life before you drive or work. Slight tiredness, a feeling of deep relaxation or more intense dreams the following night are normal. Practise the agreed self-hypnosis techniques regularly — that's what makes them effective. Contact your therapist if distressing feelings, images or fears persist rather than subside after a session, or if your mood deteriorates significantly over several days.

Cost & Insurance

If hypnosis is used by a doctor or a recognised psychological psychotherapist as part of regular treatment — for example, within medically prescribed psychotherapy — it can be billed through the basic insurance; the deductible and co-payment apply as usual. Hypnosis sessions with non-medical hypnotherapists outside this framework, however, are paid for by yourself or through supplementary insurance, provided it covers the method and the therapist. Since the regulations differ from one insurer to another, it is worth enquiring before starting treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I lose control in hypnosis?: No. Therapeutic trance is a state of focused attention, not loss of control. You hear everything, can speak at any time, open your eyes and interrupt the session. No one can make you do anything in hypnosis that you don't want to do.
Can everyone be hypnotised?: Most people can experience a trance, though with varying ease and depth. What matters is trust in the therapist and willingness to engage with the exercise. Whether the method is suitable for you is usually evident from the first session.
Is hypnotherapy scientifically recognised?: For certain applications, yes: the evidence is strongest for irritable bowel syndrome, pain and fear of medical procedures. For other goals, such as smoking cessation, the results are mixed. Reputable therapists therefore don't promise miracles, but discuss realistically what can be achieved.
How many sessions will I need?: Hypnotherapy is usually a short-term method: depending on the goal, a few sessions are typical, often between three and ten. For more comprehensive issues, it is frequently embedded within longer-term psychotherapy.
Am I fit to drive after the session?: Generally yes, once you feel alert and clear again. Directly after the trance, some people are still a little dreamy — take a few minutes before you get behind the wheel.
How much does a hypnosis session cost?: Outside medically billed treatment, costs vary depending on the provider and duration, typically ranging from around 120 to 200 francs per session. Whether your supplementary insurance covers part of it depends on the insurer and therapist — enquire beforehand.