What Netflix Gets Wrong About Hypnosis

Hypnosis is gentle, permissive and you always stay in control - most unlike what you see in cinemas and Netflix.

Spoiler alert: It's not mind control, and you won't cluck like a chicken—unless you're really into poultry.

From sinister villains swinging pocket watches to therapists with glowing eyes and mind-bending powers, Netflix has a flair for the dramatic when it comes to hypnosis. Over the years, shows and films on the platform have portrayed hypnosis as everything from a quirky party trick to a terrifying tool of manipulation. It makes for great telly—but not-so-great understanding of what hypnosis actually is.

If you've ever watched a psychological thriller and found yourself thinking, "Is that what hypnotherapy is really like?"—this one's for you.

I love to watch great drama but let’s separate the fact from the fiction and uncover what Netflix often gets wrong about hypnosis (and what you can expect instead if you ever try the real thing).

1. Myth: Hypnosis Is Mind Control

Reality: Hypnosis is collaboration, not domination.

In shows like Behind Her Eyes or Get Out (technically not a Netflix original, but still very popular on the platform), hypnosis is shown as a method of total control. The hypnotist clicks their fingers and—bam!—the person becomes a puppet, helplessly obeying.

In reality? Hypnosis is a consensual process. You can’t be hypnotised against your will. A trained hypnotherapist guides you into a focused, relaxed state where your subconscious mind becomes more open to positive suggestions—but you’re always aware, always in control, and never powerless.

You won't reveal your deepest secrets or become a zombie. You could even lie under hypnosis if you wanted to (though we’re not suggesting you should).

2. Myth: Hypnosis Happens Instantly

Reality: Real hypnosis is a gentle, guided process.

Netflix loves a dramatic flair. One moment someone’s wide awake; the next, their eyes roll back, and they're in a trance. The screen goes wobbly, the music turns eerie, and we're off to dreamland.

In reality, entering a hypnotic state takes a few minutes. A hypnotherapist will guide you through a gentle process of relaxation and focused attention—often using visualisation, breathing, or metaphor. It’s similar to that peaceful, floaty state you might feel just before drifting off to sleep or getting lost in a good book.

There's no creepy music. No swinging pendulums. No instant sleep. Just deep relaxation and inner focus.

3. Myth: You Lose Consciousness

Reality: You stay aware throughout.

On screen, people under hypnosis often look completely zonked out—as if they’re asleep or in some kind of blackout state. Cue the drama.

But in real life? You're fully awake. In fact, you might feel more alert and focused than usual. You may be deeply relaxed, but you'll still hear the therapist’s voice, remember the session, and even be able to speak or open your eyes at any point.

It’s a bit like being in a guided daydream—you’re present, just tuned in to a quieter, more focused part of your mind.

4. Myth: Hypnotherapists Can Make You Do Anything

Reality: Your subconscious has boundaries too.

In TV and film, hypnotherapists are often painted as villains—forcing people to commit crimes, betray their loved ones, or reveal confidential information.

Let’s set the record straight: no one can make you do something under hypnosis that goes against your core values or beliefs. Your subconscious mind acts as a kind of gatekeeper—it will reject any suggestion that doesn’t sit right with you.

So no, your hypnotherapist can’t turn you into an assassin, make you rob a bank, or convince you to give up your PIN number (sorry, Netflix).

5. Myth: Hypnosis Is All About Regression and Trauma

Reality: Modern hypnotherapy is often forward-focused and empowering.

Thanks to the popularity of shows involving past-life regression or repressed memories (Behind Her Eyes, again, we’re looking at you), many people believe hypnosis is all about diving into the past.

While regression techniques do exist, many modern approaches—like Solution Focused Hypnotherapy—are actually future-oriented. They help you build new habits, shift thought patterns, and visualise the life you want.

It’s not about reliving trauma. It’s about creating change in the present and moving towards a more balanced, fulfilling future.

6. Myth: Hypnosis is Only for Entertainment or Weird Occult Stuff

Reality: It’s a legitimate therapeutic tool with real science behind it.

Stage hypnosis has definitely added to the confusion. People barking like dogs or dancing like Beyoncé on cue can be hilarious—but also misleading.

Clinical hypnotherapy is a completely different practice. It's used by thousands of therapists around the world to support people with:

• Anxiety and stress

• Smoking cessation

• Sleep issues

• Chronic pain

• IBS

• Phobias

• Confidence

• And yes—even procrastination and perfectionism

There’s growing scientific evidence showing how hypnosis can change brain activity, reduce stress hormones, and support behavioural change.

It’s not spooky. It’s neuroscience.

7. Myth: You Have to Be ‘Hypnotisable’ for It to Work

Reality: Most people can benefit from hypnosis in some form.

TV sometimes suggests that only a special few can be hypnotised, or that you have to be highly suggestible to benefit.

In reality, most people can enter a hypnotic state—especially with the right approach. Hypnosis is a natural state your mind slips into every day (think: driving on autopilot, getting lost in music, daydreaming at work).

The key isn’t how ‘suggestible’ you are—it’s how open you are to the process, how comfortable you feel with your therapist, and how committed you are to making change.

So Why Does Netflix Get It So Wrong?

Because suspense sells. Hypnosis, in its real form, is subtle, gentle, and empowering—which doesn’t make for quite as juicy a plot twist.

But while Hollywood is busy dramatising, real hypnotherapists are helping people sleep better, feel calmer, overcome fears, and build confidence every day.

If more people knew what hypnosis was actually like, it would be a lot less scary—and a lot more widely used.

🌟 Thinking About Trying Hypnosis for Real?

If you've only seen hypnosis on screen, it’s no wonder you might feel unsure. But in real life, hypnotherapy is safe, evidence-based, and surprisingly relaxing.

🔹 Book a free consultation and find out how hypnotherapy could work for you

🔹 Mail beechwoodtherapies@gmail.com for a free relaxation audio and experience a taste of the real thing

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