What is erotic hypnosis?

Dear Reader, 

Hypnosis can really get you spiraling down the rabbit hole, but it’s simpler than it seems. Erotic hypnosis uses hypnotic methods like relaxation and suggestion to enhance sensual, sexual, or kink experiences. There are ways to learn it yourself online or through a licensed professional. Read on to learn more about erotic hypnosis, the potential health risks, and where to start if you’re interested in trying it out on your own. 

What is erotic hypnosis? 

Erotic hypnosis is the use of hypnotic suggestion to pursue a sexual goal. This involves one person guiding another into a trance-like state, using their voice to suggest certain thoughts, feelings, or actions. Before a session begins, it’s helpful to have a negotiation process between the hypnotist and hypno-tee (person being hypnotized). These discussions are used to outline the structure of the scene, set boundaries, and establish clear consent.  

Popular media advertises hypnosis as a form of mind control, but this is an inaccurate representation of what’s really going on. Instead, when practiced correctly, erotic hypnosis is about amplifying desires that already exist. It’s less about another person controlling you and more about letting your own imagination take the lead. That said, erotic hypnosis can be used in all kinds of ways. For some people, it might be incorporated into BDSM play, used to spark arousal, deepen a roleplay, or explore sensation play. For others, it can also be a tool for connection, relaxation, or pleasure.  

How is erotic hypnosis different from hypnotherapy? 

Erotic hypnosis, traditional hypnosis, and hypnotherapy all use similar techniques, but serve different purposes. Hypnosis more generally is refers to the trance-like state of deep relaxation and heightened suggestibility. What you do in that state depends on your goal(s), whether it be clinical or sexual. These will influence which type of hypnosis to seek.  

Hypnotherapy is a type of hypnosis that’s usually practiced by licensed professionals to address mental and physical health concerns. It can be part of a larger, more holistic treatment plan for medical conditions like anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or eating disorders. It can also be used to help with sleep issues, pain management, or smoking cessation.  

By contrast, erotic hypnosis is a kind of hypnosis that’s about tapping into subconscious desires to explore arousal or sensual feelings. Instead of being treated, you’re being tempted with pleasure. Both forms of hypnosis are grounded in trust, consent, and a clear understanding of roles, but the experience plays out in different ways.  

Are there any health risks to participating in erotic hypnosis? 

Erotic hypnosis can sometimes come with a few side effects. These include having false or warped memories. It also has the potential of triggering anxiety, headaches, or dizziness. Those who are especially suggestible to hypnosis might find themselves slipping out of their usual sense of control while under hypnosis. It’s also worth noting that people with a history of or actively experiencing symptoms of psychosis, such as hallucinations and delusions, may want to approach hypnosis with caution. If you’re concerned about any of these side effects , consider speaking with a health care professional to discuss whether hypnosis is safe for you.  

What can you do if you want to try erotic hypnosis? 

If you’re curious about exploring erotic hypnosis, it might be helpful to dip your toes in with traditional hypnosis first to find out how your mind responds to suggestion. You can do this through online videos or guided audio sessions. After that, you might choose to do some research. Consider finding professionals with credentials from an accredited school, program, or university; experience; references; and a credible website. If they’re associated with the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH), which upholds standards for practicing clinical hypnotists, you may even be able to find and review their credentials more easily. A professional hypnotist can help co-create your session by discussing boundaries, expectations, and the experiences you’re hoping to trance-form into reality.  

If you're interested in doing the hypnotizing yourself, you might consider contacting a certified hypnotherapist or sexual health therapist to learn the ins and outs of a typical session. They can help you understand what needs to be established with your partner to keep things consensual, safe, and fun.  

Online courses and workshops might also be helpful. However, it’s worth noting that some of these courses may not be backed by research or safety practices. You may want to prioritize courses that are approved by the ASCH to ensure that you get reliable training. Finally, there are fetish social networking sites that might have communities that are interested in erotic hypnosis. You can find additional resources, tips, and recommendations on the sites from others who are already well-versed in the topic.  

Hope this helped!