ABSTRACT
Hypnosis is a valid, professionally endorsed therapeutic procedure that has brought comfort to millions worldwide. However, it also has an image problem. Throughout its history, hypnosis has been plagued by the twin specters of mind control and memory manipulation. We address the first concern by examining the claims of loss of mental autonomy, and we address the second concern by examining the issue of tampering with the integrity of memory in courts of law. In both situations, we focus on how licensed professionals have contributed to the public's cautions and concerns. We end by suggesting that the future of hypnosis should be widely adopted by mental health professionals and accepted for its many benefits in promoting self-efficacy.
