Is EMDR therapy like hypnosis? It’s a common question, especially for those considering EMDR for trauma, anxiety, or stress. Both techniques involve altered states of awareness. Both can access deep emotional material. But EMDR and hypnosis are not the same.

Let’s explain the key differences, what EMDR actually involves, and why it’s often misunderstood.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It’s an evidence-based treatment designed to help people process traumatic or distressing memories. It uses bilateral stimulation—typically guided eye movements—to help the brain “reprocess” unresolved emotions.

It’s highly structured, involves no suggestion or altered states, and keeps you in full control.

So, is EMDR therapy like hypnosis? Not really.

What Is Hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a trance-like state of focused attention and increased suggestibility. In clinical hypnosis, a trained professional guides the client into a deeply relaxed state.

People often compare the experience of EMDR to hypnosis because both involve focused attention and a change in how the brain processes information.

But while they may feel similar on the surface, they are fundamentally different in structure, purpose, and effect.

Is EMDR Therapy Like Hypnosis? Here’s the Truth

Let’s answer directly: No, EMDR is not the same as hypnosis.

1. Control

In EMDR, you remain fully alert. You can stop the session at any time. There’s no trance, no altered state. You are aware and in charge throughout the process.

In hypnosis, you enter a deeply relaxed, altered state of consciousness. The therapist often leads with verbal suggestions to shift behavior or perception.

2. Method

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation—eye movements, tapping, or sounds—to help desensitize distressing memories. The focus is on past experiences and how they influence current triggers.

Hypnosis uses guided imagery and suggestion.

3. Goal

EMDR aims to reprocess trauma stored in the brain, making it feel less distressing and emotionally charged. It’s used to treat PTSD, anxiety, grief. In addition to mental health conditions.

Hypnosis often targets behavior change or symptom relief, sometimes without digging into root trauma.

Why the Confusion?

Many people confuse EMDR with hypnosis because both are unfamiliar. You may sit quietly with your eyes moving. Furthermore, you may recall vivid memories. You may feel emotionally intense during or after sessions.

But that doesn’t make them the same.

EMDR is not suggestive. Your therapist does not implant thoughts. They guide you through structured steps based on what you experience. Not what they say!

What Does EMDR Feel Like?

You’ll be asked to recall a difficult memory while focusing on a form of bilateral stimulation—like your therapist’s fingers moving back and forth.

You stay alert. You’re encouraged to describe what you feel, think, or sense. You’re not under hypnosis.

You may experience shifts in emotions, sensations, or insights as your brain reprocesses the memory.

If you’re still asking is EMDR therapy like hypnosis, it’s because both experiences involve internal reflection. But EMDR is more like mindful processing, not a trance.

Should I Try EMDR or Hypnosis?

If you’re holding onto painful experiences that still affect your present, EMDR may help. It’s especially helpful if talk therapy hasn’t worked, or if you struggle to “let go” of the past.

Grigore Counselling offers in-person and virtual EMDR therapy in a trauma-informed environment. Still wondering is EMDR therapy like hypnosis? Schedule a consultation and we’ll walk you through how it works—no guesswork, no surprises.

If you’ve been hesitant to try EMDR or hypnosis because of myths or misconceptions, we hope this clears the air.

FAQ: Is EMDR Therapy Like Hypnosis?

1. Is EMDR a form of hypnosis?

No. EMDR does not involve altered states, trance, or suggestibility. You remain fully alert during the process.

2. Can EMDR make you feel hypnotized?

Some people describe a trance-like focus during EMDR, but you’re always aware and in control. It’s not the same as hypnosis.

3. Is EMDR safer than hypnosis?

EMDR is evidence-based and structured, with a strong safety profile when delivered by trained professionals.

4. Do I lose control in EMDR like in hypnosis?

No. You remain in control during EMDR. Nothing is suggested or implanted.

5. Which is better for trauma: EMDR or hypnosis?

EMDR is specifically designed for trauma and is supported by major mental health organizations. It’s generally preferred over hypnosis for treating PTSD and related conditions.