Hypnosis can be achieved by ourselves (self-hypnosis or a recording) or with the help of a facilitator (a hypnotist / hypnotherapist).
There is a lot of misconception about hypnosis. The idea of hypnosis as mind-control probably evolves from stage hypnosis or Hollywood movies. People are often hypnotized as a show for the entertainment of others and pushed to act in bizarre or humiliating ways. Hypnosis is not mind control. You are not the hypnotist’s puppet. The only person who has absolute control over your mind is you. A hypnotist cannot make you do something you are not willing to do. A hypnotist cannot force anyone to do anything against his/her will (including go against their morals) unless already willing to do so in the first place.
Generally speaking, the hypnotist serves as somewhat of an experienced guide or facilitator to lead you into a relaxed and focused state and uses psychologically sound hypnotic techniques to help you make changes or experience certain things that you want to experience.
Hypnosis is a pleasant and relaxed experience that millions of people benefit from the use of for many different needs.