About Gut Directed Hypnotherapy
What is Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy?
Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy (GDH) is a structured psychological intervention that uses hypnotic induction, guided imagery, and therapeutic suggestions to modulate the gut-brain axis and reduce symptoms in functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) especially Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - research
GDH delivers benefits at a level comparable to dietary interventions like the low-FODMAP diet, with additional improvement on psychological indices such as anxiety and quality of life.
GHD is recognised in the American College of Gastroenterology IBS treatment guidelines as an effective adjunctive therapy.
GHD is most effective when integrated into a multimodal treatment package that may include diet (e.g. low-FODMAP), education, pharmacotherapy, and psychological support.
Delivery models for Gut directed hypnotherapy include individual, group programs available in-person or remotely via video or digital platforms. Group and digital formats show similar efficacy to individual care in many settings.
Most GDH programs follow a 6-8 session format, spaced weekly or fortnightly. Each session builds on the last and clients are given home recordings to reinforce their progress between appointments.
The GDH program is not just hypnosis. It incorporates:
Gut-focused hypnotherapy using structured scripts and metaphors
Psycho-education on the gut-brain connection, vagus nerve regulation and stress impact.
CBT-informed tools to enhance coping skills
Behavioural strategies such as self-monitoring, mindfulness and somatic awareness
Audio support for daily at-home practice
PROGRAM FORMAT: What the sessions look like
Most clients complete 6-8 sessions over several weeks. Each session follows a flexible yet structured format:
Session 1: Getting to know you, introduction to the program, initial relaxation practice
Session 2-6: Guided hypnotherapy sessions with metaphors and suggestions aimed at calming gut sensitivity, regulating bowel function and nervous system regulation.
Session 7-8: Reinforcement of change, relapse prevention strategies and integration of coping tools for future wellbeing.
Sessions are tailored to each clients's symptoms (e.g. diarrhea, constipation, bloating) and emotional patterns (eg. gut focused anxiety, anticipatory distress). All Gut directed also bring their unique set of skills and knowledge to be used when needed.
Certified Gut Directed Hypnotherapy
Training information
Reach out and book an appointment with Trish Pellen from Clinical Hypnosis Australia HERE
Our Gut Directed Hypnotherapists are registered with Hypnosis New Zealand
and have:
EMAIL ADDRESS
info@hypnosisnewzealand.co.nz
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