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.

What to expect in a Gut Directed Hypnotherapy Program.

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

Training is available online or live once a year in New Zealand. The next training is March 23rd & 24th 2026 in Auckland.

Our Gut Directed Hypnotherapists are registered with Hypnosis New Zealand

and have:

  • Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy and relevant training to 1000hrs
  • Police check
  • First aid certificate
  • Agreed to follow HNZ code of conduct and ethics
  • Supervision with 12 sessions per year.

EMAIL ADDRESS

info@hypnosisnewzealand.co.nz


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