Empowered Self Hypnotherapy and Mindfulness

Hypnotherapy can provide effective help.

Hypnotherapy, in particular, Gut directed hypnotherapy is increasingly being used as an effective treatment to reduce the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Research undertaken at the University hospital of South Manchester found that Gut Directed Hypnotherapy reduced the symptoms of IBS long term in 70 per cent of clients. (Gonsalkorale, 2006).

Peters et al, 2015, in a review of clinical trials also found Gut Directed Hypnotherapy to be effective, safe and provided long term results. It is considered as effective as the low FODMAP diet (Peters et al, 2015) which is currently widely recommended and used by those suffering from IBS.

What is IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common condition affecting the small and large intestines resulting in bloating, abdominal pain and a change in bowel habits such as diarrhoea and or constipation. The cause is unknown however it is thought to be multifactorial including increased sensitivity of the gut tissue, changes to the population of gut bacteria, motility of the intestines and how symptoms are perceived ( Peters et al, 2015)
The gut contains a thin layer of brain cells (neurons) called the Enteric Nervous System which is involved with managing the process of digestion and “moderating Gut pain” (Mosely,2017,p.10) It is via this system that the Gut communicates with the brain (Central Nervous System) and the brain communicates with the gut, also known as the Gut-Brain Axis. This means information such as thoughts, memories, feelings and pain regulation is communicated from the brain to the gut and vice versa (Peters et al, 2015)

Our “gut feelings” or “gut instincts” are a reflection of how connected our gut and brain are (Mosely, 2017, p.10) as is the feeling of “butterflies “or experiencing diarrhoea when we are nervous.

What is Gut Directed Hypnotherapy?

During Gut directed hypnotherapy, hypnosis is used to help the client gain skills to control and assist the gut to function normally again. (Gonsalkorale, 2006)

While the client is in a relaxed trance state, the hypnotherapist makes direct suggestions and uses imagery and metaphors to promote change in the client’s perception, sensations, emotion, thoughts or behavior (Peters et al, 2015). The focus is on the control and normalization of the function of the gut with suggestions including improvement in pain, bloating and bowel habits. Imagery such as warmth from the hand calming and controlling the gut, a river metaphor suggesting control over the flow of the gut and taking medicine with the client envisioning “the medicine providing protection against pain, bloating, discomfort and abnormal bowel habits” (Peters et al, 2015 p1107)

What is involved and how many sessions are required?

The program involves at least 6 sessions of Gut directed hypnotherapy one to two weeks apart, listening to a recording to support and reinforce the suggestions to the subconscious mind in between sessions and is tailored to the individual.

A detailed history is taken in the first session to assess your specific needs.

The cause of IBS is thought to be multifactorial and stress and anxiety can be common triggers for many sufferers. Stress management and mindfulness skills are also included in the program where appropriate.
It is advised for anyone wishing to have Gut Directed Hypnotherapy to have a medical review to confirm the diagnosis of IBS and to rule out coeliac disease or inflammatory Bowel disease such as Ulcerative Colitis or Crone’s disease.

To ensure you receive the most effective treatment, with your permission, I may work in partnership or liaise with your GP, Gastroenterologist, Dietician or Naturopath.

Hypnotherapy is an effective and safe treatment of the symptoms of IBS.

Call 0423776439 to begin feeling better.