gut-directed behavioural therapy (ACT)

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Gut-directed Behavioural Therapy (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy - ACT), is a powerful and evidence-based approach to managing functional gut disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). 

At Gut Wellness & Therapy, we use ACT to help clients shift their relationship with gut-related symptoms like discomfort, pain, bloating, urgency, and irregular bowel habits. Rather than focusing solely on eliminating symptoms, ACT supports individuals in reducing the emotional struggle around them—helping to break the cycle of stress and symptom flare-ups through the gut-brain connection.

ACT teaches individuals to observe their physical sensations, thoughts, and emotions with greater openness, curiosity, and acceptance. For people living with IBS, it’s common to feel anxious about when symptoms might appear or to become consumed by attempts to control them. Unfortunately, this struggle often amplifies the experience of discomfort. 

Mindfulness practices within ACT allow individuals to stay grounded in the present moment and to respond to their symptoms with less fear and reactivity, creating space for greater calm and nervous system regulation.

A central part of ACT is helping individuals connect with their personal values—those deeper qualities that give life meaning, such as health, connection, creativity, or growth. Clarifying your values is important because it gives you a compass to guide decisions and behaviour, even in the presence of uncomfortable symptoms. Rather than putting life on hold until the gut feels better, values-based living allows you to move toward what matters most with greater confidence, flexibility, and emotional resilience. This approach often results in improved quality of life, enhanced emotional well-being, and a renewed sense of purpose despite ongoing health challenges.