Gut-Directed Therapy is a specialised form of therapy utilising a combination of gut directed hypnotherapy + Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). It is quickly becoming one of the most promising new treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) as well as other gut related symptoms and conditions.
Studies have shown that gut directed therapy can reduce gastrointestinal symtoms in approximately 70-80% of IBS patients long-term (5+ years), it has also been shown to be as effective as the low FODMAP diet in reducing symptoms - meaning you can experience the same level of symptom control without having to change what you eat.
Whilst I am a currently a therapist, I was also a Gastroenterology nurse for 6+ years. In addition to this, I hold a Biomedical Science degree. This means I have a very deep and thorough understanding of not only your mental health but your internal health as well.
The gut-brain axis is a two-way connection between the brain and the gut. Communication happens continuously between these two organs through the vagus nerve and the HPA-axis. It is this connection that makes us feel ‘butterflies’ in our stomach when we are nervous, or experience diarrhoea when we are anxious. It is thought those with IBS are experiencing a ‘malfunction’ in this communication pathway resulting in the wrong messages being sent or the right messages being sent but being misinterpreted in a bad way, when they are in fact, normal.
In order to regain control, we use gut-directed therapy. This specialised therapy helps us to make positive changes in the way that we think, feel and behave. This therapy allows us to train the areas of our brain we do not usually have conscious control over like the gut-brain connection. While we do not know exactly how gut directed hypnotherapy works and why it gives such impressive results, it is thought that by entering such a deeply relaxed state, you are able to switch off the critical thinking part of your brain. This allows you to become more open to suggestions on how to better communicate with your gut to improve your symptoms.
All sessions are completely confidential. We take this very seriously. The only exceptions to this rule are as follows:
Unfortunately, there are no Medicare or Private Health Insurance rebates available at this time.
Beck
As each individual comes with their own set of circumstances it varies widely. Most people require a minimum of 6 sessions. Sometimes simple issues can be resolved sooner. At other times, issues are complex and may require more than 6 sessions.
Sessions are available in-person (Mornington, VIC) or online via Zoom (Australia Wide).