Gut Directed Therapy

Gut-Directed Therapy is a holistic and evidence-based approach designed to support individuals experiencing gut-related symptoms and conditions such as IBS. At Peninsula Wellness & Therapy,  we use a unique combination of Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and principles of Polyvagal Theory to address the gut-brain connection, regulate the nervous system, and reduce symptom-related distress.

This integrative method is rapidly gaining recognition as one of the most effective treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and other functional gastrointestinal conditions. Research shows that Gut-Directed Therapy can lead to long-term (5+ years) improvement in symptoms for approximately 70–80% of people with IBS. It has also been shown to be as effective as the low FODMAP diet—offering significant symptom relief without the need for restrictive dietary changes.

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. 

We understand that managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) involves more than just addressing physical symptoms. IBD, which includes Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, can often be accompanied by functional gastrointestinal symptoms similar to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). These may include bloating, abdominal discomfort, diarrhoea, and other gut-related issues that persist even when the disease itself is in remission. 

While Gut-Directed Therapy is primarily recognised for its effectiveness in treating IBS, it can also be highly beneficial for individuals with IBD, especially for managing functional bowel symptoms that are common in IBD patients. The therapy helps target the gut-brain connection, addressing not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional and psychological factors that influence gut health.

By addressing both the mind and body, Gut-Directed Therapy can help:

• Reduce gut-related distress: This can include symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements.
• Regulate the nervous system: The principles of Polyvagal Theory support better nervous system regulation, which can help reduce gut hypersensitivity and inflammation.
• Improve emotional resilience: ACT teaches individuals to develop a compassionate, mindful approach to their symptoms, reducing the anxiety and stress that often accompany chronic conditions.
• Enhance overall wellbeing: By focusing on both psychological and physical health, Gut-Directed Therapy promotes a holistic sense of healing and recovery.

• IBS
• Bloating
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Functional Dyspepsia
• Abdominal pain 
• Abdominal discomfort
• Urgency
• Incontinence 
• Nausea
• Vomiting

With a unique background in Biomedical Science, Hypnotherapy, Counselling, and Nursing, Beck offers a holistic and evidence-based approach to Gut-Directed Therapy. Her extensive expertise enables her to deeply understand the complex connections between the mind and body, particularly the gut-brain axis, allowing her to craft comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each individual. By combining her clinical knowledge in biomedical science and nursing with her therapeutic skills in counselling and hypnotherapy, Beck is able to help clients manage gut-related symptoms while addressing the emotional, psychological, and physiological factors that influence their overall wellbeing. 

 At Peninsula Wellness and Therapy, we draw upon a number of different therapeutic approaches depending on the needs and symptoms of each individual. Therapies/approaches used include but are not limited to:

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Gut Directed Hypnotherapy 
• Principles of Polyvagal Theory 
• Neuroaffirmative practice 
• Trauma-informed support

All sessions are completely confidential. We take this very seriously. The only exceptions to this rule are as follows: 

• If there is any risk of harm to self or others. 
• If you are involved in a court case and client notes are subpoenaed by a court, or dissclosure of client notes is otherwise required or authorised by law. 
• If prior consent has been obtained to correspond with a third party e.g. GP, Gastroenterologist, parent, lawyer. 

Unfortunately, there are no Medicare or Private Health Insurance rebates available at this time. 

Cancellations require at least 48 hours' notice to allow us time to fill the appointment. Cancellations made with less than 48 hours' notice will be subject to a 50% cancellation fee. 

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).