IBS and the Gut-Brain Connection: How Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy Help

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A Complex Diagnosis

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a disorder of gut-brain interaction that affects about eleven percent of the global population. IBS is characterized by a collection of symptoms, typically including abdominal pain, cramping, abdominal bloating, and changes in bowel movements.

People who are diagnosed with IBS in the United States typically go through rounds of testing prior to diagnosis, as IBS is a diagnosis of exclusion. This means that there are no definitive medical tests that can lead to a diagnosis of IBS—rather, it is diagnosed after other potential conditions have been ruled out.

Therapy and Patient Experience

As a psychologist who specializes in disorders of gut-brain interaction, many of my patients present to therapy feeling frustrated and demoralized by treatment of their IBS. A common point my patients often make is that they feel as though they are to blame for their gut symptoms, having received a message directly or indirectly that their “stress” or “anxiety” is causing flare ups. I would like to emphasize that this is not the case.

There are genetic and environmental factors that influence the development of IBS, as well as several proposed mechanisms that involve serotonin metabolism, nerve fibers in the gut, and changes in gut flora. While stress can contribute to flare ups and intensify symptoms, there are many pathways in which IBS can develop.

The Gut-Brain Connection

The gut-brain connection is the complex, bidirectional communication system between the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and the enteric nervous system (the network of nerves in the gut). Often called the “second brain,” the gut contains millions of neurons that regulate digestion, pain perception, and even emotional states.

This connection means that stress, anxiety, and mood can directly influence how the gut functions, and in turn, gut discomfort can affect mental well-being. In people with IBS, this communication system often becomes dysregulated, making the gut more sensitive to normal sensations and triggering symptoms like bloating, pain, and changes in bowel habits.

Comprehensive Treatment for IBS

Treatment for IBS can be quite comprehensive. Treatments range from dietary modifications, medication, as well as counseling and psychotherapy. I see many patients who have had moderate success with these approaches, but continue to experience symptoms that interfere with their daily lives. I also see patients who have had little to no success with traditional approaches to IBS treatment.

Many of the approaches address either the “mind” or “body” part of the problem, without addressing how they are complexly interrelated. Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a treatment that targets both the mind and the body.

My Approach: Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy

Gut-directed hypnotherapy addresses the miscommunication between the mind and gut. Gut-directed hypnotherapy is different from typical hypnosis. This approach uses imagery, metaphors, and suggestion to address specific symptoms of gut disorders.

Patients are guided into a relaxed state and then engage in visualization aimed at retraining the brain-gut connection. Common images include flowing rivers and healing light. In my experience, these images also help patients to reframe and change their relationship with sensation in the gut, as well as increase a sense of control over their symptoms

A Research-Based Protocol

There are several clinical hypnotherapy protocols that have strong research bases. The approach I use is informed by the North Carolina Protocol. This approach is highly effective and has been found to benefit approximately 80% of patients who complete it.

The protocol is about eight sessions long, typically weekly or biweekly. It integrates multi-sensory imagery and suggestion to promote relaxation and physiological change in the gut. Between sessions, my patients are provided with recordings to listen to at home in order to reinforce the gut-brain connection and practice techniques.

In addition to reduction in IBS symptoms, my patients also tend to report decreased anxiety and improved sleep and quality of life. Research suggests that improvements in symptoms from this protocol are long-term.

Talk Therapy for Supporting Change

In addition to hypnotherapy, I also use talk therapy in order to address concerns that may not be addressed by hypnotherapy. Many of my patients struggle with safety behaviors related to IBS, including planning routes for bathroom access, intricate morning routines in the bathroom, and staying close to home.

I work with my clients to both validate and challenge these behaviors in order to shift patterns of behavior as they heal from IBS. Additionally, I have found that processing how IBS impacts everyday functioning is an important part of the therapeutic process.

People with IBS can struggle to speak openly and frankly about their symptoms, and deal with internalized shame related to symptoms. Speaking freely about IBS symptoms can be relieving and healing for many of my clients. I also integrate different ways to cope and handle thoughts and feelings that are associated with IBS symptoms.

Finding Relief and Reclaiming Control

Living with IBS can be frustrating, exhausting, and isolating—but it's important to know that effective, compassionate support is available.

Gut-directed hypnotherapy offers a powerful way to work with your body, rather than against it, by calming the nervous system and helping your gut respond more peacefully to everyday life. Hypnotherapy can offer long-term relief and a renewed sense of control.

Contact

If you're feeling stuck or discouraged by treatment options, this approach might be a good fit for you. You don’t have to navigate IBS alone.

• Email: laurab@nyhealthhypnosis.com‍
• Phone: (646) 537-1713
• Learn more or book a free consult.

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