Gut-Directed Hypnosis for IBS

What is Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy?

Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a promising form of treatment for IBS. Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a particular type of hypnotherapy focused on healing the gut. IBS is a functional disorder which includes visceral hypersensitivity. Gut-directed hypnotherapy addresses a miscommunication between the brain and the gut, helping to calm the body, ease symptoms, and foster healing. Gut-directed hypnotherapy may also help those living with IBD and refractory GERD.

Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy Meets CBT

Gut-directed hypnotherapy works well in concert with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). For more information about CBT for IBS, see the book Reclaim Your Life From IBS by Melissa Hunt.

Nerva App: Cutting-Edge IBS Treatment

Nerva is a  paid subscription app which offers gut-directed hypnotherapy and CBT for IBS. A 2023 retrospective analysis of the Nerva App showed 81% of the gut-directed hypnotherapy group had a clinically significant reduction in overall IBS symptoms and 71% had a clinically significant reduction in abdominal pain. The Nerva program consists of a daily 15-minute recording for 6 weeks. The curriculum also includes information about the gut-brain axis and IBS symptom management.

Guided Meditation Options for IBS

Below, I’ve included some free resources as examples of gut-directed hypnotherapy. I also like this meditation, available for a fee, from Belleruth Naparstek.  

Free Guided Meditation Options

Additional Support

I’ve personally seen gut-directed hypnotherapy, in combination with therapeutic approaches such as CBT and Somatic Experiencing, to be helpful for those living with IBS.