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Frequently Asked Questions

​​​Can you cure my IBS completely?

I'll be honest with you: No therapy can guarantee a complete cure for IBS, it's a complex condition with multiple factors.  IBS is a complex functional disorder which is not only based in the gut, there is a significant brain component as well.   

Studies have shown that 75% of people with severe IBS who undergo the types of therapy that I include in my IBS protocol and expect to achieve at least a 50% reduction in their symptoms.

Some clients I have worked with have seen significant improvements and no longer are ruled by their IBS.  However, I'd rather be honest with you about what you can expect than give you false promises.

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How many sessions will I need?

Most of my clients benefit from 6 sessions.  Initially these are weekly and as they see improvements happening and gain more confidence in their ability to manage their IBS symptoms, we move to fortnightly sessions.  Sessions are between 60-90 minutes long.

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How often should I have the sessions?

I recommend that the first 3 sessions are weekly.  The next 2 sessions are fortnightly and any remaining sessions are 3-4 weeks apart.

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What happens between sessions?

You'll have access to educational videos explaining the gut brain connection, hypnotherapy audios to support your nervous system, and specific practices to do at home.  Plus, you can reach out between sessions if you need support. This isn't one hour a week and you're on your own the rest of the time.

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What if I haven' t had tests for my IBS?

You'll need to have had the relevant medical tests and received an official IBS diagnosis from your doctor or gastroenterologist before we can work together.

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This is important for two reasons: First, we need to rule out other digestive conditions that might need different treatment. Second, my work focuses specifically on the nervous system patterns that drive IBS symptoms, so we need to know that's what we're dealing with.

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If you haven't been formally diagnosed yet, start there. Once you have that diagnosis and we know there's nothing else going on medically, then we can work together to address the anxiety IBS cycle and get you the results you're looking for.

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How is this different from traditional therapy?

Traditional therapy often focuses on talking about problems and developing coping strategies over months or years. This approach works directly with your nervous system to resolve the patterns causing symptoms in weeks. It's action based, not just insight based, and you'll see results quickly.

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Does this work if I've had IBS for decades?

Yes. The length of time you've had symptoms doesn't determine whether this will help. What matters is whether your nervous system can learn new patterns, and it can, no matter how long you've been struggling.

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What if I have other health conditions alongside IBS?

As long as you've been properly diagnosed with IBS by a medical professional and aren't currently in crisis with another condition, we can work together. My nursing background means I understand complex health presentations.  However, I am not able to give you any medical advice, for that, you will need to work with your healthcare professional.

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Will I have to follow a special diet?

No. While I'm not a nutritionist and won't give you a meal plan, the goal is for you to eat normally without fear. Many of my clients find that once their nervous system calms down, foods that used to trigger symptoms no longer do.

 

 

Who might not be suitable?

If you're looking for a cure or guaranteed results
Around 75% of women will see on a 50% reduction in their IBS symptoms.  Many of my clients see even better results.  However, this isn't a cure of a miracle solution.  It's not the same as never having symptoms again. If you need a promise of perfection, this won't be the right fit.

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If you're not willing to do the daily work
This isn't a "show up for an hour and I'll fix you" situation. You'll need to commit to about 25 minutes of daily practice between sessions such as listening to hypnotherapy audios, doing specific exercises, and applying what we work on.  Without trying to be too blunt, if you aren't able to do the tasks most days, you are much less likely to see the results you want.

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If you want to stay inside your comfort zone
Part of breaking free from IBS means gradually letting go of the safety behaviours that keep you stuck, like constant bathroom checking, food restriction out of fear, or avoiding situations "just in case." This doesn't mean I'll push you into terrifying situations, but you will need to be willing to feel some discomfort as your nervous system learns it's safe. If that's a dealbreaker, we're not a good match.

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If your main issue isn't IBS related anxiety
My specialty is the intersection of IBS and anxiety. If your primary struggle is health anxiety, emetophobia, OCD, or other specific anxiety disorders, you'd be better served by a therapist who specialises in those areas. I want you to get the most targeted help possible.

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If you have not received a medical diagnosis of IBS

It’s important that your symptoms have been properly checked by a medical professional to rule out any underlying conditions that may need medical care. As I don’t diagnose or test for medical conditions, please speak to your GP urgently if you experience symptoms such as rectal bleeding or unexpected weight loss.

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If you certain health or mental health conditions

Hypnosis and CBT may not be suitable for everyone. These approaches are not appropriate for individuals with unmanaged severe mental health conditions, active substance misuse, or certain personality disorders. If you’re unsure whether this work is right for you, please contact me to discuss your situation.

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Last updated: 27th December 2025

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