Evidence-based treatment
Gut-directed hypnotherapy (GDH) is a specialized, evidence-based treatment that targets the brain-gut connection. Using focused therapeutic suggestions, GDH reduces pain sensitivity, calms the nervous system, and restores confidence in your gut. It is one of the most well-researched psychological treatments for IBS and Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction, and is recommended by major gastroenterology organizations.
Clinically researched
Grounded in decades of clinical research and modern psychogastroenterology — targeting the gut-brain-microbiome connection in IBS and Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction.
Drug-free & non-invasive
No medication, no side effects. GDH addresses the dysregulated gut-brain communication directly rather than masking symptoms.
Long-lasting results
Research shows benefits persist 5+ years after completing the protocol.
Sources: Whorwell et al. (1987), Gonsalkorale et al. (2003), Palsson et al. (2006).
Who we help
GDH is one of the most researched psychological treatments for IBS and Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction. It is also increasingly recognized as a valuable support for chronic GI conditions like IBD — targeting the gut-brain axis, reducing symptom perception, and improving overall well-being. Our practitioners work with clients across Canada experiencing:
IBS is the most studied condition in GDH research. Whether your IBS is diarrhea-predominant, constipation-predominant, or mixed, hypnotherapy addresses the gut-brain miscommunication at its core.
Strong research evidenceGDH significantly reduces stress-driven flares, pain sensitivity, and gut anxiety that accompany living with IBD.
Symptom managementGDH retrains the nervous system's response to gut sensations — effective for anxiety-driven or hypersensitive gut symptoms.
Nervous system focusedPersistent indigestion, bloating, and upper abdominal discomfort without a clear structural cause respond well to GDH.
Upper GI focusFood avoidance and mealtime anxiety linked to unpredictable gut symptoms respond well to targeted hypnotherapy protocols.
Food & anxietyRecurrent nausea, vomiting episodes, and anticipatory anxiety linked to gut-brain dysregulation can respond well to gut-directed hypnotherapy, supporting nervous system regulation and symptom relief.
Nervous system regulationThe process
A personalized, evidence-informed approach — using the gut-brain connection to reduce symptoms, calm the nervous system, and restore confidence in your body.
A 15-minute call to understand your history, symptoms, and goals — and confirm GDH is the right fit.
A thorough intake to map your gut-brain patterns and build your personalised treatment plan.
Bi-weekly virtual sessions combining hypnosis, psychoeducation, and gut-focused techniques — giving you time to practise and integrate between appointments.
Symptom reduction designed to last, plus audio recordings to reinforce your progress between sessions.
Our team
Our practitioners are trained through Helen Bremner's IBS-focused clinical framework — informed by the foundational Manchester Protocol research. We blend this with gut-focused CBT, acceptance-based strategies, and nervous system regulation to deliver comprehensive, evidence-informed care.
Emily Lafeber
Registered Psychotherapist (RP)
Emily is a Registered Psychotherapist trained in gut-directed hypnotherapy through Helen Bremner's IBS-focused framework. She integrates gut-focused CBT, acceptance-based strategies, and nervous system regulation to support clients with IBS, Crohn's, colitis, and gut anxiety — virtually across Canada.
Avery Maxwell
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
Avery is a Registered Social Worker trained in gut-directed hypnotherapy through Helen Bremner's IBS-focused framework. They specialize in functional dyspepsia, visceral hypersensitivity, and stress-related gut disorders, integrating gut-focused CBT and nervous system regulation approaches.
Joining soon
We're growing our team.
Interested in joining GutMind? We're always looking for qualified practitioners trained in gut-directed hypnotherapy.
Virtual sessions
Fully secure video sessions
All sessions conducted via encrypted, PIPEDA and PHIPA-compliant video platform. Your privacy is fully protected.
Just as effective as in-person
Research confirms virtual GDH produces outcomes equivalent to in-person care. For clients with gut symptoms, attending from home — with access to your own washroom — also makes sessions more comfortable and symptom-friendly.
From the comfort of your home
No travel, no waiting rooms. Sessions from your own space support deeper relaxation.
Audio recordings included
Receive personalised audio recordings to reinforce your progress between sessions.
Serving all Canadian provinces & territories
Frequently asked questions
Not at all. Stage hypnosis is entertainment. Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a clinically validated medical treatment backed by decades of peer-reviewed research. You remain fully conscious, in control, and aware throughout every session. No one will make you cluck like a chicken.
Most clients complete 8–10 sessions, scheduled every two weeks to allow time for practice and integration. Many notice improvements before completing the full programme. Treatment is collaborative and client-led — sessions continue until you feel confident managing your symptoms independently.
Many extended health benefit plans in Canada cover sessions with a Registered Psychotherapist and/or Registered Social Worker. We recommend confirming directly with your provider. We issue receipts for all sessions to support your reimbursement claim.
Yes. Research shows that duration of symptoms does not significantly impact outcomes. In fact, many of the strongest responders in clinical studies had suffered for 10+ years. GDH works by retraining the gut-brain axis — a process that can occur regardless of how long the miscommunication has been present.
Absolutely. Gut-directed hypnotherapy complements — not replaces — medical care. Many clients continue working with their gastroenterologist or GP alongside GDH sessions. Please always keep your medical team informed about any new treatments you are pursuing.
Sessions are 50 minutes via secure video call. You'll be in a comfortable, private space — typically lying down or reclined. Each session combines a brief check-in, psychoeducation about the gut-brain connection, and a guided hypnosis experience tailored to your specific symptoms and goals.
Yes. Because all GutMind sessions are delivered virtually via secure video, we can support clients in Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Montreal, Halifax, and every other city and town across Canada. You only need a stable internet connection and a private, comfortable space.
Both approaches have evidence for IBS. CBT for IBS focuses primarily on identifying and changing thought patterns and behaviours that worsen symptoms. Gut-directed hypnotherapy works differently — it uses hypnotic suggestion to directly influence gut-brain communication and reduce visceral hypersensitivity. Some clients respond better to one or the other; our practitioners can help you determine which approach may be the best fit.
Yes. All GutMind practitioners are either Registered Psychotherapists (RP) or Registered Social Workers (RSW) — regulated health professions in their respective provinces. Our practitioners are trained in gut-directed hypnotherapy through Helen Bremner's IBS-focused clinical framework, informed by the foundational research of the Manchester Protocol.
GutMind is building a Canada-wide virtual practice. We are currently accepting new clients in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. We are actively expanding and will be adding additional provinces in the near future. If you are outside these provinces, please reach out — we would be happy to let you know when we are available in your area.
Take the first step
Book a free 15-minute consultation to find out if gut-directed hypnotherapy is right for you. No commitment required.
Currently accepting clients in Ontario, Alberta & British Columbia. Expanding to additional provinces soon.
All sessions are confidential. PIPEDA and PHIPA-compliant platform.
Get in touch
hello@gutdirectedhypnotherapy.ca
Sessions
Virtual — serving clients across Canada
Current Availability
Now accepting clients in Ontario, Alberta & British Columbia. Expanding to additional provinces soon.
Availability
Monday – Friday
Morning, afternoon & evening slots
Response time
Within 1 business day