Evidence-based treatment
Gut-directed hypnotherapy (GDH) uses guided hypnosis to calm the gut-brain axis — the communication pathway between your brain and digestive system. It is clinically validated, drug-free, and recommended by gastroenterologists for IBS and functional gut disorders.
Clinically researched
Pioneered at Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester. Backed by 40+ years of peer-reviewed research with consistent outcomes for IBS and functional gut disorders.
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 has a strong evidence base for functional gastrointestinal disorders. 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 & anxietyIBS that develops after a gastrointestinal infection responds strongly to gut-directed hypnotherapy.
Post-infection recoveryThe process
A structured, evidence-based protocol — the most researched gut-directed hypnotherapy approach in the world.
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.
Weekly virtual sessions combining hypnosis, psychoeducation, and gut-focused techniques.
Symptom reduction designed to last, plus audio recordings to reinforce your progress between sessions.
Our team
GutMind brings together a team of qualified clinicians — Registered Psychotherapists and Social Workers — all trained in gut-directed hypnotherapy. When you book, you will be matched with one of our practitioners based on your needs and availability.
Emily Lafeber
Registered Psychotherapist (RP)
Emily is a Registered Psychotherapist with specialized training in gut-directed hypnotherapy using the Manchester Protocol. She works with clients experiencing IBS, Crohn's disease, colitis, and gut-related anxiety — virtually across Canada.
Avery Maxwell
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
Avery is a Registered Social Worker with post-graduate training in gut-directed hypnotherapy. They specialize in functional dyspepsia, visceral hypersensitivity, and stress-related gut disorders — supporting clients virtually across Canada.
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-compliant video platform. Your privacy is protected.
Just as effective as in-person
Research confirms virtual GDH produces equivalent outcomes to in-person sessions.
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.
The Manchester Protocol consists of 7 weekly sessions. Some clients notice improvement as early as sessions 3–4, while others experience the full benefit toward the end of and after the protocol. An initial free consultation will give you a clearer individual picture.
Many extended health benefit plans in Canada cover psychotherapy sessions with a Registered Psychotherapist. We recommend checking with your insurance provider directly. We can provide receipts for all sessions for reimbursement purposes.
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 team holds specialized post-graduate training in gut-directed hypnotherapy using 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.
When you book with GutMind, you will be matched with one of our qualified clinicians based on your needs and availability. Our team includes Emily Lafeber, a Registered Psychotherapist (RP), and Avery Maxwell, a Registered Social Worker (RSW) — both trained in the Manchester Protocol for gut-directed hypnotherapy.
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-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