Frequently Asked Questions
It’s completely normal to have questions before starting this kind of work. Here are some of the most common ones below:
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It’s outside my scope of practice to prescribe medication, or supplements. However, if I feel it is appropriate, and if I have your permission, I can contact your GP directly to request specific medications and supplements which may help with your condition.
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Rather than a set meal plan, I will usually provide appropriate dietary advice, and personalised recommendations based on your treatment goals. However, a meal plan can be provided to you at an additional cost, which can be discussed with you during your session.
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Appointments are available via my online booking system on Thursdays, and Fridays during the daytime and some Monday and Tuesday evenings. If these times aren't convenient to you, please contact me at tasha.hedges25@gmail.com, and I will do my best to fit you in.
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Currently, I'm not registered with any health insurance providers, but it is still worth reaching out, as we may be able to make arrangements.
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If you have recovered from an eating disorder, please do reach out to see if I can support you.
However, if you think you have an active eating disorder, it is recommended you speak to a specialist eating disorder dietitian, as part of a multi-disciplinary team alongside a psychologist. Please let me know if you are struggling to find the right support, and I can signpost you to an appropriate service.
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The discovery call offers you a chance to learn more about my services and how I can help you, before you commit.
It also gives me an opportunity to assess where you're at in your journey, and whether you are more appropriate for dietary and lifestyle support or CBT hypnotherapy. Occasionally, I will refer you onto the GP or Gastroenterology Team for their medical input, if I suspect you need further investigation.
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Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a specialised form of hypnosis, which targets the gut-brain axis, to reduce symptoms and improve gut health.
The gut-brain axis is the two-way communication system between the digestive system and the brain. It's thought that disruption in these pathways can contribute to symptoms of IBS, and other functional gut issues.
Hypnotherapy uses the therapeutic powers of guided relaxation and positive suggestions to influence the subconscious mind and promote positive changes in gut function.
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Yes, gut-directed hypnotherapy is supported by a growing sum of scientific research. Several well controlled studies, have demonstrated an improvement in IBS symptoms and overall wellbeing.
Some studies have shown it is as effective as the gold standard dietary approach - 'the low FODMAPs' diet. This means you could reduce your symptoms, without having to restrict what you eat!
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Yes! Hypnotherapy is a recommended treatment for IBS!
In 2008, the NICE Clinical Guidelines, which UK doctors follow, were updated, suggesting that psychological therapies such as CBT and hypnotherapy are effective treatments for IBS.
It should be considered for anyone that hasn't benefitted from traditional dietary guidance or the low FODMAPs diet.
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Although, research is looking promising, hypnotherapy isn't a quick fix or magic. It requires commitment, motivation, a positive attitude, and ultimately the belief it will work for you!
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When conducted by a qualified and competent hypnotherapist, gut-directed hypnotherapy is completely safe!
It's non-invasive therapy that does not involve the use of medication. You'll remain fully conscious and aware through the session, and safety is prioritised throughout.
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The number of sessions needed can vary depending on several factors, such as the severity of symptoms and responsiveness to hypnotherapy.
Usually, a course of gut-directed hypnotherapy will involve multiple sessions spaced out over several weeks, and typically people achieve significant improvements in their symptoms after just 6-8 sessions!
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As well as IBS, there is evidence gut-directed hypnotherapy can be used to manage other GI conditions involving the gut-brain connection such as functional dyspepsia, and other functional gastrointestinal disorders.
It can also be beneficial for people seeking to improve their overall gut health, and sometimes it can be helpful to support people with other GI conditions, where stress is exacerbating their symptoms (although we have less evidence-base in these research areas currently).
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During a gut-directed hypnotherapy session, I will guide you into a very relaxed, but focused state. Once you're in a hypnotic state, I will provide positive suggestions of control and normalisation of gut function, aimed at addressing your specific gastrointestinal symptoms and circumstances.
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Yes, gut-directed hypnotherapy has been shown to be effective when delivered online or remotely via audio recordings and video sessions.
A large 2021 randomised controlled trial published in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology found that remotely delivered hypnotherapy was just as effective as face-to-face treatment. Over 70% of participants reported meaningful improvement in their IBS symptoms after following a 3-month home-based hypnotherapy program using audio recordings and brief therapist contact (Flik et al., 2021).