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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Counselling for IBS in Bridgend, Cardiff, Carmarthen, Newport, and Porthcawl

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive condition that can cause abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, and general digestive discomfort. While IBS has physical symptoms, stress and emotional wellbeing can play a significant role in triggering or worsening flare-ups. Many people with IBS experience anxiety, worry about symptoms, or fear of eating certain foods or attending social events. Counselling provides a supportive environment to explore these emotional connections, reduce stress, and improve overall symptom management.

Common Symptoms of IBS

Abdominal pain or cramping
Bloating or excessive gas
Diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating between both
Urgency to use the toilet
Feeling of incomplete bowel movements
Fatigue, stress, or increased anxiety during flare-ups
Worry about eating, socialising, or travelling

Causes and Triggers of IBS

Stress, anxiety, and emotional tension
Digestive sensitivity or food intolerances
Hormonal changes or fluctuations
Past illness, infection, or trauma
Irregular eating patterns or disrupted routines
Hypervigilance or heightened awareness of bodily sensations

Treatments for IBS

Counselling can be highly effective in managing IBS by reducing stress, supporting emotional regulation, and helping individuals understand the mind–body connection. Approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), gut-directed relaxation techniques, and anxiety management strategies can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life. At iTT, our counsellors provide compassionate support tailored to both the emotional and lifestyle aspects of IBS.

A typical counselling treatment plan for IBS includes:

An initial assessment to explore symptoms, triggers, and emotional influences
Identifying thoughts or behaviours that worsen symptoms
Learning relaxation methods to reduce stress-related flare-ups
Developing healthier responses to anxiety and bodily sensations
Building long-term coping strategies for confidence and symptom control

Frequently Asked Questions

Can stress make IBS worse?

Yes. Stress and anxiety are major triggers for IBS and can significantly worsen symptoms such as pain, bloating, and bowel changes.

Can counselling help with IBS?

Yes. Counselling helps reduce stress, change unhelpful thought patterns, and build emotional resilience—key factors in managing IBS symptoms.

How long does therapy take?

Many individuals begin noticing improvements within 6–10 sessions, especially when combining CBT techniques with relaxation strategies.

Do I need a medical diagnosis before counselling?

No. You can seek counselling at any time. If symptoms are new or severe, we may recommend a medical check-up alongside therapy.

Why choose iTT for IBS counselling?

At iTT, our counsellors offer compassionate, evidence-based support focused on the emotional and stress-related aspects of IBS, helping you improve both wellbeing and daily comfort.

Help & Support

Do you need more information about any of our treatments or services?

We want to ensure that all of our patients receive the information they need to make an informed decision about their treatment. If you have any questions or if you require assistance with anything, please let us know.

Independent Talking Therapies