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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Talking therapies for IBS in Cardiff, Carmarthen and online via video.

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. Talking therapies 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

Therapy for IBS

Talking therapies 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) and anxiety management strategies can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life. At iTT, our therapists provide compassionate support tailored to both the emotional and lifestyle aspects of IBS.

Talking therapies 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

Counselling for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – How Are Talking Therapies Different?

Counselling for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one form of talking therapy that can help individuals understand the connection between stress, emotions, and digestive symptoms. Counselling offers structured, supportive sessions that focus on current challenges, symptom management, and developing coping strategies to reduce the impact of IBS on daily life. Psychotherapy explores the emotional patterns, past experiences, and psychological processes that may influence how individuals perceive and respond to IBS symptoms, as well as the broader relationship between the gut and emotional wellbeing. Both counselling and psychotherapy for IBS are beneficial, but they differ in focus, method, and the type of change they aim to achieve. Psychotherapy offers a more in-depth approach, making it particularly well suited for individuals who want to understand the underlying emotional factors contributing to their symptoms and work towards longer-term, meaningful change.

At iTT, all talking therapy for irritable bowel syndrome is delivered by qualified psychotherapists. This ensures that individuals receive a depth of support capable of addressing both current symptoms and the underlying psychological factors linked to their condition.

How do I start my therapy?

Your next steps to positive change

We want to ensure that all of our clients receive the information they need to make an informed decision about their therapy. If you are ready to start your journey with us please contact us.

Independent Talking Therapies