What is GI psychotherapy (gut-directed psychotherapy)?

GI psychotherapy is specialized psychological care that targets the brain-gut axis — the constant communication between your gut and your nervous system. Using evidence-based methods like gut-directed hypnotherapy, CBT and ACT, it helps reduce visceral hypersensitivity and the gut symptoms driven by that brain-gut connection.

What conditions does the Brain-Gut Health Centre treat?

We treat disorders of brain-gut interaction (DGBI), including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional dyspepsia, GERD and functional heartburn, chronic bloating, functional constipation, and centrally mediated abdominal pain (CAPS).

Are appointments virtual?

Yes. All care is delivered by secure telehealth (video or phone) to patients across Manitoba, so you can be seen from home.

Does gut-directed hypnotherapy actually work for IBS?

Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a guideline-recommended therapy for IBS, with more than 70% of patients responding in clinical trials. It is one of several evidence-based gut-directed therapies we use.

Is treatment covered by insurance?

Psychotherapy may be reimbursable under many extended health benefit plans. Care is also covered at no cost for eligible First Nations and Inuit clients through NIHB and for Veterans through VAC. Contact us and we'll help you confirm your coverage.

How do I book an appointment?

Submit a request through our website or call (431) 877-5492. Our care coordinator will reach out within two business days to schedule your assessment.

Home / Articles / How Much Does Gut-Directed Therapy Cost in Manitoba?

Cost & coverage

How Much Does Gut-Directed Therapy Cost in Manitoba — and Is It Covered?

Cost uncertainty stops many people from starting treatment that could genuinely help. Here's exactly what gut-directed therapy costs in Manitoba, how insurance usually works, and the options that bring it to no cost for some clients.

What a session costs

Paid out of pocket, sessions are $190 per hour, billed directly. No referral is required to begin, and our care coordinator responds within two business days of your request. You can see the full breakdown on our cost & insurance page.

Is gut-directed therapy covered by insurance?

Often, yes. Most extended health and employer benefit plans reimburse psychotherapy and counselling services — the key is to check your plan for a "psychotherapy" or "counselling" benefit and its annual maximum. We provide detailed receipts after every session that you submit to your insurer, and a Health Spending Account (HSA) can usually be applied as well.

No-cost care for Veterans & Treaty-status clients

Eligible Veterans (through Veterans Affairs Canada) and Treaty-status First Nations & Inuit clients (through the Non-Insured Health Benefits program) can access fully covered sessions at no out-of-pocket cost. See the full Veterans & Treaty coverage details.

How to check your coverage in two minutes

Open your benefits booklet or member portal and look for a line item such as "Psychologist," "Psychotherapist," or "Counselling." Note the annual dollar maximum and whether a specific credential is required. If you're unsure, email info@braingutcentre.ca and we'll help you confirm your options before you book.

Is it worth it?

Gut-directed therapies are among the most evidence-supported non-drug treatments for IBS and other disorders of brain-gut interaction. In clinical trials, gut-directed hypnotherapy improves symptoms in over 70% of patients with durable benefit lasting years — and it's typically a structured course rather than open-ended therapy, so the total investment is defined and time-limited.

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a session cost?

Sessions are $190 per hour when paid out of pocket. Many clients are partially or fully reimbursed through extended health benefits.

Is gut-directed therapy covered by insurance in Manitoba?

Many extended health and employer plans cover psychotherapy or counselling. Coverage varies by plan, so check your policy for a psychotherapy or counselling benefit and annual maximum. We provide receipts for reimbursement.

Do I need a doctor's referral?

No. We accept both self-referrals and physician referrals, and respond within two business days.

Can Veterans or Treaty-status clients access care at no cost?

Yes. Eligible Veterans (through Veterans Affairs Canada) and Treaty-status First Nations and Inuit clients (through NIHB) can receive fully covered sessions.

Can I use a Health Spending Account (HSA)?

In most cases, yes — psychotherapy is typically an eligible expense. Confirm with your HSA administrator.

This article is educational and is not medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, speak with a qualified clinician.