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).

Do I need a doctor's referral?

No referral is required. We accept both physician referrals and self-referrals. Our care coordinator will be in touch within two business days.

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 / Heartburn That PPIs Don't Fix

When acid isn't the answer

Heartburn That PPIs Don't Fix

You've taken the acid-blockers for months and the burning is still there. When PPIs don't work, it's often because the problem was never really acid.

When it's not acid, it's sensitivity

In functional heartburn and reflux hypersensitivity, the esophagus has become over-sensitive: normal or near-normal amounts of acid and ordinary swallowing are perceived as burning pain. That's why suppressing acid further doesn't help — there isn't excess acid to suppress.

The brain-gut connection

This esophageal hypersensitivity is part of the same brain-gut signalling family as IBS and functional dyspepsia. The nerves carrying signals from the gut to the brain are turned up too high, amplifying normal sensations into pain.

What helps when PPIs don't

Gut-directed therapies — including gut-directed hypnotherapy, CBT and ACT — and certain neuromodulators target the hypersensitivity directly. For many people whose reflux didn't respond to acid suppression, this is the missing piece. Always keep your physician involved to rule out other causes first.

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Frequently asked questions

If PPIs didn't work, what's going on?

Often the issue is an over-sensitive esophagus rather than excess acid, so acid-blockers can't help. That sensitivity is treatable through the brain-gut axis.

Do I stop my reflux medication?

Never change medication without your physician. We work alongside your medical care, not instead of it.

Can this be treated in Manitoba virtually?

Yes — we provide virtual gut-directed care across Manitoba, with self-referrals welcome.

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