ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to provide information on the efficacy of hypnotherapy in children with brain–gut disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or chronic nausea. The reader is provided with protocols and tips on applying hypnosis and explaining its use to youth living with a gastrointestinal (GI) condition. In general, it is recommended that pediatric hypnotherapy is provided by a healthcare professional already trained in working with youth, such as pediatricians, general practitioners, psychologists, nurses, and play therapists. Studies on other GI disorders in youth are lacking, but adult data and the author's experience suggest that hypnotherapy can also be used for gastro-oesophageal reflux or globus sensations. A recent follow-up study showed that this home-based treatment had persisting positive results in more than 80% of the youth six years after treatment. Several treatment protocols are provided in the chapter, either for individual hypnotherapy by a therapist or for a home-based treatment with recorded hypnosis exercises.
