Understanding the Gut-Brain Axis CPD

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) available for CPHT Graduates

Date: Friday 24th October 2025
Timings: 10am to 5pm
Location: Online Zoom Conferencing
Price: £105 (£95 with association membership)
Presenter: Jane Fox
Contact: cpd@cpht.co.uk

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About the Course

Understanding the Gut-Brain Axis CPD

In this fascinating CPD, Jane Fox explores the powerful connection between the gut and the brain—a dynamic relationship that has profound implications for emotional well-being, stress management, and physical health.

Recent research reveals that the gut-brain axis plays a pivotal role in mood regulation, mental clarity, and anxiety management.

For Solution Focused Hypnotherapists, understanding this interplay offers a unique opportunity to deepen therapeutic impact.

Course Content Overview

Introduction to the Gut-Brain Axis

  • Definition: The bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain.
  • Importance in overall health, emotions, and cognition.
  • Why it matters for hypnotherapists: Understanding the mind-body connection in therapy.

The Gut as the “Second Brain”

  • Overview of the Enteric Nervous System (ENS).
  • Role of neurotransmitters in the gut: Serotonin, dopamine, and GABA.
  • Gut microbiota’s influence on mental health.
  • How gut imbalances may affect mood, anxiety, and behaviour.

The Role of the Vagus Nerve

  • Explanation of the vagus nerve as the primary link between the gut and the brain.
  • Its role in regulating stress responses, digestion, and inflammation.
  • Techniques to stimulate vagus nerve activity for therapeutic benefit (e.g., breathing exercises, relaxation).

Stress, Anxiety, and the Gut-Brain Axis

  • The impact of chronic stress on gut health: Cortisol, inflammation, and digestion.
  • Stress-related digestive disorders: IBS, functional dyspepsia, etc.
  • Hypnotherapy for stress reduction and its effects on gut health.

Gut Health and Mental Health

  • Evidence linking gut microbiota with anxiety, depression, and other psychological disorders.
  • How gut health affects emotional regulation, cognitive function, and resilience to stress.
  • The effect of diet, probiotics, and lifestyle changes on gut health

Hypnotherapy and the Gut-Brain Axis

  • How hypnosis can influence gut function by altering stress response and promoting relaxation.
  • What is gut-directed hypnotherapy and how does it differ from SFH?

Learning outcomes

Attending this CPD will provide the attendee with an increased knowledge of the Gut-Brain Axis and the effects of this on Mental Health. It will provide the attendee with increased confidence in explaining the way the brain works to clients presenting with gut issues as part of their symptomology. Many conditions of the gut are exacerbated by stress and the information in the workshop helps to explain the reasons why, and how the usual practice of Solution Focused Hypnotherapy can help to reduce gut-related symptoms.

Reviews

Great CPD for me as a therapist and also from an individual perspective. I already ask clients if they have any concerns about alcohol, sleep and a few other areas, but historically haven't asked about diet. I will be doing so going forward!
Nicola G June 28, 2025
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About the Presenter

Jane Fox
BSc (Hons), MSc, AHD, HPD, DSFH, SFH Sup (Hyp), MNCH (Acc), MAfSFH (Reg), MNCH (Reg)

Jane obtained a BSc in Biological Sciences in 1980 from the University of Aston in Birmingham and later achieved a MSc by research from Sheffield University in 1988. After graduation in 1980 she worked in University Research in London, Sheffield and Manchester. Her work in Manchester involved research within the clinical gastroenterology team of Prof Peter Whorwell, well known for his work on hypnotherapy as a treatment for IBS.

Jane went on to work in the pharmaceutical industry for 30 years as a Clinical Research Associate, monitoring clinical trials for new medications and medical devices. Jane’s work on Medical Device studies was in the area of Neuromodulation, including the use of Deep Brain Stimulation for Treatment-resistant Depression and for Parkinson’s Disease. Since leaving clinical research, Jane continues to have a strong interest in research and has set up a research programme for CPHT to evidence the efficacy of Solution Focused Hypnotherapy.

Jane continues to study in all things Neurological and Solution Focused, and she achieved the Advanced Hypnotherapy Diploma in 2022. As well as lecturing, Jane has a busy practice in South Manchester and enjoys supervising around 25 qualified hypnotherapists.

Online Booking Form

Please book this CPD using our Online Booking Form below. If you do not have a PayPal account you can also pay by Debit or Credit card on the PayPal checkout page.

Our CPDs are delivered by experienced professionals, partnering with CPHT to share their knowledge and insights, helping you enhance your skills and grow in your practice. Due to the interactive nature of all our CPDs, recorded versions are not available.

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