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Can Psychotherapy Help With IBS?

By Barbara Bradley Bolen, Ph.D., About.com

Updated: June 17, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Question: Can Psychotherapy Help With IBS?

My doctor suggested that I go talk to a psychologist, but I am not depressed. Why would she recommend that? Would it help my IBS?

Answer: You don’t have to be depressed to benefit from psychotherapy. Certain types of psychotherapy have been shown to be effective in reducing IBS symptoms. Although it is not known precisely why therapy is beneficial, it is thought to be related to the effect of the therapy on the close interconnections between the brain and the intestinal system.

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