Meet Tony
Gut Directed Hypnotherapist
Sharing my knowledge with fellow Hypnotherapy Professionals
Tony presented in 2025 at the NZAPH 25th Anniversary conference on the topic of gut directed hypnotherapy.
The NZAPH Committee
Clinical Hypnotherapist and Mind-Body Practitioner
Specialising in Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Support
As an experienced Clinical Hypnotherapist and mind-body practitioner, I focus on supporting individuals with IBS to improve their quality of life and better manage their symptoms, particularly those who have found standard approaches challenging.
Through The Gut-Brain Connection Program, I work with clients from all walks of life who are seeking complementary support for persistent functional gut symptoms. My approach is designed to work alongside your medical care, providing tools for those whose symptoms remain a significant part of their daily lives.
My Approach
My protocol integrates evidence-based Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy (GDH) with techniques from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other mind-body modalities. This approach is built on over 40 years of international clinical research. Studies into GDH have shown that a significant majority of participants (often cited as 70–80% in clinical trials) experience an improvement in their symptoms and overall wellbeing.
Professional Background
After years of focusing on stress and nervous system regulation, I became deeply interested in the Connection between the gut and brain (the gut–brain axis). The science suggests a profound connection between the nervous system and digestive function. I focus on how stress and gut symptoms can influence one another, and how calming that connection can assist in symptom management.
My Goal for You
I help clients work with their gut–brain connection to help regulate the body's response to functional digestive conditions. My aim is to help you move forward and reduce the impact IBS has on your daily activities.
Many clients find that this mind-body focus provides a helpful new perspective. If you are looking for further options to support your digestive health, I am here to help you navigate that journey.
Note: A formal medical diagnosis of IBS from a GP or Gastroenterologist is required before beginning this program.
Education, Credentials & Training
Master Practitioner Diploma in Indirect Hypnosis, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy and Hypnotic Language with Clients (with Distinction) - British Hypnosis Research and Training School
Diploma in Clinical and Advanced Hypnosis (DipCAH) - UK Academy of Therapeutic Arts & Sciences
Hypnotherapy Practicing Diploma (HPD) - the UK Northern Advisory Council for Further Education (NACFE)
Advanced Practitioner of IEMT - Integral Eye Movement Therapy
Metaphors of Movement Level 2
Master Practitioner NLP - Neurolingusitic Programming
Certified Life Coach
My GDH Qualifications |
My GDH Qualifications |
HypnoIBS® Practitioner
Developed by Claire Jack Ph.D (Academy of the Inner Mind) HypnoIBS® Training – is considered the gold standard training in gut-directed hypnosis for IBS.
International Certification Board of Clinical Hypnotherapy
The International Certification Board of Clinical Hypnotherapy is a worldwide hypnosis organization that provides education to hypnosis professionals.
Pellen and Palmer IBS Hypnosis certification
This qualification is fully recognised by International Institute of Complementary Therapists.
Shelia Granger - Certified IBS Hypnotherapy Practitioner
Sheila Granger is aninternationally renowned hypnotherapist. She is one of the leading providers of professional hypnotherapy training.
Imaginative Bremner Solutions (IBS4IBS)
An experienced intensive care nurse and hypnotherapist, Helen Bremner set up and delivered the only UK NHS primary care IBS Hypnotherapy Service. The service had high levels of patient satisfaction and 97% of patients gained reduced symptoms after therapy.
Helen now shares her successful methods with other hypnotherapists through her Imaginative Bremner Solutions (IBS4IBS) program. I am currently the only approved provided of this program in NZ.
My Values
When it comes to helping people gain significant, long-lasting relief from IBS, I believe clarity, compassion, and credibility matter. Here’s what guides my work — and the relationships I build with every client:
Evidence First, Always
I use clinically-researched Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy and CBT as a foundation, enhanced by supportive techniques from other modalities such as NLP and IEMT.
Empowerment Over Dependence
My goal is not to “fix” you — but to equip you. I help you understand what’s driving your symptoms and give you the tools to support nervous system regulation. You don’t need to become a lifetime client. This work is designed to restore autonomy, not create dependency.
Calm, Clear Communication
You’ve likely had your symptoms dismissed, misunderstood, or pathologised. I speak plainly. I explain the science in ways that make sense — no jargon, no hype — so you can make informed decisions about your health.
Safety + Integrity
Everything I offer is trauma-sensitive, respectful of your boundaries, and grounded in professional ethics. I’ll never make promises I can’t keep, and I won’t pretend this journey is always easy — but I will walk alongside you with honesty and care.
You Are Not Broken
IBS is not “in your head.” It’s in your nervous system and that means you can learn to influence your body's response. I believe every person deserves to feel safe, at home in their body, and confident in their life again. That’s what I’m here to help you reclaim.
