19. IBS & the Gut-Brain Connection with Dr. Ali Navidi Clinical Psychologist

Send a text In this episode of the IBS Nutrition Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Ali Navidi — a licensed clinical psychologist and co-founder of GI Psychology — to explore how the gut-brain connection drives IBS symptoms, and how targeted psychological treatment can lead to lasting relief. We dive into what the gut-brain axis really is (without the medical jargon), when to seek support from a GI psychologist, and how tools like gut-directed CBT and clinical hypnosis can break the vicious cycle of symptom-anxiety-symptom. Whether you’ve been told “it’s all in your head” or you’re feeling stuck after trying diet changes alone, this episode will show you that IBS relief is possible with the right care team. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✔ What the gut-brain axis is and how it fuels IBS symptoms ✔ Why IBS isn’t “just in your head” (and how to break the shame cycle) ✔ How treatment works: CBT, hypnotherapy, and tailored assessment ✔ Dr. Navidi’s top 3 actionable tips to calm your gut and mind right now Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome & intro to Dr. Ali Navidi [01:32] What is the gut-brain connection? [04:18] Why IBS isn’t "just in your head" [09:39] When to seek GI psych support [13:01] How assessments & treatment work [15:39] Gut-directed CBT vs. clinical hypnosis [21:07] Dr. Navidi’s 3 actionable steps for symptom relief [26:05] Final message to IBS sufferers [27:36] How to access more support Resources Mentioned: Dr Navidi Website: gipsychology.com GI Psychology Instagram: https://instagram.com/gipsychusa Dr Navidi Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gipsychology/posts 🌟 Love this episode? Leave us a 5-star review! It helps us reach more people who need IBS support. As a special bonus, I want to give you FREE access to my signature IBS Course. • Leave a review of this podcast • Email a screenshot of your review to info@ibsdietitian.com Get our help: 🌟 Join IBS Freedom Program - https://ibsdietitian.com/group-program/ 👩🏻‍⚕️ Make an appointment https://ibsdietitian.com/1-1-appointments/ 🖥️ Affordable IBS Self-Paced Course https://ibsdietitian.com/ibs-freedom/ 🔔 Stay Connected & Get More Support 📷 Follow us on Instagram: @ibs.dietitian 💬 Join our Facebook Community: IBS Support For Women Free Resources: 🖥️ Free IBS Relief Masterclass: https://ibsdietitian.com/masterclass 📋 Free Symptom Tracker – Start tracking your symptoms today: https://poopedia.org/resources 🔗 Download your FREE Low FODMAP Starter Guide (grocery list, meal plan, and food swaps): https://ibsdietitian.com/resources/