A study published in Behaviour Research and Therapy found that brief, internet based cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), with limited therapist feedback (delivered via email), can help reduce symptom severity in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Researchers found that CBT can reduce individuals’ catastrophic thinking about the implications of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms present in IBS cases. Reducing catastrophic thinking via CBT may lead to a decrease in symptom severity and positive treatment outcomes.
Hunt, M.G., Moshier, S., & Milonova, M. (2009). Brief cognitive-behavioral internet therapy for irritable bowel syndrome. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 47(9), 797-802.