Hypnotherapist

Job overview

The Neurogastro Unit at the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust is a national referral centre dedicated to the care of patients with complex disorders of gut-brain interaction, of which IBS is one of the most common conditions. The department has a wide-ranging research program into these disorders.

One component of the integrated multidisciplinary care provided to patients is gut-directed hypnotherapy and the unit has a worldwide reputation for research into hypnosis and provision of this form of brain-gut behavioural treatment.

The successful applicant will be expected to learn and adhere to all the specialised techniques used in the Unit. It is also important that they remain within the treatment boundaries of the department bearing in mind that it is a Gastroenterology Unit and not a psychological or psychiatric department.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Hypnotherapist to join an existing team of three therapists and be expected to work flexibly in order to meet the needs of patients and keep the waiting list at an acceptable level. They will also be responsible for keeping up to date records on every patient they treat in order to allow audit of their outcomes and those of the department.  Meticulous record keeping is essential as treatment outcomes form an important part of the research undertaken by the Unit.

Shortlisted candidates would be expected to demonstrate their skills by hypnotising a volunteer provided on the day of interview.

Main duties of the job

• To provide high quality gut-directed hypnosis to patients with disorders of gut brain interaction.  Plan and execute a programme of up to 12 sessions tailored to patients’ particular needs in order to enable them to become self reliant in symptom control as well as enhancing coping strategies and improving psychological status.  Where appropriate, to also facilitate a reduction in medication and healthcare demands at the primary care level.

• To facilitate patients understanding of gastrointestinal and somatic symptoms including chronic pain.  To also explain the interaction between the biological, social and psychological aspects of illness.

• To use hypnosis to control gut function and reduce hyper reactivity, hypersensitivity and hyper vigilance.  To address psychological issues where appropriate within the limits of the expertise of the department.

• To include cognitive behavioural approaches into the treatment regime.

• To attend meetings of the department where cases can be discussed and experiences shared.

• To keep excellent records.

• To participate in any ongoing research in this area.

To communicate with the referring neurogastroenterologist (Dr Vasant or Prof Whorwell) if any patient is causing them any concern with regard progress, safety or the development of new symptoms.

To work as part of a team and communicate effectively.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

To find out more about the key responsibilities and the specific skills and experience you’ll need, take a look at the Job Description & Person Specification attachments under the ‘Supporting Documents’ heading.   So that you’re even more equipped to make an informed decision to apply to us, you’ll need to take time to read the ‘Candidate Essentials Guide’ that sits with the Job Description and Person Specification.  This document provides you with details about the Trust, our benefits and outlines how ‘we care for you as you care for others’.  Most importantly, it also contains critical information you’ll need to be aware of before you submit an application form.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in your application

Here at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, we’re proud to be ALL HERE FOR YOU—for our patients, our communities, and each other.

As part of our commitment to fairness, transparency, and personal integrity, we ask all applicants to ensure that their job applications reflect their own experiences, skills, and motivations. While AI tools can support spelling, grammar, or formatting, we expect that the content of your application—especially personal statements and responses to role-specific questions—is written by you.  This helps us get to know the real you and ensures that our recruitment process remains equitable and meaningful for everyone.

Thank you for helping us uphold the values that make our Trust a place where people belong, grow, and thrive.  We look forward to receiving your application.

Diversity Matters

MFT is committed to promoting equality of opportunity, celebrating and valuing diversity and eliminating any form of unlawful discrimination across our workforce, ensuring our people are truly representative of the communities we serve. All individuals regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation are encouraged to apply for this post.  As an inclusive employer, we are here to support you.  If you have any special requirements to help you with your application, please contact the manager named below.