Yep this is our exact aim! I've responded with some of the studies above, if you have any questions about the studies or areas, I'd be more than happy to speak about them.
Yeah we're actively trying not to generalize,which was a big reason we split the IBS program into its own product (Nerva). We plan on continuing the issue-specific product development rather than building a broad app including all issues.
Interesting idea - I'll see if there's a way we could implement this. We've definitely tried to align ourselves with building an effective program, if you pay through the website and don't see an improvement in symptoms after the program, you can get a full refund.
Sorry about the delay, we're based in Melbourne, Australia so time zones are an issue. The two most researched areas include IBS and Chronic Pain, which is why they're the first focuses for us.
In terms of how hypnotherapy works for IBS, the exact mechanism isn't known. It's been shown to help with reducing visceral hypersensitivity and improving intestinal motility, thought to be due to utilising the gut-brain connection.
There's also more research into other areas including: erectile disfunction, exam anxiety, depression, etc.
The harder part with a double blind study is developing the placebo side, since from a patients perspective it's very easy to know if you're getting the psychological treatment (hypnotherapy) or not. It's possible using a sham treatment or something similar, or using a waitlist or active control.
Yeah it's really hard to replicate the feeling of being in a room with someone and talking through specific situations in your life. Talk therapy (and probably all therapy) is better in person, but there's value in being able to do some home exercises and sessions as well even if it doesn't replace therapy.
There are other therapy approaches which are more suited to be delivered through a phone. Something that we've seen work really well is teaching coping skills, mental models and different perspectives. It's much less about focusing on your past and life situations, and more about actionable skills that you can learn to manage mental health issues.
It shouldn't be that someone's income determines whether or not they can get help. We've learnt that a lot more people want help than those who get help due to two main reasons:
- too expensive
- perceived stigma associated with getting help
This is starting to change and I hope it continues
Approaching it from changing mental models, perspectives and learning new skills is how we view mental health issues management/prevention. If you're interested in this angle, you should try out one of our sessions at Mindset. It'd be really great to hear what you think of them.
