Irritable bowel syndrome is a painful and chronic disease that affects 8 to 17 percent of American adults. Fortunately, psychotherapy can bring relief to the significant physical and psychological distress caused by IBS. This book provides all the information needed to treat this disorder. It reviews research on the effectiveness of psychological treatments for IBS, describes psychological assessment techniques, and then outlines detailed treatment methods. The treatment methods detailed are short-term therapies and include the three major treatment modalities shown to be most effective for this population: cognitive therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and hypnotherapy. Session-by-session treatment plans for each of these therapies are outlined, describing the rationale for the session, goals and objectives, structured activities, and homework assignments. Also provided are assessment forms, symptom diaries, cognitive monitoring forms, and educational handouts. Instructions for modifying the three treatments for use with individuals and with groups are provided as well as helpful advice for collaborating with gastroenterologists and other referring physicians. This is the essential resource for helping patients ease the pain of this distressing disorder.