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S05E04 | Mind Meets Gut with Dr. Kelly Watkins
We’re often told that stress “affects the gut,” but rarely are we given a clear explanation of how or what to actually do about it. In this episode, Dr. Kelly Watkins joins Sandra to unpack the science and psychology behind the mind–gut connection and why approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are becoming an essential part of digestive care.
This episode covers:
- How stress and anxiety physically affect gut function
- The science behind the brain–gut communication loop
- Why CBT is increasingly used in digestive disorders
- Common psychological triggers for bloating, pain and IBS flares
- How gut symptoms and anxiety can reinforce each other
- Practical CBT tools for managing gut-related anxiety
- Why “it’s in your head” is a misleading and harmful myth
This conversation bridges the gap between gut health and mental health, tackles stigma head-on, and offers practical tools for anyone living with IBS, bloating, chronic pain or stress-related digestive symptoms.
About Dr. Kelly Watkins
Dr Kelly Watkins, BSc (Hons), MSc, PG Dip, PgD, is a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist, and HCPC-registered Practitioner Psychologist. With over a decade of experience working with clients across the NHS, HM Prison Service, private healthcare, and community settings, Kelly brings a unique blend of psychological expertise and mind-body understanding to her work.
Kelly supports clients worldwide through 1:1 work, online workshops and retreats designed to help individuals rebuild their relationship with food, understand the mind-gut connection, and heal the emotional patterns that contribute to digestive distress. Her integrative approach combines evidence-based psychological therapies with practical, holistic strategies that empower people to transform their wellbeing from the inside out.
Alongside her clinical work, Kelly lectures and supervises the next generation of CBT therapists and conducts research into personality disorders, staff training, and therapeutic engagement. She has also built a successful online platform, creating accessible education, digital resources, and mental wellness products for a global audience. Her content and expertise have led to regular media interviews and collaborations focusing on forensic psychology, mental health and whole-body wellbeing.
Passionate about demystifying therapy and reducing stigma around mental health, she is committed to supporting people to make meaningful, sustainable changes and live fuller, healthier lives.
Connect with Dr. Kelly Watkins:
Website
Join “The Live Gut Chat: A Night with The Gastro & His Daughter” on the 26.01.2026 at 5:00pm CET / 8:00pm Gulf Standard Time. You’ve listened to us in your ears, now join us in the room for a live recording of the pod. For more information and registration, click here.
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By Sandra MikhailWe’re often told that stress “affects the gut,” but rarely are we given a clear explanation of how or what to actually do about it. In this episode, Dr. Kelly Watkins joins Sandra to unpack the science and psychology behind the mind–gut connection and why approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are becoming an essential part of digestive care.
This episode covers:
- How stress and anxiety physically affect gut function
- The science behind the brain–gut communication loop
- Why CBT is increasingly used in digestive disorders
- Common psychological triggers for bloating, pain and IBS flares
- How gut symptoms and anxiety can reinforce each other
- Practical CBT tools for managing gut-related anxiety
- Why “it’s in your head” is a misleading and harmful myth
This conversation bridges the gap between gut health and mental health, tackles stigma head-on, and offers practical tools for anyone living with IBS, bloating, chronic pain or stress-related digestive symptoms.
About Dr. Kelly Watkins
Dr Kelly Watkins, BSc (Hons), MSc, PG Dip, PgD, is a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist, and HCPC-registered Practitioner Psychologist. With over a decade of experience working with clients across the NHS, HM Prison Service, private healthcare, and community settings, Kelly brings a unique blend of psychological expertise and mind-body understanding to her work.
Kelly supports clients worldwide through 1:1 work, online workshops and retreats designed to help individuals rebuild their relationship with food, understand the mind-gut connection, and heal the emotional patterns that contribute to digestive distress. Her integrative approach combines evidence-based psychological therapies with practical, holistic strategies that empower people to transform their wellbeing from the inside out.
Alongside her clinical work, Kelly lectures and supervises the next generation of CBT therapists and conducts research into personality disorders, staff training, and therapeutic engagement. She has also built a successful online platform, creating accessible education, digital resources, and mental wellness products for a global audience. Her content and expertise have led to regular media interviews and collaborations focusing on forensic psychology, mental health and whole-body wellbeing.
Passionate about demystifying therapy and reducing stigma around mental health, she is committed to supporting people to make meaningful, sustainable changes and live fuller, healthier lives.
Connect with Dr. Kelly Watkins:
Website
Join “The Live Gut Chat: A Night with The Gastro & His Daughter” on the 26.01.2026 at 5:00pm CET / 8:00pm Gulf Standard Time. You’ve listened to us in your ears, now join us in the room for a live recording of the pod. For more information and registration, click here.