Gastro-Psychology Specialty

Psych-gastroenterology

Benefits of Working With a Gastro-Psychologist

Gastro-psychologists are behavioral health specialists who support the gut health of your patients by reducing the stress that can be related to gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s or celiac disease, or GERD. We also support good gut health that research shows contribute to reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety and factors such as good nutrition that contribute to better physical and mental health. We also support patients and their families as they manage the distress that can be related to gastrointestinal disorders and increase resiliency and adaptive coping strategies. We strive to be an integral part of the treatment team, working alongside our physician colleagues to provide holistic care, improve treatment outcomes, and enhance patients’ quality of life.

Gastro-Psychology Resources

The Vagus Nerve: A Vital Factor for Gut Health - Blog

The vagus nerve, otherwise known as the 10th cranial nerve, is one of the longest nerves in the human body. It connects the brain with the gastrointestinal tract- running down each side of the body from the brainstem, through the neck and chest, to the abdomen and below. The vagus nerve is a critical component of our autonomic nervous system (ANS)...

Psychological Interventions for Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Inflammatory Bowel Diseases - Peer-Reviewed

Ballou, S., & Keefer, S. (2017). Psychological Interventions for Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. Clinical and Translation Gastroenterology, 8(1): e214. doi: 10.1038/ctg.2016.69

Gastro-Psychologists Patient Handout

Gastro-psychologists are behavioral health providers who are trained to support patients with gastrointestinal disorders and to promote better gut health. Research reveals mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression, can affect up to 50-94% of patients with IBS. View the entire handout below.

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