Introduction: The brain-gut axis refers to complex and reciprocal interactions that impact symptom presentation and disease course within the GI tract. Psychological therapies included in the treatment of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) as well as chronic gut disorders including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) address environmental and psychological factors impacting patients' symptoms and overall functioning.
Areas covered: Employing a biopsychosocial approach, this review focuses on the evidence for and implementation of psychological therapies across pediatric gastrointestinal disorders.
Expert opinion: By developing a working knowledge of evidence-based psychological therapies applicable to pediatric gastrointestinal disorders, clinicians have the opportunity to comprehensively treat patients' symptoms and distress. Regular communication and coordination between pediatric gastroenterology clinicians and providers of psychological therapies offers the greatest likelihood for successfully implementing psychological therapies into treatment plans.
Keywords: IBD; Psychological intervention; brain-gut axis; functional disorders; gastrointestinal.