Dr. Megan Riehl
GI Psychologist. Educator. Author. Enthusiastic Advocate for Wellness.
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Advancing Brain-Gut Behavioral Care
Dr. Megan Riehl, PsyD, is a nationally recognized health psychologist specializing in gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and other chronic digestive conditions. She is an Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Michigan, where she provides clinical care, conducts research, and educates healthcare professionals in evidence-based digestive health psychology. She also serves as a Senior Advisor for GI Psychology, a virtual group practice where behavioral health clinicians specialize in evidence-based treatments for gastrointestinal disorders.
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Dr. Riehl’s work focuses on the brain–gut connection and the use of brain–gut behavioral therapies to improve quality of life for individuals living with GI conditions. She takes a science-based, integrative approach, helping patients better understand the relationship between the mind, gut, genetics, and environment, especially when symptoms persist despite medical treatment.
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Deeply committed to advocacy and education, Dr. Riehl is actively involved in national gastroenterology organizations and, in 2024, was appointed to the National Board of Trustees of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Her expertise is reflected in numerous peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and invited commentaries in health psychology and gastroenterology.
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She is the co-author of Mind Your Gut, a practical, evidence-based book designed to empower people with IBS to take control of their symptoms. Alongside registered dietitian and GI expert Kate Scarlata, she also co-hosts The Gut Health Podcast, translating complex gut health science into accessible, actionable information for patients and clinicians worldwide.
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Gut Health Matters
Gut health is at the core of your overall well-being! It influences everything from digestion and immune function to mood and mental clarity. A healthy gut can boost your energy, sharpen your mind, and help you feel your best inside and out!
What is the brain-gut connection?
The brain-gut connection refers to the complex communication system between the brain and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, often called the "gut-brain axis." This connection allows the brain and gut to constantly send signals to each other through the nervous system, hormones, and neurotransmitters. The gut contains its own network of neurons known as the enteric nervous system (sometimes called the "second brain"), which can operate independently of the central nervous system but also communicates closely with it. This system helps regulate digestion and respond to changes in the gut environment, such as food intake or stress. This connection explains why stress, anxiety, or depression can lead to gastrointestinal issues like indigestion, constipation, or IBS, and why improving gut health may have positive effects on mental well-being.
What is a GI Psychologist?
If you're new to the idea of a GI psychologist, you're not alone. Many people are surprised when their medical provider recommends seeing a GI psychologist to help manage IBS, IBD, or other GI conditions. The symptoms of these conditions are very real, and several factors, especially the brain-gut connection, can influence them. It’s essential to discuss your symptoms with your doctor, get a diagnosis, and develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include medication, nutrition therapy, and support from a GI psychologist. A GI psychologist is a mental health professional specializing in the connection between the brain and the gastrointestinal system. They use evidence-based brain-gut behavioral therapies to help manage chronic GI conditions. GI psychologists address the psychological factors, like stress, anxiety, and depression, that can exacerbate GI symptoms and teach patients strategies to improve symptom management and overall quality of life.
What are brain-gut behavioral therapies?
Brain-gut behavioral therapies are psychological treatments designed to target the communication between the brain and gut, helping to manage gastrointestinal (GI) conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other functional GI disorders. These therapies aim to reduce symptoms by addressing the emotional, cognitive, and behavioral factors that affect gut health.
Key brain-gut behavioral therapies include:
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GI-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (GI-CBT): Helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that can worsen GI symptoms. GI-CBT has been shown to reduce the severity of symptoms like pain, bloating, and diarrhea in people with IBS by improving stress management and coping skills.
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Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy: Uses relaxation techniques and guided imagery to influence gut function. Research suggests it can be effective in reducing the intensity of gut symptoms by calming the nervous system and reducing hypersensitivity in the gut.
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Mindfulness and Relaxation Training: Techniques like meditation and diaphragmatic breathing help reduce stress, which is a major trigger for GI symptoms. These practices promote a calm state of mind, which can soothe the gut and improve overall digestive health.
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Aids patients in reducing symptom-related distress by fostering acceptance of symptoms, detachment from unhelpful thoughts, and a focus on living a values-driven life despite discomfort. By integrating therapeutic techniques, ACT improves coping, reduces anxiety, and enhances quality of life.
These therapies are incorporated into gut health management by focusing on the brain-gut axis, reducing stress, and improving how the brain interprets and responds to gut signals. They provide a holistic, non-pharmaceutical approach to managing chronic GI symptoms, often used alongside dietary changes and medical treatments for more effective outcomes. We discuss all of these topics in Mind Your Gut as well as on The Gut Health Podcast!
Recent Professional Presentations​
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Dr. Riehl shares her expertise nationally with professional and patient-facing audiences. Here are some of her recent talks:
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Maintaining Your Glow: The Art of Self-healing and Nurturing Self-care
Exploring practical strategies for self-healing and prioritizing self-care in everyday life. -
Understanding the Gut-Mind Connection in IBS
A deep dive into the intricate relationship between gut health and mental well-being, with evidence-based insights for managing IBS. -
Stepping Confidently into Self-advocacy
Empowering patients and professionals alike to embrace self-advocacy for better health outcomes and personal growth. -
Digital Behavioral Health Solutions in GI Management
Highlighting innovative digital tools and approaches for integrating behavioral health in gastrointestinal care. -
The Science of Women’s Wellness: Brain–Gut Insights Discover how the brain–gut connection shapes women’s health, and learn practical strategies to avoid fads, manage stress, and optimize overall wellness​
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Emotional Wellness: A Necessity in IBD Care
Addressing the importance of mental health in comprehensive care for individuals with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). -
Medical Trauma: When Healthcare Leaves Scars
Describes how trauma affects patients and offers practical strategies to promote safety and trust in care.​​
For inquiries regarding public speaking, podcasts, professional presentations, bulk book purchases or other adventures, please contact Dr. Riehl!