Digital and Conventional Behavioral Therapies for Neurogastroenterology and Motility Disorders

Brain-gut behavior therapies (BGBTs) comprise of several behavioral and psychological therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or gut-directed hypnotherapy that are effective at improving symptom management and quality of life for patients with a range of neurogastroenterology and motility disorders. This review highlights recent advances in BGBT approaches, including novel delivery methods to improve access to care.

Traditional BGBT approaches have evolved to more effectively target GI-specific psychological processes, with exposure techniques and mindfulness-based skills emerging as important elements of treatment. BGBTs are also being delivered in new ways, including digital formats, to expand access to care. Digital therapeutics show promise; however, feasibility of these tools in clinical practice remains unclear. BGBTs continue to evolve to address the complex needs of patients with Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBI) and are being applied more broadly to treat the full spectrum of DGBI conditions. Novel delivery methods show promise; however, further research is needed to identify real-world effectiveness of digital treatments and to identify patients most likely to benefit.