A Guide for GI, Hypnotherapy, Psychology and Nutrition Colleagues
When to Refer for Psychogastroenterology
As research continues to confirm the link between emotional regulation and digestive health, psychogastroenterology has emerged as an essential bridge between medical and behavioral care. For gastroenterologists, psychologists, dietitians, and hypnotherapists, understanding when to refer — and how collaborative care improves outcomes — is critical for patient success.
At Balanced Mind Rx, we provide evidence-based treatment for Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction (DGBIs) and other complex mind–body conditions. Our model is designed not to replace, but to enhance your existing treatment plan through direct collaboration.
When Gut and Mind Intersect — Coordinated Care Starts Here
Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction (DGBIs) encompass a wide range of conditions that persist even when structural or biochemical findings are normal.
Common referrals include:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Functional dyspepsia or chronic nausea
Cyclical vomiting or abdominal pain syndromes
Post-infectious or stress-triggered GI flare patterns
Anxiety, depression, or trauma linked to digestive symptoms
Medication intolerance due to nervous system sensitivity
These patients often describe years of frustration, multiple evaluations, and fluctuating symptoms — a pattern that points to a gut-brain communication disorder rather than a single-organ problem. Learn how we bridge these two systems.
When to Consider Referral
A patient may benefit from psychogastroenterology when
GI symptoms persist despite normal labs, imaging, or scopes.
Anxiety, hypervigilance, or trauma appear to amplify physical symptoms.
Food fear, restricted eating, or excessive symptom monitoring interfere with nutrition.
Behavioral or stress-management interventions could complement existing care.
The patient’s care team needs unified coordination between psychiatry, psychology, and gastroenterology.
Early referral prevents “medical burnout” — where the patient disengages after repeated inconclusive tests — and redirects focus toward achievable, measurable improvement.
Our Collaborative Model
At Balanced Mind Rx, we approach care as an extension of your clinical team, not an alternative.
Referrals are integrated into a shared-care framework with:
Gastroenterologists — aligning behavioral and medication management with GI treatment plans.
Psychologists and Therapists — reinforcing therapeutic gains through brain-gut behavioral techniques.
Dietitians and Nutritionists — reducing food-related anxiety, supporting sustainable meal plans.
Hypnotherapists — ensuring continuity for patients receiving gut-directed hypnotherapy or related modalities.
All treatment plans are documented and shared (with patient consent) to maintain transparent, coordinated progress. Learn about our collaborative coordination process .
Evidence for Integrated Gut–Brain Care
Research Highlights
Rome Foundation (2021): Identifies gut-brain miscommunication as a key mechanism in IBS and other DGBIs.
Stanford Health Care: Notes improved patient satisfaction and symptom reduction when GI and behavioral care are coordinated.
NIH Clinical Trials: Support CBT and hypnotherapy as effective tools for symptom modulation and improved quality of life.
Many patients benefit from a combination of both, guided by their provider after a comprehensive evaluation.
Referral Benefits for Specialists
Collaborating with Balanced Mind Rx can help you
Improve patient outcomes through integrated mind-body treatment.
Reduce redundant testing by addressing behavioral and neurological contributors.
Increase patient adherence by reducing health anxiety and avoidance behaviors.
Enhance continuity of care with cross-provider communication and consistent documentation.
Our shared goal is the same as yours: sustained symptom relief and a better quality of life for every patient.
About the BMRx Provider
Debra Peneiras, MSN, APN, PMHNP-BC
Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Specializing in Psychogastroenterology & Integrative Psychiatry
With experience in both psychiatric and gastroenterology settings, Debra acts as the coordinator and connector within complex care teams — ensuring behavioral, pharmacologic, and gastrointestinal treatments work in harmony. Meet Debra →
How to Refer or Collaborate
Referrals can be made directly via
Call: (732) 993-3398
Preferred Referral Types
IBS or DGBI cases with psychological overlay
Anxiety-related gut symptoms
Patients needing medication coordination between psychiatry and GI
Collaboration requests for joint management of complex cases
Documentation
We return referral summaries, treatment updates, and coordination notes (with patient consent).
Better Outcomes Begin With Collaboration
If you’re a gastroenterologist, psychologist, dietitian, or hypnotherapist seeking a trusted behavioral health partner for your patients, Balanced Mind Rx welcomes collaboration. We share your commitment to evidence-based practice, communication, and compassion.
