GI Behavioral Therapy Care Team
Megan Riehl, Psy.D., AGAF, is the Clinical Program Director of the Michigan Medicine GI Behavioral Health Program. She is expert in the management of gastrointestinal conditions using brain-gut psychological interventions. Dr. Riehl’s collaborative approach focuses on tailoring treatment plans to improve patients’ quality of life, decrease the frequency and intensity of medical symptoms, manage stress, and improve coping skills. She works with each patient to design unique and flexible treatment plans tailored to the individual.
Christina Jagielski, Ph.D., MPH, is a clinical health psychologist in the Division of Gastroenterology at Michigan Medicine. Dr. Jagielski utilizes evidence-based treatment approaches for a range of gastrointestinal conditions including cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation training and gut-directed hypnosis. Focuses of treatment include decreasing the intensity and frequency of GI symptoms, adjustment to living with a chronic medical condition, health behavior change including behavioral changes for sleep, and improving quality of life. Dr. Jagielski's clinical and research interests include the role of trauma in GI conditions.
Jessica Naftaly, PhD., is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in treating patients with a variety of gastrointestinal concerns. Dr. Naftaly works within an interdisciplinary team and provides patient-centered care. She uses evidence-based treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and gut-directed relaxation.
New Patient Appointments and Insurance
At this time, adult patients (18 years and older) must be under the care of a Michigan Medicine gastroenterologist who would be happy to place a referral to the GI Behavioral Health Program.
After being referred, a new patient in the GI Behavioral Health Program participates in a comprehensive consultation with a psychologist. During the consultation, the patient’s medical history, GI symptoms, stress and coping skills will be discussed, as well as the patient’s goals for treatment.
Central to the consultation is a review of the New Patient Health Questionnaires, which the patient completes through their patient portal.
Together, the psychologist and the patient develop a treatment plan, including the number and frequency of clinic visits. Treatment plans typically involve five to seven visits, scheduled weekly or bi-weekly and are delivered virtually at this time.
Insurance Coverage
Many insurance providers cover the cost of GI behavioral health services. The clinic staff will make an initial inquiry with the insurance provider, but it is also recommended that patients contact their insurance company prior to the initial visit to verify coverage.
Contact the GI Behavioral Health Program
To schedule an appointment with a Michigan Medicine gastroenterologist or for existing patients who need to reschedule or cancel an appointment, call the GI Call Center at 1-888-229-7408.