Disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs) like IBS are among the most frequent presentations in GI care – yet patients often leave appointments feeling confused, dismissed, or unsure about their diagnosis. 

In this webinar, Kristina Skarbinski, a leading GI nurse practitioner at Massachusetts General Hospital, will share practical strategies for improving patient care in disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs).

She’ll discuss how to build trust through clear, empathetic communication, explain DGBI diagnoses in an accessible way, and use shared information to guide treatment –  whether that’s medication, complementary therapies, or non-pharmacologic options.

Drawing on current evidence in neurogastroenterology and the biopsychosocial model, this session will equip you with the language and tools needed to engage patients more effectively and reduce diagnostic stigma.

Register now to strengthen your approach and improve patient outcomes through clearer, more confident communication.

How to explain gut-brain axis dysfunction in clinically accurate, patient-friendly terms.

Strategies to avoid the “It’s all in your head” misconception.

Frameworks to support adherence to brain-gut behavioral therapies and other first-line interventions.

Insights into how different clinician roles can contribute to more cohesive, patient-centered DGBI care.

If you can't attend live, still register to receive a recording straight to your inbox.

This webinar is designed for gastroenterologists, primary care physicians, APPs, GI nurses, dietitians, naturopaths, physiotherapists, and other healthcare professionals working in the gut-health space.

Encourage your colleagues to register so your team can stay consistent in your approach, strengthen patient trust, and be part of the shift toward more patient-informed IBS care.

Share this link: www.crowdcast.io/c/gut_brain_communication

Kristina F. Skarbinski, MSN, FNP-BC has been a nurse practitioner at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Gastroenterology Department since January 2014 after graduating from Simmons University, Boston. 

Her primary focus is treating patients who have disorders of the gut brain interaction (DGBI). While she treats all DGBI, she has an interest in upper GI and swallowing disorders. She is the Clinical Lead Advanced Practice Provider in both the Swallowing, Heartburn and Esophageal Disease (SHED) Center and the Neurointestinal/Motility Health Center at MGH.

In her unique role, she provides expert clinical care and patient esophageal disease management both within the Gastroenterology and GI Surgery Departments. She is actively involved in research as well as educational initiatives where she has published articles, precepted nurse practitioner students, recruited and onboarded new APPs in the GI division and has presented at numerous local and national conferences. 

She is also an active member of GHAPP in the membership engagement committee as well as an active member of ACG in the advanced practice provider committee.

Healthcare providers can access the Nerva for IBS app for free, giving you an opportunity to see how the program works.

For any questions about the webinar or referring the Nerva program, email healthcare@mindsethealth.com

Connecting the Dots in DGBI: A Patient-Centered Pathway to Understanding, Education, and Management