The Gut-Brain Axis

CE Credit Hours: 3
APA, BBS, BRN

The Enteric Nervous System is a major division of the human nervous system and consists of a system of neurons that govern the gastrointestinal system (GI). The neuronal network of the Enteric Nervous System is so extensive that it is often referred to as “The Second Brain.” The important role of the Enteric Nervous System in the bidirectional communication between the GI system and the brain has recently gained greater attention and understanding. This communication system is referred to as the ‘Gut-Brain Axis.’ Of central importance in the Gut-Brain Axis is the emerging research demonstrating that increased “intestinal permeability,” often referred to as a “leaky gut,” and “dybiosis,” may be etiological factors in a variety of health concerns. Medical conditions ranging from gastrointestinal disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and celiac disease, to autoimmune disease, such as multiple sclerosis(cite)may be affected by the Gut-Brain Axis. Notably, the ‘Gut-Brain Axis’ plays a central role in neurotransmitter and hormone functions, which may affect mood, behavior, and the brain.1

The focus of this course is to provide professionals with an applied and clinically relevant understanding of the Gut-Brain Axis by outlining its relevance to disease and brain related disorders. In addition, nutritional influences on the Gut-Brain Axis, such as food allergies/sensitivities, gluten intolerance, and the gut microbiome will be discussed. A nutritional model for supporting the Gut-Brain Axis will be presented and scope of practice guidelines associated with providing clients with nutritional information will be addressed.

Instructor: Alyssa Adams, PsyD
Alyssa Adams, PsyD, is a psychologist at MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital in Washington, DC, where she specializes in both health psychology and neuropsychology. Her research and clinical interests include the impact of nutrition on mood and cognition, the role of nutrition in the prevention and treatment of neurological diseases, adjustment to illness and injury, preventive health behaviors, environmental/toxin exposures, and management of MTHFR mutations. Additional clinical experiences include training in psychotherapy and neurocognitive rehabilitation. Dr. Adams completed the Applying Functional Medicine in Clinical Practice educational program through the Institute for Functional Medicine.

Instructor: Amanda Hull, PhD
Amanda Hull, PhD, is currently completing a fellowship in clinical and research neuropsychology at the War Related Illness and Injury Study Center (WRIISC) at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Washington, DC. She also completed her predoctoral internship, specializing in neuropsychology, at the Washington, DC VA Medical Center. She received academic training in clinical psychology, and her graduate research focused on cognitive functioning in veterans at an outpatient polytrauma clinic. Nutritional psychology/neuropsychology, CAM influences on cognition and well-being, traumatic brain injury, and neuropsychology of PTSD are her current research interests. Additionally, Dr. Hull’s clinical experiences include training in individual, group, and family therapy.

JFKU-CE is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists, by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) to provide continuing education for MFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs & LEPs and by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) to provide continuing education for RNs. JFKU-CE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

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