The Brain-Gut Bulletin
The latest news and updates you need to know about our practice.
GI Psychology Represents at Digestive Disease Week® 2025
Booth: 5108
The brain-gut connection will take center stage at DDW® 2025! GI Psychology will join fellow GI health experts to share insights and advance the conversation around effective treatments for DGBIs. Make sure to stop by our booth to learn more about our practice – and pick up some limited edition merch!
Learn more about DDW here.
GI Psychology + Northern Virginia Family Practice Connect!

Welcome to Our Team!

Alexandra “Ali” Chadderdon, Psy.D. is a licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in chronic pain and gut-brain disorders. With a compassionate, collaborative approach, she builds strong therapeutic relationships that prioritize trust, connection, and whole-person care. She earned her doctorate from Adler University and has worked in Veterans Affairs, the Cleveland Clinic’s Chronic Pain Clinic, and Vanderbilt’s integrative medicine team. A national trainer in Clinical Hypnosis, Dr. Chadderdon is known for helping patients find meaning and joy even amid complex health challenges. Outside of work, she enjoys the outdoors and creative hobbies like painting and making friendship bracelets.
Sarah Simpson joins GI Psychology as an Administrative Assistant who brings a thoughtful, patient-centered approach to care. A recent graduate of Northern Michigan University with a degree in Preclinical Psychology and a minor in German, Sarah has gained hands-on experience through her work as a research assistant and certified nurse’s assistant. Her background reflects a strong commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care that aligns with GI Psychology’s mission. Outside of work, Sarah enjoys traveling, practicing her German, and relaxing at home with her cats.

Walk with GIP at Take Steps 2025, Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation
Dr. Antonia Repollet and Sarah Artuso will be representing GI Psychology at the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s national fundraiser, Take Steps. Participants will walk and enjoy family-friendly activities to raise funds for critical research and increase awareness about Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Learn more about Take Steps in Washington, D.C. here.
The Minds of GI Psychology
Featured spotlight on the exceptional people dedicated to raising awareness about brain-gut health.

Dr. Kimberly Wesley is a licensed Clinical Health Psychologist and Clinical Supervisor at GI Psychology with over a decade of experience. Known for her empathetic and collaborative approach, she creates a safe, supportive space where patients feel heard and empowered. Trained at La Salle University, Cooper University Hospital, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Dr. Wesley brings a strong background in hematology, oncology, and gastroenterology to her integrative, mind-body practice. She excels in team-based care and is praised for helping patients overcome initial hesitations about therapy, guiding them toward lasting wellness and resilience. In her spare time, she enjoys baking, rooting for the Mets, and spending time outdoors.
Insights from Our Experts
Watch, listen, and read about our latest contributions to the GI community.
IBD and Pregnancy: Pre-natal Planning, Flares, Emotional Distress, and Multidisciplinary Care
In The Health Psychologist’s latest article, Dr. Antonia Repollet and Dr. Ellen Joseph explore essential considerations for expectant parents with IBD, including: prenatal planning, managing IBD flares during pregnancy, emotional well-being and mental health support, and building a multidisciplinary care team.
Read the full article here and share with anyone who may benefit!
Featured FAQ
What causes IBS?
There are believed to be several factors that can contribute to the onset of IBS. These include a history of a GI infection (i.e. food poisoning) or stomach trauma, acute or chronic stressful life events, as well as a family history of GI distress. Secondary to these aspects, individuals can often develop hypersensitivity and hypervigilance which intensify and maintain the GI dysfunction associated with IBS.
Have more questions about GI Psychology? Check out our other FAQs and explore our website to learn more!
For Providers
If you think one of your patients could benefit from GI Psychology’s scientifically proven therapies, complete our “Warm Hand-Off” referral form with this QR code, visit our website, or connect with our administrative team at admin@gipsychology.com.
For Patients

If you’re seeking clinical care or medical information about GI Psychology, schedule a free consultation with this QR code, visit our website, or connect with our administrative team at admin@gipsychology.com.
Thinking about integrating gut-brain therapy into your health system?
Check out our website or schedule a meeting!
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