ADAPTing CBT for Pediatric Functional Abdominal Pain in Primary Care

Pilot Testing a Cognitive Behavioral Program Addressing Pediatric Functional Abdominal Pain in Primary Care Settings

Many youth experience ongoing stomach pain that does not have a clear medical cause. These conditions, called functional abdominal pain disorders, are common and can last for years. They often interfere with school attendance, daily activities, and social life, and are frequently linked with anxiety. Families may go through many medical tests and appointments without finding relief. The investigator's research shows that teaching these children coping skills, like relaxation, problem solving, and managing anxious thoughts, can reduce pain and improve functioning. The Aim to Decrease Anxiety and Pain Treatment (ADAPT) is a brief program, using cognitive behavioral strategies and mindfulness, the investigators developed that helps children. ADAPT has been shown to work well in specialty clinics, but most children with stomach pain are first seen in primary care, where this type of support is not usually available. The purpose of this project is to test ADAPT in pediatric primary care and test whether it can be delivered successfully. The goal is to improve access to care, reduce symptoms, and better support children.

Inclusion Criteria:

• FAPD diagnosis
• Ages 9-14 years
• Functional disability score of 7 or greater

Exclusion Criteria:

• <9 years or >14 years
• Known developmental disability, sensory, or cognitive impairments that limit youths' ability to engage with behavioral programming
• Unmanaged psychiatric illness (e.g., psychosis, active suicidal ideation, severe depression as indicated in electronic medical records)
• Symptoms directly attributable to a physical health concern (e.g., cancer, cystic fibrosis, inflammatory bowel disease).
• Lack of English proficiency