Overview
My research focuses on developing and evaluating behavioral interventions to help patients and their family members cope with the symptoms and psychological demands associated with chronic and life-limiting illness.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
·
2019 - Present
Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Behavioral Medicine & Neurosciences,
Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences
Professor in the School of Nursing
·
2019 - Present
School of Nursing
Member of the Duke Cancer Institute
·
2001 - Present
Duke Cancer Institute,
Institutes and Centers
Recent Publications
Efficacy of a couple-based intervention addressing sexual concerns for breast cancer survivors: Results of a randomized controlled trial.
Journal Article Cancer · January 1, 2025 BACKGROUND: Sexual concerns are common and problematic for breast cancer survivors. Partner and relationship factors often play a key role in determining survivors' sexual adjustment, making it likely that couple-based interventions that integrate survivor ... Full text Link to item CiteFamily-Focused Facilitated Fitness: Feasibility and Acceptability of a Couple-Based Physical Activity Intervention for Hematopoietic Cell Transplant Recipients and Their Caregiving Partners.
Journal Article Transplant Cell Ther · April 2024 Reductions in physical activity (PA) are common among patients following hematopoietic cell transplantation, and a risk factor for poor physical functioning. PA among spouses/cohabiting partners, who frequently serve as the patient's primary caregiver, may ... Full text Link to item CiteCouples communication and cancer: Sequences and trajectories of behavioral affective processes in relation to intimacy.
Journal Article J Fam Psychol · March 2024 Cancer poses a set of physical and emotional challenges to the patient, spouse, and their relationship. One challenge for couples is discussing cancer-related concerns in a manner that facilitates intimacy. Current couple-based interventions have been show ... Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Mindfulness Intervention for Sleep Disturbance and Symptom Management in Hematologic Cancer Patients During and After Inpatient Treatment
ResearchCollaborator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2024 - 2029A Patient-Caregiver Behavioral Intervention for Older Adults with Cancer and Mild Cognitive Impairment
ResearchMentor · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2022 - 2027Caregiver-assisted pain coping skills training for dementia
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2024 - 2026View All Grants
Education, Training & Certifications
Stony Brook University ·
1996
Ph.D.