Paula Koppel

I am a PhD candidate at the Duke University School of Nursing. My program of scholarship seeks to advance our understanding of nurse relationship science in clinical practice and educational settings. My current research focuses on the development of rapport between nurse clinicians and patients in oncology ambulatory care. This includes several studies exploring the development of rapport in telehealth videoconferencing visits. My long-term goal is to improve the relational experience between patients and healthcare providers, promoting a sense of positivity and connection within their dyadic interactions that will foster effective communication, safe and high-quality care, and resilience in both patients and clinicians. 

Prior to pursuing a PhD, my career focused on developing innovative healthcare models that were grounded in person-centered and holistic clinical care. I founded two companies with this mission, Paula Koppel & Partners, LLC and Age Well Be Well, LLC. I am currently an integrative nurse consultant at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and integrative health coach . During my time at Duke, I completed a program for certification in nursing education, to enrich my ability to understand and support the educational and professional needs of clinicians on the frontlines of healthcare. I am a board certified geriatric nurse practitioner, advanced holistic nurse, and health and wellness coach. I have presented nationally and internationally for over 35 years.