Duke Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences’ Behavioral Medicine Program addresses stress, psychological factors in disease, and behavioral approaches to the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of stress-related medical disorders.

We strive to advance the scientific understanding of biological, social, psychological, and behavioral factors in human health and disease through research and education, and to apply this knowledge to the development of interventions for disease prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Our clinical services currently are directed at providing evaluations and treatment for patients being considered for solid organ transplantation at Duke.

Faculty

Current Research Studies

COPE-HF: Coping Skills and Heart Failure (REF# 9707)
The COPE-HF study will evaluate if a 16-week telephone intervention focused on helping patients cope with their heart condition can improve quality of life and reduce the need for hospitalizations.
Contact: Kristy Johnson, MPH, 919-681-5874

ENHANCED (REF# 15896)
If you have a history of heart disease, are eligible for cardiac rehabilitation in North Carolina, and are 35 years or older, you may qualify for medical and behavioral evaluations and participation in a stress management training intervention, at no cost to you.
Contact: Stephanie Mabe, 919-668-3555

INSPIRE II (REF# 3707)
INSPIRE is an NIH-funded trial investigating the benefits of a caregiver-assisted telephone-based coping skills training program in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study aims to help people with COPD and their caregivers cope with symptoms, enhance quality of life, and improve physical functioning.
Contact: Julie Johnson, 919-684-5487

Lifestyle, Cardiovascular Disease Risk, and Cognitive Impairment (REF# 31464)
Adults older than age 55 with either heart disease or two or more risk factors for heart disease (such as, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, smoking, etc.) and mild problems in concentration and memory are eligible to participate in the ENLIGHTEN study, which looks at exercise and diet for cognitive function.
Contact: 919-681-4747