Research Focus

Our research focuses on the development and evaluation of psychosocial interventions and resources for individuals experiencing loss and adversity, including bereaved individuals and cancer survivors.

A major area of focus is advancing bereavement science and the growing evidence base of bereavement supports by:

1. distinguishing among groups with varying support needs
2. identifying, understanding, and tailoring targets for intervention
3. developing and testing theoretically-grounded and evidence-informed grief interventions
4. evaluating dissemination and implementation of evidence-based approaches;
5. improving access to bereavement care more broadly

Special areas of interest include meaning-making and existential distress; bereavement risk screening; prolonged, debilitating grief; and social isolation.

Much of this work has been in the context of oncology, with the goal of promoting continuity of family-centered cancer care through bereavement. We apply a public health lens in our research, recognizing both the value and limits of hospital-based resources and supporting the transition of cancer patients and their families from hospital-based care to care in the community. Our research serves as a foundation of training within health systems and the community through the Center for the Advancement of Bereavement Care at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. Contact cabc@miami.edu for more information.

Our research with cancer survivors has focused on developing and evaluating psychosocial interventions, including digital approaches, to facilitate coping with fear of cancer recurrence and finding meaning in and after the cancer experience.