Behavioral Medicine is the interdisciplinary field combining medicine and psychology and is focused on the integration of behavioral, psychosocial, and biomedical sciences for prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. At Cooper University Health Care, Behavioral Medicine is comprised of psychologists (as well as residents and psychology graduate students) who specialize in the intersection of physiological and psychological health.
Why would a Behavioral Medicine psychologist come to see me in the hospital?
Your provider may consult Behavioral Medicine to assist you in addressing any one of many common challenges that can arise related to your medical concerns. Consult reasons may include adjustment to new medical diagnoses, coping with chronic illness, behavioral pain management, grief, sleep challenges, and behavior change to improve health. As acute or chronic illness is often accompanied by stress, we provide assessment and evidence-based interventions to treat changes in mood and anxiety while you are in the hospital.
What happens when I am discharged?
Currently, Behavioral Medicine psychologists provide services while you are medically admitted to Cooper. We are moving toward integrated models across the health system in the outpatient setting. We are currently seeing patients in the Urban Health Institute and Comprehensive Care Clinic / Early Intervention Program. While meeting with Behavioral Medicine, your clinician will help you identify next steps in receiving follow-up care once you are discharged. This may include referrals to providers in your area who can continue working with you (psychotherapy or medication management), as well as information about diagnoses, strategies to manage distress, and community resources to connect with local organizations.