Research
Claudia Silvia a MMS Summer Research Intern who presented research on women experiencing homelessness
Our multidisciplinary research center promotes research focused on improving access, continuity of care, behavioral health services integration, quality, fairness, effectiveness and the value of primary and behavioral healthcare by:
- Conducting externally funded, innovative research to enhance behavioral health systems, processes, and outcomes for populations facing significant health challenges, including individuals with serious mental illness, substance use disorders, those at risk for HIV/AIDS, people experiencing homelessness, youth transitioning out of foster care, and aging or disabled individuals.
- Designing, implementing, and evaluating evidence-based behavioral health services aimed at improving outcomes for communities with complex health and social needs.
- Translating research and evaluation findings into practical applications through strategic communication and engagement with stakeholders in both community and academic settings.
- Providing educational opportunities such as training courses and research seminars across the Texas Medical Center and Houston/Harris County, focusing on behavioral health systems and service delivery.
- Mentoring and supporting students, residents, and research fellows interested in advancing behavioral health research and addressing disparities in access, quality, and outcomes of care.
Current Research and Training Projects
The goal of this study is to test an addiction-clinic based behavioral intervention for increasing PrEP uptake and adherence among women who engage in sexual behaviors and problematic substance use that may increase susceptibility to HIV.
The goal of this study is to test a behavioral intervention for increasing PrEP uptake and adherence among women who have trauma related mental health conditions and who engage in sexual behaviors or substance use that may increase susceptibility to HIV.