Dr. Westen’s clinical research focuses on understanding the biopsychosocial components related to disease management, particularly in type 1 diabetes. She is currently leading projects examining perceived patient barriers to participation in clinical trials; depression screening in pediatric diabetes clinics; the feasibility of telehealth psychological interventions for adolescents with type 1 diabetes; and, sleep, glycemic control, and adherence in pediatric type 1 diabetes. Dr. Westen is also interested how technology and diabetes device downloads may optimize adherence and health outcomes in type 1 diabetes. Her ultimate research goals are to develop interventions to improve quality of life in individuals and families. Dr. Westen’s research has been awarded multiple grants and recognitions, including an NIDDK LRP Grant, 2018 Society of Pediatric Psychology Drotar-Crawford Postdoctoral Fellowship Research Grant in Pediatric Psychology, 2015 Society of Pediatric Psychology Mary Jo Kupst Trainee Grant for Research in Resilience, and the University of Florida’s prestigious Geoffrey Clark-Ryan Memorial Award for Pediatric Research.
