Sarah C Westen, PhD

Sarah Westen, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist and Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Clinical and Health Psychology at the University of Florida. Dr. Westen is currently the Director of Diabetes Behavioral Medicine and Psychology at UF Health and a Board Member on the American Diabetes Association’s Youth Strategies Committee. Dr. Westen is former Chair of the American Psychological Association’s Special Interest Group in Diabetes, Board Member on the JDRF Psychosocial Advisory Committee, and JDRF National Psychology Fellowship recipient. Prior to coming to the University of Florida, Dr. Westen completed a fellowship at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as an Intramural Research Training Award recipient. Dr. Westen’s research in diabetes has won multiple recognitions with support through the National Institutes of Health and American Psychological Association.

Clinically, Dr. Westen is interested in the biopsychosocial aspects of chronic illness throughout the lifespan (e.g., coping, family management, transition from pediatric to adult care, treatment of comorbid mental health and behavioral conditions). Dr. Westen is additionally interested in improving care in medically underserved communities for individuals living with diabetes. Her patient-oriented clinical research focuses on factors related to health equity and healthcare equality as well as factors affecting adherence to medical treatment regimens.