The department of surgery at the University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville is pleased to announce the opening of a new outpatient practice, UF Health Surgical Psychology – Jacksonville. The practice is dedicated to treating the mental and emotional impacts of traumatic injury or other major physical conditions requiring surgical intervention.
UF Health Surgical Psychology – Jacksonville aligns with the inpatient psychological services program in the department of surgery at the UF College of Medicine – Jacksonville. The practice also employs two licensed psychologists who are UF College of Medicine – Jacksonville faculty, plus an additional psychology post-doctoral fellow.
The practice provides the necessary initial treatment and follow-up care for trauma and surgical patients who experience physical and emotional distress during their hospitalization and following discharge. Pre- and post-surgical services are offered for identified at-risk patient populations.
Development and implementation of various research projects will also be included, focusing on the many opportunities for improvements in the well-being and quality of life of critically ill patients. Psychological support for these patients on an inpatient and outpatient basis ensures a continuation of care and supports the overarching departmental goal of whole-person, interdisciplinary care focused upon a full return to function, both physically and emotionally.
Kamela K. Scott, PhD, serves as director of UF Health Surgical Psychology – Jacksonville and a professor of surgery. She developed the nation’s first formal inpatient psychological services program for trauma at UF Health Jacksonville in 1995. This program stands as a model nationwide for collaborative care in trauma and critical care, and highlights the integral role of mental health within the department.
Brian G. Celso, PhD, recently transferred to surgery from the department of psychiatry, where he served patients with mental illnesses for the past 12 years. He brings a wealth of clinical and research experience to the department. Dr. Celso has been affiliated with the acute care program at UF Health for more than 20 years through various research initiatives and quality improvement studies.
UF Health Surgical Psychology – Jacksonville is a natural extension from the acute care setting where psychological services have been provided during hospitalization. The practice is located on the second floor of the Faculty Clinic. For more information, contact Dr. Scott at kamela.scott@jax.ufl.edu or Dr. Celso at brian.celso@jax.ufl.edu.
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