Recent Funding

2024-2025. Co-PI, A family-centered needs assessment for incarcerated women with Substance Use Disorders, City of Philadelphia’s Safety & Justice Challenge MacArthur Microgrant Fund ($20,000). Jessica Chou, PI.

2023-2028. PI, Expanding the Working Together for Women Program: Enhancing family-based SUD treatment and recovery support, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration ($1,999,995).

2023-2025. Co-PI, Utilizing telehealth groups for medication for Opioid Use Disorder among women. Pennsylvania Department of Health Commonwealth Universal Research Enhancement Program ($86,400). Jessica Chou, PI.

2020-2020: PI, Implementation of an online peer support community to assist women with substance abuse disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic: A pilot study. Drexel University Office of Research & Innovation’s COVID-19 Rapid Response Research & Development Award ($6,900)

Substance Use-Related Publications/Book Chapters/Editorials

Javadi, R., Lagana, K., Krowicki, T., Bennett, D.S., & Schindler, B. (2022). Attitudes toward harm reduction among substance use treatment providers in Philadelphia. Journal of Substance Use, 27, 459–64. DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2021.1961320

Liang, O. S., Yang, C., Glenney, A., Pointer, R.E., Irving, S., Schindler, B., & Bennett, D. (2022). Supporting people receiving substance use treatment during COVID-19 through a professional-moderated online peer support group. In Companion Proceedings of the Web Conference 2022 (WWW ’22 Companion), April 25–29, 2022, Virtual Event, Lyon, France. Association for Computing Machinery, New York, NY, USA, 4 pages. DOI: 10.1145/3487553.3524698

Chou, J.L., Patton, R., Cooper-Sadlo, S., Swan, C., Bennett, D. S., McDowell, D., Zaarur, A., & Schindler, B. (2022). Stigma and Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) among women. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 20, 3262–3273. DOI: 10.1007/s11469-022-00768-3

Chou, J.L., McDowell, D., Bennett, D.S., Patton, R., Dilks-Webb, K., Zaarur, A., & Schindler, B. (2022). Family support and medication for opioid use treatment among women: A mixed methods study. Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions, 63-77. DOI:10.1080/1533256X. 2022.2109271

Liang, O., Chen, Y., Bennett, D., & Yang, C. (2021). Identifying self-management support needs for pregnant women with opioid misuse in online health communities: mixed-method analysis of online posts. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 23. e18296. DOI: 10.2196/18296

Karpova, N., Zhang, D., Beckwith, M., Bennett, D.S., & Lewis, M. (2021). Prenatal drug exposure and executive function in early adolescence. Neurotoxicology and Teratology, 88, 107036. DOI:10.1016/j.ntt.2021.107036

Bennett, D.S., & Lewis, M. (2020). Does prenatal cocaine exposure predict adolescent substance use? Neurotoxicology and Teratology, 81, 106906. DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2020.106906

Substance Use-Related Conference Presentations/Keynote Addresses

Wong, J.O., Bennett, D., Sedky, K., Cazares, P., & Sepulveda, J. (November, 2025). Buprenorphine dosing in patients with Kratom Use Disorder: A descriptive study of associations with age, gender, and kratom use history. American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry annual meeting, Naples, FL.

Chou, J., Bennett, D., Irving, S., Rutherford, T., & Schindler, B. (June, 2025). The Brief Family Intervention (BFI) for women with Opioid Use Disorder and their families. College on Problems of Drug Dependence annual meeting, New Orleans.

Chou, J., Rutherford, T., Bennett, D., Irving, S., & Schindler, B. (May, 2025). Family-centered needs of women with Substance Use Disorders re-entering the community. NatCon25 - National Council for Mental Wellbeing annual meeting, Philadelphia.

Chou, J., Bennett, D., Irving, S., Schindler, B. & Rutherford, T. ( March, 2025). Perceived benefits and challenges of family member involvement in women’s opioid treatment. International Family Therapy Association Congress, Aberdeen, Scotland.

Chou, J., Bennett, D., Feeney, E., Irving, S., & Schindler, B. (November, 2024). Utilizing dyadic perspectives to address family stigma and attitudes towards medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) among women. Association for Multi-disciplinary Education and Research in Substance use and Addiction (AMERSA) Conference, Chicago.

Kajs, B.L., Cai Shi, D., Bennett, D., Du, W., Simansky, K. J, Edwards, C., Linus, T., & Ferrel, V. (August, 2024). Factors affecting recruitment and engagement of a HIV patient population with and without comorbid PTSD and/or neuropathic pain: Insights from an observational medical cannabis clinical research study. Cannabis Research Conference annual meeting, Fort Collins, CO.

Chou, J., Bennett, D.S., Irving, S., & Schindler, B. (November, 2023). The role of family functioning in relation to recovery outcomes among women with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). Association for Multi-disciplinary Education and Research in Substance use and Addiction (AMERSA) Conference, Washington, D.C.

Chou, J., Schindler, B., Irving, S., & Bennett, D. (March, 2023). Stigma, family relationships, and Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) among women. International Family Therapy Association, Málaga, Spain.

Szep, Z., Fox, R., Pok, P., Telles, J., Mason, V., Ramos, C., & Bennett, D. (November, 2022). Linkage rates and factors associated with linkage to care from a medication for Opioid Use Disorder mobile clinic in Philadelphia with a focus on African American individuals. American Public Health Association annual conference. Boston.

Chou, J., Patton, R., & Bennett, D. (August, 2022). The role of stigma and family functioning in women’s adherence to Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). Mixed Methods International Research Association Global 2022 conference (virtual conference).

Liang, O. S., Yang, C., Glenney, A., Pointer, R., Irving, S., Schindler, B., & Bennett, D. (April, 2022). Supporting people receiving substance use treatment during COVID-19 through a professional-moderated online peer support group. 8th International Workshop on Mining Actionable Insights from Social Networks: Special Edition on Mental Health and Social Media virtual conference, Lyon, France.

Jones, A., Bennett, D., Fox, R., Pok, J., Telles, J., Mason, V., Ramos, C., & Z. Szep, Z. (February, 2022). Factors associated with linkage to Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) care. American Association for the Advancement of Science annual meeting. Philadelphia.

Glenney, A., Liang, S., Bennett, D., Yang, C., Schindler, B., Pointer, R. & Irving, S. (February, 2022). Exploring the utility of Online Peer Support Communities in the treatment of Substance Use Disorder: A pilot study. American Association for the Advancement of Science annual meeting. Philadelphia.

Ewing, S.K., Chou, J., Bennett, D., & Slaughter-Acey, J. (August, 2021). Application of an intersectionality framework and attachment theory to maternal substance use. Symposium presented at the American Psychological Association annual meeting (virtual conference).

Koperska, M., Hanusz, K., Sarzynska-Wawer, J., Manduch, M., & Bennett, D. (May, 2021). Higher cost of helping an individual with a substance abuse problem is associated with endorsement of the Psychology and Sociology Models of addiction. Association for Psychological Science (virtual conference).

Karpova, N., Zhang, D., Beckwith, M., Bennett, D., & Lewis, M. (April, 2021). Prenatal drug exposure and executive function in early adolescence. Society for Research in Child Development biennial meeting (virtual conference).

Ewing, S.K., Zaarur, A., Bennett, D., Chou, J., & Slaughter-Acey, J. (April, 2021). Examining relationships between recall of childhood attachment quality, current family functioning, health quality and maternal substance use outcomes. Society for Research in Child Development biennial meeting (virtual conference).

Liang, O.S., Richitt, H., Yang, C., & Bennett, D. (December, 2020). Social support seeking in online health communities among pregnant women coping with opioid misuse. IEEE International Conference on Healthcare Informatics (virtue conference).

Chou, J., Herbert, D., Dilks, K., Bennett, D., & Schindler, B. (November, 2020). Developing a family-centered intervention to support MAT. American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy annual meeting (virtual conference).

Herbert, D., Chou, J.L., Bennett D., Zaarur, A., Dilks, K., & Schindler, B. (October, 2020). Examining the role of interpersonal relationships among women with opioid use disorders. Black Doctoral Network National Conference (virtual conference).

Javadi, R., Lagana, K., Krowicki, T., Bennett, D., & Schindler, B. (October, 2020). Harm reduction attitudes among substance use professionals. Association for Multidisciplinary Education and Research in Substance use and Addiction annual conference (virtual conference).

Recent Funding

Other Caring Together Program Collaborative Grant Support: Chou, J., Krauthamer Ewing, S., Slaughter-Acey, J. Irving, S., Schindler, B., & Grella, C. Maternal Mentalizing as Protective Factor Against Racism-Related Trauma and Maternal Substance Use. Funding Period: 2024-2026.Project Funding Agency: National Institutes of Health/NIDA. Project Number: 1R03DA058838-01A1. Amount: $151,500. Grant Type: R03. Role: Principal Investigator, 20% FTE.

Chou, J., Bennett D., Irving, S., & Schindler, B. A. Family Needs Assessment for Women with Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) Re-Entering the Community. Funding Period: 2024-2025. Funding Agency: MacArthur Foundation via the City of Philadelphia. Grant Type: Research Grant. Amount: $20,000. Role: Principal Investigator.

Chou, J., & Hogue, A. Outreach Techniques for Family Members of Women in Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). Funding Period 2023-2025. Funding Agency: Pilot Supplement to R24 DA051946 (PI: Hogue). Amount: $20,000. Grant Type: Research. Role: Principal Investigator.

Chou, J., Bennett, D., Bradt, J., Irving, S., & Schindler, B. Utilizing Telehealth Groups for Medication for Opioid Use Disorder Among Women. Funding Period: 2023-2024. Funding Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Health, CURE Formula Grant. Grant Type: Research Grant. Amount: $86,400. Role: Principal Investigator.

Chou, J. Bennett, D., Irving, S. & Schindler, B. The Role of Stigma and Family Functioning in Women’s Adherence to Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). Funding Period: 2021-2022. Funding Agency: Drexel University, Deans R3. Grant Type: Research. Amount: $4,500.00. Role: Principal Investigator.

Chou, J. Bennett, D., Irving, S. & Schindler, B. The Role of Stigma and Family Functioning in Women’s Adherence to Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). Funding Period: 2021-2022. Funding Agency: Drexel University, Deans R3. Grant Type: Research. Amount: $4,500.00. Role: Principal Investigator.

Expanding the Drexel Center of Excellence for Urban Integrated OUD Healthcare: Prevention, Identification, Engagement and Treatment for OUD in Philadelphia. SAMHSA MAT H79TI084201 Barbara Schindler, MD PI. 9/29/21 to 9/29/26 $522,800/year X 5 years

Creating a Center of Excellence for Urban Integrated OUD Healthcare: Expanding Prevention, Identification and Treatment for OUD in Philadelphia. Department of Health and Human Services, SAMHSA. $1,572,822 Grant # 1H79TI08, PI B. Schindler, MD (10% effort) 9/30/18 to 9/29/21

Substance Use-Related Publications/Book Chapters/Editorials

Liang, O. S., Yang, C., Glenney, A., Pointer, R.E., Irving, S., Schindler, B., & Bennett, D. (2022). Supporting people receiving substance use treatment during COVID-19 through a professional-moderated online peer support group. In Companion Proceedings of the Web Conference 2022 (WWW ’22 Companion), April 25–29, 2022, Virtual Event, Lyon, France. Association for Computing Machinery, New York, NY, USA, 4 pages. DOI: 10.1145/3487553.3524698

Chou, J.L., Patton, R., Cooper-Sadlo, S., Swan, Bennett, D. S., McDowell, D., Zaarur, A., & Schindler, B. (2022). Stigma and Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) among women. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 20, 3262–3273. DOI: 10.1007/s11469-022-00768-3

Chou, J.L., Herbert, D., Bennett, D.S., Patton, R., Dilks-Webb, K., Zaarur, A., & Schindler, B. (2022). Family support and medication for opioid use treatment among women: A mixed methods study. Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions, 1-15. DOI: 10.1080/1533256X. 2022.2109271

Javadi, R., Lagana, K., Krowicki, T., Bennett, D.S., & Schindler, B. (2021). Attitudes toward harm reduction among substance use treatment providers in Philadelphia. Journal of Substance Use, 1-6. DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2021.1961320

Schindler, B.A “The Clinician as Educator: Redefining the Medical Educators Role and Toolbox” in Handbook of Research on the Efficacy of Training Programs and Systems in Medical Education. Gotian, R., Kang, Y., Safdieh, J. (Editors) IGI Global, ISBN:9781799814689, December 2020

Recent Funding

BHWET Grant, Project # M01HP54855, July 2025 – June 2029, HRSA, $2,400,000, Principal Investigator, 25% FTE

SBIRT Grant, Project # 1H79TI084044, September 2023 - September 2026, SAMHSA, CSAT Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment, $2,953,205, Co-investigator, 40% FTE.

Faculty Summer Research Award. June 2023 – June 2024, Drexel University Office of Faculty Advancement, $7,000, Principal Investigator, FTE in-kind.

Addiction treatment Counts: Expanding Interdisciplinary Training, Project # 1H79FG000096, April 2020 – March 2023, SAMHSA, Expansion of Practitioner Education grant, $200,000, Principal Investigator 15% FTE.

GWEP: Infusing Interprofessional Geriatric Education into Primary Care Learning Environments. Grant #: UIQHP33037, January 2023 – December 2024, SAMSHA-HRSA Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program grant, Independent Contractor (3 hours/month).

GWEP: Infusing Interprofessional Geriatric Education into Primary Care Learning Environments. Grant #: UIQHP33037, July 2021 – December 2022, SAMSHA-HRSA Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program grant, Co-investigator, 8% FTE.

University of Akron Faculty Research Competition, May 2021 – August 2021, University of Akron $10,000, Principal Investigator, 10% FTE in-kind. UA Campus Suicide Prevention Grant, January 2020-December 2022, SAMHSA, $200,000, Co-investigator, 5% FTE in-kind.

Opioid Workforce Enhancement Program, Grant #: T98HP33419, September 2019 – August 2023, SAMSHA-HRSA $1,309,162, Principal Investigator, 26% FTE.

Substance Use-Related Publications/Book Chapters/Editorials

Patton, R., Brown, D., Katafiasz, H., Ellis, J. (2024). Using virtual simulation to teach substance use screening and brief intervention skills across the health professions: Examining training outcomes among an interprofessional graduate student sample. Families, Systems, & Health.

Chou, J., Patton, R., & Aletaris, L. (2024). Examining utilization of family-based therapies in substance use treatment centers. Contemporary Family Therapy.

Patton, R., Chou, J., Kester, T., & Feeney, E. (2024). Exploring social connectedness, isolation, support, and recovery factors among women seeking substance use treatment. Women & Health.

Chou, J., Patton, R. et al. (2023). Understanding Families Impacted by Opioid Use: Outcomes of a Therapist Training Program. Families, Systems, & Health.

Patton, R., Chou, J., Zaarur, A., Dang, Y., Katafiasz, H., & Swint, P. (2023). Exploring substance use perceptions among Family Therapy and Counseling trainees upon entering an opioid use disorder treatment training program. International Journal of Systemic Therapy.

Chou, J. L., Herbert, D., Bennett, D., Patton, R., Dilks-Webb, K., Zaarur, A., & Schindler, B. (2022). Family support and medication for opioid use treatment for women: a mixed methods study Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions.

Sang, J., Patton, R., & Park, I. (2022). "One Size Doesn’t Fit All”: A Qualitative Evaluation of Addiction Treatment from the Perspectives of Individuals in Recovery and Professionals. Substance Use & Misuse.

Chou, J. L., Patton, R., Cooper-Sadlo, S., Swan, C., Bennett, D., McDowell, D., Zaarur, A., & Schindler, B. (2022). Stigma and Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) among Women. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction.

Coppola, J., Gangamma, R., Kawar, C., Patton, R., & Ramadoss, K. (2021). Romantic Attachment and Relational Ethics: A Dyadic Analysis of Couples in Therapy. Contemporary Family Therapy.

Patton, R., Katafiasz, H. & Tefteller, D. (2021). Exploring our “Deltas”: A Training Tool for Conceptualizing Systemic Theory of Change. Contemporary Family Therapy.

Katafiasz, H., Patton, R., Tefteller, D., & Takeda, M. (2021). Ethical Decision-Making in Marriage and Family Therapy: A Review of the Literature. Journal of Systemic Therapies.

Katafiasz, H., Patton, R., Tefteller, D., & Takeda, M. (2021). Ethical Decision-Making in Marriage and Family Therapy: An Introduction of a New Model. Journal of Systemic Therapies.

Katafiasz, H & Patton, R. (2021). Closing the Loop: Addressing Diversity in a COAMFTE-accredited MFT Education Program. Contemporary Family Therapy.

Patton, R., Tadros, E., & Finney, N. (2020). Exploring alcohol use and social connection among older Latinos: A brief report. The Family Journal.

Patton, R. & Weigold, I. K. (2020). Examining Hazardous Alcohol Use and Relational Ethics in a College Student Sample. Journal of American College Health.

Patton, R., Katafiasz, H., Finney, N., & Tadros, E. (2020). Cisgender teen dating violence: Differential associations with various substances used. Journal of Family Violence.

Katafiasz, K., Patton, R., Georke, J., Dragomir, R., & Fye, J. (2019). A dyadic examination of individual and couple dynamics within the context of IPV. Contemporary Family Therapy.

Kaur, L., Tadros, E., & Patton, R. (2019). The Role of Family in Youth Opioid Misuse: A systematic review of the literature. The Family Journal.

Patton, R., Goerke, J., Fye, J., & Katafiasz, H. (2019). Does hazardous alcohol use impact individual and relational functioning among couples seeking couples therapy? The Family Journal.

Substance Use-Related Conference Presentations/Keynote Addresses

Patton, R., Morales, G., Dickinson, M., & Martin, S. (Anticipated November 2025). Relational Ethics and Substance Use: Insights from a Community-based Sample. Poster Presentation at the 2025 NCFR Annual Conference, Baltimore, MD.

Patton, R. & Chou, J. (March, 2024). Navigating Leadership in multi-site program development and evaluation grant projects. 2024 AAMFT Leadership Symposium. Phoenix, AZ.

Brown, D., Hovland, C. A., Fosnight, S., Chrzanowski, B. L., Gergis, M., Patton, R., & Simpson, D. L. (November, 2023). A model for teaching students age-friendly concepts using virtual interprofessional simulation. Poster Presentation at the 2023 GSA Annual Scientific Meeting.

Patton, R. & Chou, J. (November, 2022). Utilizing Mixed Reality Simulation in substance use training. Poster Presentation at the 2022 AMERSA National Conference. Boston, MA.

Patton, R., Brown, D., & Katafiasz, H. (October, 2022). Interprofessional Simulation Training in Substance Use & SBIRT: Debriefing Outcomes and Lessons Learned. Oral Presentation at the 2022 Collaborative Family Healthcare Association's Annual Conference. Boise, ID.

Patton, R. & Brown, D. (August, 2022). Addiction treatment Counts Interprofessional Training (ACE-IT): Examining Program Outcomes. Lightning Talk Presentation at the 2022 NEXUS Summit. Minneapolis, MN.

Chou, J., Patton, R., Katafiasz, H., & Zaarur, A. (April, 2022). Substance Use Training Program for Couple and Family Therapists: A Program Evaluation. Poster Presentation at the 2022 International Family Therapy Association Annual Conference. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Chou, J., Patton, R., Swint, P., Zaarur, A. (April, 2022). Examination of a Substance Use Training Program for Couple and Family Therapist. Oral Presentation at the 2022 International Family Therapy Association Annual Conference. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Patton, R. & Chou, J. (March, 2022). Increasing diversity and inclusivity when working with adolescents impacted by opioid use disorder. Workshop presentation at the 2022 Society for Research on Adolescence Biennial Conference. New Orleans, LA.

Zaarur, A., Chou, J., & Patton, R. (March, 2022). Exploring Cultural Competency among Participants in a Substance Use Treatment Training Program. Poster presentation Workshop presentation at the 2022 Society for Research on Adolescence Biennial Conference. New Orleans, LA.

Patton, R., Chou, J., Zaarur, A., Dang, Y., Katafiasz, H. & Swint, P. (November, 2021). Exploring MFT and Counseling Trainees’ Substance Use Knowledge and Perceptions Upon entering an Opioid Use Disorder Training Program During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Interactive Poster Presentation at the 2021 National Council on Family Relations Annual Conference. Virtual Presentation.

Chou, J. & Patton, R. (August, 2021). The Interdisciplinary Training Initiative for Children, Adolescents and Families Impacted by Opioid Use Disorder (ITI). Webinar Presentation at the 2021 Doctoral Training Summit for the American Association of Marriage Family Therapy Minority Fellowship Program. Virtual Presentation.

Chou, J. & Patton, R. (May, 2021). Family Therapy among Substance Use Treatment Centers. Webinar Presentation at the 2021 National Council for Behavioral Health Annual Conference. Virtual Presentation.

Katafiasz, H. & Patton, R. (March, 2021). Sliding vs. Deciding: When becoming a leader is decided for you. Webinar Presentation at the 2021 AAMFT Leadership Symposium. Virtual Presentation.

Brown, D., Patton R., Drost, J., & Hazelett, S. (February, 2021). Addressing the Opioid Treatment Gap with an Interprofessional Team Approach. Webinar Presentation at the 2021 Creating Healthy Work Environments. Virtual Presentation.

Patton, R., Chou, J. L., Katafiasz, H., Zaarur, A., Dang, Y., & Jordal, C. (October, 2020). Introducing OWEP-ITI: An Interdisciplinary Training Program for helping youth and families impacted by Opioids. Podcast presentation at the 2020 Conference for the Collaborative Family Healthcare Association. Virtual Presentation.

Katafiasz, H., Patton, R., Chou, J. L., Gonzalez-Kruger, G., & Lynch, L. (October, 2020). Reflections on Integrating Marriage and Family Therapists and Mental Health Counselors into A Primary Healthcare Practice. Webinar presentation at the 2020 Conference for the Collaborative Family Healthcare Association. Virtual Presentation.

Katafiasz, H, & Patton, R. (June, 2020). Sliding into Leadership. Workshop presentation at the 2020 American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Leadership Symposium, Phoenix, AZ. Virtual Presentation.

Katafiasz, H. & Patton, R. (August, 2019). Trauma-informed Marriage and Family Therapy Supervision. Institute Presentation at the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Annual Conference, Austin, TX.

Ray, A., Tadros, E., & Patton, R. (August, 2019). Assessing Children and Adolescents for Suicide. Forum Presentation at the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Annual Conference, Austin, TX.

Patton, R., Tadros, E., & Kaup, L. (August, 2019). The Role of Family in Youth Opioid Use: A Systematic Literature Review. Poster Presentation at the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Annual Conference, Austin, TX.

Blower, S., Drost, J., Hazelett, S., Kropp, D., & Patton, R. (May, 2019). Chaplain Role in Healthcare Interprofessional Teams: A Pilot Study. Poster Presentation at the American Geriatric Society, 2019 Scientific Meeting, Portland, OR.

Patton, R. & Katafiasz, H. (March, 2019). Trauma-informed Substance Use Assessment and Treatment Approaches when working with youth experiencing substance use disorders. Webinar Presentation for the AAMFT Minority Fellowship Program.

Patton R. & Katafiasz, H. (March, 2019). The Process of Becoming: Exploring the multi-systemic layers of leadership. Workshop presentation at the 2019 American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Leadership Symposium, Arlington, VA.

Recent Funding

IBX Collegiate Recovery Grant Phase II 11/1/25-7/1/25. The goal of this grant is to continue work from Phase I, and continue destigmatizing mental health, increasing help seeking behavior and providing psycheoducation and outreach around substance use/misuse

IBX Collegiate Recovery Grant 11/1/22-7/1/24. The goal of this project was to provide psychoeducation, program development and outreach around harm reduction and substance use and misuse.

HESPC (Higher Education Suicide Presention Coalition) Mini Grant. The goal of the grant was for campus suicide prevention using QPR trainings.

Substance Use-Related Conference Presentations/Keynote Addresses

Czarnecki, T., Bamba, M., Brink, A., Cook, C., Ferdinand, L., & Lacour, M. (2021). “Social Justice Initiatives at Counseling Centers.” Presentation at the ACCCCS Conference (virtual).

Recent Funding

SBIRT in a Community Setting. SAMHSA. 10/1/23-9/30/26. The purpose of this project is to introduce and evaluate SBIRT services in a large primary care setting while examining individual factors that predispose patients to successful outcomes.

Mapping the Opioid Use Disorder Treatment System in Philadelphia. PEW. 6/22-2/24. The purpose of this research was to produce foundational research that would fill knowledge gaps about the current treatment system through a concurrent qualitative and quantitative mixed methods approach.

Jefferson Enhanced Data Waiver Training. SAMHSA. 9/30/21-12/31/24. The goal of this project was the training of all students enrolled in Thomas Jefferson University’s Sidney Kimmel Medical College in the effective treatment (pharmacologic, biopsychosocial) of opioid use disorder.

Addiction Medicine Fellowship. HRSA, 7/1/20-6/30/25. The goal of this project was to enhance the training in addiction medicine/psychiatry for a cohort of 10 post-residency fellows thereby increasing the workforce.

Substance Use-Related Publications/Book Chapters/Editorials

Kelly, E.L., Camacho-Esteves, T., Denish, M., Lawson, S., Sterling, R., Weinstein, L.C., & Reed, M. (in press). Methadone Program Directors’ Perceptions of Barriers and Supports to Engage People with Opioid Use Disorders in Methadone Services. Substance Use and Misuse

Alexander, K., Reed, M. K., & Sterling, R. C. (2023). The interaction of race and age in methadone treatment retention outcomes: A single-center analysis. Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment, 148, 209020.

Zavodnick, J; Heinsinger, N; Lepore, A; Sterling, R (2023) Medication Initiation, Patient-directed Discharges, and Hospital Readmissions Before and After Implementing Guidelines for Opioid Withdrawal Management. Journal of Addiction Medicine 17(1):p e57-e63,

McFadden, K. M., Sterling, R. C., & Zavodnick, J. (2022). OUD withdrawal in a hospital setting: guidelines for care and implementation disparities. In Annal of Behavioral Medicine (Vol. 56, No. SUPP 1, pp. S415-S415).

Loscalzo, E, Levit, A, Sterling, R. (2021). Pay for Performance and Treatment Outcome in Agonist Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder. American Journal on Addictions, 30, 173-178.

Substance Use-Related Conference Presentations/Keynote Addresses

March 22, 2024. Keynote Address, Treatment Works! So Now what? Community College of Philadelphia, 2nd Annual Clinical Research Conference.

Haymovitz, E., & Sterling, R. (2022). When NIMBY trumps need: The impact of historic redlining on opiate use disorder treatment accessibility. Presented at the Annual Research Meeting of Academy Health, Washington, DC.

McFadden, K., Zavodnick, J., & Sterling, R. (2022). OUD Withdrawal in a Hospital Setting: Guideline for Care and Implementation Disparities. Accepted for presentation at the 43rd Annual Meeting & Scientific Sessions of the Society of Behavioral Medicine, April 6-9, 2022, Baltimore, MD.

Kairys, L., Sterling, R., Morley, M. (2022). Covid-19 Vaccine Willingness in a Substance Use Disorder Outpatient Population. Accepted for presentation at the 43rd Annual Meeting & Scientific Sessions of the Society of Behavioral Medicine, April 6-9, 2022, Baltimore, MD.

Zavodnick J, Heinsinger N, Sterling R. (2021). Infrequent fliers: describing serial readmissions among patients with opioid use disorder. Poster presented at the Society of Hospital Medicine Converge Conference, May 3-7, 2021, (national conference, virtual due to COVID-19)

Zavodnick, J., Heinsinger, N, Sterling, R (2021). Inpatient Opioid Withdrawal Guidelines Improve Management but not AMA or Readmissions. Poster presented at the annual meeting of the American Society on Addiction Medicine, April, 29, 2021.

Sterling, R, Acosta, A, Morley, M et al (2021). Pandemic-Based Expanded Take Home Privileges: Risk Stratification and Relapse. Poster presented at the annual meeting of the American Society on Addiction Medicine, April, 29, 2021.

Ramsay, C. & Sterling, R (2020) Take Him to the MAT: Fentanyl’s Emergence as Villain in the Opioid Epidemic. Paper accepted for presentation at the annual meeting of the American Psychiatric Association, April 27, 2020, Philadelphia, PA. Postponed due to COVID-19.

Zavodnick, J.; Sterling, R.; Morley, M. Impact of opioid use disorder on hospital disposition and readmissions. Paper presented at the annual meeting of the College on Problems of Drug Dependence, June 17, 2019, San Antonio, Texas.

Zhang, E.; Sterling, RC et al. (2019, June). Pathways into opioid use disorder. An examination across three chronological cohorts. Poster presented at the annual meeting of the College on Problems of Drug Dependence, San Antonio, Texas.

Zhang, E., Sterling, R et al. (2019, March). Effect of Volunteer Status and Birth Cohort Status on Current Treatment Functioning. Poster presented at the annual meeting of the Society for Behavioral Medicine, Washington, DC.

Matta, P.; Sterling, RC et al. (2019, April). Impact of Physical Activity on Stress Levels and Methadone Maintenance Treatment Outcomes. Poster presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Addiction Medicine, Orlando, FL.

Recent Funding

Chou, J., Krauthamer Ewing, S., Slaughter-Acey, J. Irving, S., Schindler, B., & Grella, C. Maternal Mentalizing as Protective Factor Against Racism-Related Trauma and Maternal Substance Use. Funding Period: 2024-2026. Project Funding Agency: National Institute of Health/NIDA. Project Number: 1R03DA058838-01A1. Amount: $151,500. Grant Type: R03. Role: Principal Investigator, 30% Effort (15% Grant Supported, 15% In-kind).

Chou, J., Bennett D., Irving, S., & Schindler, B. A. Family Needs Assessment for Women with Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) Re-Entering the Community. Funding Period: 2024-2025. Funding Agency: MacArthur Foundation via the City of Philadelphia. Grant Type: Research Grant. Amount: $20,000. Role: Principal Investigator.

Chou, J., Bennett, D., Bradt, J., Irving, S., & Schindler, B. Utilizing Telehealth Groups for Medication for Opioid Use Disorder Among Women. Funding Period: 2023-2024. Funding Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Health, CURE Formula Grant. Grant Type: Research Grant. Amount: $86,400. Role: Principal Investigator. 5% Effort.

Chou, J., & Hogue, A. Outreach Techniques for Family Members of Women in Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). Funding Period 2023-2025. Funding Agency: Pilot Supplement to R24 DA051946 (PI: Hogue). Amount: $20,000. Grant Type: Research. Role: Principal Investigator.

Irving, S., Bennett, D., Chou, J., Schindler, B. Expanding the Working Together for Women Program (WTW): Enhancing Family-Based Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Treatment and Recovery Support. Funding Period: 2023-2028. Funding Agency: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Agency (SAMHSA). Grant Type: Program Development. Amount: $1,999,995. Role: Co-Investigator; Evaluator. 15% Effort.

Sterling, R., Patton, R., & Chou, J. SBIRT in the Community Setting. Funding Period: 2023-2026. Funding Agency: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Agency (SAMHSA). Grant Type: Program Development. Amount: $2,936,398. Role: Co-Investigator; Evaluator.30% Effort.

Schindler, B., Irving, S., Bennett, D., Chou, J. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Expanding the Drexel Center of Excellence for Urban Integrated OUD Healthcare: Prevention, Identification, Engagement and Treatment for OUD in Philadelphia. Funding Period: 2021-2026. Funding Agency: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Agency (SAMHSA). Grant Type: Program Development. Amount: $2,610,243. Role: Key Personnel. 10% Effort.

Chou, J. Bennett, D., Irving, S. & Schindler, B. The Role of Stigma and Family Functioning in Women’s Adherence to Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). Funding Period: 2021-2022. Funding Agency: Drexel University, Deans R3. Grant Type: Research. Amount: $4,500.00. Role: Principal Investigator.

Chou, J., Patton, R., & Grella, C. Understanding the Role and Impact of Family-Based Therapies in Substance Abuse Treatment Facilities. Funding Period: 2019-2021. Funding Agency: Drexel University. Grant Type: Career Development Award. Amount: $5,884.00. Role: Principal Investigator

Chou, J., Krauthamer Ewing, S., Lynch, L., & Brooks, S. Couple/Marriage and Family Therapists Extent of Training Experiences for Race-Related Stress and Racial Trauma. Funding Period: 2020-2021. Funding Agency: Drexel University, Research & Innovation’s Racial Equity Rapid Response Research Awards. Type: Research . Amount: $5,000.00. Role: Co-Principal Investigator.

Patton, R. & Chou, J. Opioid Workforce Expansion Program. Interdisciplinary Training Initiative for Children, Adolescents & Families Impacted by Opioid Use Disorder. Project ID #: T98HP33419. Funding Period: 2019-2022. Funding Agency: Health Resources and Services Administration. Federal Type: Training. Amount: $1,300,000.00. Role and Effort: Co-Principal Investigator, 25

Peer-Reviewed Journal Articles

Chou, J., Muruthi, B., Krauthamer Ewing, E., Lynch, L., Feeney, E., Avula, D.S., Rutherford, T., Tyler, V. (2025). Couple/Marriage And Family Therapists (C/MFTs) Extent Of Training Experiences For Race-related Stress And Racial Trauma. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy. [Special Issue]. Journal Rank: #83 of 180 in Clinical Psychology; Impact factor: 2.3 [Accepted]. Google Scholar Citations: 0

Muruthi, B., Krauthamer Ewing, E., Chou, J., Slaughter-Acey, J., McCrell, A., & Bennett, D. (2025). Interacting Effects of Trauma, Parenting Stress and Racism Related Stress on Substance Use Risk for Black Mothers in the United States. Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities [Accepted].

Chou, J., Patton, R., Aletraris, L., Zaarur, A., Grella, C., Roman, P., & Feeney, E. (2024). Examining utilization and trends of family-based treatment in substance use treatment. Contemporary Family Therapy. Journal Rank: 133 of 180 in Clinical Psychology; Impact Factor: 1.4. Google Scholar Citations: 0.

Patton, R., Chou, J., Kester, T., & Feeney, E. (2024). Exploring social connectedness, isolation, support, and recovery factors among women seeking substance use treatment. Women & Health, 64, 202-215. doi: 10.1080/03630242.2024.2308518. Journal Rank: 152 of 180 in Public, Environmental, and Occupational Health; #22 of 45 in Women's Studies; Impact Factor: 1.6. Google Scholar Citations: 0.

Patton, R., Chou, J., Brown, D., & Zaarur, A. (2024). One size does not fit all: the multifaceted impact of COVID-19 on graduate-level health professions students. Journal of American College Health. Journal Rank: #131 of 269 in Education and Educational Research; #106 of 180 in Public, Environmental, and Occupational Health; Impact Factor: 2.4. Google Scholar Citations: 0.

*Patton, R., Chou, J., Katafiasz, H., & Ingrid, W. (2024). Screening for co-occurring substance use and intimate partner violence victimization among college students: Exploring the intersections. Journal of Substance Use. Journal Rank: #37 of 38 in Substance Abuse; Impact Factor: 0.8 Google Scholar Citations: 0.

*Chou, J. Patton, R., Zaarur, A., Katafiasz, H., Swint, P., Dang, Y., & Feeney, E. (2023). Understanding families impacted by opioid use: Outcomes of a therapist training program. Families, Systems, and Health, 41, 425-433, https://doi.org/10.1037/fsh0000818. Journal Rank: 39 of 46 in Family Studies; Impact Factor: 1.95. Google Scholar Citations: 1

*Patton, R., Chou, J., Dang, Y., Zaarur, A., Katafiasz, H., & Swint., P. (2023). Exploring MFT and counseling trainees’ substance use knowledge and perceptions upon entering an opioid use disorder training program. International Journal of Systemic Therapy. doi-org.ezproxy2.library.drexel.edu/10.1080/2692398X.2022.2123692. Journal Rank: None; Impact Factor: 1.9. Google Scholar Citations: 0.

*+Chou, J. Herbert, D., Bennett, D., Patton, R., Dilks-Webb, K., Zaarur, A., & Schindler, B. (2022). Family support and medication for opioid use treatment among women: A mixed methods study. Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions. doi-org.ezproxy2.library.drexel.edu/10.1080/1533256X.2022.2109271. Journal Rank: None; Impact Factor: 0.96. Google Scholar Citations: 1.

*Chou, J., Noel, J., Williams, C., Spruell, S., Nixon, K., Riedel, E., & Zaarur, A. (2022). Examining outcomes and the impact of COVID-19 for pregnant and postpartum women with substance use disorders participating in residential treatment services. Journal of Nursing Scholarship [Special Edition]. doi: 10.1111/jnu.12803 [Epub ahead of print]. Journal Rank: #7 of 125 in Nursing; Impact Factor: 3.928. Google Scholar Citations: 2.

*+Chou, J. Patton, R., Cooper-Sadlo, S., Swan, C., Bennett, D., Herbert, D., Patton, R., Zaarur, A., & Schindler, B. (2022). Examination of stigma and medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) among women. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, Special Call. doi:10.1007/s11469-022-00768-3. Journal Rank: #12 of 144 in Psychiatry; Impact Factor: 8.0. Google Scholar Citations: 7.

*+Chou, J., Lynch, L., Brooks, S., Krauthamer Ewing, S., Jordal, C., Herbert, D., & James, V. (2022). Couple/marriage and family therapist extent of training and preparedness for working with individuals and families impacted by substance use. Family Relations: Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Science. Journal Rank: #23 of 47 in Family Studies; #18 of 44 in Social Work; Impact Factor: 2.2. Google Scholar Citations: 1.

Ibrahim, M., Levy, S., Gallop, B., Krauthamer Ewing, S., Hogue, A., Chou, J., Diamond., G. (2021). Therapist adherence to two treatments for adolescent suicide risk: Association to outcomes and role of therapeutic alliance. Family Process, 1-15, doi: 10.1111/famp.12660. Journal Rank: #7 of 46 in Family Studies; #34 of 131 in Clinical Psychology; Impact Factor: 4.319. Google Scholar Citations: 7.

Muruthi, B.A., Janes, E. E., Chou J., Richardson, S., West, J.M., & Chevalier, M. (2021). "First thing when I walk through the door, I am a Black woman”: Understanding Afro- Caribbean women's perceptions of race and ethnicity in the United States. Journal of Systemic Therapies. doi.org/10.1521/jsyt.2021.40.1.75. Journal Rank: None; Impact Factor: None Google Scholar Citations: 1.

*+Chou, J. Muruthi, B., Ibrahim, M. Janes, E., Pierce, K., Pennington, L., Dickens, R., Michael, J. & Zand, D. (2020). A process evaluation of a substance use program for pregnant women: Lessons learned from the field. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, Online First, doi: 10.1007/s11469-020-00374-1. Impact Factor: 11.55; Google Scholar Citations: 2.

*+Chou, J., Diamond, R., Muruthi, B., Cooper-Sadlo, S., Ibrahim, M., & Hillier S., Aponte, J. Herbert, D., & Montesinos, S., & Zaarur, A. (2020). An application of Ecostructural family therapy for maternal substance use. Journal of Systemic Therapies. Journal Rank: None; Impact Factor: None; Google Scholar Citations: 1.

*Muruthi, B.A., Spivey, S., Chou J., Janes, E., Ibrahim, M. (2020). “We pray as a family”: The role of religion for resettled Karen refugees’ family resilience. Journal of Family Issues, 41(10), 1723–1741. https://doi.org/10.1177/0192513X20911068. Journal Rank: #30 of 46 in Family Studies; Impact Factor: 1.7; Google Scholar Citations: 24.

Peer-Reviewed Presentations

Chou, J., Bennett, D., Irving, S., Schindler, B. & Rutherford, T. (May, 2025). Family-Centered Needs of Women with Substance Use Disorders Re-entering the Community. NatCon25, Philadelphia, PA.

Chou, J., Bennett, D., Irving, S., Rutherford, T., Schindler, B., Mountney, N., & Hogue, A. (March, 2025). Perceived Benefits and Challenges of Family Member Involvement in Women’s Opioid Treatment. [Poster Presentation]. International Family Therapy Association Annual Conference, Aberdeen, Scotland.

Avula, D.S., Chou, J. Muruthi, B., Krauthamer Ewing, E. S., & Rutherford, T. (March, 2025). Couple/Marriage and Family Therapists’ Training for Families Impacted by Racial Trauma. [Poster Presentation]. International Family Therapy Association Annual Conference, Aberdeen, Scotland.

Chou, J., Bennett, D., Irving, S., Feeney, E., & Schindler, B. (Nov, 2024). Utilizing Dyadic Perspectives to Address Family Stigma and Attitudes Towards Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) Among Women [Poster Presentation]. Association for Multidisciplinary Education and Research in Substance Use and Addiction (AMERSA), Chicago, IL.

Chou, J. (April, 2024). Clinical considerations for engaging family members in treatment for substance use [Conference Presentation]. International Family Therapy Association Annual Conference, Toyama, Japan.

Patton, R. & Chou, J., (March, 2024). Navigating leadership in multi-site program development and evaluation grant projects [Conference Presentation]. AAMFT Leadership Symposium, Phoenix, Arizona.

Chou, J., Bennett D., Irving, S., & Schindler, B. (November, 2023). The role of family functioning in relation to opioid use and recovery outcomes among women with opioid use disorder (OUD) [Poster Presentation]. Association for Multidisciplinary Education and Research in Substance Use and Addiction (AMERSA), Washington D.C.

Krauthamer Ewing, E.K. & Chou, J. (September, 2023). Relationships between racism-related stress, mother-child relationships quality, and maternal substance use [Conference Presentation]. AAMFT Intervention Research in Systemic Family Therapy Annual Conference, Provo, Utah.

Chou, J. (March, 2023) Stigma, family relationships, and medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) [Conference Presentation]. International Family Therapy Association Annual Conference, Malaga, Spain.

Patton, R., Chou, J., Zaarur, A., Swint, P., Katafiasz, H. & Dang Y. (November, 2022). Utilizing mixed reality simulation in substance use training [Poster Presentation]. Association for Multidisciplinary Education and Research in Substance Use and Addiction (AMERSA), Boston, Massachusetts.

Chou, J., Bennett, D., & Patton, R. (August, 2022). The role of stigma and family functioning in women’s adherence to medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) [Conference Presentation]. Mixed Methods International Research Association (MMIRA), Virtual Meeting.

McCarthy, J., Chou, J., Sacco, P., Carpenter, K., (June, 2022). Meeting the demand: Expanding the addiction workforce from programs to peers [Workshop]. College on Problems of Drug Dependence (CPDD) Annual Scientific Meeting, Minneapolis, MN.

Chou, J., Patton, R., Katafiasz, H., Zaarur, A.(April, 2022). Substance use training program for couple and family therapists: A program evaluation [Poster Presentation]. International Family Therapy Association Annual Conference, San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Chou, J., Patton, R., Swint, P., Zaarur, A. (April, 2022). Examination of a substance use training program for couple and family therapist [Conference Presentation]. International Family Therapy Association Annual Conference, San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Patton, R. & Chou, J. (March, 2022) Increasing diversity and inclusivity when working with adolescents impacted by opioid use disorder [Workshop]. Society for Research on Adolescents, New Orleans, LA.

Zaarur, A., Chou, J. & Patton, R. (March, 2022). Exploring cultural competency among participants in substance use training program [Poster Presentation]. Society for Research on Adolescents, Nw Orleans, LA.

Patton R. & Chou, J. (November, 2021). Exploring MFT and counseling trainees’ substance use knowledge and perceptions upon entering an opioid use disorder training program during the COVID-19 pandemic [Conference Presentation]. National Council on Family Relations, Virtual.

Krauthamer Ewing, E.S., Chou, J., Slaughter-Acey, J., Bennett, D. (August, 2021). Application of an intersectionality framework and attachment theory to maternal substance use [Symposium Presentation]. American Psychological Association (APA) Convention, Division 50 Program, Virtual.

Chou, J. & Patton, R (May, 2021). Family therapy among substance use treatment centers [Poster Presentation]. National Council for Behavioral Health, Virtual

Krauthamer Ewing, E.S., Zaarur, A., Bennett, D., Chou, J., Slaughter-Acey, J. (April, 2021) Examining relationships between recall of childhood attachment quality, current family functioning, health quality and maternal substance use outcomes [Poster Presentation]. Society for Research and Child Development, Virtual.

Chou, J., Patton, R., Katafiasz, H. Dang, Y., Jordal, C., Zaarur, A. (November, 2020). Bridging the gap: Substance use training and C/MFTs [Conference Presentation]. American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, Orlando, FL.

Patton, R., Katafiasz, H. Chou, J., Zaarur, A., Dang, Y., (October, 2020). Introducing OWEP-ITI: An interdisciplinary training program for helping youth and families impacted by opioids [Podcast recording]. Collaborative Family Healthcare Association, Online.

Chou, J., Williams, C., Spruell, S., Stevenson, C., Noel, J. (October, 2020). Treatment programming and evaluation for pregnant women with opioid use disorders: Coordinating service efforts [Conference Presentation]. Collaborative Family Healthcare Association, Online.

Katafiasz, H., Patton, R., Chou, J., Gonzalez-Kruger, G., Lynch, L. (October, 2020). Reflections on integrating marriage and family therapists and mental health counselors into a primary healthcare practice [Pre-recorded session]. Collaborative Family Healthcare Association, Online.

Herbert, D., Chou, J., Bennett, D., Zaarur, Z., Dilks, K., and Schindler B. (October, 2020). Examining treatment acceptability and social support among mothers with opioid use disorders [Poster Presentation]. Black Doctoral Network Conference, Online.