UIC Department of Psychiatry

Susan Labott, PhD, ABPP; , PhD; Sarah Shelby, PhD

For more information or to schedule an initial evaluation, please call our appointment line at: (312) 355-3463 

The Health Psychology Clinic provides clinical psychological services for adult patients and their families who are dealing with medical diagnosis and treatment. Clinical health psychology is an approach to treatment in which biological, psychological, and social factors are all considered together in the treatment of the patient. That is, we do not focus only on the medical disease, social situation, or psychological symptoms. Instead, we consider the whole person and how all these factors fit together in the person’s life. The health psychology service is staffed by professionals who have experience in the psychological issues associated with various medical problems. Comprehensive care is provided through collaboration with the patient's physician, or through consultation with other services in the Department of Psychiatry (e.g., for psychotropic medications or cognitive assessments). Following an initial evaluation of biological, psychological, and social factors, an individualized treatment plan is developed to help the client cope with or adjust to the problems he/she is facing. Many of our clients are struggling to manage stressful medical situations that are associated with anxiety, depression, marital/family problems, end-of life issues, or difficult lifestyle adjustments. Others may have difficulty complying with medical regimens, or may need evaluations of competency to make treatment decisions. 

Our goal is to help people improve their quality of life. We will help you find new and better ways of coping and new ways of behaving and thinking to help you manage the issues that you face. Individual therapy may be recommended to help you work on these areas. 

We also provide the following specific services: 

• Evaluation and preparation for weight loss surgery
• Biofeedback-assisted relaxation training
• Pain management
• Treatment for insomnia and other sleep problems
• Stem cell or organ transplant preparation  

Research is also an integral part of the Health Psychology Service. Ongoing projects include studies of the psychological impacts of being a stem cell donor, understanding of informed consent in behavioral research, and emotional and social factors in COPD.