Dr. Bakos-Block, Ph.D., LCSW-S is a research track assistant professor with the Center for Behavioral, Emergency, and Addiction Research and has an extensive clinical background in mental and behavioral health and substance use disorder. Dr. Bakos-Block received her PhD in Social Work from the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work in 2018. She was the recipient of the Stanley Family Endowed Chair of Population Health postdoctoral award at McGovern Medical School, where her work focused on interprofessional collaboration in community and family healthcare. Dr. Bakos-Block was a research scientist with the Houston Emergency Opioid Engagement System (Heroes), a national clinical trial providing comprehensive treatment for individuals with substance use disorders. Dr. Bakos-Block is a member of the National Association for AddictionProfessionals (NAADAC), and the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies. She has published articles in top tiered, peer reviewed journalsand presented at national professional conferences.
- Tell us about your research center and/or what research you are currently working on?
The Center for Behavioral Emergency and Addiction Research (C-BEAR) oversees a multidisciplinary team of scientists and clinicians that utilize data science methodologies to advance research and treatment. C-BEAR aims to improve behavioral health and emergency care through prevention, policy, and treatment programs for vulnerable populations.
- What does the future of informatics look like?
The intersection of health informatics and health equity is paving the way for improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations. Social work is at the center of using health-equity focused informatics research to close gaps in population health.
- What major UTHealth Houston departments/institutes do you collaborate with?
Emergency Medicine, Behavioral and Biomedical Sciences, McGovern
Education
- PhD, Social Work, 2018, University of Houston – College of Social Work
- MSW, Social Work, 2012, University of Houston – College of Social Work
- BA, English Literature, 2010, University of Houston
Areas of Expertise
- Clinical Research
- Mental and Behaviorial Health
- Substance Abuse Disorder
