Adrienne Johnson , PhD

Adrienne Johnson, PhD, is a UW Health clinical health psychologist and an assistant professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. She cares for people who have medical conditions that affect their mental health such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and other neurocognitive disorders (conditions affecting skills linked to specific brain pathways).

With a special clinical interest both mild and major cognitive (thinking) impairment, she helps patients understand their emotions and mood changes as they relate to a newly diagnosed health condition. With a patient-centered approach to care, she uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help patients manage their feelings and live a valued life.

In addition to patient care, she conducts research looking at how cigarette smoking affects older adults’ health and how smoking contributes to neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. She also studies health equity, with some of her research specifically focused on the African American population.

Outside of work, Adrienne enjoys spending time with her family and playing sports.

It’s pivotal to listen to patients to really be able to help them fully.