Brian Carpenter

Brian Carpenter is a Professor of Psychological & Brain Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis, where he also serves as Director of Clinical Training. He is affiliated with the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences within the College of Arts and Sciences, and leads a research lab focused on aging, family dynamics, and palliative care.

His educational background includes a PhD and MA from Case Western Reserve University and a BA from Williams College.

Dr. Carpenter's research centers on the clinical psychology of aging, with a strong emphasis on family relationships in late life, collaborative communication, and decision-making in palliative and end-of-life contexts. His work bridges clinical practice and public understanding, addressing behavioral interventions, mental health policy, and workforce development in geropsychology. He has edited influential volumes and published extensively in top journals.

His recent publications highlight trends in geropsychology, including workforce challenges, patient empowerment tools like question prompt lists, and the evolving landscape of mental health care for older adults. Themes across his work include improving quality of life, enhancing communication between patients, families, and providers, and advancing evidence-based practices in aging and end-of-life care.

• Featured in The Christian Science Monitor on ageism in politics
• Interviewed by APA Monitor and Speaking of Psychology podcast

Dr. Carpenter mentors students and oversees a research lab dedicated to improving health outcomes for older adults. Though not admitting new graduate students in 2025, his lab continues to engage undergraduate research assistants. His team develops educational resources and communication tools to support older adults and their care partners. The lab is active in national discourse, presenting at major conferences like the Gerontological Society of America.