Aimee Smith

Dr. Aimee Smith is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychological Science and the Health Psychology PhD Program at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She directs the Pediatric H.E.A.R.T Lab, focusing on healthcare engagement, adherence, and transition for youth with chronic illnesses. Her research emphasizes marginalized populations in medical/mental health settings, medication adherence, and healthcare transition challenges.

Education:

• Bachelor’s in Psychology: Winthrop University
• Doctoral Degree: Kent State University
• Predoc Internship & Postdoc Fellowship: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center

Key Research Projects:

• Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust-funded study on health disparities in youth with chronic illnesses.
• Community-engaged project addressing psychosocial needs of patients with sickle cell disease.
• Multi-year medication adherence study using electronic monitors in college students with chronic illnesses.

Labs/Teams: The Pediatric HEART Lab collaborates with Charlotte community partners to study healthcare transitions, adherence, and pediatric psychology. Current projects include epilepsy transition experiences and sickle cell disease training programs.