Kelly McConnell

Kelly McConnell, PhD is an Associate Attending Psychologist and Director of the Psycho-Oncology of Cancer and Aging Program at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Her work focuses on psychosocial interventions for older adults with cancer and their caregivers, addressing anxiety, existential distress, and end-of-life care challenges.

• Education: PhD in Psychology from Bowling Green State University, Residency in Geriatric Psychology at Wayne State University, Fellowship in Psychosocial Oncology at Dana Farber Cancer Institute

Her research explores distress reduction strategies, cognitive behavioral therapy adaptation for aging cancer patients, and systemic approaches to improve caregiver support. Key publications span Journal of Geriatric Oncology, Psychooncology, and Cancer.

Scientific contributions include:

• 2018 APOS New Investigator Award
• 2016 SBM Spirituality and Health Special Interest Group New Investigator Award
• 2012 ASCO Merit Award

Current clinical trials investigate music therapy vs CBT for anxiety and implementation of psychosocial interventions in diverse medical settings. She maintains professional affiliations with the American Psychosocial Oncology Society and Gerontological Society of America.