Dr. Melissa K. Cousino received a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Case Western Reserve University where she served as an appointee on a National Institute of Health training grant in pediatric psychology. Prior to joining the University of Michigan faculty, Dr. Cousino completed her internship and fellowship at Boston Children’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School where she continued specialized training in pediatric psychology and pediatric palliative care. Currently, Dr. Cousino serves as Director of M-COPE, the Psychosocial Services and Research Program for the University of Michigan Congenital Heart Center. The M-COPE program aims to 1) increase access to mental health care for patients and families in the heart center, 2) be a leading, nationally recognized program for psychosocial research in pediatric cardiology, and 3) provide training to all learners in the psychosocial care of pediatric cardiology patients and families. Clinically, she provides mental health care services to pediatric patients with cardiac and advanced solid organ diseases. Dr. Cousino also directs a program of research funded by the National Institute of Health focused on healthcare communication, medical decision making, mental health and resilience in pediatric advanced heart disease. She serves on scientific committees and boards for various leading medical organizations and learning networks, including the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation, ACTION, and Enduring Hearts. She is a committed teacher, and especially enjoys working with trainees and junior faculty across disciplines interested in mental health-based research and intervention science in pediatric medicine.

Mental Health and Resilience in Pediatric Heart Disease and Solid Organ Transplant
Healthcare Communication and Decision-Making in Pediatric Medicine
Palliative Care in Pediatric Medicine