Jodie Benabe, PsyD
Instructor, Medicine-Internal Medicine

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Graduate School :
  • PsyD, Phillips Graduate Institute (2009)
Undergraduate School:
  • BA, Occidental College (CA) (2004)
Department: Medicine-Internal Medicine

Research Interests

My research has focused on eating disorders, especially severe anorexia nervosa, compensatory behaviors, personality constructs, and belief systems.

Publications

  • Kambanis PE, Bottera AR, Mancuso CJ, Cass K, Lohse K, Benabe J, Oakes J, Watters A, Johnson C, Mehler P, Young KP. Delusionality of beliefs among 50 adult females with severe and extreme anorexia nervosa upon admission to an acute medical stabilization facility. Eat Disord. 2023 Jul-Aug;31(4):353-361. PubMed PMID: 36282147
  • De Young K, Bottera A, Kambanis E, Mancuso C, Cass K, Lohse K, Benabe J, Oakes J, Watters A, Johnson C, Mehler P. Delusional intensity as a prognostic indicator among individuals with severe to extreme anorexia nervosa hospitalized at an acute medical stabilization program. Int J Eat Disord. 2022 Feb;55(2):215-222. PubMed PMID: 34773668
  • Gibson D, Benabe J, Watters A, Oakes J, Mehler PS. Personality characteristics and medical impact of stimulant laxative abuse in eating disorder patients-a pilot study. J Eat Disord. 2021 Nov 4;9(1):146. PubMed PMID: 34736530
  • Rylander M, Taylor G, Bennett S, Pierce C, Keniston A, Mehler PS. Evaluation of cognitive function in patients with severe anorexia nervosa before and after medical stabilization. J Eat Disord. 2020;8:35. PubMed PMID: 32760588
  • Geer B, Gibson D, Grayeb D, Benabe J, Victory S, Mehler S, Mehler P. Metformin abuse: A novel and dangerous purging behavior in anorexia nervosa. Int J Eat Disord. 2019 Mar;52(3):319-321. PubMed PMID: 30629296

Professional Memberships

  • American Psychological Association, Member
  • Colorado Psychological Association, Member
  • International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals, Member, Denver Metro President (2021-2023)

Practice Locations

UCHealth Internal Medicine - Anschutz Medical Campus
1635 Aurora Ct
5th Floor
Aurora, CO 80045
720-848-2300

UCHealth Internal Medicine - Lowry
8111 E. Lowry Blvd
Denver, CO 80230
720-848-9500

Specialty Information

Specialties
  • Certified Eating Disorder Specialist-Consultation (CEDS-C), Certificate (0001)
  • Certified Clinical Trauma Professional II, Certificate (0001)
Conditions & Treatments
  • Mental Health and Behavior
  • Mental Health and Behavior - Anxiety
  • Mental Health and Behavior - Anxiety / Worry / Panic Attacks
  • Mental Health and Behavior - Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
  • Mental Health and Behavior - Bereavement
  • Mental Health and Behavior - Eating Disorders
  • Mental Health and Behavior - Depression
  • Mental Health and Behavior - Panic Disorder
  • Mental Health and Behavior - Phobias
  • Mental Health and Behavior - Postpartum Depression
  • Mental Health and Behavior - Relationship problems
  • Mental Health and Behavior - Trauma / PTSD
Clinical Interests
My clinical interests revolve around the intricate relationship between trauma, intersectionality, and diverse mental health challenges. While I practice as a generalist and treat a wide range of psychological conditions, I have expertise in treating eating disorders, anxiety and phobias (including use of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy), and relational trauma. My graduate studies emphasized Multicultural Psychology, and I was involved in establishing the Higher Education Diversity Summit at Metropolitan State University of Denver.

Care Philosophy
As a primary care psychologist, my approach to patient care is person-centered and integrative. I believe in the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Through a collaborative partnership, I work closely with individuals to create a safe and non-judgmental space, where we explore challenges, identify strengths, and develop tailored strategies for personal growth. I am dedicated to providing culturally competent care, ensuring a respectful and inclusive therapeutic experience. Additionally, I place a strong emphasis on prevention through psycho-education, aiming to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed for long-term resilience and well-being. My goal is to support people on their path to improved mental and emotional health, fostering long-term resilience and overall well-being.

Personal Interests
As a Colorado transplant, I'm in awe of the many outdoor activities the area has to offer. You can usually find me at a park or mountain in my free time exploring the area with my family.

Volunteer Activities
International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals President, Denver Metro Chapter (2021-2023). Education Chair (2019-2021) Colorado Psychological Association, Diversity Mentor

Public Speaking
Yes

General Information

Graduate Schools:
  • PsyD, Phillips Graduate Institute (2009)
Undergraduate Schools:
  • BA, Occidental College (CA) (2004)
Department: Medicine-Internal Medicine
Contact Us
CU Anschutz
Fitzsimons Building

13001 East 17th Place
Campus Box C290
Aurora, CO 80045

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