Jennifer L. Kuo, PhD

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Kuo
Jennifer L. Kuo, PhD

Jennifer L. Kuo, PhD

  • Clinical Psychologist, Fred Hutch
  • Acting Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine

Psychology

“My goal is to teach you how to make room for difficult feelings while still moving forward with what matters most to you.”

— Dr. Kuo


What brought you to oncology? What do you value about your work?

The cancer experience can be emotional. I find deep purpose in supporting patients to improve their quality of life and coping strategies as they face one of life's most challenging experiences. I like to work with patients on identifying their values and then guide them towards action even when experiencing treatment challenges or uncertainty about the future.

How have you been personally impacted by cancer?  

I have had several family members and friends affected by cancer at various ages. Their experiences have shaped how I approach care. I frame my role with patients carefully to reduce stigma and emphasize the ways psychological intervention can help improve quality of life.

Provider Background

Area of Clinical Practice
Clinical health psychology 

I am a clinical psychologist who sees patients at the Sloan Clinic.

I primarily practice from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) perspective. I often incorporate mindful meditation, metaphors and practical exercises to teach concepts and coping skills from ACT. My goal is for you to become your own therapist who can use these concepts and skills independently after our work together.

Languages

English

Education, Experience and Certifications

Undergraduate Degree
University of Maryland, College Park

Medical Degree
PhD, Clinical Psychology, University of South Dakota

Fellowship
City of Hope National Medical Center, Psycho-Oncology

Other
MA, Ohio State University

Clinical Trials

We make promising new treatments available to you through studies called clinical trials led by Fred Hutch physicians. Many of these trials at Fred Hutch have led to FDA-approved treatments and have improved standards of care globally. Together, you and your physician can decide if a study is right for you.

View Clinical Trials

Publications

Many of our Fred Hutch physicians conduct ongoing research to improve standards of patient care. Their work is evaluated by other physicians and selected for publication to the United States National Library of Medicine, the largest medical library in the world. See scientific papers this Fred Hutch physician has written.

View Dr. Kuo's Publications

Your Care Team

At Fred Hutch, you receive care from a team of providers with extensive experience in your disease. Your team includes physicians, a patient care coordinator, a registered nurse, an advanced practice provider and others, based on your needs. You also have access to experts like registered dietitians, social workers, acupuncturists, psychiatrists and more who specialize in supporting people with cancer or blood disorders.

Insurance

Fred Hutch accepts most national private health insurance plans as well as Medicare. We also accept Medicaid for people from Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho. We are working to ensure that everyone, no matter what their financial situation, has access to the care they need.