Institute for Behavioral Health

Welcome to the Institute for Behavioral Health

Since the Heller School began, both faculty and students have studied mental and substance use disorders. Formalized in 2003, IBH focuses on the intersection of health, behavior, and systems of care, with an emphasis on their linkages. Its underlying premise is that these systems can be better used to promote healthier lifestyles and assist individuals to engage in behaviors which lead to better health.

Our focus is broadening to include other issues that are affected by behaviors which can be targeted by interventions and have an impact on health and wellness. In addition to studying systems of care, we investigate health outcomes that are associated with behaviors, and also develop and test methods to evaluate the effects of behaviors on health.

We consider a variety of systems of care, including health care delivery, as well as criminal justice, education, social services, housing, military and the workplace.

We hope that you find this site useful as you learn more about our research staff and our activities in behavioral health.

Constance M. Horgan, ScD, Founding Director

Our dear colleague Robert Dunigan, PhD, MSW, passed away on Feb 4th, 2025. This loss has impacted our community deeply, and we are honored to celebrate his legacy.

After earning his PhD from Brandeis’ Heller School, Dr. Dunigan joined the staff as a researcher in 2005. Much of his work addressed the health disparities and substance use treatment needs of marginalized populations, especially the Black community. He worked closely and connected his teams with many community partners, enriching his work with nuance, expertise, and lived experience perspectives. Dr. Dunigan served as a mentor to many early career researchers throughout his career.

We invite you to write remembrances by adding your reflections and sentiments to the Kudo board created in his honor, which will be given to Dr. Dunigan’s family.