Episode #118 High Truths on Drugs and Addiction with Dr. James Mahoney and Brain Surgery for Addiction

Brain Surgery for Addiction? Listen to Dr. James Mahoney discuss his research on using deep brain stimulation with implanted electrodes that target the pleasure center of the brain to treat addiction.

James J. Mahoney, III, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor and Clinical Neuropsychologist in the Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry and the Department of Neuroscience at the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI) and West Virginia University (WVU) School of Medicine. Dr. Mahoney is currently Director of Addictions Research at the RNI and previously served as Chair of the Research Oversight Committee in his primary department. Prior to joining WVU, Dr. Mahoney completed his doctoral training at the University of Houston and completed specialized post-doctoral training in neuropsychology at the University of Virginia. He has accumulated over 20 years of research experience, most of which have focused on the treatment and assessment of substance use disorders. Dr. Mahoney has co-authored 68 peer-reviewed manuscripts (25 first/senior authored), has published several book chapters and a textbook focusing on substance use, and has presented original research findings at several international conferences. Since beginning his position at WVU, Dr. Mahoney has served as co-investigator on several externally funded proposals including a NIDA funded UG3/UH3 award. Dr. Mahoney’s specific areas of research focus includes cognitive sequelae related to substance use as well as the investigation of various forms of neuromodulation, including deep brain stimulation, focused ultrasound, and transcranial magnetic stimulation for the treatment of substance use disorders.

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