Samantha Holden, MD
Behavioral Neurology
Board Certified
Care Philosophy
I frequently tell my patients that I know a lot about THE brain, but they know a lot about THEIR brain, and we are therefore teammates in understanding and treating their neurological condition. We focus on practical and meaningful interventions for cognitive health and brain aging together, namely physical activity, diet, social engagement, and humor, not only improve overall quality of life, but to help delay the progression of their neurodegenerative condition.
Clinical Interest for Patients
I focus on conditions that affect both cognition and movement, primarily Parkinson's disease dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies. I have completed fellowship training in both Movement Disorders and Behavioral Neurology, which laid the foundation for this clinical and research focus.
Title(s)
Vice Chair of Neurology Clinical Practice, Clinical Director of Outpatient Neurology
Credentials
Doctor of Medicine
Specialty
Behavioral Neurology, Neurology
Scheduling Phone Number
720-848-2080
Gender
Female
Languages
English
Hospital Affiliation
University of Colorado Hospital
CU Memory Disorders Clinic - Central Park
Phone: 720-848-2080 720-848-2080
Provider Information
Specialties
- Behavioral Neurology (2016)
- Neurology (2014,2024)
Conditions
-
Brain and Nervous System
Parkinson's Disease Dementia , Memory Loss , Memory disorders , Lewy Body Dementia , Cognitive Changes , Mild Cognitive Impairment , Alzheimer's Disease , Posterior Cortical Atrophy , Dementia with Lewy Bodies
Interests and Activities
Personal Interests
I enjoy reading historical fiction, especially anything that focuses on Eleanor of Aquitaine, riding my Peloton, and interior decorating.
Department
Associate Professor, Neurology
Professional Memberships
Alzheimer's Association International Society to Advance Alzheimer's Research and Treatment, Member American Academy of Neurology, Member American Neuropsychiatric Association, Member Colorado Society of Clinical Neurologists, Member International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society, Member
Research and Grants
Research Interests for Patients
My research focuses on the development and validation of optimal cognitive outcome measures for use in the clinical care and treatment of neurodegenerative dementias, with a focus on Lewy body dementia. Cognitive assessments must be responsive and adaptable, as well as align well with the priorities of people living with dementia and their care partners. This goal has led me to research less traditional methods of cognitive assessment than paper-and-pencil testing, such as performance-based assessments of activities of daily living, mobile health applications, and wearable devices. In parallel with the development and validation of pragmatic and meaningful outcome measures, my research program also explores complementary therapies for cognition, daily function, and overall wellbeing for people living with neurodegenerative dementias, including neurologic music therapy and cannabis-based therapies.
Education and Training
Medical Schools
MD, The School of Medicine at Stony Brook University Medical Center (2010)
Undergraduate Schools
BS, New York University (NY) (2006)
Graduate Schools
MSCS, University of Colorado Denver (2018)
Internships
Rush University Medical Center Program (2011)
Residency Program
Rush University Medical Center Program (2014)
Fellowships
University of Colorado (2017)
Information for referring providers
Referral Contact Phone
720-848-2080