My research focuses on the development and the treatment of depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and the presentation of comorbid depression and anxiety. I have explored a number of specific psychosocial factors related to the etiology of depression, such as problem solving abilities, social support, ruminative response styles, coping, personality/schemas, and automatic thinking.  In addition, I am interested in the role of such psychosocial factors in the prediction of specific disorders that are commonly comorbid with depressive disorders or symptoms.  As a result, I continue to work on understanding the role of underlying belief systems (schemas), coping, temperament, and parenting in depression and anxiety.  With regards to treatment, I am interested in the psychotherapy process and outcome research. This research has included examining factors related to treatment progress, the use and effectiveness of bibliotherapy (self-help), and exploring the role of treatment preference in predicting therapeutic alliance, adherence, motivation, and clinical outcome.   

I have an active research team that includes both undergraduate students, graduate students, and post-graduate members. Undergraduate students can volunteer time as research assistants and have the opportunity to assist with one of the ongoing projects.  Independent study is also available to undergraduate students, which involves conducting a study of their own or a study that is consistent with my overall research interests.  Graduate students can perform a number of tasks including writing for publication, completing a thesis, or simply learning more about the research process to build upon their resume.