Our team is best known for a series of controlled, randomized clinical trials that have helped to establish the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy for patients with atypical and recurrent major depressive disorder. Completed in 2011, this 11-year randomized clinical trial evaluated the long-term efficacy of continuation phase cognitive therapy (C-CT) in preventing depressive relapse and recurrence compared to Prozac (fluoxetine) and pill placebo (both used as continuation phase treatments for cognitive therapy responders). In collaboration with Michael Thase, M.D., at the University of Pennsylvania, this NIMH-funded study enabled us to develop the largest known dataset in the world on the effects of cognitive therapy for depressed patients.

Currently, the team is working on the NIMH-funded PRE-D (Preventing Perinatal Depression) study, to develop tools to prevent depression in at-risk* women who are also in early pregnancy or attempting conception. Because women with a history of depression have an increased chance of getting depressed again, useful and convenient ways to detect, monitor, and prevent depressive symptoms are needed.

*(i.e., at least one previous depressive episode)