Whether she is treating a patient, coaching a trainee, or researching how to best treat depression, Robin Jarrett, Ph.D., is dedicated to improving and understanding the human experience.

“My career provides a meaningful honor and privilege to explore nature and learn about people,” Dr. Jarrett says. “The overarching refrain is that of facilitating strategic change for individuals, separately or organized in small and large groups.”

Dr. Jarrett joined the faculty of UT Southwestern in 1984 as Assistant Professor of Psychiatry.

She describes one particularly gratifying experience over her 40-year career as leading her research team that set the stage for cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to become a first-line treatment for depression. This research included the first positive pill placebo controlled randomized clinical trial of CBT for adults with depression and continues to unfold via international collaboration.

“These findings and those that follow show how and when to use CBT to prevent depressive relapse and promote recovery,” Dr. Jarrett says. “The results are significant in raising public and medical awareness about how the brain and behavior – including emotions and thoughts – are connected and influence health.”

Dr. Jarrett is also happy to be one of the first women fellows that UT Southwestern sent to the ELAM – Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine – program. Her ELAM action project sought to establish faculty development programs and initiatives at a time when UT Southwestern had no formal process.

“I am pleased that UT Southwestern continues to support women leaders in this impactful way,” she says. “Today women leaders form the backbone of this commitment, contributing to Faculty Affairs, Faculty Development, Faculty Wellness, and more.”

Dr. Jarrett acknowledges UT Southwestern for giving her many opportunities to help people and expand understanding of behavior throughout her career.

“I am optimistic about how science will improve human experience and understanding, even amid challenge or chaos,” she says. “I feel this same optimism each time another person invites me as a clinical psychologist, teacher, colleague, or professional coach to work and walk beside them as they accomplish their goals.”

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