Research Interests

Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition marked by recurring episodes of mania and depression, and it ranks as one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. In the United States, about 2.8% of adults are affected by the disorder (NIH, 2022). Studies show that untreated episodes can lead to a worsening course of the illness, with more frequent recurrences, increased disability, cognitive impairments, and treatment resistance (Post, 2021). While some researchers advocate for a “wait and see” approach to diagnosing bipolar disorder (Malhi et al., 2020), studies such as the Systematic Enhancement Program for Bipolar Disorder (STEP-BD) reveal that in a cohort of 983 participants, 27.7% experienced onset before age 12, and 36.6% between ages 13 and 18 (Leverich et al., 2007).

Schizophrenia affects around 24 million people worldwide, or approximately 1 in 300 people (WHO, 2022). This disorder presents three types of symptoms that significantly impact mental functioning and daily life: positive symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions; negative symptoms, including social withdrawal and emotional flatness; and cognitive symptoms, such as difficulties with learning and attention (Stępnicki et al., 2018). Due to the impact of these symptoms, schizophrenia is also among the top 25 causes of disability globally (WHO, 2022).

My research centers on early-onset mood and psychotic disorders, with a particular emphasis on bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Many individuals with bipolar disorder experience onset during childhood or adolescence. However, Pediatric Bipolar Disorder (PBD) is a controversial diagnosis, partly due to concerns around stigmatization and early medication exposure. Early intervention can help mitigate negative outcomes, supporting young people in developing coping skills and autonomous symptom management for a better prognosis.

One area of my research interest is the role of Family-Focused Therapy (FFT) in treating early-onset bipolar disorder. FFT is an evidence-based modality that supports healthy changes in the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex—a brain region linked to emotion regulation in bipolar disorder. FFT stands out as one of the few family-centered therapeutic approaches shown to improve both manic and depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder, though it is not widely practiced, possibly due to its complex implementation. FFT empowers individuals and their families through psychoeducation, problem-solving techniques, and improved communication skills, helping them to better understand, accept, and manage bipolar symptoms.