Overview: Who we are and what we do
The Depression Research and Treatment (DRT) Program is a clinical research lab that focuses on the psychosocial aspects of mood disorders. The lab is directed by John E. Roberts, Ph.D., who is an associate professor of clinical psychology at the University at Buffalo, and includes graduate students from both the doctoral program in clinical psychology and the masters program in psychology, as well as undergraduate research assistants.
Dr. Roberts and his students are interested in a number of psychological and environmental factors that may be involved in the onset, maintenance and recovery from mood disorders. Our past research studies have focused on the roles of stressful life events, vulnerable self-esteem, and rumination in depression, as well as autobiographical memory. Currently we are developing studies to investigate the role of various aspects of the physical environment such as extreme heat, air pollution and urban green space in mental health outcomes. We are particularly interested in whether psychological, behavioral and social factors mediate these environmental effects.
The long range goal of this research is to improve our understanding of the psychological and environmental contributions to depression so that more effective treatment and prevention interventions might be developed.
Are you looking for treatment for depression?
Currently the DRT Program is not taking on new clients seeking treatment for depression. If you think you may be suffering from depression and are interested in therapy within the Buffalo-Niagara metropolitan area, we recommend that you contact our affiliated university training clinic, the Psychological Services Center, at 716-645-3697.