Laboratory for
Culture and Mental Health Disparities
Bringing together researchers from across the university and beyond whose interests focus on improving mental health care for underserved populations.
Who We Are
Science Meets Social Justice
Bridging the gap between research and equity, we advance knowledge to foster social meaningful change. Where innovation drives inclusion, and discovery fuels justice.
Our Mission
Innovation and Equity
Transforming mental health through groundbreaking research and inclusive care. Where novel solutions to pressing problems create equity to heal and empower diverse communities.
Our FocusAbout
Welcome
The Laboratory for Culture and Mental Health Disparities promotes research, teaching, training, and service for the community at the University of Ottawa and beyond for our increasingly diverse society.
Areas of focus include:
- Advancing Anti-Racism in Clinical Care
- Using Science to Create a More Socially Just Society
- Innovation and Equity in Mental Health
Mental health disparities occur when people from marginalized groups are not able to access the same quality of mental health services as the general population. Our work is focused on the difficulties faced by Black, Indigenous, and other people of color (BIPOC), as well as immigrants and refugees.
Our Mission
Culturally-Informed Care
We examine the role of cultural factors in mental health, develop clinical measures to capture these constructs accurately, and advocate for culturally-informed care.
Racism & Mental Health
Experiencing racism can lead to anxiety, depression, despair, and suicidal ideation, as well as physical health issues. We are developing tools and interventions to address its impact.
Racial Microaggressions
Experiencing small act of everyday racism can lead to psychological unwellness over time. Our research is uncovering new ways of conceptualizing an old problem.
Psychedelic Medicine
Our lab focuses on understanding the therapeutic potential psychedelic substances and plant medicines while addressing historical and systemic inequities in the field
Racial Trauma in Higher Education
We are exploring the experience of covert and structural racism on students and interventions to address traumatization.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Our lab is focused on addressing complex and under-researched symptom presentations of this leading cause of disability worldwide.
Uncovering Structural Racism
Our lab is at the forefront of examining and addressing systemic injustices in legal and institutional processes.
Improving the Discipline of Psychology
We examine and address racism and structural injustice within the field of psychology, with a focus on increasing access, equity, and inclusion.