Ellen Leibenluft

Ellen Leibenluft is a renowned psychiatrist and researcher known for her significant contributions to the field of pediatric bipolar disorder. She is currently a Senior Investigator at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), where she leads the Section on Mood Disorders and Neuroscience in Pediatrics (SNAP).

Early Life and Education

Leibenluft was born and raised in the United States. She completed her undergraduate studies at Yale University, where she developed an interest in psychology and neuroscience. She then pursued her medical degree from Stanford University School of Medicine, followed by a residency in psychiatry at Columbia University.

Career

After completing her residency, Leibenluft joined the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) as a researcher. Her work primarily focuses on the pathophysiology and treatment of pediatric bipolar disorder. She has made significant contributions to the understanding of mood disorders in children and adolescents, particularly in the area of bipolar disorder and severe mood dysregulation (SMD).

Leibenluft's research has led to the development of novel diagnostic criteria and treatment approaches for pediatric bipolar disorder. She has also contributed to the understanding of the neurobiological underpinnings of these disorders, using techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and genetic studies.

Recognition

Leibenluft's work has been recognized with numerous awards and honors. She is a fellow of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology and has received the NIMH Outstanding Mentor Award.

Research

Leibenluft's research focuses on the pathophysiology and treatment of pediatric bipolar disorder and severe mood dysregulation (SMD). She uses a variety of research methods, including neuroimaging, genetics, and clinical trials.

Publications

Leibenluft has authored and co-authored numerous scientific publications in the field of pediatric bipolar disorder. Her work has been published in prestigious journals such as the American Journal of Psychiatry and the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.