Myrna Weissman

Myrna

Myrna Weissman
Nationality	American
Alma mater	Yale University
Known for	Research on depression and interpersonal psychotherapy
Scientific career
Fields	Epidemiology, Psychiatry
Institutions	Columbia University, New York State Psychiatric Institute

Myrna Weissman is an American epidemiologist and professor known for her pioneering research in the field of psychiatry, particularly in the study of depression and the development of interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT). She is a professor of epidemiology and psychiatry at Columbia University and the Chief of the Division of Epidemiology at the New York State Psychiatric Institute.

Early Life and Education

Weissman received her undergraduate degree from Brandeis University and her Ph.D. in epidemiology from Yale University. Her early work focused on the epidemiology of mental disorders, particularly depression.

Career

Weissman has held various academic and research positions throughout her career. She has been a faculty member at Yale University and later joined Columbia University, where she has made significant contributions to the understanding of mental health.

Research

Weissman's research has primarily focused on the epidemiology of depression and the development and dissemination of interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT). IPT is a time-limited, focused treatment for depression that aims to improve interpersonal relationships and social functioning to help reduce depressive symptoms.

Her work has also explored the genetic and environmental factors contributing to mental disorders, the impact of depression across generations, and the effectiveness of various treatment modalities.

Publications

Weissman has authored numerous articles and books on depression, interpersonal psychotherapy, and the epidemiology of mental disorders. Her publications are widely cited and have influenced both clinical practice and public health policies.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her career, Weissman has received several awards and honors for her contributions to the field of psychiatry and epidemiology. These include recognition from professional organizations and academic institutions.

Personal Life

Weissman is married to Gerald Klerman, a prominent psychiatrist, and they have collaborated on several research projects.

See Also

• Epidemiology
• Psychiatry
• Depression
• Interpersonal psychotherapy
• Columbia University
• New York State Psychiatric Institute