Degree

MSc (Genetic Counselling) CGC, University of British Columbia

Academic appointment

Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia
Researcher, Women’s Health Research Institute

Biography

Catriona’s research interests are focused in two main areas: 1) reproductive mental health, and 2) psychiatric genetic counselling. Her work in the area of reproductive mental health is currently focused on the impact of genetic variations on metabolism of antidepressants during pregnancy, and how women make decisions about taking antidepressants during pregnancy. Psychiatric genetic counselling is an intervention that involves sharing knowledge about the causes of mental health concerns with individuals and/or their loved ones, as well as exploring how these explanations relate to the family’s experiences, and options for wellness strategies. Catriona and other CREST.BD members, including Principal Investigator Dr. Jehannine Austin, conducted the first randomized controlled trial of the impact of psychiatric genetic counselling for bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, evaluating whether it could enhance knowledge and understanding, as well as ameliorate self-stigma and improve quality of life; now published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.

What I do when I'm not working

I enjoy yoga, tap dancing, singing, time with my husband and relaxing with a good book in my spare time.

Phone

1-604-875-2000, ext. 4733

Address

Translational Psychiatric Genetics Group
3rd Floor – 938 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4