RACHEL VAUGHN-COAXUM, PHD

Principal Investigator

Dr. Vaughn-Coaxum (she/her/hers) is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Dr. Vaughn-Coaxum completed her PhD in clinical psychology at Harvard University and her BA in psychology from Northwestern University. Dr. Vaughn-Coaxum completed her predoctoral clinical internship and postdoctoral training in clinical science at Western Psychiatric Hospital/University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. The primary goal of Dr. Vaughn-Coaxum's research is to understand how youths' environmental context (particularly the experience of adverse life events) influences their mental health and response to psychological treatments through changes in cognition and behavior. Dr. Vaughn-Coaxum's work has been funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), The Klingenstein Third Generation Foundation, and the Sackler Foundation.

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KATHERINE JOHNSTON, MSc, MA

Research Associate

Katie Johnston (she/her) is a clinician for the LEADS Study. She received her MSc in Counseling Psychology, her MA in Secondary Education, and her BA in English from Chatham University. Katie's research and clinical interests include how stress impacts physical and mental health across an individual’s lifespan.

JUDAH KASS

Research Assistant

Judah (He/Him) is a junior at the University of Pittsburgh majoring in psychology and philosophy. Judah hopes to pursue a career in clinical psychology, specifically working with children and adolescents. He hopes to give guidance and support to patients in need and foster better psychoeducation in youth.

THANU YALAMANCHI

Research Assistant

Thanu (she/her) is a junior at the University of Pittsburgh majoring in Anthropology and minoring in Chemistry. She is currently working as a Medical Assistant at Magee-Women's Hospital. She plans to pursue an MD and is interested in psychiatry.

OREOLUWA ODENIYI

Medical Student

Oreoluwa (Ore) is a medical student at University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. She earned her bachelor's degree in bioengineering from the University of Pittsburgh School of Engineering. Ore is passionate about understanding depression, suicidality, and trauma in Black youth and exploring how family dynamics can provide enriching support throughout the mental health process. Her clinical interests lie in Pediatric Psychiatry and Neurology, with a focus on improving mental health outcomes for children and adolescents. Outside of medicine, Ore is a dedicated music producer and songwriter, blending her love for creativity with her commitment to advocacy and well-being.

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FORMER TEAM MEMBERS