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.

MEET OUR TEAM

KATHERINE JOHNSTON, MSc, MA

Senior Research Associate

Katie Johnston (she/her) is senior research associate, clinical assessor, and former study therapist on the LEADS and ShARE clinical trials. 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 the impact of stress on physical and mental health across an individual’s lifespan.

BROOKE BANDA

Research Assistant

Brooke (She/Her) is a recent graduate from the University of Pittsburgh (December 2025) with a BS in psychology. Previously, Brooke was enrolled in a 5-year physician assistant program, yet she soon realized her passion was not only in clinical medicine, but also heavily grounded in psychology. She is interested in pursuing a PhD. in clinical psychology, working with adolescents or the geriatric population. She is passionate about both child and senior advocacy, wanting to research ways to improve well-being through psychological intervention and promote awareness for youth and senior mental health.

JUDAH KASS

Research Assistant

Judah (He/Him) is a recent graduate of the University of Pittsburgh with a bachelor's in psychology and philosophy. Judah is interested in understanding the vital role that environmental contexts and family dynamics play in contributing to youth mental health outcomes. Specifically, he would like to pursue a career in research and clinical work aimed towards improving psychoeducation for youth and families. Outside of the lab, Judah loves to play guitar and piano, cook, and toss a frisbee with friends.

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.

ALEXANDRA WINDOWS

Research Assistant

Alexandra (she/her) is a senior at the University of Pittsburgh, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Sociology. She plans to pursue a doctoral degree in child clinical psychology, studying how environmental stressors affect emotional and behavioral development in neurodivergent youth and adolescence. Alexandra hopes to help youth and adolescents adapt to adverse environments and foster resilience.

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