I am a Distinguished Professor of Psychology , an Australian Research Council Laureate Fellow, and the Founding Director of the Centre for Emotional Health. I have a background in clinical psychology, especially the understanding and development of mental disorders. I have a history of developing treatment programs and evaluating their efficacy through clinical trials. Foremost among these has been the Cool Kids suite of programs. The Cool Kids programs are now translated into over 25 languages and used in over 30 countries.

• Anxiety, depression and related disorders across the lifespan.
• Development and risk factors for internalising distress.
• Prevention of internalising disorders.
• Treatment of anxiety and related disorders.

Additional interests in body image, mental health literacy and stigma, and methods of delivering mental health services.

I have mentored a very large number of students over the years across the full range of levels. This includes around 50 higher degree research students, many of whom have moved on to stellar research careers. Much of my best work has been conducted along with my research students and I take great pride in helping to facilitate a love of research.

I regularly present to schools, parents, and community groups in addition to my professional talks and training workshops. I often provide information to the media in all forms and enjoy educating the public about anxiety and related issues. I currently sit on the Anxiety Disorders Advisory Committee for WayAhead - the mental health association of NSW.

I regularly sit on professional committees and a number of journal editorial boards. I frequently consult with researchers around the world to provide advice and feedback on their research directions. My current primary research collaborations are with researchers in Denmark, Norway, China, The Netherlands, and the USA.