Team

Dr. Bossarte joined USF in 2021 as a Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences and is the Director and Founder of the Healthy Minds Lab. He earned his PhD from the University of Notre Dame and completed a prestigious Post-Doctoral Fellowship in 2004 with the Epidemic Intelligence Service at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Widely recognized as a global authority in suicide prevention, Dr. Bossarte spearheads the Appalachian Mind Health Initiative (AMHI) Study, generously funded by The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI). He also serves as Co-Investigator on a Department of Defense (DoD) study, further contributing to cutting-edge research in mental health. Despite his professional acclaim, Dr. Bossarte finds joy in his downtime by spending quality moments with his two rescue dogs and embarking on adventurous motorcycle tours! For more insights into his research pursuits and publications, please visit his NCBI bibliography. 

Maria joined our team in 2021 as our Statistical Data Analysis Manager, bringing a Master of Science degree from Slippery Rock University. With a keen focus on statistical research analysis, Maria excels in complex data manipulation, study database management, and presenting results in diverse formats. Originally from California, a small town in Pennsylvania (not to be confused with the West Coast state!), Maria adds a unique perspective and depth of expertise to our analytical team.. For more information on her research interests and publications, visit her NCBI bibliography.

Brooke joined our team in 2023 as a Research Project Manager, bringing a wealth of academic achievements and professional experience. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminology and Forensic Behavioral Health from the University of South Florida, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude and made the Dean’s List twice. Her academic journey continued with a Master of Science in Forensic Psychology and the Legal System from Nova Southeastern University, maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA throughout. Currently embarking on her PhD at the University of Florida in Public Health and Social and Behavioral Sciences, Brooke is passionate about contributing to research. She has already been involved in nine studies, co-authored a commentary and an abstract, and presented at the annual APA conference. Beyond academia, Brooke has conducted laboratory testing for products at Quest Protein, Blue Diamond, Skinny Pasta, and Munk Pack. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking and has conquered over 30 mountains in the last five years!

Joining the team in 2024, Trisha brings her expertise to the team as a Research Project Manager. Her background includes earning an MSM in Research Administration/Grants Management from Emmanuel College in 2015 and designing innovative solutions. Trisha plays a crucial role in monitoring institutional/compliance requirements, including reporting obligations and project deliverables. She also designs applications, processes, tools, training, interventions, and other innovative solutions to meet project requirements and timelines. She is dedicated to keeping the team organized and focused. Outside of work, she enjoys soaking in the beach views and indulging in delicious cuisine!

Eric became a valued member of the team in 2023, serving as a Clinical Research Associate at the Healthy Minds Lab. Armed with a Master's degree in Psychological Sciences, he is deeply committed to the welfare and support of individuals grappling with depression. Eric's research background spans depressive rumination research, utilizing EEGs and eye-tracking technologies, and encompasses ethical considerations in psychology and public health research. Outside of his professional pursuits, Eric finds joy in exploring the underwater world through snorkeling adventures! Learn more about his research interests and published works here.

Ruth, who recently graduated with her Masters in Social Work from the University of South Florida, joined our team in 2023 as a Clinical Research Assistant. Her MSW distinction makes her a pivotal member, emphasizing participant well-being and ethical research standards. Ruth employs evidence-based methods to ensure top-tier support across studies, including her involvement in the DoD study. Drawing from her direct work with Veterans at the James A. Haley VA, Ruth offers a deep understanding of their specific needs and challenges. Beyond her professional dedication, Ruth has a charitable side—she's donated her hair three times, totaling an impressive 36 inches!

Siham became a valuable addition to our team in 2023 as a Research Assistant, focusing on suicide risk and prevention in rural America. Her primary role involves contributing to the Appalachian Mind Health Initiative (AMHI) study, where she excels in participant recruitment, managing suicide risk communications, and serving as a coach on the electronic Cognitive Behavioral Treatment platform utilized in the research. Siham earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of South Florida, marking the beginning of her journey in academia. She looks forward to furthering her education in the future. Outside of her professional pursuits, Siham has an intriguing tale to share—she once found herself in a vehicle with the world's most venomous snake, a story that highlights her adventurous spirit and resilience!

Travis joined our team in 2023 as a Clinical Research Associate, bringing a unique perspective as a combat Veteran that allows him to connect deeply with participants in the DoD study. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Tampa, Travis combines his academic background with diverse interests—he's not only an enthusiastic golfer and guitar player but also an expert in 3D modeling and printing. His multifaceted skills enrich our research efforts while his personal experiences bring invaluable insights to our team dynamics!