Our Team
Above: Group Picture Summer 2020
Below: Group Picture Summer 2019 
|
Lab Director
Dr. Cheri A. Levinson, Ph.D. (She/Her)
Assistant Professor
Clinical Psychology Ph.D.: Washington University, Department of Psychology
T32 Post-doctoral Fellowship: Washington University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
Clinical Internship: University of North Carolina, Department of Psychiatry
Center for Excellence in Eating Disorders (CEED)
Dr. Levinson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Louisville and Director of the EAT lab and clinic. Dr. Levinson’s research focuses on (a) understanding the high levels of comorbidity between eating and anxiety disorders and (b) applying empirically supported treatments for anxiety disorders, specifically exposure therapy, to the eating disorders. Dr. Levinson has published more than 80 peer-reviewed manuscripts and chapters and has been the primary investigator on several national grants and awards. She has received several awards for her work from the Academy for Eating Disorders, including the 2015 Outstanding Scientific Contribution Award. Dr. Levinson was also awarded the 2020 American Psychological Foundation Theodore Blau Award for an Early Investigator who has made an outstanding contribution to Clinical Psychology. Dr. Levinson’s clinical work focuses primarily on treating patients with eating disorders using CBT, DBT, and other empirically-based treatments.
To see Dr. Levinson's CV, please click here: LevinsonCV
Assistant Professor
Clinical Psychology Ph.D.: Washington University, Department of Psychology
T32 Post-doctoral Fellowship: Washington University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
Clinical Internship: University of North Carolina, Department of Psychiatry
Center for Excellence in Eating Disorders (CEED)
Dr. Levinson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Louisville and Director of the EAT lab and clinic. Dr. Levinson’s research focuses on (a) understanding the high levels of comorbidity between eating and anxiety disorders and (b) applying empirically supported treatments for anxiety disorders, specifically exposure therapy, to the eating disorders. Dr. Levinson has published more than 80 peer-reviewed manuscripts and chapters and has been the primary investigator on several national grants and awards. She has received several awards for her work from the Academy for Eating Disorders, including the 2015 Outstanding Scientific Contribution Award. Dr. Levinson was also awarded the 2020 American Psychological Foundation Theodore Blau Award for an Early Investigator who has made an outstanding contribution to Clinical Psychology. Dr. Levinson’s clinical work focuses primarily on treating patients with eating disorders using CBT, DBT, and other empirically-based treatments.
To see Dr. Levinson's CV, please click here: LevinsonCV
Graduate Students
Leigh C. Brosof, M.S.
Leigh Brosof (B.A. Washington University in St. Louis) entered graduate school in July 2016. She received her Master’s degree in May 2019. Her research interests include exploring the etiology of eating disorders and testing novel treatments of eating disorders based on etiological models. In particular, Leigh is interested in applying exposure-based treatments to eating disorders. She is also interested in longitudinal modeling and ecological momentary assessment methods and novel statistical techniques, including network analysis and machine learning. She is currently investigating shared and unique vulnerability factors (including neurobiological vulnerabilities) of comorbid eating disorders-anxiety in adolescents. In her free time, Leigh enjoys running, spending time outdoors, and exploring the local restaurant and food scene.
Representative publications and presentations:
Brosof, L. C., Egbert, A. H., Reilly, E. E., Wonderlich, J. A., Karam, A., Vanzhula, I., Steward, T., & Levinson, C. A. (2019). Intolerance of uncertainty moderates the relationship between high personal standards but not evaluative concerns perfectionism and eating disorder symptoms cross-sectionally and prospectively. Eating Behaviors, 35, 101340.
Brosof, L. C., & Levinson, C. A. (2017). Social appearance anxiety and dietary restraint as mediators between perfectionism and binge eating: A six month three wave longitudinal study. Appetite, 108, 335-342.
Brosof, L. C., Levinson, C. A., Forbush, K., Goodman, E., Schaumberg, K., Bulik, C. M, Micali, N., & Zerwas, S. (under review). Understanding the comorbidity of obsessive-compulsive symptoms during adolescence: A network model.
Farrell, N. R., Brosof, L. C., Vanzhula, I. A., Christian, C., & Levinson, C. A. (2019). Exploring mechanisms of action in exposure-based cognitive behavioral therapy for eating disorders: The role of eating-related fears and body-related safety behaviors. Behavior Therapy, 50, 1125-1135.
Brosof, L. C., Trombley, C., & Levinson, C.A. (September 2019). Prediction of binge eating and purging symptoms using machine learning. Paper presented at the Eating Disorders Research Society, Chicago, Illinois. Selected for Best Student Abstract Award.
Brosof, L. C., Knight, L., Hunt, K. J., Levinson, C. A., & Depue, B. (2019, March). Imaginal exposure eating disorder fear scripts are associated with increased activation related to threat and internally processed thought compared to neutral scripts: A proof-of-concept fMRI study. Paper presented at the International Conference of Eating Disorders, New York, NY.
Leigh Brosof (B.A. Washington University in St. Louis) entered graduate school in July 2016. She received her Master’s degree in May 2019. Her research interests include exploring the etiology of eating disorders and testing novel treatments of eating disorders based on etiological models. In particular, Leigh is interested in applying exposure-based treatments to eating disorders. She is also interested in longitudinal modeling and ecological momentary assessment methods and novel statistical techniques, including network analysis and machine learning. She is currently investigating shared and unique vulnerability factors (including neurobiological vulnerabilities) of comorbid eating disorders-anxiety in adolescents. In her free time, Leigh enjoys running, spending time outdoors, and exploring the local restaurant and food scene.
Representative publications and presentations:
Brosof, L. C., Egbert, A. H., Reilly, E. E., Wonderlich, J. A., Karam, A., Vanzhula, I., Steward, T., & Levinson, C. A. (2019). Intolerance of uncertainty moderates the relationship between high personal standards but not evaluative concerns perfectionism and eating disorder symptoms cross-sectionally and prospectively. Eating Behaviors, 35, 101340.
Brosof, L. C., & Levinson, C. A. (2017). Social appearance anxiety and dietary restraint as mediators between perfectionism and binge eating: A six month three wave longitudinal study. Appetite, 108, 335-342.
Brosof, L. C., Levinson, C. A., Forbush, K., Goodman, E., Schaumberg, K., Bulik, C. M, Micali, N., & Zerwas, S. (under review). Understanding the comorbidity of obsessive-compulsive symptoms during adolescence: A network model.
Farrell, N. R., Brosof, L. C., Vanzhula, I. A., Christian, C., & Levinson, C. A. (2019). Exploring mechanisms of action in exposure-based cognitive behavioral therapy for eating disorders: The role of eating-related fears and body-related safety behaviors. Behavior Therapy, 50, 1125-1135.
Brosof, L. C., Trombley, C., & Levinson, C.A. (September 2019). Prediction of binge eating and purging symptoms using machine learning. Paper presented at the Eating Disorders Research Society, Chicago, Illinois. Selected for Best Student Abstract Award.
Brosof, L. C., Knight, L., Hunt, K. J., Levinson, C. A., & Depue, B. (2019, March). Imaginal exposure eating disorder fear scripts are associated with increased activation related to threat and internally processed thought compared to neutral scripts: A proof-of-concept fMRI study. Paper presented at the International Conference of Eating Disorders, New York, NY.
Irina Vanzhula, M.S.
Irina Vanzhula (B.A. University of Illinois at Springfield; M.A. Saint-Petersburg State University) is a 6th year graduate student. Irina is interested in applying network analysis methods to the study of psychopathology, and specifically in exploring eating disorder comorbidities. Irina’s research interests also include mindfulness-based treatments for eating disorders and maladaptive eating behaviors. Irina is currently collaborating with UofL Health Promotion Office to conduct a 4-week mindful eating workshop and empirically evaluating its effectiveness. Irina is also working on developing and evaluating a brief treatment for self-criticism, guilt, and shame. In her free time, Irina enjoys traveling, cooking, and yoga.
Representative publications and presentations:
Vanzhula, I.A., Calebs, B., Fewell, L., Levinson, C.A. (2018). Irritability and Concentration Difficulties are Illness Pathways between Eating Disorder and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms: Understanding Comorbidity with Network Analysis. European Eating Disorder Review, 27(2):147-160.
Sala, M., Vanzhula, I. A., Levinson, C. A. (2018). A Longitudinal Study on the Association Between Facets of Mindfulness and Eating Disorder Symptoms in Individuals with Eating Disorders. European Eating Disorder Review, 27(3), 295-305.
Levinson, C.A., Vanzhula, I.A., Brosof, L.C., Forbush, K. (2018). Network Analysis as an Alternative Approach to Conceptualizing Eating Disorders: Implications for Research and Treatment. Current Psychiatry Reports, 20(9), 67.
Levinson, C.A., Vanzhula, I.A., & Brosof, C.L. (2018). Longitudinal and Personalized Networks of Eating Disorder Cognitions and Behaviors: Targets for Precision Intervention. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 51(11):1233-1243.
Vanzhula, I.A., Smith, T.W., Levinson, C.A., Stice, E. (March, 2019). Personalized Networks of Eating Disorder Symptoms in High School Students: Targets for Individualized Treatments. Paper presented at the Academy of Eating Disorders, International Conference on Eating Disorders, New York, NY.
Irina Vanzhula (B.A. University of Illinois at Springfield; M.A. Saint-Petersburg State University) is a 6th year graduate student. Irina is interested in applying network analysis methods to the study of psychopathology, and specifically in exploring eating disorder comorbidities. Irina’s research interests also include mindfulness-based treatments for eating disorders and maladaptive eating behaviors. Irina is currently collaborating with UofL Health Promotion Office to conduct a 4-week mindful eating workshop and empirically evaluating its effectiveness. Irina is also working on developing and evaluating a brief treatment for self-criticism, guilt, and shame. In her free time, Irina enjoys traveling, cooking, and yoga.
Representative publications and presentations:
Vanzhula, I.A., Calebs, B., Fewell, L., Levinson, C.A. (2018). Irritability and Concentration Difficulties are Illness Pathways between Eating Disorder and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms: Understanding Comorbidity with Network Analysis. European Eating Disorder Review, 27(2):147-160.
Sala, M., Vanzhula, I. A., Levinson, C. A. (2018). A Longitudinal Study on the Association Between Facets of Mindfulness and Eating Disorder Symptoms in Individuals with Eating Disorders. European Eating Disorder Review, 27(3), 295-305.
Levinson, C.A., Vanzhula, I.A., Brosof, L.C., Forbush, K. (2018). Network Analysis as an Alternative Approach to Conceptualizing Eating Disorders: Implications for Research and Treatment. Current Psychiatry Reports, 20(9), 67.
Levinson, C.A., Vanzhula, I.A., & Brosof, C.L. (2018). Longitudinal and Personalized Networks of Eating Disorder Cognitions and Behaviors: Targets for Precision Intervention. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 51(11):1233-1243.
Vanzhula, I.A., Smith, T.W., Levinson, C.A., Stice, E. (March, 2019). Personalized Networks of Eating Disorder Symptoms in High School Students: Targets for Individualized Treatments. Paper presented at the Academy of Eating Disorders, International Conference on Eating Disorders, New York, NY.
Caroline Christian, B.S. (She/Her)
Caroline Christian (B.S. University of Louisville) is a 3rd year graduate student in the EAT Lab. Caroline’s research interests include novel applications of technology and advanced statistical methods to better understand and develop treatments for eating disorders, especially across critical risk periods. In her free time, Caroline enjoys taking her dog Lincoln to the park, trying new restaurants in Louisville, and watching old movies.
Representative Publications:
Christian, C., Williams, B. M., Hunt, R.A., Wong, V.Z., Ernst, S.E., Spoor, S.P., Vanzhula I.A., Tregarthen J.P., Forbush, K.T., Levinson, C. A. (2020). A Network Investigation of Core Symptoms and Pathways across Duration of Illness using a Comprehensive Cognitive-Behavioral Model of Eating-Disorder Symptoms. Psychological Medicine.
Christian, C., Perko, V. L., Vanzhula, I.A., Tregarthen, J.P., Forbush, K.T., Levinson, C. A. (2019). Eating Disorder Core Symptoms and Symptom Pathways across Developmental Stages: A Network Analysis. Journal of Abnormal Psychology.
Levinson C.A., Christian, C., Shankar Ram, S., Brosof, L.C., Williams, B.M., (2019). Sensor Technology Implementation for Research, Treatment, and Assessment of Eating Disorders. International Journal of Eating Disorders
Farrell, N. R., Brosof, L. C., Vanzhula, I. A., Christian, C., Bowie, O. R., & Levinson, C. A. (2019). Exploring mechanisms of action in exposure-based cognitive behavioral therapy for eating disorders: The role of eating-related fears and body-related safety behaviors. Behavior Therapy.
Christian, C., Brosof, L. C., Vanzhula I.A., Williams, B. M., Shankar Ram, S., Levinson, C. A. (2019). Implementation of a Dissonance-Based, Eating Disorder Prevention Program and Investigation of Eating Disorder Comorbidities and Risk Factors in Southern, All-Female High Schools. Body Image.
Levinson, C. A., Brosof, L. C., Vanzhula, I. A., Christian, C., Jones, P., Rodebaugh, T. L.,…& Fernandez, K. (2018). Social anxiety and eating disorder comorbidity and underlying vulnerabilities: Using network analysis to conceptualize comorbidity. International Journal of Eating Disorders.
Caroline Christian (B.S. University of Louisville) is a 3rd year graduate student in the EAT Lab. Caroline’s research interests include novel applications of technology and advanced statistical methods to better understand and develop treatments for eating disorders, especially across critical risk periods. In her free time, Caroline enjoys taking her dog Lincoln to the park, trying new restaurants in Louisville, and watching old movies.
Representative Publications:
Christian, C., Williams, B. M., Hunt, R.A., Wong, V.Z., Ernst, S.E., Spoor, S.P., Vanzhula I.A., Tregarthen J.P., Forbush, K.T., Levinson, C. A. (2020). A Network Investigation of Core Symptoms and Pathways across Duration of Illness using a Comprehensive Cognitive-Behavioral Model of Eating-Disorder Symptoms. Psychological Medicine.
Christian, C., Perko, V. L., Vanzhula, I.A., Tregarthen, J.P., Forbush, K.T., Levinson, C. A. (2019). Eating Disorder Core Symptoms and Symptom Pathways across Developmental Stages: A Network Analysis. Journal of Abnormal Psychology.
Levinson C.A., Christian, C., Shankar Ram, S., Brosof, L.C., Williams, B.M., (2019). Sensor Technology Implementation for Research, Treatment, and Assessment of Eating Disorders. International Journal of Eating Disorders
Farrell, N. R., Brosof, L. C., Vanzhula, I. A., Christian, C., Bowie, O. R., & Levinson, C. A. (2019). Exploring mechanisms of action in exposure-based cognitive behavioral therapy for eating disorders: The role of eating-related fears and body-related safety behaviors. Behavior Therapy.
Christian, C., Brosof, L. C., Vanzhula I.A., Williams, B. M., Shankar Ram, S., Levinson, C. A. (2019). Implementation of a Dissonance-Based, Eating Disorder Prevention Program and Investigation of Eating Disorder Comorbidities and Risk Factors in Southern, All-Female High Schools. Body Image.
Levinson, C. A., Brosof, L. C., Vanzhula, I. A., Christian, C., Jones, P., Rodebaugh, T. L.,…& Fernandez, K. (2018). Social anxiety and eating disorder comorbidity and underlying vulnerabilities: Using network analysis to conceptualize comorbidity. International Journal of Eating Disorders.
Brenna Williams B.A. (She/Her)
Brenna Williams (B.A. Southern Methodist University) is a 3rd year graduate student in the EAT Lab. Brenna is interested in researching cognitions and self-perceptions in eating disorders. Specifically, she is passionate about studying the impact of mindful self-compassion on eating disorder symptoms and the integration of compassion-focused interventions for eating disorders. In her free time, Brenna enjoys yoga, reading, and listening to podcasts.
Representative Publications:
Williams, B. M., & Levinson, C. A. (2020). Negative beliefs about the self prospectively predict eating disorder severity among undergraduate women. Eating Behaviors. 37, 101384. DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2020.101384
Christian, C., Williams, B. M., Hunt, R.A., Wong, V.Z., Ernst, S.E., Spoor, S.P., Vanzhula I.A., Tregarthen J.P., Forbush, K.T., Levinson, C. A. (2020). A network investigation of core symptoms and pathways across duration of illness using a comprehensive cognitive-behavioral model of eating-disorder symptoms. Psychological Medicine, 1-10. DOI: 10.1017/S0033291719003817
Brosof, L. C., Williams, B. M., & Levinson, C. A. (2019). Exploring the contribution of exercise dependence to eating disorder symptoms. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 1-5. DOI: 10.1002/eat.23156
Brenna Williams (B.A. Southern Methodist University) is a 3rd year graduate student in the EAT Lab. Brenna is interested in researching cognitions and self-perceptions in eating disorders. Specifically, she is passionate about studying the impact of mindful self-compassion on eating disorder symptoms and the integration of compassion-focused interventions for eating disorders. In her free time, Brenna enjoys yoga, reading, and listening to podcasts.
Representative Publications:
Williams, B. M., & Levinson, C. A. (2020). Negative beliefs about the self prospectively predict eating disorder severity among undergraduate women. Eating Behaviors. 37, 101384. DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2020.101384
Christian, C., Williams, B. M., Hunt, R.A., Wong, V.Z., Ernst, S.E., Spoor, S.P., Vanzhula I.A., Tregarthen J.P., Forbush, K.T., Levinson, C. A. (2020). A network investigation of core symptoms and pathways across duration of illness using a comprehensive cognitive-behavioral model of eating-disorder symptoms. Psychological Medicine, 1-10. DOI: 10.1017/S0033291719003817
Brosof, L. C., Williams, B. M., & Levinson, C. A. (2019). Exploring the contribution of exercise dependence to eating disorder symptoms. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 1-5. DOI: 10.1002/eat.23156
Rowan Hunt, B.A. (She/Her)
Rowan Hunt (B.A. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) is a second year graduate student in the EAT lab. Rowan's research interests include the shared affective mechanisms underlying eating disordered behaviors and other impulsive behaviors, and how such shared mechanisms can be targeted through treatment. Additionally, she is also interested in trajectories of illness in EDs (e.g., predictors of recovery, remission, and relapse). In her free time, Rowan enjoys cooking, seeing live music, and trying her hand at ceramics.
Representative Publications:
Hunt, R.A., Levinson, C.A., & Peiper, N.C. (2020, in press). Leveraging general risk surveillance to reduce suicide in early adolescents: Associations between suicidality, disordered eating, and other developmental risk factors. Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior.
Vanzhula, I.A., Sala, M., Christian, C., Hunt, R.A., Keshishian, A.C., Wong, V.Z., Ernst, S.E., Spoor, S.P., & Levinson, C.A. (2020). Avoidance coping during mealtimes predicts an increase in eating disorder symptoms. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 53(4), 625-630. https://doi.org/10.1002/eat.23254 Christian, C., Williams, B. M., Hunt, R.A., Wong, V.Z., Ernst, S.E., Spoor, S.P., Vanzhula I.A., Tregarthen J.P., Forbush, K.T., & Levinson, C.A. (2020, in press). A network investigation of core symptoms and pathways across duration of illness using a comprehensive cognitive-behavioral model of eating disorder symptoms. Psychological Medicine, 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0033291719003817
Rowan Hunt (B.A. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) is a second year graduate student in the EAT lab. Rowan's research interests include the shared affective mechanisms underlying eating disordered behaviors and other impulsive behaviors, and how such shared mechanisms can be targeted through treatment. Additionally, she is also interested in trajectories of illness in EDs (e.g., predictors of recovery, remission, and relapse). In her free time, Rowan enjoys cooking, seeing live music, and trying her hand at ceramics.
Representative Publications:
Hunt, R.A., Levinson, C.A., & Peiper, N.C. (2020, in press). Leveraging general risk surveillance to reduce suicide in early adolescents: Associations between suicidality, disordered eating, and other developmental risk factors. Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior.
Vanzhula, I.A., Sala, M., Christian, C., Hunt, R.A., Keshishian, A.C., Wong, V.Z., Ernst, S.E., Spoor, S.P., & Levinson, C.A. (2020). Avoidance coping during mealtimes predicts an increase in eating disorder symptoms. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 53(4), 625-630. https://doi.org/10.1002/eat.23254 Christian, C., Williams, B. M., Hunt, R.A., Wong, V.Z., Ernst, S.E., Spoor, S.P., Vanzhula I.A., Tregarthen J.P., Forbush, K.T., & Levinson, C.A. (2020, in press). A network investigation of core symptoms and pathways across duration of illness using a comprehensive cognitive-behavioral model of eating disorder symptoms. Psychological Medicine, 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0033291719003817
Ani Keshishian, B.A. (She/Her)
Ani Keshishian (B.A. Boston University) is a second year graduate student in the EAT lab. Ani is interested in conducting translational research using novel technology to capture the transdiagnostic mechanisms underlying comorbid psychopathology in eating disorders. She is also interested in improving treatment outcomes by adapting current evidence-based treatments as well as developing novel treatments while also taking into consideration the prevalence of comorbidity in eating disorders. In her free time, Ani enjoys traveling, yoga, and dancing.
Representative Publication:
Vanzhula, I.A., Sala, M., Christian, C., Hunt, R.A., Keshishian, A.C., Wong, V.Z., Ernst, S.E., Spoor, S.P., & Levinson, C.A. (2020). Avoidance coping during mealtimes predicts an increase in eating disorder symptoms. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 53(4), 625-630. https://doi.org/10.1002/eat.23254.
Ani Keshishian (B.A. Boston University) is a second year graduate student in the EAT lab. Ani is interested in conducting translational research using novel technology to capture the transdiagnostic mechanisms underlying comorbid psychopathology in eating disorders. She is also interested in improving treatment outcomes by adapting current evidence-based treatments as well as developing novel treatments while also taking into consideration the prevalence of comorbidity in eating disorders. In her free time, Ani enjoys traveling, yoga, and dancing.
Representative Publication:
Vanzhula, I.A., Sala, M., Christian, C., Hunt, R.A., Keshishian, A.C., Wong, V.Z., Ernst, S.E., Spoor, S.P., & Levinson, C.A. (2020). Avoidance coping during mealtimes predicts an increase in eating disorder symptoms. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 53(4), 625-630. https://doi.org/10.1002/eat.23254.
|
Mackenzie Brown, B.A.
Mackenzie Brown (B.A. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) is an incoming graduate student in the EAT Lab. Mackenzie is primarily interested in improving our understanding of eating disorders and comorbid psychopathology at the individual level. In particular, she is interested in examining the causal interactions amongst symptoms implicated in both eating and anxiety disorders using ecological momentary assessment and a network approach. Ultimately, she hopes to elucidate the mechanisms that lead these disorders to persist so that we may improve treatment and prevent relapse. In her free time, Mackenzie enjoys hiking, traveling, reading, and photography. |
Lab Managers
Sarah Ernst, B.S. (She/Her)
Sarah is the lab manager for the EAT Lab. She recently graduated from UofL, obtaining her B.S. in Psychology, with minors in Biology and Spanish. She plans to earn her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. Due to her experiences with children with disabilities and in the EAT Lab, she has developed interests in pediatric eating behaviors, early prevention, and comorbidities between autism and eating pathology. In her free time, she loves to go hiking, to paint, and to try new restaurants with friends.
Sarah is the lab manager for the EAT Lab. She recently graduated from UofL, obtaining her B.S. in Psychology, with minors in Biology and Spanish. She plans to earn her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. Due to her experiences with children with disabilities and in the EAT Lab, she has developed interests in pediatric eating behaviors, early prevention, and comorbidities between autism and eating pathology. In her free time, she loves to go hiking, to paint, and to try new restaurants with friends.
Claire Cusack, B.A. (They/Them)
Claire Cusack (B.A. Agnes Scott College) is a master's student at Towson University working with Dr. M. Paz Galupo. Claire is interested in researching eating disorders and body image concerns in sexual and gender minorities. They are also interested in studying comorbid diagnoses in LGBTQ+ individuals through the minority stress and emotion regulation frameworks to better understand transdiagnostic risk factors related to eating disorders and co-occurring problems, such as substance use and suicidality. After they complete their master's degree, they plan to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology to continue studying eating disorders in individuals with marginalized identities. In their freetime, Claire enjoys trail running, reading novels, and playing board games.
Claire Cusack (B.A. Agnes Scott College) is a master's student at Towson University working with Dr. M. Paz Galupo. Claire is interested in researching eating disorders and body image concerns in sexual and gender minorities. They are also interested in studying comorbid diagnoses in LGBTQ+ individuals through the minority stress and emotion regulation frameworks to better understand transdiagnostic risk factors related to eating disorders and co-occurring problems, such as substance use and suicidality. After they complete their master's degree, they plan to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology to continue studying eating disorders in individuals with marginalized identities. In their freetime, Claire enjoys trail running, reading novels, and playing board games.
Study Coordinator
Samantha Spoor, B.S. (She/Her)
Sam studied Psychology and Human Development during her undergraduate tenure at the University at Albany, with a concentration in Counseling Psychology. During her time as a research assistant in the Anderson Weight and Eating Disorder Laboratory and the Health Behaviors Laboratory, she developed a clinical interest in how cravings and other psychosocial factors influence eating behaviors and psychopathology. As the Study Coordinator at the EAT Lab, her research interests have evolved to focus on sociocultural risk factors (e.g., diet culture, weight stigma) of eating pathology, as well as barriers to accessing eating disorder treatment both broadly, and specifically for folks with marginalized sexual and gender identities. In her free time, Sam enjoys smashing the patriarchy, volunteering for Project Parachute, practicing yoga, and spending time with her free-roaming pet rabbits, Beasley and Malone.
Sam studied Psychology and Human Development during her undergraduate tenure at the University at Albany, with a concentration in Counseling Psychology. During her time as a research assistant in the Anderson Weight and Eating Disorder Laboratory and the Health Behaviors Laboratory, she developed a clinical interest in how cravings and other psychosocial factors influence eating behaviors and psychopathology. As the Study Coordinator at the EAT Lab, her research interests have evolved to focus on sociocultural risk factors (e.g., diet culture, weight stigma) of eating pathology, as well as barriers to accessing eating disorder treatment both broadly, and specifically for folks with marginalized sexual and gender identities. In her free time, Sam enjoys smashing the patriarchy, volunteering for Project Parachute, practicing yoga, and spending time with her free-roaming pet rabbits, Beasley and Malone.
Graduate Student Collaborator
Anna Marie L. Ortiz, M.S.
Anna Marie Ortiz (B.A. Franciscan University of Steubenville) is a 5th-year graduate student at the University of Kentucky working with Dr. Gregory Smith. Anna Marie’s research focuses on investigating the influence of transdiagnostic risk factors in the development and maintenance of eating disorders. In particular, she is interested how pubertal onset, learned expectancies, and personality factors influence the development of eating disorders. Additionally, she is interested in the role of emotional avoidance in eating disorders. Anna Marie is also a doctoral student therapist at the Louisville Center for Eating Disorders, working under the supervision of Dr. Cheri Levinson. In her free time, Anna Marie enjoys hiking, spending time with her two adorable nieces, and playing basketball.
Anna Marie Ortiz (B.A. Franciscan University of Steubenville) is a 5th-year graduate student at the University of Kentucky working with Dr. Gregory Smith. Anna Marie’s research focuses on investigating the influence of transdiagnostic risk factors in the development and maintenance of eating disorders. In particular, she is interested how pubertal onset, learned expectancies, and personality factors influence the development of eating disorders. Additionally, she is interested in the role of emotional avoidance in eating disorders. Anna Marie is also a doctoral student therapist at the Louisville Center for Eating Disorders, working under the supervision of Dr. Cheri Levinson. In her free time, Anna Marie enjoys hiking, spending time with her two adorable nieces, and playing basketball.
Research Assistants
Chris Trombley
Chris is pursuing a Bachelors of Science in Computer Science at the University of Louisville. Upon graduating, he plans on attaining a Masters and potentially PhD in Computer Science and pursuing a career in Artificial Intelligence. Chris is currently completing a Pathways Engineering program at NASA. In his free time he enjoys programming, reading, and hanging out with friends.
Chris is pursuing a Bachelors of Science in Computer Science at the University of Louisville. Upon graduating, he plans on attaining a Masters and potentially PhD in Computer Science and pursuing a career in Artificial Intelligence. Chris is currently completing a Pathways Engineering program at NASA. In his free time he enjoys programming, reading, and hanging out with friends.
Betty Ngo (She/Her)
Betty is a sophomore Grawemeyer Scholar at the University of Louisville majoring in Psychology and Biology and minoring in Spanish. Betty was involved with the EAT Lab in high school and serves as an executive member of UofL's Body Project chapter. She is interested in the neurobiology of eating disorders. In her free time, Betty enjoys baking and coffee.
Betty is a sophomore Grawemeyer Scholar at the University of Louisville majoring in Psychology and Biology and minoring in Spanish. Betty was involved with the EAT Lab in high school and serves as an executive member of UofL's Body Project chapter. She is interested in the neurobiology of eating disorders. In her free time, Betty enjoys baking and coffee.
Jordan Drake (She/Her)
Jordan is a junior at the University of Louisville and is majoring in Psychology with minors in Communication and Spanish. After graduating, she intends to pursue a PhD in clinical psychology. She is interested in how trauma in children leads to the development of eating disorders and other comorbid disorders later in life. She is also interested in how social factors, like social media, affect the development of eating disorders, especially in adolescents. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, traveling to new places, and reading.
Jordan is a junior at the University of Louisville and is majoring in Psychology with minors in Communication and Spanish. After graduating, she intends to pursue a PhD in clinical psychology. She is interested in how trauma in children leads to the development of eating disorders and other comorbid disorders later in life. She is also interested in how social factors, like social media, affect the development of eating disorders, especially in adolescents. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, traveling to new places, and reading.
Taylor Carrow
Taylor is a senior psychology student pursuing a Bachelors of Arts degree at the University of Louisville. After graduation she plans to enroll in a graduate program and pursue a Psy.D. in clinical psychology. Her interest include anxiety and mood disorders as well as the comorbidity of disorders. In her free time she enjoys spending time with friends and family, listening to music, and watching movies.
Taylor is a senior psychology student pursuing a Bachelors of Arts degree at the University of Louisville. After graduation she plans to enroll in a graduate program and pursue a Psy.D. in clinical psychology. Her interest include anxiety and mood disorders as well as the comorbidity of disorders. In her free time she enjoys spending time with friends and family, listening to music, and watching movies.
Madeline Nirmaier (She/Her)
Madeline is a senior studying Psychology at the University of Louisville. She is interested in compulsive behaviors that occur in eating disorders, specifically BED. She is also interested in studying the maintenance factors for eating disorders comorbid with substance use disorders. After graduating, she plans to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. In her free time, she enjoys to hike, spend time with family and friends, and thrift shop in local stores.
Madeline is a senior studying Psychology at the University of Louisville. She is interested in compulsive behaviors that occur in eating disorders, specifically BED. She is also interested in studying the maintenance factors for eating disorders comorbid with substance use disorders. After graduating, she plans to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. In her free time, she enjoys to hike, spend time with family and friends, and thrift shop in local stores.
Kayla Williams (She/Her)
Kayla is a senior at the University of Louisville. She is pursuing a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in psychology. After graduating, she plans to attend graduate school to earn a PhD in clinical psychology. She hopes to work with children in the future. In her free time, she likes to listen to music, travel, watch movies, and spend time with her friends and family
Kayla is a senior at the University of Louisville. She is pursuing a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in psychology. After graduating, she plans to attend graduate school to earn a PhD in clinical psychology. She hopes to work with children in the future. In her free time, she likes to listen to music, travel, watch movies, and spend time with her friends and family
Dylan Hurst
Dylan is currently pursuing a BS in psychology with a minor in biology. He hopes to go onto medical school at UofL after his undergrad degree. Dylan’s interest is in mood disorders and the effects childhood/adolescence and experiences have in the formation of these disorders. In his free time, Dylan enjoys reading, hiking, exploring the city, and hanging out with friends.
Dylan is currently pursuing a BS in psychology with a minor in biology. He hopes to go onto medical school at UofL after his undergrad degree. Dylan’s interest is in mood disorders and the effects childhood/adolescence and experiences have in the formation of these disorders. In his free time, Dylan enjoys reading, hiking, exploring the city, and hanging out with friends.
Mattison Hale (She/Her)
Mattison is a sophomore at the University of Louisville and is majoring in Biology with a minor in Psychology. Mattison serves both as an undergraduate research assistant at the EAT Lab, and as a clinical research assistant at the Louisville Center for Eating Disorders. After graduating, Mattison hopes to attend medical school to become a pediatric psychiatrist. In her free time, she loves to write, spend time with family and friends, and meet new people.
Mattison is a sophomore at the University of Louisville and is majoring in Biology with a minor in Psychology. Mattison serves both as an undergraduate research assistant at the EAT Lab, and as a clinical research assistant at the Louisville Center for Eating Disorders. After graduating, Mattison hopes to attend medical school to become a pediatric psychiatrist. In her free time, she loves to write, spend time with family and friends, and meet new people.
Carley Brueckner (She/Her)
Carley is a senior at the University of Louisville majoring in Biology and minoring in Psychology. After graduation, she plans to attend graduate school for genetic counseling. In her free time, she enjoys watching stand-up comedy, crossing things off her bucket list, and (slowly) learning how to play the ukulele.
Carley is a senior at the University of Louisville majoring in Biology and minoring in Psychology. After graduation, she plans to attend graduate school for genetic counseling. In her free time, she enjoys watching stand-up comedy, crossing things off her bucket list, and (slowly) learning how to play the ukulele.
Tanner Wright
Tanner is a junior at the University of Louisville, majoring in psychology. He intends to get his Ph.D. or Psy.D. in Psychology after graduation in order to be a licensed clinical psychologist. His fields of interest include anxiety and mood disorders, stress and trauma, development of personality traits, and personality disorder intervention. Tanner is a mental health advocate who is knowledgeable about mental health stigma and is incredibly passionate about reducing this stigma. He also has a part-time job at Walgreens. In his free-time he enjoys photography, watching shows, and hanging out with friends.
Tanner is a junior at the University of Louisville, majoring in psychology. He intends to get his Ph.D. or Psy.D. in Psychology after graduation in order to be a licensed clinical psychologist. His fields of interest include anxiety and mood disorders, stress and trauma, development of personality traits, and personality disorder intervention. Tanner is a mental health advocate who is knowledgeable about mental health stigma and is incredibly passionate about reducing this stigma. He also has a part-time job at Walgreens. In his free-time he enjoys photography, watching shows, and hanging out with friends.
Emma Roberts (She/Her)
Emma is a junior psychology student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Louisville. After undergrad, she intends to obtain a doctoral degree in clinical psychology and continue working in the eating disorder field. Her research interests include the effects of social media on disordered eating, the relationship between trauma and disordered eating, and the comorbidity of eating disorders with other psychological disorders. In her free time, Emma is a Team Coordinator for Partners in Health, and leads a local team in advocating and fundraising for global health equity. She also enjoys reading, making coffee, and spending time with her friends and family.
Emma is a junior psychology student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Louisville. After undergrad, she intends to obtain a doctoral degree in clinical psychology and continue working in the eating disorder field. Her research interests include the effects of social media on disordered eating, the relationship between trauma and disordered eating, and the comorbidity of eating disorders with other psychological disorders. In her free time, Emma is a Team Coordinator for Partners in Health, and leads a local team in advocating and fundraising for global health equity. She also enjoys reading, making coffee, and spending time with her friends and family.
Stephanie Fan, B.A.
Stephanie studied Psychology in her undergraduate career, with a minor in Health, Medicine and Society at Stony Brook University. As an undergraduate research assistant in the Eyewitness Laboratory of Dr. Nancy Franklin, she developed a Senior's Thesis Project focused on the Weapons Focus Effect of Hands in a Threatening Context. During her undergraduate career, Stephanie developed research interests in areas including, but are not limited to, eating disorders, anxiety and mood disorders, stress and trauma, and memory. In her free time, she enjoys reading, listening to music, and spending time with friends and family
Stephanie studied Psychology in her undergraduate career, with a minor in Health, Medicine and Society at Stony Brook University. As an undergraduate research assistant in the Eyewitness Laboratory of Dr. Nancy Franklin, she developed a Senior's Thesis Project focused on the Weapons Focus Effect of Hands in a Threatening Context. During her undergraduate career, Stephanie developed research interests in areas including, but are not limited to, eating disorders, anxiety and mood disorders, stress and trauma, and memory. In her free time, she enjoys reading, listening to music, and spending time with friends and family
Coders
Amy Benningfield
Amy is a senior Psychology major at the University of Louisville. She is minoring in Social Change, is in the Peace, Justice, and Conflict Transformation certificate program, and is a University Honors Scholar. Amy plans to pursue a career in counseling after graduation. In the mean time, she is a coder for the Eating Anxiety Treatment Lab, is on the Leadership Team for Campus Outreach, and is a member of the German Club. She enjoys drinking coffee, reading, watching Netflix, and spending time with her friends.
Amy is a senior Psychology major at the University of Louisville. She is minoring in Social Change, is in the Peace, Justice, and Conflict Transformation certificate program, and is a University Honors Scholar. Amy plans to pursue a career in counseling after graduation. In the mean time, she is a coder for the Eating Anxiety Treatment Lab, is on the Leadership Team for Campus Outreach, and is a member of the German Club. She enjoys drinking coffee, reading, watching Netflix, and spending time with her friends.
