Chiara Rafanelli

Chiara Rafanelli is a Full Professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Bologna's Department of Psychology 'Renzo Canestrari', part of the Faculty of Psychology. Her academic journey includes a Medical Degree (1984-1990), Clinical Psychology Residency (1990-1994), and a PhD in General and Clinical Psychology (1994-1998). She has held progressively senior roles since 2002, including Associate Professor (2006-2012) and Full Professor (2012-present).

Her research focuses on psychopathology of anxiety, OCD, and depressive disorders, with a special emphasis on psychotherapy methods like cognitive-behavioral therapy and well-being therapy. She investigates psychological variables in cardiovascular patients, particularly allostatic overload, and its impact on disease progression. Collaborative projects include national/international initiatives on psychocardiology and chronic illness management.

Rafanelli’s editorial roles include Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics and she is a member of the European Association of Clinical Psychology and Psychological Treatment (EACLIPT). Her clinical work involves the Affective Disorders Program at the University of Bologna and has led to over 150 scientific publications. She teaches courses such as Differential Psychopathology and Clinical Psychology Methodology, emphasizing evidence-based practice and patient-centered approaches.