Michael Kaess

Prof. Dr. Michael Kaess is a Full Professor and Clinical Director of the University Hospital for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at the University of Bern. He holds leadership roles in translational psychobiology and clinical research, focusing on adolescent mental health, personality disorders, and self-injurious behaviors. His academic journey includes habilitation in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (2015) and a medical doctorate (2008). He has received notable awards, including the Hermann-Emminghaus-Prize (2015) and the Young Researcher Award (2014).

His research spans psychopathology, non-suicidal self-injury, and the neurobiological underpinnings of mental disorders. Key areas include the impact of childhood adversity, stress reactivity, and early intervention strategies for borderline personality disorder. He has published extensively in high-impact journals like Psychological Medicine and European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.

Kaess leads clinical and translational studies, including evaluations of dialectical behavior therapy and stepped care models for adolescents. His work integrates clinical practice with neuroimaging and psychophysiological research to advance understanding of adolescent mental health challenges.