Silvia P. Samanez Larkin

Silvia P. Samanez Larkin is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Duke University, with a secondary appointment as Assistant Professor of the Practice in Psychology & Neuroscience at Trinity College of Arts & Sciences. Her research focuses on clinical child psychology, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mental health interventions. She holds a Ph.D. from Vanderbilt University (2015).

Dr. Samanez Larkin has been recognized with the Julius Seeman Award (2011) for her graduate work in Psychology and Human Development. She teaches courses such as Clinical Psychology and Mental Health (PSY 105/105D) and advanced DBT interventions (PSY 412S/712S), emphasizing emotion dysregulation treatment.

Her academic journey includes roles as Medical Instructor (2017–2020) and Assistant Professor (2020–2025) in Psychiatry before her current rank. Her research explores neurocognitive functioning in youth, coping strategies, and the societal impacts of public health measures like physical distancing during pandemics.