Elissa Brown

Dr. Elissa Brown is a Professor of Psychology and Executive Director of the Child HELP Partnership at St. John’s University. She specializes in child trauma and PTSD prevention/treatment, with a focus on interpersonal violence, bereavement (e.g., 9/11 victims), and culturally diverse/economically disadvantaged populations. Her research evaluates therapies like Trauma-Focused CBT and Alternatives for Families: A Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, developed to address family conflict and physical abuse.

Education: Ph.D. (1996) and M.A. (1996) in Clinical Psychology from the University at Albany; B.S. (1990) in Psychology and American History from the University of Pennsylvania.

Grants/Funding: Supported by the National Institute of Mental Health, New York State Office of Mental Health, SAMHSA, Department of Justice, and private foundations. Directs a National Child Traumatic Stress Network affiliate at Child HELP Partnership. Active in national/international organizations advocating for traumatized children’s mental health.

Roles: Co-developer of trauma therapies, certified Trauma-Focused CBT trainer, and Board member of the American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children.