Elizabeth Thomas

Elizabeth Thomas is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences at the College of Public Health, Temple University. She is a psychologist and mental health services researcher specializing in psychiatric rehabilitation and recovery-oriented care for individuals with serious mental illnesses. Her work is supported by a K08 award from the National Institute of Mental Health.

Her research focuses on early intervention in psychosis, shared decision-making, community integration, and the role of peer specialists in mental health services. She investigates how decision support and collaborative care models can enhance engagement and outcomes for emerging adults with early psychosis.

Dr. Thomas's recent publications span topics in psychiatric rehabilitation, occupational therapy integration, and patient-centered care. Her work emphasizes implementation science, stakeholder perspectives, and the development of innovative interventions to support recovery and autonomy.

Scientific awards include:

• K08 Mentored Clinical Scientist Research Career Development Award from the National Institute of Mental Health

She teaches undergraduate courses such as Counseling Techniques for Health Professionals and collaborates with a wide network of researchers and clinicians. Her research is funded and actively contributing to evidence-based practices in mental health.

Dr. Thomas is involved in developing and evaluating peer-delivered decision support programs and occupational therapy integration within early psychosis services, working closely with multidisciplinary teams to translate research into practice.