معرفی
Gerben J. Westerhof is a Full Professor in the Department of Psychology, Health & Technology at the University of Twente, Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences. He is a leading figure in psychological research, particularly in mental health, wellbeing, depression, and narrative approaches to therapy.
His research interests span a wide range of topics including mental health, psychological wellbeing, life stories, prolonged grief, and the integration of digital tools in clinical practice. He has pioneered work in narrative psychology, focusing on how personal stories contribute to identity, resilience, and recovery. His work often combines clinical insights with technological innovation, especially in using experience sampling and wearable data for real-time mental health assessment.
The most recent publications highlight a strong trend toward interdisciplinary research, integrating clinical psychology with digital health technologies and narrative methods. His work addresses critical areas such as grief after collective trauma (e.g., MH17 disaster), revenge ideation in forensic contexts, and digital storytelling for older adults. These studies reflect a commitment to both theoretical depth and practical application in mental health care.
- Journal of Eating Disorders Paper of the Year award (2018)
- Online Favoriet Nationale Zorginnovatieprijs (2014)
- Prijs IBR-postermarkt (2011)
Gerben J. Westerhof has supervised multiple students and research projects, evidenced by 12 supervised works and active involvement in research grants and collaborative initiatives. He plays a key role in the International Center for Life Story Innovations and Practice as Chair, and is a member of the Netherlands eScience Center, reflecting his engagement with both narrative innovation and digital research infrastructure. His work is highly collaborative, involving national and international networks across psychology, health technology, and mental health innovation.
He leads and contributes to datasets such as 'Navigating Stories in Times of Transition' and is actively involved in organizing academic events like Narrative Matters 2018. His leadership in research teams underscores his role as a central figure in advancing narrative and positive mental health approaches in contemporary psychology.
