Helen Lavretsky

Helen Lavretsky is a Professor-in-Residence at the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). Her work focuses on geriatric psychiatry, neuroimaging, mind-body interventions, and brain health in aging populations. She has led numerous clinical trials on complementary therapies like yoga and Tai Chi for cognitive decline and depression in older adults.

• Awards: Fellow of the American College of Psychiatrists (2025), President of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry (2022-2025), Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (2022), Best Research Mentor Award at UCLA (2020)
• Research Grants: K24 Mentoring Career Research (NCCIH, 2016-CURR), R01MH114981 (NIMH), UG3/UH3 AT012413-01 (NCCIH/NIH)

Lavretsky’s research explores the intersection of neuroscience, geriatric mental health, and complementary medicine. Her recent articles highlight the impact of yoga, Tai Chi, and mindfulness on Alzheimer's disease biomarkers, geriatric depression, and Long COVID. She emphasizes brain connectivity, resilience, and preventive strategies for aging populations.

Scientific Awards:

• Fellow, American College of Psychiatrists (2025)
• President, American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry (2022-2025)
• Distinguished Life Fellow, American Psychiatric Association (2022)
• Distinguished Investigator Award, American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry (2020)
• K24 Mentoring Career Research, NCCIH (2016-CURR)

Lavretsky’s clinical trials, including the OPTIMUM and MOTION studies, investigate pharmacological and behavioral interventions for treatment-resistant depression and cognitive decline. Her work bridges neuroimaging, genetics, and lifestyle medicine to promote positive aging. She also leads projects on eco-psychiatry and social determinants of mental health.