Kimberly A. Van Orden

Kimberly A. Van Orden, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry (SMD). She leads the HOPE Lab, focusing on addressing social isolation and suicide prevention in later life. Her research explores interventions to enhance social connectedness and reduce suicide risk among older adults, informed by the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide. Dr. Van Orden holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Florida State University and completed postdoctoral training at the University of Rochester Medical Center under Yeates Conwell, MD.

Her work includes randomized controlled trials such as the Senior Connection project and Engage Coaching for caregivers. Key achievements include developing measures like the Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire (INQ) and contributing to national initiatives like the Rochester Roybal Center for Social Ties & Aging Research. Awards include the Edwin S. Shneidman Award and P.E.O Scholar Award.

Dr. Van Orden collaborates on projects addressing caregiver stress, dementia care, and suicide risk assessment. She is a Co-Director of the Center for the Study and Prevention of Suicide and actively engages in public health efforts to mitigate loneliness and improve mental health outcomes in aging populations.