معرفی
Michael J. Zvolensky is a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Houston, within the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. He is the Director of the RESTORE Laboratory and the Substance Use Treatment Clinic, leading a nationally recognized research program focused on the intersection of emotional and substance use disorders.
His research centers on the comorbidity of anxiety, stress, and depressive disorders with substance use disorders, particularly tobacco and cannabis use, as well as their links to chronic physical conditions like pain and gastrointestinal issues. He investigates transdiagnostic processes such as anxiety sensitivity and emotional dysregulation, aiming to develop theoretically driven, process-based, and community-friendly interventions. His work emphasizes health disparities, with recent studies focusing on Latinx and Black populations.
The trends in his recent publications highlight a strong focus on digital health interventions, barriers to smoking cessation in minority populations, and the role of interoceptive processes in pandemic-related mental health. His research consistently integrates clinical innovation with rigorous methodology and real-world applicability.
Dr. Zvolensky’s scientific contributions have been recognized through numerous awards from leading professional organizations, including:
- American Psychological Association
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America
- College on Problems of Drug Dependence
- Association for Advancement of Cognitive and Behavior Therapy
- Association of Academic Health Centers
He has been involved in over 70 NIH-funded grants as Principal Investigator, Co-PI, or co-investigator, underscoring his leadership in federally supported research. While specific advisees are not listed, his extensive publication record with junior researchers suggests a strong mentoring role. His lab, the RESTORE Laboratory, serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research on emotion, behavior, and health, fostering innovation in treatment development and dissemination.
