Tara Donker

Dr. Tara Donker is an Associate Professor at the Department of Clinical Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, and a senior researcher at the Albert-Ludwig University of Freiburg. She is affiliated with the Amsterdam Public Health (APH) research institute and holds a license as a Healthcare Psychologist registered in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (VGCt). Her work focuses on innovative technologies like virtual reality (VR) and mobile apps to improve accessibility and scalability of mental health interventions.

Her research emphasizes early intervention and prevention of depression, anxiety, and suicide. Key projects include ZeroPhobia, a low-cost mobile app using VR/AR for treating specific phobias, with completed RCTs demonstrating efficacy for fear of heights and flying, and upcoming studies on spider phobia. She has secured grants from NWO (including the Aspasia grant), Fonds NutsOhra, and others, supporting VR applications and caregiver interventions.

Dr. Donker’s academic contributions span editorial roles in journals like Internet Interventions and Trials. She teaches clinical communication skills and CBT to psychology students and coordinates low-intensity treatment internships. Her awards include the Black Dog Early Career Travel Award and EMGO Travel Grant.

• Grants: Aspasia grant (NWO), Fonds Psychische Gezondheid, VSB fonds
• Awards: CBT Workshop by Beck, Black Dog Travel Award, EMGO Grant
• Professional Activities: Co-founder of ZeroPhobia (VR/AR mental health startup), senior researcher at Freiburg University

Her research outputs prioritize VR/AR therapies, meta-analyses of CBT efficacy, and digital mental health innovation, reflecting a commitment to bridging technology and clinical practice.