Who is funding the Psychotropic Decisions Study?

The Psychotropic Decisions Study is currently funded by The Greenwall Foundation.

What experience does the research team have with youth in foster care?

We are a group of researchers with both personal and professional experience with kids and teens in foster care. One of our team members is a former foster youth. Others are either currently or have previously been licensed foster caregivers. One served for many years as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). This first-hand experience guides how we approach our research and the types of research questions we ask.

How do you approach your research?

Our research team is committed to using a trauma-informed and community engaged approach in all PDS research projects.

What research questions does the PDS research team plan to investigate?

We are interested in studying both small and large questions related to mental and behavioral health decision making for kids and teens in foster care. We are especially interested in studying how we can help kids and teens feel more engaged and supported in their mental and behavioral health care. We are also interested in studying how to help foster caregivers and caseworkers be able to better advocate for and support kids and teens who are receiving or in need of mental and behavioral health care.

How can I collaborate with the PDS research team?

Our team is enthusiastic about building partnerships with both professionals and community members. Please contact Lauren Baker at bakerlauren@wustl.edu to connect.