When Case Western Reserve University announced a $60 million investment for the new Sara and Curt Moll Institute for Mental Health and Well-Being, it marked a commitment to address and advance the growing mental health crisis within and beyond Northeast Ohio.
Now, Norah Feeny, a distinguished psychologist and renowned researcher in the field of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and trauma, will lead the effort as the Moll Institute’s inaugural executive director.
In her new position, Feeny, a professor of psychological sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences and director of the PTSD Treatment and Research Program, further elevates Case Western Reserve as an international leader in clinical psychology training and practice-based research.
“The Moll Institute will provide critical research, training and resources to benefit the growing number of individuals living with mental illness as well as those who care for and support them,” Case Western Reserve President Eric W. Kaler said during the June 4 announcement to celebrate the start of construction work on a new space for the institute. “We are deeply grateful to Sara and Curt Moll for their commitment to improving lives and outcomes through better mental health care and we are so pleased that Norah Feeny will lead the institute’s efforts.”
Feeny’s pioneering work has spanned more than three decades in diverse clinical settings, including sexual-assault programs, substance-abuse programs and outpatient clinics. Her research evaluates treatments, examines predictors of treatment success and optimizes therapies for the local community in need. She has also led treatment trials addressing pediatric PTSD, depression and bipolar disorder in youth.
“Norah’s exceptional career and dedication to advancing mental-health solutions make her the ideal leader for the Moll Institute,” said Joy K. Ward, provost and executive vice president. “Her expertise and vision will be instrumental in positioning the institute as a global leader in addressing critical mental-health challenges.”