Jeffrey A. Lieberman, M.D., is the Constance and Stephen Lieber Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University's Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. Over his forty-year career, he has dedicated himself to researching and treating serious mental illnesses. Beyond his academic and clinical roles, Dr. Lieberman has significantly influenced government policies and societal perspectives, striving to reduce stigma and enhance the quality and accessibility of mental health care.
History and Education
Dr. Lieberman earned his Bachelor of Science from Miami University in 1970, followed by his M.D. from George Washington University School of Medicine in 1975. He completed his internship and residency at St. Vincent's Hospital and Medical Center of New York, affiliated with New York Medical College, from 1975 to 1979. He then pursued a research fellowship at the Bronx Psychiatric Center, associated with Albert Einstein College of Medicine, from 1979 to 1980.
Research and Publications
Dr. Lieberman's research on the neurobiology, pharmacology, and treatment of schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders has advanced our understanding and treatment of mental illness and led to transformative mental health care strategies for early detection and prevention. He has authored or co-authored over 800 articles in scientific literature and has written or edited 17 books on mental illness, psychopharmacology, and psychiatry.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Dr. Lieberman has received numerous accolades, including:
- Lieber Prize for Schizophrenia Research from the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation
- Adolf Meyer Award from the American Psychiatric Association
- Scientific Research Award from the National Alliance on Mental Illness
In 2000, he was elected to the National Academy of Medicine, and in 2010, he became a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He also served as President of the American Psychiatric Association from 2013 to 2014.
Publications for General Audiences
Dr. Lieberman has also authored works aimed at the general public to enhance understanding of psychiatry and mental health:
- Shrinks: The Untold Story of Psychiatry (2015)
- Malady of the Mind: Schizophrenia and the Path to Prevention (2023)
His book 'Shrinks' inspired the production of a four-part series, titled 'Mysteries of Mental Illness', which was nationally broadcast on PBS in June 2022.
Dr. Lieberman's extensive contributions continue to shape the fields of psychiatry and mental health care, benefiting both the scientific community and the public.
Since 2005, Dr. Lieberman has held several key positions:
Psychiatrist-in-Chief at New York Presbyterian Hospital-Columbia University Medical Center
Executive Director of the New York State Psychiatric Institute
Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Columbia Universitys College of Physicians and Surgeons
Advocacy and ARETÉ Science
Beyond his research and clinical work, Dr. Lieberman has been a vocal advocate for mental health, contributing to significant legislation such as the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. He has also been a frequent public spokesperson in the media on mental illness and psychiatry.
In his ongoing commitment to mental health advocacy, Dr. Lieberman founded ARETÉ Science, an institute dedicated to addressing pressing issues in mental healthcare. ARETÉ Science focuses on improving care for individuals with behavioral brain disorders and promoting life optimization and longevity. The institute's initiatives aim to remove barriers that prevent individuals from reaching their potential, such as illness and suffering, by leveraging existing knowledge to alleviate suffering, treat and prevent illness, and enhance overall health and well-being.
