Barbara Louise Dickens

Barbara Louise Dickens, Ph.D., is the distinguished Eliza Jane Professor in the Department of Psychology and the Wellspring Institute at University of Toronto. She has co-authored with Rachel Thompson a groundbreaking book titled "Voices of Hope: Building Resilience in Adolescent Mental Health". Dickens stands out as an authority on how community support can mitigate the impact of mental health challenges among adolescents and foster recovery following traumatic events. Passionate about turning academic insights into practical guidance for teens, families, and educators, she works tirelessly to help communities thrive after experiencing mental health crises. Her work has earned her accolades such as the Clara M. Davis Mid-Career Award for advancing adolescent mental health understanding and resilience building. In 2023, she was highlighted by Global Health News as one of the Top 15 Mid-Career Scientists Making a Difference for her efforts in promoting youth mental health.

Rachel Thompson, Ph.D., is a Sociology Professor at McGill University in Montreal. With over 60 peer-reviewed publications to her name, she also serves as the editor of the "Journal of Youth Studies" and co-editor of the "Encyclopedia of Modern Sociology". Thompson has dedicated more than ten years to researching adolescent mental health within urban high school settings. Her research bridges sociological theory, mental health, social behavior, and cultural studies. While committed to enriching sociological theory, her primary aim is to create evidence-based initiatives that enhance the creation of supportive, positive, and robust environments for young people. Her contributions have garnered several prestigious national awards for their profound impact on social science and adolescent mental health knowledge. Her research receives backing from various sources including the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Mental Health Foundation of Canada, and other organizations.