Michael Van Ameringen, MD, FRCPC

Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neuroscience
McMaster University 

Dr. Van Ameringen's current research is focused on the psychopharmacology of Anxiety Disorders and comorbid Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive and Related Disorders, ADHD, the role of the gut microbiome in psychiatry, and treatment resistance. Other research interests include the use of mobile mental health apps and technology-based treatments. 

Dr/ Vam Ameringen has been a member of ADAA since 1992 and was elected to the Board of Directors in 2013.

Why I am an ADAA member?

I have been an active member of the ADAA since 1992, and have attended all annual meetings since that time.  My involvement with the ADAA has facilitated important interactions and networking opportunities with leaders in the field and has led to significant collaborations which have benefitted me personally, as well as my career. Initially, my participation was as an attendee but has evolved to being a poster presenter, speaker and currently as a member of the Scientific Council, Board of Directors and the Board Liaison with the Mobile Mental Health Apps Review Committee. I am also a member of the editorial board of Depression and Anxiety, the official publication of the ADAA. These positions have enabled me to give back to the organization that has greatly enhanced my career development.

What do I value about the ADAA mission and how does my work fit into the ADAA mission?

I value the ADAA’s approach to education which has always been multi-disciplinary. I have greatly appreciated the exposure to a wide variety of individuals from a wide variety of disciplines I have encountered at the meetings. I have also valued the high levels of scientific research presented at the meetings.  My personal practice has a strong emphasis on both clinical and research activities. The ADAA has historically provided strong education in both of these areas, as well as facilitating the translation of evidence-based research into clinical practice.

What is the thing that I think is most exciting/interesting about what is currently happening in my lab or workplace?

Currently, my research interests are broad. I am working on several projects which include the examination of the gut microbiome and its relationship to obsessive compulsive disorder; the effects of cannabis in the treatment of anxiety disorders as well as defining and measuring internet addiction.