About the PTSS Lab
The Psychological Trauma and Stress Systems (PTSS) Lab is dedicated to advancing mental health research, support, and solutions for trauma-exposed professionals, including first responders and other public safety personnel (PSP), healthcare workers, military members, and Veterans.
Led by Dr. R. Nicholas Carleton, a recognized leader in clinical research and trauma psychology, the PTSS Lab informs, develops, and evaluates evidence-informed and evidence-based efforts to mitigate the impact of trauma exposure on all those who serve.
Our Purpose
Strengthening
Mental Resilience
We strive to ensure that trauma-exposed professionals enjoy the same or better mental health as the populations they serve. Through cutting-edge research, clinical expertise, and strategic partnerships, we work to reduce the incidence, prevalence, and impact of trauma-related harms experienced by trauma-exposed professionals, their leaders, and their families.
Breaking Barriers in PSP Mental Health Research
With a team of dedicated researchers, clinicians, and operational experts, we support more than a
million trauma-exposed professionals and their communities. Our work includes:
Transdiagnostic Biopsychosocial Research
Advancing knowledge on psychological trauma responses and mental health interventions.
Mental Health Monitoring Systems
Developing tools to track and improve psychological well-being.
Emotional Skills Resiliency Training
Equipping PSP with essential skills to manage operational stress.
Collaborative Partnerships
Working with national and international organizations to create impactful solutions.
Meet the People
Behind the Mission
The PTSS Lab is powered by a multidisciplinary team of experts committed to transforming mental health outcomes for PSP. Our team members bring diverse backgrounds in psychology, clinical research, data science, and policy, facilitating a comprehensive approach to trauma-informed care.
Dr. R. Nicholas Carleton
Professor and Lead Researcher
Globally recognized expert in trauma-related psychology and PSP mental health.
Kelsy Dabek
Research Assistant
Dr. Katie Andrews
Research Associate
Specializing in PSP mental health, stigma reduction, and service accessibility.
Curtis Ficor
Programmer Analyst
with a background in Electronic Systems Engineering, driving innovation in data analysis and system integration
Lis Hansen
Clinical Psychologist
Extensive experience in trauma-informed therapy and assessment
Maxim Ivanov
Lead Software Developer and Architect
Extensive experience in web application design, virtualized infrastructure, and tech leadership.
Aryan Khanna
Help Desk Analyst
Juliana M. B. Khoury
Doctoral Student
Focused on police perceptions of violence and mental health.
Kirby Q. Maguire
Research Associate
Specializing in PSP mental health, forensic interviewing, and psycholinguistics
Akiff Maredia
IT Specialist
Ensuring robust network administration, system optimization, and digital support for academic research
Dr. Jolan Nisbet
Research Associate
Expertise in PSP mental health, suicide prevention, and social support.
Holden J. Norrie
Research assistant
Second year clinical psychology student at the University of Regina
Sirvan Parasteh
Programmer Analyst
Expertise in Python ETL, Azure services, and web technology support for research initiatives
Veronica Poltorak
Research Coordinator
Expertise in project management, stakeholder engagement, and research communications
Zeinab Ramadan
Doctoral Student
Zeinab received her Bachelor of Arts with High Honours in Psychology in 2014 from the University of Regina. Her honours…
Jennifer E. Samayoa
Registered social worker
Completing Mast of Social Worker Program at University of Regina
Robyn E. Shields
Doctoral Candidate & Former Paramedic
Specializing in operational stress injuries
Shimona Sekhar
Senior Project Director
Expertise in business analysis, project management, and strategic execution
Taylor A. Teckchandani
Research Associate & Biostatistician
Specializing in mental health data analysis and AI applications.
Dennis Tenchavez
Help Desk Analyst
Our Vision
A Future Where Trauma-Exposed Professionals Thrive
We work to be a trusted leader and sought-after collaborator for mental health solutions, nationally and internationally. Through innovation, research, and advocacy, we envision a future where trauma-exposed professionals receive the evidence-based supports they need to thrive professionally and personally.
Making Differences Together
One Person and One Solution at a Time
We welcome collaboration with researchers, trauma-exposed professionals, policymakers, and mental health professionals. If you’re interested in collaborating with us or learning more about our work, please reach out to the PTSS Lab team today.
Let’s Connect