Precision mental health and personalized treatment, with Leanne Williams, PhD, and Zachary Cohen, PhD

Precision mental health care, which aims to understand the root causes of mental health struggles through objective tests, is explored. Technological advancements, such as sophisticated data processing and brain imaging (fMRI), allow researchers to pinpoint disruptions in brain circuits that drive experiences like depression. Six biotypes accounting for 90% of the variability underlying depression and anxiety have been identified, each predicting responsiveness to specific treatments like medication, behavior therapy, or neuromodulation. The potential of using smartphones and wearable devices to capture digital phenotypes related to health outcomes is also examined. Despite the potential, challenges remain in integrating these approaches into clinical practice, including system-level changes, regulatory hurdles, and the need for clinician training and buy-in.