University of California-Los Angeles · PsychologyThe Fear Reduction Initiative
Michelle G Craske · Los Angeles, California
Research Focus
Dr. Michelle Craske's research focuses on innovative ways to help people overcome specific phobias and related anxiety disorders. By utilizing advanced brain imaging technology, her lab explores methods to reduce fear responses without the distress often associated with traditional exposure therapy. This could open new avenues for treating various fear-related conditions effectively and compassionately.
fear reductionphobiasneuro-reinforcementfMRIanxiety disorders
Research Aims
4AIM 01Confirm the engagement of the amygdala in individuals with specific phobias using neuro-reinforcement.
AIM 02Quantify how changes in amygdala reactivity mediate behavioral changes post-treatment.
AIM 03Assess the long-term effects of neuro-reinforcement on fear responses.
AIM 04Explore optimal dosage levels for effective neuro-reinforcement.
Skills the Lab Values
functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)neuro-reinforcement techniquesbehavioral outcome measurementdata analysisdouble-blind study design
Output against the department
Publications1,005top 1% of dept.2nd of 296
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations54ktop 3% of dept.8th of 296
this lab
most citedleast cited
Career totals from OpenAlex, compared against labs that share a department. A department spans everything from one paper to tens of thousands, so bar heights are on a log scale — otherwise the largest lab would flatten every other bar to a line.