The future of mental health begins here
The Department of Psychiatry at the University of Utah is proud to be an integral part of Huntsman Mental Health Institute and University of Utah Health. Huntsman Mental Health Institute at the University of Utah brings together 75 years of expertise in mental health, research, and education. Every day we dedicate ourselves to academic excellence, relevant collaborative research, and compassionate behavioral and mental health care.
We are teachers, researchers, and clinicians. We train future psychiatrists, explore new ideas, map genomes, develop innovative therapies, create new drugs, study spectacular brain images, and pioneer new treatments all with the goal of advancing mental health care to give our patients healthier minds and better lives.
Learning and growth
We train the next generation of mental health professionals with accredited programs in psychology, psychiatry, and more, creating career pathways in this essential medical field.
Pioneering research
Our research deepens our understanding of the brain, including advances in neuroscience imaging, to improve treatments for people with mental health and substance use disorders.
Care for all
Our top-tier care programs, including a 161-bed psychiatric hospital, are part of the renowned University of Utah health system.
Igniting change
Thanks to the Huntsman family, we're advancing hope and healing for people of all ages.
Residency and fellowship programs
Our two residency programs include a general psychiatry track and a five-year "triple board" program covering child, adult, and pediatric psychiatry. We also offer four specialized fellowships to advance expertise in psychiatry, mental health, and substance use and addiction.
Innovation in mental health research
Our research is changing the way we understand and treat mental health. We are part of a top academic medical center, which helps us bring together leading scientists, caring health providers, and creative thinkers from many fields. By working as a team, we find new ways to solve tough mental health problems and bring hope to people everywhere. We believe that bold ideas and teamwork can lead to better care and brighter futures.
MEET OUR RESEARCHERS
Our team is tackling untreated mental health conditions to bring hope to children and adults. With a focus on medical innovation, our researchers lead the way in advancing the field of psychiatry.
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Utah Translational research building
Opening in 2026, this state-of-the-art facility—which will include a 7 Tesla MRI, wet and dry labs, and space for specialized research neighborhoods—will bring together experts in science, AI, policy, and more to provide better care for mental health issues.
James C. Ashworth, MD
James C. Ashworth, M.D., recognized for his clinical expertise and dedication to patient-centered care, serves as Interim Chair of Psychiatry and Associate Professor (Clinical).
Life in Utah
Utah offers vibrant neighborhoods, top schools, arts, recreation, and a thriving economy—an ideal place to call home.
Research news and announcements
Our researchers in the news
Researchers have developed RiskPath an open-source software toolkit that uses Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) to predict whether individuals will develop progressive and chronic diseases years before symptoms appear ...
Autism rates among Utah’s children remain steady, below the national average, according to new CDC data. The report highlights key demographic trends, early diagnosis progress, and Utah’s ongoing efforts to improve ...
The research could ultimately lead to targeted treatments for alcohol-related sleep loss, helping people recover from alcohol use disorder...