The Lieber Schizophrenia Research Clinic (LSRC) is located at the New York State Psychiatric Institute (NYSPI) on the Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Campus. The clinic provides outpatient services to individuals participating in research studies conducted by NYSPI and Columbia faculty investigators.

Treatment services include: a full psychiatric evaluation; individual medication management visits with a clinic psychiatrist; and individual and group therapies. The clinic's ability to follow patients over time helps to develop a comprehensive knowledge base about schizophrenia. Patients are only responsible for the cost of their medications.

Criteria for admission

Only individuals willing to participate in research will be considered for admission to the clinic. The following general criteria are also required:

• 18-65 years of age
• No significant medical problems
• No recent history of significant violence or self-injurious behavior
• No current alcohol or substance use
• Ability to give informed consent for the research procedures

About Our Research

The clinic supports a number of research studies designed to answer questions about the nature and causes of schizophrenia and optimal treatment approaches. Research studies are not designed for the individual’s direct benefit. However, research findings that may have clinical significance for treatment are reported to the individual’s clinician. 

What are some of the research studies conducted through the LSRC?
 

• Clinical drug trials of new medications for cognitive (problem solving and memory) and negative symptoms (motivation and socialization) in schizophrenia
• Studies of novel, state of the art treatments
• Studies of brain anatomy and chemistry using MRI, fMRI, MRS, and PET
• Electrophysiological evaluation of information processing and memory (e.g. the brain’s reaction to sensory stimulation and memory tasks)
   

To apply

Interested individuals should call Ms. Nicole Gaine at (646) 774-8726.  Initial phone discussions will focus on gathering basic information and answering questions. Individuals meeting criteria will be invited for an on-site screening interview, to learn more about specific research studies and clinical components of the LSRC.

For further information, please contact:

Joshua Kantrowitz, MD
Director, Lieber Schizophrenia Research Clinic
New York State Psychiatric Institute
1051 Riverside Drive, Unit 14
New York, NY 10032
Ph: 646-774-6738
E-mail: kantrow@pi.cpmc.columbia.edu