Bachelor in Psychology & Literature, Bar Ilan University, 1962. Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, University Illinois, 1970. Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology & Personality, University Missouri, 1970.
Foa is an internationally renowned authority on the psychopathology and treatment of anxiety. She approaches the understanding and treatment of mental disorders from a cognitive-behavioral perspective. Foa earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Literature from Bar Ilan University in 1962, and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from the University of Illinois in 1970.
Her research, aimed at determining causes and treatments of anxiety disorders, has been highly influential.
Foa is an expert in post-traumatic stress disorders (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The program she has developed for rape victims is considered to be one of the most effective therapies for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. She has published several books and over 200 articles and book chapters, has lectured extensively around the world, and was the chair of the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder work group of the DSM-IV. Foa"s research interests are development and evaluation of cognitive-behavioral treatment for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), and social anxiety disorder (SAD).
Experimental psychopathology of anxiety disorders, especially post-traumatic stress disorder, social phobia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. And dissemination of evidence-based treatment to mental health professionals.
Member of International Society for Traumatic Stress Disorders (chairman Treatment Guidelines Task Force).