Heather Wastler, PhD
Physician, Assistant Professor
Psychology
Conditions and expertise
- Schizophrenia
- Psychotic Disorders
- Psychology
Locations
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
Academics and research
Department: Psychiatry
About
- Gender
- Female
Biography
As a psychologist, I specialize in providing effective psychological treatments to adolescents and young adults who have experienced the recent onset of a psychotic disorder or are showing warning signs of being at risk of developing a psychotic disorder. These treatments, called empirically supported treatments (ESTs), are crucial to helping patients manage their specific mental health condition(s). My philosophy involves placing the patient at the center of all care decisions and helping them accomplish their personal recovery goals.
I’m fortunate to work at the Early Psychosis Intervention Center, where I’m part of a multidisciplinary team that provides specialty care for individuals with psychosis. Knowing the value of using a team-based approach allows us to provide the most comprehensive care possible to our patients. In my research, I focus on understanding factors that contribute to suicide risk among individuals with psychosis. My goal is to improve suicide risk assessment and develop novel treatments to help individuals with psychosis manage suicidal thoughts.
What I love most about The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center is the sense of community. I enjoy working with others who are equally passionate and dedicated to improving patient care, which includes the clinical psychology doctoral students I get to mentor.
In my free time, I enjoy hiking, exercising and spending time with my dog.
Conditions and expertise
- Psychology
- Psychotic Disorders
- Schizophrenia
Locations
Please note: Not all physicians schedule patients at each listed location.
Credentials
Education
- Fellowship - Psychology
- Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States
8/1/2019 - 8/31/2020 - Internship - Psychology
- VA Maryland Health Care System, Perry Point, MD, United States
8/1/2018 - 8/31/2019 - Doctor of Philosophy - Clinical Psychology
- State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY
8/1/2013 - 8/16/2019
Academics and research
The overarching goal of my research is to identify mechanisms for suicidal thoughts and behaviors among individuals with psychotic disorders.
Research interests
- Psychotic Disorders
- Clinical High Risk for Psychosis
- Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors
- Social Cognition
Academic information
- Department:
- Psychiatry
- Division:
- Health Psychology
More about my research
News and media
My news coverage
Consulting and Related Relationships
At The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, we support a faculty member’s research and consulting in collaboration with medical device, research and/or drug companies because a faculty member’s expertise can guide important advancements in the practice of medicine and improve patient care. In order to provide effective management of these relationships, the University requires annual disclosures from all faculty members with external interests related to their University responsibilities.
As of 11/3/2025, Dr. Wastler has reported no relationships with companies or entities.