Scientific Credibility FIG Instructor and Assistant

Hello! My name is Lauren Forrest. I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology. I have a PhD in clinical psychology, so that means that I’m trained to both provide psychotherapy and conduct research. My areas of specialty in both clinical work and research are suicide and eating disorders.

Much of the lab’s current research is dedicated to studying suicide and eating disorders within the LGBTQ+ community. LGBTQ+ people have high rates of suicide and eating disorders, yet are rarely included in research studies. Not including LGBTQ+ people in research studies means that there are major (and sometimes very basic) questions that need answered to better prevent and treat suicide and eating disorders in LGBTQ+ people. The lab’s research works to answer these questions. We believe that more effective prevention and treatment of suicide and eating disorders in LGBTQ+ people would contribute to more effective prevention and treatment of these problems for all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

A bit about me outside of work is that I have three amazing dogs (Mac, Echo, and Lila, two of whom are 13!!), I love practicing yoga (favorite pose = 8 angle pose), and I am a DIY home renovator/interior designer. 

Email: lnf@uoregon.edu

Hi everyone! My name is Bri Garcia, and I’m from Wilsonville, Oregon. I’m a fourth-year student at the University of Oregon studying Neuroscience with minors in Chemistry and Psychology. Even though the sciences keep me busy, I’m also involved in several organizations on campus. I serve on the board of Mecha (Movimiento Estudiantil Chicanx de Aztlán) and am a member of UO Latin Students in STEM, where I enjoy building community and supporting Latino/a/e students in higher education and STEM fields. 

Outside of academics, I love dancing with the UO Duck Street Dance Club, cooking, working out, and trying new coffee recipes. My current favorite is a brown sugar shaken latte! I also enjoy exploring new places, volunteering, and listening to music. If you ever want to talk about Bad Bunny, I’m always up for that conversation. 

As a first-year student, I participated in a FIG and had an amazing experience. It helped me adjust to college life, connect with other students, and learn about all the resources UO has to offer. After several years at UO, I’ve learned a lot about campus life, helpful resources, and some of the best spots around Eugene, and I’m excited to share that knowledge with you. I can’t wait to meet everyone this fall and help make your first year at UO welcoming, successful, and fun!

Want to connect with your FA? Email figs@uoregon.edu to get connected!