Lisa J. Heaton

Lisa J. Heaton, PhD, is an established professional in the fields of clinical psychology and oral health. Currently serving as a Science Writer at CareQuest Institute for Oral Health since August 2021, Lisa collaborates on peer-reviewed publications focused on improving access to oral health care and the integration of dental and medical health. As President of LJ Heaton Content, Inc., Lisa specializes in addressing dental anxiety, providing reassurance to patients through effective communication. Previously, Lisa held an Assistant Professor position at the University of Washington School of Dentistry, where over 30 peer-reviewed articles were co-authored, emphasizing dental fear and oral health disparities. Lisa's extensive background includes roles as a licensed clinical psychologist, providing therapy for individuals with dental phobia, and various academic appointments at the University of Florida and University of Kentucky. Education credentials include a PhD and MS in Clinical Psychology from the University of Kentucky and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.