Current Studies

Our primary research focus concerns understanding the nature and treatment of substance use disorders, with particular interests in (1) the impact of psycho-sociocultural factors on the etiology, maintenance, and treatment of substance use disorders and (2) substance misuse among understudied groups, including individuals with co-occurring psychopathology, women, individuals from underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, and LGBTQIA+ individuals. Our translational approach to research is achieved using multiple research methodologies including randomized control trials, technology-based interventions, ecological momentary assessment, cognitive bias paradigms, laboratory-based induction of negative states (e.g., anxiety, craving), and alcohol administration. 

Dr. Buckner has been involved in several NIH grants as PI, co-PI, consultant, and sponsor and was Project Director on a graduate education training grant from the US Department of Health & Human Services. She has also received awards from organizations such as the American Psychological Association, College on Problems of Drug Dependence, Anxiety Disorders Association of America, and Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT) Addictive Behaviors & Anxiety Disorders Special Interest Groups. Undergraduate and graduate students working under Dr. Buckner’s supervision have received awards from NIH as well as the American Psychological Association and Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT) Addictive Behaviors & Anxiety Disorders Special Interest Groups.

Current projects include:

• the impact of MET-CBT among adults receiving inpatient hospital services and are on Medicaid insurance
• the utility of an online PFI to reduce mental health stigma and increase treatment seeking
• the role of cognitive biases in the relations between anxiety and risky drinking
• the impact of racism on substance misuse among Black adults
• the impact of sexism on mental health and substance use and related problems
• the impact of imposter syndrome of substance use and related problems
• feasibility and acceptability of integrating MET-CBT for SUD (especially OUD) into inpatient settings
• predictors of adherence and outcome during MAT clinic treatment
• the utility of an on-line PFI for cannabis misuse
• the utility of an on-line PFI for sanctioned college drinkers
• the utility of an on-line PFI for sanctioned college cannabis users

For more information, please contact the Anxiety and Addictive Behaviors Lab at aabc@lsu.edu or 225-578-5778.