E. Fuller Torrey

E. Fuller Torrey (born September 6, 1937) is an American psychiatrist and schizophrenia researcher. He is associated with the Stanley Medical Research Institute (SMRI) and the Treatment Advocacy Center (TAC), which he founded.

Early life and education

Torrey was born in Utica, New York. He received his Bachelor's degree from Princeton University in 1959, and his M.D. from the McGill University Faculty of Medicine in 1963. He completed his residency in Psychiatry at Stanford University School of Medicine in 1965.

Career

Torrey's research has primarily focused on schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. He has authored over 20 books, including Surviving Schizophrenia and The Insanity Offense. His work has been instrumental in the development of treatment and advocacy for individuals with severe mental illness.

In 1986, Torrey founded the Treatment Advocacy Center (TAC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating barriers to the timely and effective treatment of severe mental illnesses. TAC promotes laws, policies, and practices for the delivery of psychiatric care and supports the development of innovative treatments for and research into the causes of severe and persistent psychiatric illnesses, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Torrey is also the executive director of the Stanley Medical Research Institute (SMRI), which has been involved in major studies regarding the causes and treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. SMRI has funded more than $550 million in research in over 30 countries.

Controversies

Torrey's views on the treatment of severe mental illness have been controversial. He has been a strong advocate for the use of involuntary commitment in the treatment of certain severe mental illnesses, a position that has been criticized by some in the mental health community.

Personal life

Torrey resides in Bethesda, Maryland. He is the brother of the late R. Lincoln Torrey, a prominent figure in the field of mental health services research.

External links

• Treatment Advocacy Center
• Stanley Medical Research Institute