Research
Atlas Institute undertakes and supports research that seeks to improve the well-being of Veterans and their Families. Our research is driven by a commitment to mental health equity and is informed by Veterans Affairs Canada’s seven domains of well-being, which include the social determinants of health. We design our research projects so they answer the questions that matter to Veterans and their Families.
Our current research topics include transition to post-service life, therapeutic interventions, women’s health, sleep health, vicarious trauma, and moral injury. Whether we are leading studies or supporting our research partners in their endeavours, Atlas aligns its research efforts with what Veterans and their Families tell us are their unique mental health care and treatment needs.
In 2024-2025, Atlas and its research partners launched new studies focusing on topics including:
- Thriving after service
- Veteran and Veteran Family sleep health
- Women Veterans’ well-being
- Neurofeedback
- Vicarious traumatization
- Identity-based moral injury
- Adult children of Veterans
- Suicidality
- Chronic pain and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Purpose
Our researchers are driven by curiosity and a desire for meaningful change. They have made significant advances when it comes to understanding:
- The causes of PTSD and related mental health conditions
- Preventative interventions for mental health problems
- Improvements to a broad range of treatments and therapies
We are also researching how characteristics that shape who Veterans and their Families are as people — such as gender, age, race and sexual orientation — also shape their well-being outcomes.
Approach
Atlas is committed to being a leader in equitable, inclusive and relevant research. We know that Veterans and their Families have the lived and living expertise that is vital to ensuring that our research is meaningful and successful. That’s why Veterans and their Families are our partners and collaborators in every part of our research process.
At the core of our work is the lived experience of Veterans and their Families. We act on their recommendations for what topics and concerns should be priorities for research. We ask for their guidance throughout the research process — from creating research questions, study aims and designs to launching recruitment and knowledge mobilization activities. This collaborative approach ensures that all research conducted or supported by Atlas is responsive to the community’s unique needs, goals and values.
Our principles extend to intentional integration of the diversity present in these communities. All studies conducted or supported by Atlas incorporate an intersectional/SGBA+ framework. This means that every project considers how multiple characteristics — ability, age, culture, education, ethnicity, gender, geography, income, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation — interact with one another to shape differences in mental health needs and outcomes.
Our Research and Policy team collaborates with researchers and clinicians in Canada and around the world. By merging our collective expertise, we build strong networks capable of taking on the questions that matter to Veterans and their Families. Atlas research is ultimately designed and executed to ensure that Veterans and their Families, service providers and researchers have access to the latest evidence that can then be translated into programming, practice and policy.
Intended outcomes
Our differentiated approach to research will help to improve collective understanding and inform systemic changes in mental health care for Veterans and their Families.
Generate new Canadian knowledge about PTSD and related mental health conditions that responds to the needs and priorities of Veterans and their Families.
Undertake research that answers the questions that are the most urgent for Veterans and their Families.
Prioritize Veteran and Family in research on PTSD and related mental health conditions.
Identify and address the information gap about trauma-related mental health to improve care and treatment options for Veterans and their Families.
- Publish policy recommendations and contribute to the policy conversation on emerging and timely issues, such as moral injury, military sexual trauma (MST) and peer support.
- Inform evidence-based mental health policy decisions as they relate to the well-being of Veterans and their Families.
Our research teams
The Atlas Institute is fortunate to have three teams dedicated to research. Our teams apply their combined expertise from social and developmental psychology, neuroscience, psychiatry, philosophy, epidemiology, social work and public health to the study of Veteran and Family mental health and well-being.
The Applied Research team’s work is informed by the social determinants of health and a biopsychosocial approach to mental health.
With a strong emphasis on interview and survey-based research methods, we strive to answer underexplored questions.
We use qualitative research methods to capture and describe Veterans’ and Families’ lived experiences of a certain phenomenon. In these studies, we strive to offer a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the nature and meaning of human experiences. In parallel, we recognize the importance of quantitative research in providing a broader perspective and generating robust data to support service and program improvements. Our statistical analyses examine trends over time, systemic issues, and health disparities among Veterans and their Families.
By blending qualitative and quantitative research methods, we bring together the power of personal stories and statistical evidence to drive change. Our interdisciplinary approach allows us to conduct research from multiple perspectives, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the complex experiences of Veterans and their Families.
The Research Partnerships team endeavours to enhance knowledge and research capacity throughout Canada. Through the provision of funding opportunities and collaborative partnership agreements, including targeting emerging researchers, we strive to expand our understanding of diverse subjects pertaining to the mental health and well-being of Veterans and their Families.
Annually, we offer collaborative funding opportunities through a transparent and equitable request for proposal (RFP) process, ensuring a competitive selection process.
To secure funding, researchers are required to demonstrate, within the RFP framework, how their research aligns with the overarching mission of the Atlas Institute, how their project will positively impact Veteran and Family communities, and how individuals with lived and living experiences will be actively engaged throughout every stage of the research endeavour.
The specific topics addressed through our funding rounds are tailored to reflect the identified needs derived from a comprehensive analysis of research and knowledge mobilization gaps and invaluable insights shared directly by the Veteran and Family communities.
The Clinical Research team aims to better understand the neurobiological basis of the mental health conditions that can affect Veterans and their Families and to develop novel treatment and assessment tools for these conditions.
Here, we take a multipronged approach to investigating the neural pathways that may lead to mental illness. By partnering with the Brain Imaging Centre at the Royal Ottawa Hospital, we implement neuroimaging methods (i.e. fMRI, PET and EEG) to study the brain. Importantly, our brain imaging studies are often paired with qualitative research methods (i.e. 1:1 interviews and focus groups), such that the lived experience of Veterans and Families effectively guide our study design and planned analyses.
We are also developing a number of novel treatment interventions for trauma and stressor-related disorders (including neurofeedback, and cognitive behavioural therapies), as well as new assessment tools for mental health conditions.
Further, our team is involved in training the next generation of clinician-scientists at the University of Ottawa within the School of Psychology and the Faculty of Medicine graduate programs (i.e. teaching courses and supervising graduate students).
Areas of specialization
Our areas of specialization offer a framework to guide the Atlas Institute as it undertakes research in support of Veteran and Family well-being. The focus areas align with our mandate to build the Canadian evidence base on Veteran and Veteran Family well-being and the organization’s strategic zones of focus, which reflect our commitment to integrating the perspectives of Veterans and Veteran Family members in our work.
- Risk and protective factors
- Characteristics or events that increase or decrease the likelihood of a given mental health outcome
- Biological, psychological and social mechanisms
- Underlying factors that, alone or by interacting with one another, contribute to some aspect of mental health
- Screening and assessment
- Tools designed and used to identify the presence and/or severity of a particular mental health problem or illness
- Treatments, interventions and supports
- Pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical responses designed to improve, maintain and support well-being including but not limited to: medications, cognitive therapy, peer support and acupuncture
- Service design and delivery
- Features of health care services, including structure and function, access and use, navigation, and Veteran and Veteran Family experience
Mobilizing knowledge
Making research accessible and understandable to the people who need it is core to what we do at Atlas. Our research teams work closely with knowledge mobilization and implementation specialists to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and the diverse communities we serve, recognizing that the impact of our work lies not only in publishing evidence-based research, but also in effectively communicating it to Veterans, Families and other stakeholders. Through clear and accessible resources, presentations and engagement initiatives, we collaborate to foster awareness, inform policy discussions, and empower individuals to make informed decisions regarding Veteran and Family well-being.
Research spotlight
- New research published and presented on minority stress, neurofeedback
- Research participation opportunity: Moral injury study launched by the University of Alberta
- New research funding opportunities now available
- Women Veterans’ reproductive health to be focus of new international study launching this fall
- Build your research skills with the Veteran and Family research training program
New research published and presented on minority stress, neurofeedback
Minority stress
New research has recently been published from the minority stress project led by Atlas Institute researchers. During The Royal’s Pride Week Grand Rounds, Dr. Andrew Nicholson, Vice-President of Research at the Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, presented a novel research framework that rethinks minority stress (i.e. discrimination, marginalization and stigma) as a morally injurious event. Minority stress can be morally injurious, as identity-related rejection can foster feelings of betrayal and lead sexual and gender minorities (SGMs) to view their identity as a moral violation.
This new research has now been published in the European Journal of Psychotraumatology, with an article authored by the Atlas Clinical Research team on one of the first mixed-methods studies to investigate the morally injurious dimensions of minority stress in SGMs
Key findings identified four themes of minority stress-related moral injury: shame, guilt, betrayal/loss of trust and attachment injuries, with attachment injuries emerging as a unique feature of moral injury in SGMs. These research findings were also shared at two international conferences this year.
The progress made in the minority stress program of research represents advancement in understanding of the unique social and mental health-related challenges that minority groups must face. The insights from this research offer key implications for military members, Veterans and their Families, who represent a minority group within society, with minoritized subgroups existing as well within the military community.
Neurofeedback
Atlas Institute researchers presented on ongoing neurofeedback studies at several recent events. Jonathan Lieberman, PhD student, presented at the SOBP conference on the optimal areas of the brain to target with neurofeedback to treat symptoms related to PTSD. This study protocol on amygdala and posterior cingulate cortex-targeted neurofeedback therapy to address PTSD was also recently published in BMC Psychiatry.
At the 2025 CIMVHR Ottawa Engagement Session, master’s student SueEllen MacGowan gave an oral presentation to a broad audience of military community members and health care professionals on findings demonstrating restored brain connections after 20 sessions of neurofeedback therapy, which can help reduce PTSD symptoms.
Research participation opportunity: Moral injury study launched by the University of Alberta
As researchers in Canada explore the broader effects of moral injury, understanding how it affects Families is crucial for developing the right support systems and interventions to help them heal and cope with these unique challenges. If you’re a Family member of a Canadian Veteran and have ever questioned what’s right or struggled with a sense of trust in humanity, your experience may hold valuable insights. Researchers at the University of Alberta would love to hear your story and learn about the kinds of support or interventions that could make a difference for you or your loved ones.
For more information about this Canadian study on moral injury in Veteran Families, please contact Dr. Lorraine Smith-MacDonald: ✉️ himarcr6@ualberta.ca
Interested in learning more about moral injury?
New research funding opportunities now available
We’ve launched new research funding opportunities in three critical areas designed to enhance understanding and support the mental health and well-being of Veterans and their Families. This initiative aligns with our continuing commitment to expanding knowledge and boosting research capabilities in the field of mental health, working directly with the community to identify areas of particular interest and opportunity.
This year, Atlas will be funding research on:
- Caregiving, intimacy, and relational health in Veteran Families
- Veteran resilience after service and rebuilding identity (in partnership with Mental Health Research Canada)
- Occupational moral injury implications post-service for RCMP members
Proposals will be accepted until October 14, 2025 at 12 p.m., Eastern time, with the anticipated notice of decision in December 2025 to January 2026. For more information about the funding program, visit our webpage or contact the Research Partnerships team at ✉️ atlasresearch@theroyal.ca.
Women Veterans’ reproductive health to be focus of new international study launching this fall
Military service can have unique and lasting effects on women’s health — including reproductive health. The Atlas Institute and the Centre for Military Women’s Research at Anglia Ruskin University are launching a new international study that will explore and compare the reproductive health experiences of women Veterans from Canada and the United Kingdom.
The study is seeking women Veterans living in Canada or the U.K. to take part in a one-time survey, which will cover topics such as fertility, menopause, sexual health, pelvic health, and well-being. Participant insights will help build stronger evidence and inform services and supports for women Veterans across allied nations.
Email ✉️ atlasresearch@theroyal.ca or join our mailing list to be notified when the study launches.
Build your research skills with the Veteran and Family research training program
The Veteran and Family research training program is being offered for a second year, with new options for learning. This online training program is specifically designed to enhance research knowledge and skills among Veterans and Family members.
This year’s training offers two options to suit different learning needs: a structured, module-based nine-week course, as well as a four-part workshop series exploring the fundamentals of research. The workshop series is ideal for those looking for a lighter or more flexible way to engage with core concepts, while the course offers a more in-depth, sequential learning experience.
Still have questions? Email ✉️ researchtraining.atlas@theroyal.ca
Getting involved in research at Atlas
Recruiting studies
Interested in participating in research? Research participation helps expand our understanding of Veteran and Family mental health and well-being and can support the improvement of treatments, programs and services. The Atlas Institute leads and supports research projects and new opportunities to participate, with varying levels of involvement, regularly become available. Check out a few of the studies currently looking for participants!
Led by Atlas
Exploring the association between unmet health and well-being needs and mental health for women Veterans
Led by Dr. Kate Hill MacEachern, Applied Research, Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families
To find out if you’re eligible to participate, please contact:
Thriving after service: The prevalence and predictors of flourishing among military and RCMP Veterans
Led by Dr. André Lauzon, Applied Research, Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families
To find out if you’re eligible to participate, please contact:
An exploratory study into the sleep health of Canadian Veterans and their families
Led by Tabitha Beynen and Dr. Kate Hill MacEachern, Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families
To find out if you’re eligible to participate, please contact:
The neural correlates of minority stress: Uncovering systemic oppression related to the intersectionality of identity with neuroimaging and machine learning
Led by Dr. Andrew Nicholson, Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families
Check eligibility and participate
Self-regulation of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) neurocircuitry using multiple sessions of real-time functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (rt-fMRI)
Led by Dr. Andrew Nicholson, Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families
Questions? Please contact:
Supported by Atlas
Studying the effectiveness and implementation of Sudarshan Kriya Yoga for Canadian Veterans with PTSD
Led by Sinai Health System — Bridgepoint Collaboratory for Research and Innovation
Brain measures linked to hyperarousal in PTSD using MRI imaging
Led by the University of Ottawa’s Institute for Mental Health Research at the Royal
Other ways to get involved
The Atlas Institute recognizes the importance of including different experiences and perspectives in our various projects. We believe the voices of our lived experience community are vitally important to the work we do and invite you to participate in our projects, including research projects, through surveys, panels, webinars and town hall events and more.
Latest publications
Longitudinal analysis of adjustment to civilian life and self-rated mental health using the Life after Service Survey
2025-08-12
MacEachern KH, Gregory A, Rodrigues S
Journal of Military, Veteran and Family Health
Read the paper
Identity in turmoil: Investigating the morally injurious dimensions of minority stress
2025-06-19
Nicholson AA, Narikuzhy S, Wolf J, Pichtikova M, Siegel M, Mirabelli J, Hatchard T, Hosseini-Kamkar N, Bawagan E, Roth SL, Mutschler C, Lanius RA, Hosseiny F, Eckstrand K, Lueger-Schuster B
European Journal of Psychotraumatology
Read the paper
Study protocol for a multi-session randomized sham-controlled trial of PCC-and amygdala-targeted neurofeedback for the treatment of PTSD
2025-06-15
Lieberman JM, Lanius RA, Théberge J, Frey BN, Frewen PA, Scharnowski F, Steyrl D, Ros T, Densmore M, Tassinari E, Matic V, Hosseini-Kamkar N, Narikuzhy S, Hosseiny F, Jetly R, Nicholson AA
BMC Psychiatry
Read the paper
Research Compass newsletter
Research Compass is the Atlas Institute’s regular newsletter about our Veteran and Family well-being research.
In each issue, you can expect a diverse range of content, including research highlights, links to access our latest results, a behind-the-scenes look at how we conduct research and updates on ongoing projects. We will also provide information about upcoming events, training opportunities and resources that can further enhance your understanding and engagement with research.
Research Compass — Issue 5 (September 2025)
Research Compass — Issue 4 (April 2025)
Research Compass — Issue 3 (September 2024)
Research Compass — Issue 2 (March 2024)
Research Compass — Issue 1 (August 2023)
Explore our research studies
Join our recruiting studies and help turn your experiences into learnings that inform treatments and policies. You can also access information about the processes and the results of our non-recruiting and completed studies.
