Jae Sevelius, PhD

Dr. Sevelius (they/them) is a clinical psychologist, behavioral health researcher, and intervention scientist leading an extensive portfolio of NIH-funded studies engaging transgender and gender expansive individuals and communities. Dr. Sevelius developed the Model of Gender Affirmation, the first trans-specific conceptual model that aims to elucidate the role of gender affirmation on health-related behaviors and outcomes.

To date, Dr. Sevelius' research has focused on developing, testing, and disseminating peer-led interventions to promote sexual health and resilience among transgender people. These community-based HIV prevention and treatment programs focus primarily on serving transgender women of color in New York City, the San Francisco Bay Area, and in São Paulo, Brazil.  Most recently, Dr. Sevelius’ research and clinical work has expanded to include psychedelic-assisted therapies for identity-based trauma. 

Dr. Sevelius is also a dedicated mentor of early-stage investigators, with a focus on those with backgrounds and identities that are under-represented in academic medicine. They are a passionate advocate for transforming academic institutions to create environments where diversity is truly celebrated, equity is non-negotiable, and inclusion follows naturally from a culture of belonging.