Dr. Wright is a Professor and Kolb Endowed Chair in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. 

Dr. Wright received his undergraduate degree from Juniata College and obtained his medical degree at Jefferson Medical College. He completed his psychiatry residency training at the University of Michigan where he was Chief Resident and received his board certification in psychiatry in 1975. Dr. Wright earned his Ph.D. from the University of Louisville in 1986.

He is the principal author of eight books on cognitive-behavior therapy and the first multimedia computer program for treatment of depression. His book for the general public, Breaking Free from Depressionis, is distinguished by an integrated method that unites psychological, biological, social, and spiritual approaches in the fight against depression.

Good Days Ahead, a digital therapy program, authored by Dr. Wright is used to help people learn cognitive-behavior therapy skills to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Dr. Wright’s book, Learning Cognitive-Behavior Therapy: An Illustrated Guide - Second Edition, is an international best-seller that includes video demonstrations of key treatment methods. Another text, Cognitive-Behavior Therapy for Severe Mental Illness - Second Edition, presents advanced strategies for treating challenging conditions. This volume was chosen as the “Mental Health Book of the Year” by the British Medical Association. He also is the author of novels that feature psychiatric and psychological themes. They include A Stream to Follow and Dance in a Madhouse.

Dr. Wright was the Founding President of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy, President of the Kentucky Psychiatric Association, and President of the Norton Hospital Medical Staff. He is a Fellow of the American College of Psychiatrists. His research interests include the development and testing of computer-aided psychotherapy programs and the interaction between pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. He lectures widely on mood disorders, cognitive-behavior therapy, psychopharmacology, and computer-aided psychotherapy.

His honors include being a recipient of the Dean’s Distinguished Educator Award for Lifetime Achievement in Teaching at the University of Louisville, the Aaron T. Beck Institute for Cognitive Studies Award for Excellence, the Mental Health of America Kentucky Award for Pioneering Mental Health Care, and the Laughlin Award for Teaching Excellence.