The Philadelphia community and the field of clinical psychology mourn the loss of Dr. Edna B. Foa, who passed away on March 24, 2026, at the age of 88. Dr. Foa’s extraordinary career and groundbreaking contributions to mental health research and treatment have left a profound legacy, touching the lives of countless individuals, families, and professionals across the world. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her work continues to guide and inspire clinicians and researchers in the treatment of anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Dr. Foa’s dedication to advancing understanding of trauma and anxiety shaped modern psychotherapy in transformative ways. Her innovative approaches, including the development of exposure therapy techniques for PTSD, have become foundational elements of evidence-based treatment. Through decades of clinical practice, research, and teaching, she combined scientific rigor with compassion, emphasizing not only symptom reduction but also the empowerment of patients to reclaim their lives. Colleagues and students alike recall her as a brilliant mind, a generous mentor, and a tireless advocate for improving mental health care.
Throughout her career, Dr. Foa received numerous awards and honors, including recognition from the Philadelphia Behavior Therapy Association (PBTA) with their Lifetime Achievement Award. These accolades reflect her status as a pioneer in her field, someone whose scholarship and clinical work profoundly influenced both research and applied practice. Her publications, lectures, and mentorship continue to serve as invaluable resources for clinicians and scholars worldwide.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Foa was remembered as a person of warmth, humility, and integrity. She inspired those around her through both her intellect and her compassion, leaving a lasting impression on colleagues, students, and patients alike. While her passing is deeply felt, her contributions to science, therapy, and the betterment of mental health remain enduring. Dr. Edna Foa’s legacy will continue to guide generations of clinicians and researchers, ensuring that her impact on the world of psychology will never be forgotten.
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