top of page

RITA
HITCHING 

Clinical research professional with 20+ years of international experience managing trials across the United States, Europe, and Australia.

My specialty lies in integrating health-tech innovations, particularly virtual reality, into treatment delivery and patient care.

web2_edited_edited_edited.jpg

ABOUT

Clinical Researcher · PhD Candidate

​What sets me apart is a unique blend of conducting rigorous health-tech research while effectively communicating results, translating complex neuroscience into practical insights for clinicians, patients, and the wider community.

Health-Tech Innovator

EXPERIENCE

Work History

work-history

PhD Candidate

Lead Feasibility Trial

ABCT Comittee Chair

Public Education & Media Dissemination 

Editor and Author

Briefing Books 

Pioneered a novel treatment for chronic insomnia using VR-delivered mindfulness, contributing to innovative applications of digital health in sleep medicine.

Lead initiatives that provide free access to evidence-based information on topics that impact the mental health and well-being of individuals in every community. 

In collaboration with ABCT members, published three Briefing Books: The Road to Resilience, Suicide Across the Lifespan, and Gun Violence in America.

Host Mental Health Podcast 

Healthy Minds Podcast 

Clinical Researcher

Led Large Multi-Site Trials

Science Editor

Investigational Medical Device 

Secured funding, built the team, and launched a podcast that translates cutting-edge mental health research into practical and accessible insights.

Led clinical trials and health-tech research at Stanford University and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in Palo Alto, designed for application in civilian and military healthcare.

Supported FDA clearance for a medical device to treat mood, anxiety, and insomnia. Oversaw accuracy of scientific content while balancing evidence from clinical studies and user experience.

EDUCATION

Academic Background

PHD CANDIDATE MEDICINE (PSYCHIATRY)

MASTER'S SOCIAL RESEARCH METHODS

BACHELOR'S DEGREE IN PSYCHOLOGY

CERTIFICATION IN MARKETING 

CONTACT

Get in touch. I'd love to connect. Please fill in the contact form or send me an email at rita@hitching.net 

Rita Hitching

WriteOnRita

© 2025

bottom of page