The first chair was Dr. Mary V. Seeman. The current chair is Dr. Robert Zipursky. A stands for the academic staff of the program - psychiatrists, psychologists, basic scientists, social scientists, ethicists, nurses, social workers, and occupational therapists engaged in the study of schizophrenia and clinical service to the affected population. C stands for the Centre for Addictions and Mental Health, the centre of excellence of the schizophrenia program. The Clarke Institute of Psychiatry, the Addiction Research Foundation, the Donwood Institute, and the Queen Street Mental Health Centre.
C stands for complexity.
Schizophrenia is a complex genetic brain disorder whose expression and course are probably influenced by as yet unknown environmental factors. For this reason, its investigation is being pursued by both biological and social scientists and treatments include chemical and interpersonal interventions. A stands for areas of focus, being psychopharmacology, brain imaging, molecular biology, genetics, first episode studies, gender and culture aspects, subjective experience and quality of life, cognitive-behavioural therapy, and rehabilitation. Concomitant Masters or PhD degrees are offered by the Institute of Medical Science, School of Postgraduate Studies, University of Toronto. There are many choices of primary and secondary supervisors.