Her clinical, research, and policy work has focused on the prevention and alleviation of suffering in vulnerable human and non-human populations. She has led novel and innovative projects in the United States, sub-Saharan Africa, and the Federated States of Micronesia on issues including torture, HIV/AIDS, animal research ethics, and chronic disease prevention and management in resource-limited settings. Her work has centered on the universality of basic needs, including freedom from exploitation and abuse and the importance of physical and psychological well-being.