Kristine L. Rae Olmsted

Kristine L. Rae Olmsted is a senior research epidemiologist with nearly 25 years of experience in epidemiology and psychology, including the design, implementation, management, and analysis of research protocols among military populations. Her primary areas of interest are mental health, substance abuse, and pain among military personnel.

Since joining RTI in 2000, Rae Olmsted has worked on a variety of projects ranging from surveys to clinical research, including coordination and management of large-scale randomized controlled trials and epidemiologic studies. 

She is principal investigator for a number of U.S. Army studies regarding stellate ganglion block (SGB) for treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. These studies are evaluating the effectiveness and patient acceptability of SGB as well as neurocognitive effects, changes in sleep patterns, and symptom trajectory over time. Her research has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, National Public Radio, 60 Minutes, and other outlets. 

Rae Olmsted’s other research includes adaptation of mindfulness training to treat chronic pain in the military and a randomized effectiveness trial of a systems-level approach to stepped care for war-related PTSD.