Dr. Wright received his undergraduate degree from Juniata College and obtained his medical degree at Jefferson Medical College. He completed his psychiatry residency training at the University of Michigan where he was Chief Resident and received his board certification in psychiatry in 1975. Dr. Wright earned his Ph.D. from the University of Louisville in 1986.

He is the principal author of seven books on cognitive-behavior therapy and the first multimedia computer program for treatment of depression. His book for the general public, Getting Your Life Back: The Complete Guide to Recovery from Depression, was chosen by Self Magazine as one of the eight best self-help books. It is distinguished by an integrated method that unites psychological, biological, social, and spiritual approaches in the fight against depression.

Computer software authored by Dr. Wright is used to help people learn cognitive-behavior therapy skills to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Dr. Wright’s book, Learning Cognitive-Behavior Therapy: An Illustrated Guide, which includes a DVD with video demonstrations of key treatment methods, is being used as a standard text in training programs throughout the world. A recent book, Cognitive-Behavior Therapy for Severe Mental Illness, presents advanced strategies for treating challenging conditions. This volume was chosen as the “Mental Health Book of the Year” for 2009 by the British Medical Association.

Dr. Wright was the Founding President of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy and the President of the Kentucky Psychiatric Association. He is a Fellow of the American College of Psychiatrists. His research interests include the development and testing of computer-aided psychotherapy programs and the interaction between pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. He lectures widely on mood disorders, cognitive-behavior therapy, psychopharmacology, and computer-aided psychotherapy.