Kate Rho is a first-generation immigrant settler on the unceded traditional territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm, sel̓íl̓witulh, and sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nations. As a lab manager at the Anxiety, Stress, and Autism Program, Kate conducts autism and child development research. In 2022, she was a key researcher in a community-based disability justice project led by AutismBC, advocating for families receiving autism funding in British Columbia. Beyond academic settings, Kate has worked with autistic children and youth of varying ages, cultural backgrounds, and support needs in clinical and educational settings. She also provided support to Korean immigrant individuals in need of emotional support through a helpline hosted by S.U.C.C.E.S.S..
Research Interests:
Kate Rho’s research interest centers on advancing social inclusion interventions for neurodivergent and immigrant individuals through diversity-affirming methods. She is dedicated to addressing the mental health and social wellbeing needs of these communities, particularly in relation to trauma, culture, and family relationships. Additionally, Kate is interested in the implementation of community advisory boards in research settings, fostering authentic collaboration with the communities impacted, and ensuring that their perspectives and needs drive the research agenda.