Dr. Olivia Harper, PhD

Dr. Olivia Harper is a leading specialist in adolescent health and human development, with more than 12 years of experience in research, clinical practice, and educational outreach. She focuses on guiding young people and their caregivers through the physiological and psychological changes during puberty, providing evidence-based advice and resources for healthy growth and self-awareness.

Specialization

Puberty and Adolescent Development
Growth and Hormonal Changes
Mental Health in Adolescence
Educational Programs for Teens
Parental Guidance on Adolescent Health

Education

2005–2009: BSc in Human Biology, University of Toronto
2009–2011: MSc in Developmental Psychology, McGill University
2011–2015: PhD in Adolescent Health and Development, University College London

Professional Experience

2015–2018: Pediatric Health Specialist, Children’s Hospital of Toronto
2018–2022: Lecturer in Adolescent Development, University of Toronto
2022–Present: Director of Puberty & Development Programs, Healthy Teens International
Consultant for school-based health initiatives across North America and Europe

Selected Scientific Publications

Harper, O. et al. (2021). "Psychological Impacts of Pubertal Timing in Adolescents." Journal of Youth Health, 19(3), 210–228.
Harper, O. (2019). "Supporting Teens Through Hormonal and Emotional Changes." International Journal of Adolescent Health, 14(2), 75–92.
Harper, O., & Singh, A. (2017). "Developing School Programs for Healthy Puberty Education." Developmental Psychology Review, 10(1), 55–73.

Professional Memberships

Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine (SAHM)
American Psychological Association (APA) – Division 54: Society of Pediatric Psychology
International Society for Adolescent Health (ISAH)

Participation in International Projects

Lead Consultant, UNICEF Adolescent Development Education Program (2020–2023)
Advisor, WHO Global Initiative on Teen Health and Development (2018–2021)
Project Coordinator, UNESCO Digital Education Tools for Puberty & Growth (2022–Present)

Work on Educational Programs

Creator of "Healthy Puberty Curriculum" for middle schools in North America
Designer of interactive digital modules on adolescent growth and emotional wellbeing
Training programs for educators and healthcare professionals on puberty awareness

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest speaker on CBC Radio: “Navigating Puberty: Advice for Teens and Parents”
TEDx Talk: “Understanding Adolescence for a Healthier Future” (2022)
Host of the podcast “Growing Up Strong” focusing on puberty and teen development

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Harper combines scientific research, clinical practice, and educational outreach to create inclusive, practical, and evidence-based guidance for teens and parents. Her experience across healthcare, education, and media provides a unique perspective on the challenges of adolescence, fostering confident and informed development during puberty.