UPDATE: Dr. George M. Kapalka, a leading figure in clinical psychology and psychopharmacology, has officially joined the Children’s Treatment Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This urgent development comes as the center aims to enhance mental health services for children and adolescents in the region.
Dr. Kapalka, a Distinguished Professor at Alliant University’s California School of Professional Psychology, is board-certified in both clinical psychology and psychopharmacology. His extensive career spans over three decades, during which he has significantly contributed to the assessment and treatment of mental health disorders among youth.
With a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and an MS in Clinical Psychopharmacology, Dr. Kapalka has been at the forefront of pediatric mental health. He previously led a private mental health clinic in New Jersey, focused on children and adolescents with learning and emotional disorders. His experience includes serving as a certified school psychologist, where he directed a state-listed Child Study Team, consulting various school districts.
Since moving to New Mexico, Dr. Kapalka has transitioned to a prescribing psychologist role, leveraging his expertise to advocate for the appropriate use of psychotropic medications among youth. His work is critical, considering that the usage of psychotropic medications among children in the U.S. is increasingly common.
“Parents must weigh multiple factors before deciding to medicate their child for mental health issues,” Dr. Kapalka stated in a recent interview. “It’s essential to consider both psychological and pharmacological options to find the best path forward for each child.”
Dr. Kapalka’s influence extends beyond clinical practice; he has been actively involved in professional education, conducting numerous workshops for mental health professionals, educators, and parents. His commitment to community education and his research into pediatric disorders have earned him recognition, including being a Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
As Dr. Kapalka embarks on this new chapter at the Children’s Treatment Center, stakeholders in Albuquerque and beyond are eager to see the impact of his expertise on local mental health services. His background includes spearheading master’s programs at various universities, notably the New York Institute of Technology and Monmouth University, where he also served as Department Chair.
With his research translated into ten foreign languages, Dr. Kapalka is poised to share valuable insights into combined treatments of pediatric disorders, collaborating closely with primary care providers and advocating for comprehensive behavior management training for parents and teachers.
This announcement comes at a time when mental health issues among youth are a growing concern. As communities seek effective strategies to support children’s mental health, Dr. Kapalka’s leadership at the Children’s Treatment Center will be crucial in shaping future approaches.
As this situation develops, parents and educators are encouraged to follow updates closely. The focus will remain on enhancing support systems for children and adolescents facing mental health challenges in New Mexico.
For further insights into Dr. Kapalka’s work and the evolving landscape of pediatric mental health, stay tuned for upcoming reports and analyses.
