William James College Award Recognizes Mental Health Humanitarian

The 2018 William James College Mental Health Humanitarian Award was today awarded to Dr. Robert Brooks, former director of the department of psychology and of psychology training at McLean Hospital, and a member of the faculty at Harvard Medical School.

A renowned speaker, Dr. Brooks has lectured nationally and internationally on topics such as motivation, resilience, family relationships, the qualities of effective leaders and executives, and balancing our personal and professional lives. He has also written extensively about these topics and is the author or co-author of 17 books. The award was presented during a day-long conference held in Dr. Brooks’ honor at the College on the theme "Nurturing Resilience in Children and Families."

Newton-based William James College is an independent, not-for-profit institution which educates mental health professionals to bring psychological theory and skills to businesses and organizations, health care systems, correctional facilities, community mental health centers, schools and consulting rooms. Through the Mental Health Humanitarian award, William James College celebrates the contributions of people who are truly, in the words of the College’s motto, “Meeting the Need and Making a Difference.”

The plaque presented to Dr. Brooks reads, "In recognition of his outstanding leadership in child psychology as a master clinician, extraordinary educator, influential author, and for his lifelong commitment to the mental health of children and families."

The award was presented by Dr. Stanley Berman, vice president for academic affairs and associate professor in the department of clinical psychology at William James, on behalf of the College, William James College President Dr. Nicholas Covino, and Dr. Arnold Kerzner, founder and chair emeritus of the Boston Institute for the Development of Children and Families.

"Dr. Brooks' leadership extends well beyond his academic positions and affiliations," said Berman. "At a time when child psychology was focused on psychopathology, Robert Brooks invited us all to examine the positive factors within children, families and communities that foster self-esteem and resilience. His strength-based emphasis was prescient in inviting parents, educators and child mental health professionals to view the whole child in her context and to facilitate resilience."

Berman continued, "A humanitarian dedicates his or her life to improving the lives of others. Dr. Robert Brooks has been a pioneer, an innovator, a master clinician, and a superb educator with a large reach and impact."