Dr. Keith Dobson is a Professor Emeritus of Clinical Psychology at the University of Calgary, where he served in various leadership roles, including the inaugural Director of the Clinical Psychology Program and Head of the Department of Psychology. Over his career, Dr. Dobson has made substantial contributions to the study of depression, particularly through cognitive-behavioral therapies. His research includes more than 340 published articles, 80 chapters, and 18 books, with notable recent works such as The Stigma of Mental Illness (2021) and Treatment of Psychosocial Risk Factors in Depression (2023). His expertise and scholarly output have cemented his status as a leader in clinical psychology.
Dr. Dobson has also been a key figure in mental health advocacy, particularly through his role as a Principal Investigator for the Opening Minds program of the Mental Health Commission of Canada. In this position, he has focused on reducing the stigma associated with mental disorders, especially in workplace settings. Dr. Dobson’s influence extends internationally, as he has presented his work at numerous conferences and workshops around the world, furthering his impact on mental health awareness and stigma reduction. His involvement in organized psychology in Canada includes serving as President of the Canadian Psychological Association, where he contributed to professional standards and ethics within the field.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Dr. Dobson has received multiple awards, including the Canadian Psychological Association Gold Medal for Lifetime Contributions to Psychology. He is also a Fellow of esteemed institutions such as the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies, the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, and the Royal Society of Canada. Recently, he was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honors, highlighting his dedication and contributions to psychology and mental health advocacy.