Award for Distinguished Professional Contributions to Applied Research: Pim Cuijpers

This award is given to a psychologist whose research has led to important discoveries or developments in the field of applied psychology. The 2024 award winner is Pim Cuijpers. When we try to determine how to serve our clients, the key question is 'What works?' Pim Cuijpers has done more to answer this for mental health disorders, particularly depression, than any other researcher in the world. He has transformed the use of meta-analysis for examining treatment outcomes and led the movement to systematically organize, rigorously evaluate, and interpret the vast research evaluating interventions for mental health disorders. The importance of his work is reflected in his over 950 publications and his recognition as the top author and expert in the world in psychiatry/psychology, psychotherapy, and depression. His work guides clinicians and policymakers throughout the world on how to best treat people dealing with mental health conditions. Dr. Cuijpers and his team have now created a database including all relevant randomized control trials in the treatment of depression and other areas that allows anyone to access and conduct meta-analyses instantly through a simple, user-friendly interface. This is truly a paradigm-shifting development that changes how we understand treatment and how quickly we can improve care using this growing body of research. These substantial contributions, as well as Dr. Cuijpers's mentorship, commitment to public service, and willingness to elevate others, demonstrate that none is more worthy of this honor. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).