Honoring Dr. Alex Siegel
๐๐จ๐ง๐จ๐ซ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ซ. ๐๐ฅ๐๐ฑ ๐๐ข๐๐ ๐๐ฅ: ๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐จ๐ ๐๐ฑ๐๐๐ฅ๐ฅ๐๐ง๐๐ ๐ข๐ง ๐๐ฌ๐ฒ๐๐ก๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ
As we reflect on the APA 2024 Convention held in Seattle this past August, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boardโs own Alex Siegel, J.D., Ph.D. Recently, Dr. Siegel was honored with not one but two prestigious awards: the Karl F. Heiser Award and the Distinguished Professional Contribution Award from APA Division 42. These accolades highlight his significant contributions to the regulation and practice of psychology.
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The Karl F. Heiser Award recognizes psychologists who have made impactful contributions through advocacy, shaping the discipline within legal frameworks. APA President Cynthia de las Fuentes noted during the award ceremony that Dr. Siegelโs work has exemplified this spirit.
Dr. Siegel’s journey in telepsychology began in 2011 with the ASPPB Telepsychology Task Force. This group was instrumental in establishing standards and guidelines for using technology in psychological services, a critical effort during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their work laid a foundation that enabled psychologists to effectively navigate the challenges of providing care during a mental health crisis.
His extensive advocacy has played a vital role in shaping legislation affecting psychological practice. With 13 years on the Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology, including eight years as ChairโDr. Siegel’s leadership has been pivotal. He served on the ASPPB Board of Directors from 2005 to 2009 and continues his influential work as ASPPB’s Director of Professional Affairs, a crucial liaison between ASPPB and psychological associations.
๐๐ก๐ ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ฎ๐ข๐ฌ๐ก๐๐ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐๐ฅ ๐๐จ๐ง๐ญ๐ซ๐ข๐๐ฎ๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐ฐ๐๐ซ๐
The Distinguished Professional Contribution Award recognizes Dr. Siegel’s significant contributions to independent practice in psychology. His advocacy reflects active participation in various committees and task forces, including those related to the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT). Dr. Siegel has been essential in facilitating telepsychology legislation across 40 states, showcasing his commitment to advancing the profession.
Additionally, Dr. Siegel educates state licensing boards and psychological associations about telepsychology legislation, generously sharing his expertise with colleagues. His involvement with the Pennsylvania Psychological Association illustrates his dedication to supporting fellow professionals and offering guidance on regulatory challenges.
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Dr. Siegelโs name is synonymous with significant advancements in state and national legislation regarding psychology. His leadership extends to vital roles on the ASPPB Model Act and Regulations Committee, further underscoring his commitment to the field.