Stephan Heckers, MD, MSc, William P. and Henry B. Test Professor of Schizophrenia Research and chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, was recently recognized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) with a 2018 Exemplary Psychiatrist Award.
Heckers, holder of the Donald and Charlotte Test Clinical Directorship in Psychosis Programs, was one of nine psychiatrists across the country to receive the honor and was the only psychiatrist recognized in the state of Tennessee.
According to Robin Nobling, executive director of the NAMI Davidson County chapter, which submitted Heckers’ nomination, Heckers was recognized for his dedication to research, patient care, family support, public education and support of the local chapter and its efforts.
“Dr. Heckers is a world-class researcher who believes in taking a patient-centered approach to treating mental illness,” said Nobling. “At NAMI Davidson County, we have heard appreciation expressed from several families he has worked with. He values social and emotional healing as well as clinical treatment. He promotes a practice that supports clinical outcomes and personal empowerment for the client while redefining family support roles, and we are delighted to see him receive this recognition for his outstanding work.”
Through the award program, NAMI aims to “honor the exceptional contributions that many psychiatrists make to improve the lives of people living with mental health conditions.”
“It is an honor to be recognized by NAMI, the largest grass-roots advocacy group representing those who are affected the most by mental illness: the person and their family,” said Heckers. “It is especially rewarding to help NAMI with their tireless efforts to educate the general public on what it means to be mentally ill.”
