Amy Wachholtz, PhD, MDiv, MSCP, has been named Educator of the Year by the American Psychological Association (APA), Division 55—recognizing her leadership in developing and launching CU Denver’s post-doctoral Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Psychopharmacology.
This innovative program was created in direct response to a new Colorado law that expands access to mental health care by allowing licensed psychologists—with additional, specialized training—to prescribe certain mental health medications. By helping build this pathway, Wachholtz is strengthening Colorado’s behavioral health workforce and opening new options for patients who need timely, coordinated care.
At CU Denver, that’s the work: education built for real life, shaped by community needs, and designed to create impact far beyond campus.
A Program Built for Colorado’s Mental Health Moment
Colorado—like many states—faces growing demand for mental health services. The MS in Clinical Psychopharmacology helps address that reality by preparing qualified psychologists to take on expanded responsibilities where the law allows.
This is not “more coursework for the sake of it.” It’s career-relevant training designed to support:
- Better access to care, especially where psychiatric providers are limited
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More integrated treatment, bringing therapy and medication management closer together
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Patient-centered options, informed by both psychological science and pharmacology
Why this Recognition Matters
The APA Division 55 award highlights what CU Denver does best: connect rigorous learning to real-world change. Wachholtz’s work reflects an innovation mindset—seeing a shift in policy and building an academic program that helps students and communities meet the moment.
For students and practitioners, this program represents a clear, practical pathway to deepen expertise and expand impact. For Colorado, it’s a step toward a more accessible and responsive mental health system.
Real Impact, Right Here
Wachholtz’s Educator of the Year honor is more than a personal achievement—it’s a signal that CU Denver’s faculty are building programs that respond to today’s challenges with urgency, care, and expertise.
Congratulations to Dr. Wachholtz and to the community of learners and partners helping move mental health care forward in Colorado.
Learn More About CU Denver's MS in Clinical Psychopharmacology