Scott Richards

Dr. Scott Richards is a distinguished Professor Emeritus in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. With a robust academic background, he earned his Ph.D. from Kent State University and an MS from the University of Michigan. His scholarly pursuits are deeply rooted in the fields of psychology, spinal cord injury, and chronic pain, areas in which he has made significant contributions through both research and clinical practice. In 1977, Dr. Richards was instrumental in establishing the Psychology Service within his department, marking the beginning of a long and impactful career dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of chronic pain and spinal cord injuries. His visionary approach led to the co-founding of an inpatient chronic pain treatment program, which has since become a cornerstone of patient care and research at the university. Throughout his career, Dr. Richards has held numerous leadership roles, reflecting his commitment to both his department and the broader professional community. Notably, he served as President of the American Association of Spinal Cord Injury Psychologists and Social Workers, where he championed initiatives to improve the quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries. Additionally, his tenure as Vice Chair of the department underscores his leadership and dedication to advancing the field of rehabilitation medicine. Dr. Richards's contributions have been recognized with several prestigious national awards. Among these, he received the APA Rehabilitation Psychology Distinguished Career Award, a testament to his enduring impact on the field. Furthermore, the AASCIPSW Excellence Award highlights his exceptional contributions to spinal cord injury psychology and social work. His work continues to inspire new generations of researchers and clinicians, as he remains actively engaged in mentoring and guiding young professionals in the field. Dr. Richards's legacy is one of innovation, compassion, and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of those affected by chronic pain and spinal cord injuries.