KCU alumnus making a major impact in clinical child psychology

A 2023 graduate of Kansas City University's Clinical Psychology (PsyD) program is making significant strides in improving the lives of teens and young adults. Tyler Staples, PsyD, specializes in clinical child psychology, focusing on psychological assessments for neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disorders, depression and anxiety.

Over a decade of experience has shown him the profound impact societal changes can have on the mental health of children. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Staples saw an increase in patients dealing with feelings of isolation, hopelessness, depression and anxiety. He emphasizes the importance of early intervention and urges parents to seek treatment for their children as soon as they notice behavioral changes.

“One of the early pieces of advice that I like to give regarding depression and anxiety is that you don't need to have a formal diagnosis of a major depressive disorder or generalized anxiety to seek services,” he explained. “It's actually quite normal, but that doesn't mean that you don't deserve support services. As soon as anxiety or depression starts to rear its ugly head, especially in kiddos, get them in the services.”

He also highlights the value of assessments for learning disorders, noting that they can significantly improve a teen's outlook by providing them with the tools they need to succeed academically and boost their self-confidence. He says it is rewarding when he can help shed light on not only a child’s academic needs but also their strengths.

“A lot of kids actually fall into the trap of thinking, you know, I'm terrible at math or I reverse my letters when I write and therefore I must be stupid. ‘'I'm no good at school.’ This is something one patient of mine believed about herself for years, which contributed to low self-esteem and low self-confidence. And it was wrong,” he shared. “When her IQ test came back, she was in the high 120s—an extremely high score. Assessment can be rewarding because you're overturning these negative and horrible beliefs that children have about themselves.”

Reflecting on his own time as a student at KCU, Dr. Staples fondly recalls the unique opportunities the program offered. "I loved pursuing my interests at KCU," he said. "The program was clinically focused while also having a strong research component, which really stood out compared to other PsyD programs. Plus, I had direct access to medical students, which was invaluable." He appreciated KCU's connection with a medical school, particularly the new center focused on integrated medicine and collaboration with osteopathic students. “I wanted to be at a school that had a medical school. Well, KCU has that and the new center that is all about integrated medicine and working with osteopathic students,” he explained.

Dr. Staples also shares valuable advice for current KCU students as they navigate their own educational journeys: “A personal mantra that kind of got me through it is—just be curious. You come across an area that is difficult to understand and it’s frustrating when you think, ‘This is not what I'm going to focus on in my career.’ It's hard to find motivation when you come across those subject areas. Just be curious anyway,” he said.

Through his work, Dr. Staples is not only treating and diagnosing neurodevelopmental disorders, but also helping young people navigate their challenges and build healthier, more resilient futures. Thank you, Dr. Staples for furthering KCU’s mission of improving the well-being of the communities we serve.