Veldman Family Psychology Clinic

The Veldman family foundations have made a significant contribution to the University of Notre Dame to establish the Wilma and Peter Veldman Family Psychology Clinic, expanding mental health care in the South Bend area. The clinic will enhance research, provide immersive training for graduate students, and increase affordable mental health services. University President Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., emphasized the urgent need for mental health resources, stating, “Notre Dame has the opportunity to develop new models for the provision of mental health services and undertake groundbreaking research on how to treat mental illnesses.” He expressed deep gratitude to the Veldman family for supporting the university’s mission to bring hope and healing to those in need.

The clinic will serve as a hub for mental health initiatives, uniting the William J. Shaw Center for Children and Families, the Suicide Prevention Initiative—Research, Intervention, and Training (SPIRIT), and a new substance use initiative. A new facility will be constructed at 501 N. Hill St. to provide a centralized space for faculty, students, and the local community. The clinic will also increase the number of senior psychology faculty, triple the number of clinical psychology graduate students, and significantly expand experiential learning opportunities for undergraduates. The current counseling capacity is expected to double, ultimately serving over 1,500 community members annually through assessments, interventions, and prevention services.

The expansion will significantly advance Notre Dame’s commitment to addressing the national mental health crisis. With a strengthened presence for SPIRIT, the clinic will accelerate suicide prevention research led by Professors Theodore Beauchaine and Brooke Ammerman. It will also integrate trauma-focused research from the Shaw Center under the leadership of Professor Kristin Valentino. The Veldman family, whose deep-rooted ties to South Bend trace back to their parents’ immigrant journey and business success, hopes this initiative will transform lives. “This is a moment where we can impact the course of our community by reshaping the trajectory of so many lives,” said Tom Veldman, calling on others to support this crucial endeavor.

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