Helen Kales

Helen C. Kales is the Joe P. Tupin Professor at the University of California Davis. She is known for her work in geriatric psychiatry.

Early life and education

Kales was born in 1965, and graduated from Hershey High School in 1983. She studied Spanish at Bucknell University and graduated in 1987. Hales earned an M.D. from the University of Rochester School of Medicine in 1992, did her residency and fellowship at the University of Michigan.

Career

As of 2025 Kales is the Joe P. Tupin Professor and leads the department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.

Work

Kale's work is centered on geriatric psychiatry. She focuses on later-life depression, especially the use and risks of psychotropic medications for older adults, and improving dementia care. Kales is also known for her work in providing resources for people helping others with dementia, and sharing tips on care with the public.

Honors and awards

In 2021 the American College of Psychiatrists awarded Kales the Geriatric Psychiatry Award for her contributions to the field of mental health and aging.

Selected publications

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