Lisette van der Meer wins Jaap van Weeghel award

_{Source: Kenniscentrum Phrenos.nl}

On June 4th, the Jaap van Weeghel award was awarded to Lisette van der Meer, principal investigator at Lentis and associate professor at the University of Groningen. She received the award for her groundbreaking work in the field of rehabilitation and recovery for people with severe mental illness. The award was presented on behalf of the jury—amidst loud applause—by Phrenos board member Philippe Delespaul during the Phrenos Knowledge Center’s working conference.

The jury explained its decision to award her the award as follows:
“With a unique combination of scientific rigor, social engagement, and the ability to connect, she contributes to an inclusive and recovery-oriented mental health care system. In particular, she is committed to people who reside long-term in intensive psychiatric care—a group that is often overlooked. Through her work, she gives them a voice and helps bring about a fundamental shift in thinking about long-term care.”

The jury described the impact of her research as highly significant and relevant. Van der Meer developed innovative interventions such as Cognitive Adaptation Training (CAT), This Is Me, and other social cognitive trainings. She has an exceptional ability to translate abstract scientific knowledge into practical tools for recovery and inclusion. Her work is characterized by close collaboration with mental health organizations, where she ensures that academic knowledge is made accessible and implemented in practice.

The jury praised her ability to bring together scientific knowledge, practical experience, and lived expertise in a natural and equal way. Her influence can be seen in research, policy, and practice—not only in the Netherlands but increasingly on an international scale. As such, she serves as an inspiring role model for young researchers and professionals who aim to contribute to recovery and inclusion.

Lisette van der Meer stated:
“This award means a great deal to me. I am honored that the jury considers my work in the field of rehabilitation and recovery for people with severe mental illness to be groundbreaking. This recognition is not only valuable to me personally, but also of great significance for the clients who are central to my research: individuals in long-term intensive psychiatric care. For a long time, this group has lagged behind in care, innovation, and research. It is telling that topics like recovery-oriented work, identity restoration, collaboration within the triad, and autonomy are now more prominently on the agenda for this group as well. This award demonstrates that there is growing space for thinking about recovery and inclusion in mental health care.”

More information