Leon joined the Center in 2019, bringing with him years of clinical and research experience; in addition to his work with the Center, he is also a researcher with the University of Michigan’s Department of Psychiatry.
Leon received his bachelor’s in psychology from UCLA; his master’s in clinical psychology from California State University, Los Angeles; and a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Michigan State University.
Through University of Michigan, Puttler is currently involved in a multi-site study known as “The ABCD Study” on adolescent brain cognitive development. With more than 12,000 children between the ages of 9 and 10 being studied over the next decade at 21 sites around the country, it’s the largest study of brain development in the world.
“Mental health is part of your overall health; in order to be physically healthy, you need to be mentally healthy. If you’re anxious, that affects your body. So, in working together with physical and mental health, we’re treating the entire person and providing better overall health.”
Living in the Lansing area, Leon enjoys playing sports such as tennis. Prior to the pandemic, he co-hosted a series of area house concerts, bringing singers and songwriters into his living room to play for small crowds.
“Leon has been as asset to the Center. He has had a great relationship with the pediatricians in working toward helping kids with various stressors and who need psychological help. Leon is always looking for ways to improve the mental health of our patients and the community.” — Rose Johnson, the Center’s Chief Medical Officer
“The work I do is meaningful. Even working with one person can have an impact on changing the world. I want to help make the world a better place.”
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