Why Aaron T. Beck Day Is So Important

Dr. Aaron T. Beck is globally recognized as the father of Cognitive Behavior Therapy and one of the world’s leading researchers in psychopathology. He is credited with shaping the field of mental health, and The American Psychologist has called him “one of the five most influential psychotherapists of all time.” His contributions to the field of mental health and the tangible impact he had on the lives of so many people are astonishing. A prolific theorist, scientist, researcher, and writer, he authored or co-authored 25 books and published over 600 articles in his lifetime. He was an Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania, where he worked on developing and testing his theories for almost 70 years. He also served as President Emeritus of the Beck Institute, where he inspired a generation of CBT practitioners and trainees with his wisdom, humor, and grace.

Dr. Beck dedicated his life to studying, understanding, and improving mental health. Now individuals around the world come together each year to continue Dr. Beck’s important work. By participating in Aaron T. Beck Day, you are bringing attention to the need for improved services, support, and resources for those diagnosed with mental health conditions.

How to Participate

Aaron T. Beck Day is an opportunity for the global community to come together to spread the word about Dr. Beck’s work, and ensure that CBT continues to evolve to meet the needs of individuals everywhere who are struggling with health and mental health conditions and quality of life concerns.

Get involved by:

  • Following Beck Institute on social media and liking, sharing, or commenting on our posts about #AaronTBeckDay
  • Submitting a story about how Dr. Beck’s work inspired you personally or professionally using the form on this page
  • Downloading the graphics and sample social media posts to post about #AaronTBeckDay on your social media accounts
  • Using our sample email templates to email your network and asking friends and family to join in and help spread the word
  • Pledging to do something to help advance mental health in your community

Download our Aaron T. Beck Day toolkit for a complete set of resources, including a wealth of information about Dr. Beck and CBT, sample social media posts, email templates, listserv posts, and examples of projects and stories that others have shared. Get inspired to join us today!

Download the 2025 Aaron T. Beck Day Toolkit

Shareable Social Media Graphics

Demonstrate to your social networks that CBT is a continuously evolving practice and that Dr. Beck’s work lives on in the hearts and minds of mental health practitioners and their clients around the world. These shareable graphics contain quotes from members of our global network whose lives have been touched by CBT.

Facebook Posts
Instagram Posts / Profile Pictures
Instagram Stories / Facebook Reels

How Did Dr. Beck’s Work Inspire You?

Aaron T. Beck Day is an annual day of action that brings together individuals interested in improving mental health worldwide. Each year on July 18, individuals around the world mark the late Dr. Beck’s birthday by coming together to celebrate his legacy, raise awareness of his life and work, and make a positive impact on mental health in their communities.

Did Dr. Beck’s work influence you, inspire you, or impact you or someone you know? Share your story below!

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Complete a Project in Honor of Dr. Beck

Each year on Aaron T. Beck Day, individuals pledge to participate in activities that will help promote mental health in their communities. Whether it’s hosting a free depression screening day, advocating for greater access to quality treatment, or increasing connection with individuals with mental health issues, every act brings us closer to a healthier world for all.

Are you planning to complete a project in honor of Dr. Beck? Make your pledge by emailing us at help@beckinstitute.org and letting us know what you plan to do. And don’t forget to tag us on social media!

Follow Beck Institute on Social Media

Over the coming months, we’ll be sharing personal stories about Dr. Beck, reflections from BI leadership and staff, and ways our community can get involved. Make sure you don’t miss a post!

Dr. Aaron T. Beck

1921 – 2021

If you have any questions about this virtual event, please email communications@beckinstitute.org and our staff will be happy to assist you.