In Memoriam: Philip G. Levendusky, PhD, ABPP
A visionary leader, beloved mentor, and global mental health advocate
April 21, 2025
It is with deep respect and heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Philip G. Levendusky, PhD, ABPP—an icon of modern psychology, beloved mentor, and enduring force of innovation in mental health care. Levendusky passed away on April 17, 2025, after a lifetime of dedicated service to others, leaving behind a profound legacy that spans continents, generations, and disciplines.
For nearly five decades, Levendusky was a pillar of McLean Hospital, where he served in numerous leadership roles including senior vice president of Business Development and Communications, director of Psychology, and director of Psychology Training.
From his first day on the Belmont campus in 1974, he approached every opportunity with relentless optimism, intellectual curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of patient care.
Upon his official retirement from McLean on September 30, 2022, Levendusky transitioned to the honorary role of chief of Psychology, emeritus, a title that reflected the continued admiration and respect of the McLean community.
A pioneer in the development of inpatient cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), Levendusky created the first inpatient CBT unit in the U.S. in 1976, revolutionizing the treatment provided to individuals living with anxiety and mood disorders. This unit became the model for similar programs across the country and eventually evolved into McLean’s renowned Behavioral Health Partial Hospital Program.
Levendusky’s influence only expanded from there. Often described as “the original global influencer,” he helped launch more than 30 innovative clinical programs, many of which—such as the OCD Institute, Klarman Eating Disorders Center, Fernside, 3East, and the Gunderson Residence—are now internationally recognized centers of excellence.
“Phil’s vision and leadership profoundly influenced the way we approach addiction treatment at McLean. His cognitive-behavioral model emphasized a collaborative approach between clinicians and patients in identifying treatment goals and ways to achieve them, long before the term ‘collaborative decision-making’ became widely adopted in the field,” said Roger D. Weiss, MD, chief of the Division of Alcohol, Drugs, and Addiction at McLean.
“His belief in the power of innovation and his unwavering support of our work in the addictions field, including his tireless efforts to develop superb off-site residential treatment programs, have touched the lives of thousands. I am deeply grateful to have worked alongside him.”
In addition to his profound influence close to home, internationally, Levendusky forged groundbreaking partnerships across Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, China, and beyond, expanding access to world-class psychiatric care and education.
His impact on training and mentorship is equally enduring. As director of McLean’s Psychology Training Program, he guided and inspired more than 300 psychology interns, many of whom now lead programs across the country. His ability to recognize potential—across disciplines and career stages—was among his most cherished gifts.
As longtime colleague and current chief nursing officer for McLean, Christine Tebaldi, DNP, MPH, recalled:
“Phil had an extraordinary gift for seeing potential in people—often before they saw it in themselves. He always prioritized talent and heart over titles or degrees, championing clinicians, nurses, administrators—and anyone who shared a commitment to excellence and compassion. His mentorship has not only shaped careers but transformed lives, including my own.”
With his signature dry wit, humility, and an index-finger typing technique that defied the digital age, Levendusky helped usher McLean into the 21st century. He oversaw the hospital’s first website, introduced voicemail, and worked to elevate McLean’s global presence through strategic branding and digital innovation.
In every facet of his work, Levendusky brought a sense of joy, curiosity, and penchant for human connection.
“Phil was as legendary for his humanity as he was for his innovation. He championed the underdog, found creative solutions, celebrated unconventional ideas, and believed wholeheartedly in the mission of mental health care for all,” shared Scott L. Rauch, MD, McLean’s president and psychiatrist in chief.
“His fingerprints are on every major innovation at McLean from 1974 to his emeritus role in 2022, and his influence endures in the lives of the patients, colleagues, and students to whom he was thoroughly devoted.”
Levendusky is survived by his beloved wife, Cynthia; his son, Jason Levendusky, and daughter-in-law, Abby; his daughter, Anya, and son, Hunter; his grandchildren, Jackson, William, and Hadley; as well as a grateful community of peers and protégés—and a legacy that will continue to shape the field of psychology and behavioral health for decades to come.
A celebration of Levendusky’s life is being planned, with additional information to follow.
