Mercedes Zapata

Mercedes Zapata is a Lecturer in the School Psychology Program at the University of California, Berkeley. She specializes in disability-affirmative clinical practices, disability identity, and advocacy within educational settings. Her work bridges school psychology with community mental health, emphasizing inclusive practices for students with disabilities. Dr. Zapata holds a PhD in Education (School Psychology) from UC Berkeley and a Master’s in Urban Education (Administration & Policy). Prior to her academic role, she taught elementary school and practiced as a school psychologist in San Francisco and Alameda City Unified School Districts.

Her research focuses on disability self-worth, identity formation, and the impact of educational experiences on long-term mental health outcomes for individuals with learning disabilities, ADHD, and visual impairments. She is licensed as a Psychologist in California and nationally certified as a School Psychologist. Her teaching includes coursework on psychopathology and adolescent development, complemented by practicum supervision in school-based settings.

Key research themes include disability humility in schools, the role of group identity in life satisfaction, and the correlation between disability affirmation and employment outcomes. Her work underscores the importance of systemic support and advocacy for individuals with disabilities across educational and professional contexts.