2025 Friend of Pharmacy: Dr. Stephen Carter

The Friend of Pharmacy Award is presented to a non-pharmacist/non-pharmacy technician who has contributed significantly to the success of the profession of pharmacy. The recipient will have gone beyond the day-to-day expectations of their work to exemplify excellence in their field of work as well as in their contribution to pharmacy.

Dr. Stephen Carter is a distinguished Registered Psychologist whose exceptional contributions to the mental health and well-being of pharmacy professionals in Alberta have earned him the prestigious Friend of Pharmacy Award. For over two decades, Dr. Carter has been a steadfast advocate for the psychological health of pharmacists and their families, particularly through his pivotal role in the RxA Wellness Program.

Since becoming a Registered Psychologist in 1992, Dr. Carter has devoted his career to helping individuals overcome emotional and psychological challenges. His areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress management. His work has been particularly impactful in supporting pharmacy professionals, a group often faced with high stress, burnout, and emotional strain due to the demanding nature of their work.

Dr. Carter has served as the administrator of the RxA Wellness Program for over 20 years. This crucial program offers free, confidential counseling services to RxA members and their families, providing support to help manage stress, prevent burnout, and promote overall emotional well-being. Under his leadership, the Wellness Program has assisted more than 1,000 pharmacy professionals across Alberta, ensuring that they have access to the mental health resources they need to thrive both personally and professionally.

Dr. Carter’s leadership extends beyond his administrative role. He has delivered numerous insightful presentations at the RxA’s Trusted Partner in Health Conferences, addressing key topics such as stress management, emotional resilience, and strategies for coping with the challenges inherent in healthcare professions. His presentations, including De-Stressing News: Learning to Have a Balanced Life (2017) and Balancing Life, Stress, and Everything While Coping with Television News and Gasoline Prices (2011), have equipped pharmacy professionals with practical tools and coping mechanisms that help them navigate the pressures of their work.

In addition to his extensive work with the RxA, Dr. Carter has made valuable academic contributions as an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Alberta. His previous leadership as the Executive Director of the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta further highlights his dedication to advancing the field of psychology and promoting mental health support throughout the province.

Dr. Carter’s remarkable contributions have had a lasting impact on the pharmacy community in Alberta. His tireless dedication to improving the mental health and well-being of pharmacists, combined with his leadership, expertise, and advocacy, make him an exemplary recipient of the Friend of Pharmacy Award. Through his work, Dr. Carter has not only enhanced the emotional resilience of pharmacy professionals but has also helped to create a more supportive and sustainable environment within the pharmacy profession.

Dr. Stephen Carter’s outstanding service to the mental health of pharmacy professionals and his ongoing efforts to promote well-being within the healthcare sector make him a deserving honoree of this award.