Biography

Daniela Vela, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at UT Southwestern Medical Center. She specializes in geriatric psychology. 

Dr. Vela earned her doctorate in clinical psychology at the University of North Texas. She received advanced training in clinical psychology and geropsychology through a fellowship at the VA North Texas Health Care System. 

Licensed by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, Dr. Vela joined the UT Southwestern faculty in 2017.

Her research interests include geriatric mental health and caregiving. She is a member of the Dallas Area Gerontological Society, the Gerontological Society of America, the Society of Clinical Geropsychology, and the American Psychological Association.

License Information

TX License #37648; Expires 2/28/2026

Get information on how to verify a license. To file a complaint, call 800-821-3205.

Education & Training
  • Internship - VA North Texas Health Care System, Clinical Psychology
  • Graduate School - University of North Texas (2010-2016), Clinical Psychology
  • Fellowship - VA North Texas Health Care System (2016-2017), Geropsychology
  • Other Post Graduate Training - University of North Texas (2010-2012)
  • Other Post Graduate Training - University of North Texas (2010-2016)
  • Medical School - University of North Texas (2010-2016)
Professional Associations & Affiliations
  • American Psychological Association (2010)
  • Gerontological Society of America (2012)
Books & Publications
Research
  • Death and Dying
  • Caregiving
  • Adult Development and Aging

Clinical Focus

  • Psychology
  • Psychotherapy
  • Geriatric Psychology

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