Who is considered the father of school and clinical psychology?

Lightner Witmer is recognized as the father of school and clinical psychology due to his pioneering work in establishing psychology as a discipline applied specifically to educational settings and therapeutic practices. In 1896, Witmer opened the first psychological clinic at the University of Pennsylvania, where he focused on understanding and addressing students' learning and behavioral issues through systematic psychological assessment and intervention.

His approach emphasized a scientific method in evaluating and treating individual problems, merging clinical practice with educational theory. Witmer's innovative work laid the foundational principles for both school psychology, which aims to improve the educational experiences of children, and clinical psychology, which focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health issues. His emphasis on empirical research and individualized treatment has influenced the development of practices in both areas.

The other figures mentioned contributed to various aspects of psychology but did not specifically establish the strong connections or frameworks that Witmer did in school and clinical psychology.