David L. Pennington

Background

About David L. Pennington

I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and the Founder and CEO of Melantha Health Psychology Consulting, PC, where I specialize in bridging evidence-based psychological science with innovative digital mental health solutions. With over 15 years of experience, my work has focused extensively on addiction treatment and prevention, advancing care for substance use disorders and co-occurring conditions through cutting-edge technology and research. I collaborate with health technology companies to develop and refine strategies that enhance user outcomes, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive product success. As a Principal Investigator (PI) and Co-Investigator (Co-I) on clinical studies, I provide strategic oversight to ensure scientific and ethical rigor. I also guide organizations through the development and submission of Institutional Review Board (IRB) applications and support grant-writing initiatives to secure funding for groundbreaking mental health and addiction projects. Throughout my career, I’ve secured and managed over $12 million in research funding, demonstrating my expertise in digital therapeutics, cognitive neuroscience, and behavioral health interventions. My contributions include developing virtual reality platforms for substance use disorders, identifying biomarkers for craving, and designing mobile app-based interventions to support addiction recovery and improve mental health outcomes. I am deeply committed to integrating transformative insights and innovative technologies into addiction and mental health systems, promoting equitable access to care and addressing the complex needs of underserved populations. My extensive publications and conference presentations underscore my dedication to advancing the science and practice of addiction psychology and health technology. I thrive on collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to create impactful mental health and addiction solutions that improve patient outcomes and healthcare delivery. Let’s connect if you’re interested in advancing the science behind digital mental health or exploring opportunities for collaboration.