Public InterestPublic Interest Government Relations Office
The APA Public Interest Government Relations Office applies psychology to the fundamental problems of human welfare and social justice and the promotion of equitable and just treatment of all segments of society.
Activities include congressional briefings and testimony, educating psychologists in how to advocate for psychology both locally and nationally, and educating politicians on the contributions of psychology to matters of public policy.
Policy Areas
APA advocates for federal policies and programs that ensure all Americans are treated fairly under the law.
APA’s advocacy focuses on recidivism reduction, public safety, gender-responsive justice, and support for law enforcement and corrections agencies.
APA advocates for a public health approach to gun violence prevention to reduce the occurrence and impact of firearm-related violence in the United States.
APA is committed to achieving universal access to physical, mental health and substance use services.
APA wants to improve health and reduce health disparities among underserved and vulnerable populations.
APA advocates for federal policies on immigration that promote keeping families together.
APA takes a public health approach to violence prevention advocacy, using psychological research to inform policies and programs.
APA advocates for federal policies and programs that reduce poverty and inequality, addressing the needs of low-income populations.
APA uses psychological research to advocate for systems of health and mental health care that identify and treat individuals at risk of suicide and their families.
Staff
- Aaron Bishop, MSSW, Associate Executive Director, PI-GRO
- Amalia Corby-Edwards, MS, Senior Legislative and Federal Affairs Officer
- Serena Dávila, JD, Senior Legislative and Federal Affairs Officer
- Micah A. Haskell-Hoehl, Legislative and Federal Affairs Officer
- Leo Rennie, MPA, Senior Legislative and Federal Affairs Officer
- Gabe Twose, PhD, Senior Legislative and Federal Affairs Officer
- Ben Vonachen, Legislative and Federal Affairs Officer
- Shannon Wood, Legislative Assistant
- Elyse Mowle, MS, Public Interest Policy Graduate Intern
Contact Us
Government Relations Office
Phone: (202) 336-6166
Fax: (202) 336-6063
APA Advocacy
APA represents the largest and most visible national presence advocating for psychology at the federal level. View a full list of APA’s advocacy initiatives.