APA was founded in July 1892. The APA was organized in G. Stanley Hall's study at Clark University. There is no precise roll of those in attendance, but 26 men had accepted membership in the new organization and five more were invited at this organizational meeting.
Like the federal government, APA's governance is a complex system of checks and balances that help make the system operate fairly and democratically. Because of its complexity, many members are not aware of how the parts of the structure operate together and exercise control over each other. For more information, please see our Governance page.
- Encouraging the development and application of psychology in the broadest manner.
- Promoting research in psychology, the improvement of research methods and conditions and the application of research findings.
- Improving the qualifications and usefulness of psychologists by establishing high standards of ethics, conduct, education and achievement.
- Increasing and disseminating psychological knowledge through meetings, professional contacts, reports, papers, discussions and publications.
Please see our Press Room for press releases and news responses.
Debra M. Kawahara, Ph.D., is the associate dean of Academic Affairs and distinguished professor at the California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University. She manages over 20 programs in psychology and mental health across six campuses in California, as well as online. Additionally, she has an independent practice where she sees individuals, couples, and families, and conducts trainings for organizations.
As the 2025 President of the American Psychological Association (APA), Kawahara aims to bring her campaign slogan, “Strength in Unity,” to fruition. She is the first Asian American woman and the first Japanese American to serve in this role.
Learn more about Debra Kawahara, PhD.
APA's policy on the use of the title "psychologist" is contained in the General Guidelines for Providers of Psychological Services, which define the term "Professional Psychologist" as follows: "Psychologists have a doctoral degree in psychology from an organized, sequential program in a regionally accredited university or professional school." APA is not responsible for the specific title or wording of any particular position opening, but it is general pattern to refer to master's-level positions as counselors, specialists, clinicians and so forth (rather than as "psychologists"). In addition, it is general practice to refer to APA accredited programs as "APA-accredited" rather than "APA approved". The position as described must be in conformity with the statute regulating the use of the title psychologist and the practice of psychology in the state in which the job is available.
Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior. The discipline embraces all aspects of the human experience — from the functions of the brain to the actions of nations, from child development to care for the aged. In every conceivable setting from scientific research centers to mental healthcare services, "the understanding of behavior" is the enterprise of psychologists.
For a listing of affiliated regional psychological associations, see the Regional Organizations page. For a listing of state psychological associations, see the State Associations page.
APA’s Disaster Mental Health Information website provides information and resources on trauma and disaster response.