Advocacy in Alberta Psychology
Advocacy: Influencing people to create change – educating & mobilizing
Only with good information can good decisions be made
PAA spends over 1000 hours a year advocating for the unique value of psychology
It is a part of who we are:
The Psychologists’ Association of Alberta is the voice of, and for, psychology in Alberta.
2020-2025 Strategic Plan point:
Advocate for psychology’s unique value
Make an impact: Psychologists as Advocates with Elected Officials
The time is always now for advocacy.
PAA also informs the public and the media, and advocates for consumers of psychotherapy, psychological, and mental health services.
As a PAA member, you have the opportunity to make a difference! You already have some of the key tools to be an effective advocate for your profession.
Advocacy as an individual’s or group’s action has the power to influence a political decision, build alliances, and open seats at tables where psychology’s voice should be heard.
PAA’s Advocacy Work
- Much of our advocacy work relates to the provincial government, with a strong focus before and after a provincial election.
- Ongoing engagement focuses on the unique value of psychology and building relationships with key stakeholder groups.
Why Psychologists’ Voices are Needed
- Psychologists help make Alberta a psychologically healthy place to live and work.
- Psychologists are uniquely trained in a vast amount of areas: program development, consultation, supervision, behavioural (non-pharmacological) pain management, telehealth, cross-jurisdiction expertise, etc.
- Psychologists have natural networks and spheres of influence for advocacy, with great potential to develop core relationships with key professionals.
How You Can Help
- Build relationships that promote your profession.
- Provide tools to elected officials to support the psychological health and wellness of Albertans.
