What is AAPA?

The Athens Area Psychological Association (AAPA) is a non-profit, professional organization of licensed psychologists and others involved in the delivery of psychological services.

Originally formed in the early 1980s to address the professional needs of local psychologists, AAPA has grown from a small network of private practitioners to a professional association that is dedicated to serving our varied membership including school psychologists, psychologists in academe, private practitioners and psychology students.

In addition to serving as an advocate for area professionals, AAPA strives to promote the professional development of our members through the provision of a variety of continuing education programs. The Athens Area Psychological Association supports the continued networking of area psychologists to enhance the delivery of mental health care to the Northeast Georgia community.

Mission Statement

The Athens Area Psychological Association represents psychologists and others involved in the delivery of psychological services in Athens, Georgia, and the surrounding community. The purpose of the Athens Area Psychological Association is to uphold psychology as a science and a profession and to promote its appropriate and ethical applications in the interest of human welfare.  

Anti-Racism Commitment

Athens Area Psychological Association members stand against racism, hate crimes, and police brutality. As psychologists, we are uniquely positioned to witness the harmful effects of systemic racism on Black people, indigenous people, and people of color. We are committed to fighting racism, advocating for equal access to healthcare services, and helping to heal the generational trauma experienced by the Black community in northeast Georgia. As the president of American Psychological Association (APA), Dr. Sandra Shullman wrote:

“We are living in a racism pandemic, which is taking a heavy psychological toll on our African American citizens. The health consequences are dire. Racism is associated with a host of psychological consequences, including depression, anxiety and other serious, sometimes debilitating conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorders. Moreover, the stress caused by racism can contribute to the development of cardiovascular and other physical diseases.” (see full APA statement)

At this time of heightened trauma and distress, please be encouraged to reach out for support, whether from a local psychologist or other community resources.  We have included a list of Athens-area resources below for mental health services, social change, and financial assistance.

As members of the Athens community and as mental health care professionals, we are hopeful that this pivotal moment in our community provides an opportunity for us to find ways to build a more just and equitable Athens.

Local Resources:

Advantage Behavioral Health      Acceptance and Recovery Center    Athens Anti-discrimination Movement   Athens Neighborhood Health Center

Athens Nurses Clinic      Athens Resource Center for Hope     Athens Trauma and Addiction Center      Chess and Community      Nuci’s Space

Divas Who Win Freedom Center     Family Counseling Services    Food Bank of Northeast Georgia    Medlink of Georgia     Our Daily Bread

Shifa Free Clinic of Athens    Sparrow’s Nest    Teen Matters    The Cottage     Project Safe   Georgia Crisis and Access Line: 1-800-715-4225