Mission, Values and Diversity Statement

What is OPA?

The Oregon Psychological Association (OPA) represents the profession of psychology in the state of Oregon. We advocate for current and future psychologists, partnering mental health professionals and organizations, and the health and welfare of all communities in Oregon. We advocate at the national and state levels through legislative action, community partnership, and a vast network of volunteers, members, and collaborating organizations.

The OPA is dedicated to the necessary work of self reflection, investigation and change of systemic racism and inequity, to include historical injustices perpetrated, condoned, and permitted by the profession of psychology. We are committed to transformative change.
 

We seek to empower psychologists to practice at the height of their professional scope, and to facilitate their contributions to all communities in Oregon through clinical practice, education, research, advocacy, outreach and partnership.

We accomplish these goals through:

  • Legislative Advocacy for issues affecting Oregon communities related to mental health and the practice of psychology
  • Offering continuing education, consultation, mentorship, networking and collaboration for members through Listserv, committees, educational offerings, newsletter, and a Director of Professional Affairs
  • Partnering with the Oregon Board of Psychology, American Psychological Association, and additional organizations in meeting the needs of psychologists and the communities they serve
  • Enhancing professional practice through ethical, diversity, professional practice, and legal consultation

The OPA welcomes and stands with people of all races, ethnicities, immigration statuses, religions, genders, sexual orientations, socioeconomic statuses, ages, education levels, abilities, and sizes. All are welcome here. We are committed to upholding the APA Ethical Guidelines, which call upon us to “respect the dignity and worth of all people, and the rights of individuals to privacy, confidentiality, and self-determination.” We choose to acknowledge and honor the unconditional and complete worth of all peoples, and we advocate for their civil rights. We uphold “that fairness and justice entitle all persons to access to and benefit from the contributions of psychology.”