About

The Education & Training Council (ETC) is an established branch of the AAPA Executive Committee that is dedicated to improving education and training for the AAPI community. We are students and professionals who seek to empower AAPI communities by increasing access to education and resources, reducing mental health stigma that is especially held in our communities, and promoting greater awareness of cultural factors and systemic issues that impact AAPI mental health. We also seek to train the next generation of psychologists and mental health professionals on culturally informed approaches in their practices with the AAPI community. 

 

Towards these ends, the ETC focuses on developing educational materials, conducting online trainings with expert professionals, organizing panel discussions, and providing community outreach. As we continue to identify the goals and initiatives of our AAPA Executive Committee and membership, we openly and eagerly explore different ways in which we can best meet those needs. 

 

Previous projects of the ETC have included providing resources for international psychology students, hosting a webinar on college mental health, creating a Continuing Education workshop for clinicians on supporting neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ clients, launching a webinar series on the unique needs at each professional development level, and facilitating a panel discussion on media training for AAPI professionals.

Joining the Education & Training Council

 We aim to have our AAPA Divisions well represented on the Council with each identifying at least one member representative to serve as their Division’s liaison. This has enabled ample opportunities for collaborations within our organization and provided valuable perspectives on education and training needs from each Division. 

 

In addition, we welcome any AAPA member of diverse identities and various backgrounds who is committed to these values of education and training, including but not limited to: 

  • Undergraduate/graduate students and trainees 
  • Early, mid to late career professionals 
  • Experiences in settings of academia, clinical practice, and community organizations
  • Knowledgeable of education, training, and social advocacy needs

Members of the ETC can expect the following:

  • Serve at least a term of one year (with advance notice of any changes in commitment)
  • Attend monthly 1-hour meetings with Council co-chairs and members
  • Provide additional 1-2 hours per month in service of developing ETC projects
  • Collaborate with AAPA leadership and Divisions to meet their needs 

Contact

Co-chairs: Thomas Kui, PsyD and Lauren Yang, PsyD