The Society for the Advancement of Psychotherapy (SAP) is Division 29 of the American Psychological Association (APA). It is a professional association dedicated to enhancing the practice, research, and education of psychotherapy. [1]
The Society was founded in 1967. [2] Key early milestones that led to the founding of the Society include: [3]
The SAP mission is to "promote mental health and well-being by supporting the professional development of psychotherapists and advancing the science of psychotherapy." [4]
SAP comprises a diverse group of professionals interested in the consultative process, including applied activities, research and evaluation, and education and training. [5] Membership is open to students, international members, and allied professions. [6] The society offers pathways for students and early career professionals to connect with the division and advance their careers through grants, awards, committees, and mentoring programs.
One of SAP's stated priorities is "dedicated to generating, sharing, and disseminating cutting-edge psychotherapy research." [7] The society supports its flagship journal, Psychotherapy, [8] and publishes a quarterly Bulletin with peer-review papers. [9] SAP provides ongoing training and educational opportunities for psychologists and psychotherapists. [10] Additionally, SAP hosts conferences and offers programming at the annual APA convention, focusing on various aspects of psychotherapy practice and research. [11]
As of February 2025, the president is Stewart E. Cooper. Recent past presidents include: [12]