American Psychoanalytic Association

The American Psychoanalytic Association (APA) was founded in 1911 and currently has a membership of about 3000 analysts. It also includes accredited training institutes and affiliate psychoanalytic societies throughout the United States. Since its inception, it has been a member of the International Psychoanalytical Association, the official accrediting body for worldwide psychoanalysis. One of the main functions of the American Psychoanalytic Association is scientific. It keeps members informed by providing forums for the exchange of new ideas and discoveries in areas such as practice, theory, and research. It holds two annual national meetings, and publishes the Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association. Originally published in 1953, the Journal is noted for its articles on all aspects of psychoanalysis, as well as articles relevant to other areas of mental health and the behavioral sciences, including the application of psychoanalysis to other fields. Through the national organization and its member institutes and societies, the Association engages in a wide variety of educational activities. A major responsibility of the Association is that of creating and maintaining high professional standards. The process whereby a new training institute may be granted membership in the Association is rigorous. Periodically the entire educational program at each member institute is re-evaluated to assure that these requisite standards are maintained. In addition, the Association evaluates graduates from approved institutes who wish to become full, certified members.