Frequently Asked Questions about the CPA

What is the CPA?

The Canadian Psychological Association, or the CPA, is the national professional association of psychologists and counts students, researchers and health care providers among its membership of over 7,000.

What are CPA's objectives?
  • To improve the health and welfare of all Canadians;
  • To promote excellence and innovation in psychological research, education, and practice;
  • To promote the advancement, development, dissemination, and application of psychological knowledge; and
  • To provide high-quality services to members.
What is a CPA Section?

The CPA actively encourages groups of psychologists with common interests to share those interests within the context of CPA’s objectives. Such groups are termed Sections. At present, the CPA has 33 Sections and 1 Special Interest Group.

How do I find a psychologist?

We have compiled information to help you decide to see a psychologist, know what to expect from a psychologist, and how to find a psychologist. View CPA's Public page for this information and more.

How do I become a member of the CPA?

View CPA's Membership page for information on becoming a CPA member and all of the benefits associated with CPA membership.

I'm a psychology student. Is there value in becoming a CPA member?

Yes, there is value in becoming a student affiliate of the CPA. The CPA has a specific section for Students that crosses all Section boundaries and provides a forum in which students may learn from each other and begin to prepare for their careers in psychology.

Does the CPA host an annual convention?

Yes, the CPA hosts an annual convention every June in varying locations across Canada. View CPA's Convention FAQ page for information on submitting to and attending CPA's and other Frequently Asked Questions about the Convention.

What does CPA do to support the practice of psychology?

Along with science and education, practice is one of CPA's three pillars. Within the practice pillar, the CPA focuses on such issues as access to service, health human resources, surveillance and collaborative practice, and engaging in various advocacy activities and partnerships. View CPA's Practitioners pages for more information.

What is accreditation?

Accreditation is a voluntary process that allows doctoral and internship programmes in professional psychology to demonstrate that they have met a community standard of training. View CPA's Accreditation pages for more information.

What is the CPA's involvement in research?

The CPA conducts its own research, disseminates research findings, collaborates on research projects, supports its members in doing research, and advocates for research funding. View CPA's Researchers page for more information or click on the two sidebars to the right: R2P2 and Research Hub for information on specific research-based initiatives.

Does the CPA support continuing education?

Yes, the CPA supports continuing education, via various methods including two web-based courses. Visit CPA's Professional Development page for more information.