On Sept.12th, we hosted a Town Hall event where BCPA President, Erika Horwtiz, shared updates and addressed questions, regarding the College amalgamation. With more than 110 members in attendance, it was a wonderful opportunity to connect with our community and the feedback was very positive. We look forward to hosting our next Town Hall in December. _____________________ " Thank you so much for the advocacy and work you’re doing on behalf of our profession. Turbulent waters to navigate. " - Andrea " Thank you Erika and everyone, it's so good to meet as a group of psychologists again, and thanks for all your hard work! " - Theresa " Thank ...

“Surprisingly, it is often when wandering through the emotional carnage left by the worst of humankind that we find the best of humanity as well.” ― Bruce D. Perry, The Boy Who Was Raised As a Dog: And Other Stories from a Child Psychiatrist's Notebook Dr. Anna Khaylis has spent the best part of 17 years studying and treating trauma in the US and Canada. Through her clinical work, teaching, and research, Dr. Khaylis has been a strong advocate for understanding and addressing trauma's deep effects. She's a regular presenter during Psychology Month hosted by the BCPA, delving into how trauma impacts brain development and shapes adulthood. ...

Former BCPA President and current member, Dr. Claire Sira, provides insight into the mental health impact of wildfires. A new CBC article reveals that up to 60% of wildfire evacuees may experience PTSD within six months. This piece highlights the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support and features Dr. Sira's call for long-term therapy programs. Discover the recommendations from researchers on how to better support those affected. Read the article

Though people are always up for debate on anything they might disagree with, climate change is upon us . As summer heats up, top of mind for most people is wildfires, one of the most worrisome threats accompanying climate change. The Canadian Climate Institute has data showing wildfires are growing more intense and are happening more often, due mainly to the burning of fossil fuels. I found it frightening to learn that Canada is warming twice as fast as the global average. Locally, in Victoria, BC, though the Air Quality Health Index indicates low risk over the past couple of days, I don’t expect it to stay that way. Based on ...

July 24 marks International Self-Care Day, and at the BCPA, we invite you to join our self-care challenge: THE CHALLENGE: Throw yourself whole-heartedly into one activity that you imagine would bring you pleasure. - Even if it isn’t as pleasurable as expected. - Even if you don’t get as much enjoyment as before. - Even if, right before doing it, you think, “I’m too tired” or “I won’t enjoy it.” WHY THIS WORKS: Our actions profoundly influence our thoughts and feelings. When we're feeling emotionally low, we tend to shy away from active engagement. We often convince ourselves we're too tired or won't find joy ...

For the first time since 2020, the British Columbia Psychological Association (BCPA) held an in-person board and staff meeting, as our dedicated team came together to brainstorm and shape our new strategic plan. A Positive and Dynamic Atmosphere The atmosphere throughout the meeting was incredibly positive and dynamic. After years of virtual meetings and remote interactions, the energy of being physically present was enjoyed by everyone.. This in-person connection allowed for spontaneous conversations, immediate feedback, and a renewed level of engagement. Brainstorming for the Future One of the main objectives of this meeting ...

On May 30th, the College of Psychologists of British Columbia (CPBC) held its final Annual General Meeting (AGM). It was a significant event, marking the last AGM before the College's dissolution and its amalgamation with other professional colleges. The AGM was a mixed format, accommodating both in-person and virtual attendance. Physical venues were arranged at Simon Fraser University’s Harbour Centre campus and the University of Victoria, linked together for a unified experience. During the event, Dr. Erika Horwitz , the president of the Board of Directors at the BC Psychological Association (BCPA), delivered a heartfelt address. Erika paid tribute ...

BCPA's Director of Advocacy, Dr Erika Penner, responds to questions regarding BC's move to regulate psychotherapy. June 1, 2024 WATCH THE INTERVIEW #bcpsychologists #mentalhealthbc

BC Psychological Association Indigenous Student Award: $2000 grant available to support Indigenous graduate students in BC. Apply by March 1st! Click the title ⬆️ to learn more. ...

Everyone experiences moments of stress and sadness in the course of their days. But depression is more impactful and lasts much longer. The World Health Organization has declared that depression is the leading cause of disability in the world. We acknowledge the impact of general mental health issues on World Mental Health Day October 10, 2023, and depression is acknowledged on Depression Screening Day Thurs Oct 5, 2023. Depression can interfere with the activities of daily life, it can cause physical symptoms (such as pain, weight changes, sleeping issues, or loss of energy). Depression may lead to an inability to focus and concentrate, a lack of interest ...

Amidst the devastating B.C. wildfires in the Okanagan and Shuswap, the toll on mental health is hitting hard. In this interview by Global News, Psychologist Heather McEachern sheds light on the prevalent anticipatory anxiety and grief and offers advice to navigate these challenging times. https://globalnews.ca/news/ 9913392/mental-health- devastating-bc-wildfire- season/

June 20th is World Refugee Day, a day designated by the United Nations (UN) to honour refugees around the world. This year’s theme as set by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is HEALING . As we mark World Refugee Day 2023, and remember the millions of forcibly displaced individuals, we ask psychologists to reflect on their role in supporting and working with refugee populations. The BCPA DSAC committee will offer a workshop on working with refugee clients in the Fall of 2023. The number of forcibly displaced people around the world has more than doubled over the past decade. According to the latest available estimates, a total number ...

As an association supporting mental health, we value all helping professions and that all are necessary within the healthcare ecosystem. Over the past few years, BCPA has advanced the public, private, and governmental discussion of the necessity of a robust and varied set of mental and behavioural health team members. While all members of the team are important, it is important for us to help communicate to the public how those in the mental health field in various positions can be differentiated and uniquely contribute to a care team. Therefore, the BCPA Advocacy Committee has created an infographic that we plan on publicizing to help educate the public and ...

Psychologists see people of all ages and may work with individuals, couples, families, or groups. Psychologists also work with organizations, companies, and government agencies. Many psychologists focus on psychological treatment; however others provide both treatment and assessment services, while others provide only specialized assessment services for rehabilitation or court related purposes. Since many psychologists have specialized training and knowledge to deal with particular issues, it can be important to make sure that you find the right psychologist to help you with your particular concern. Some of these specialized areas in which psychologists ...