The Association of Black Psychologists

The Association of Black Psychologists was founded in San Francisco in 1968 by a number of Black Psychologists from across the country. They united to actively address the serious problems facing the Black community and Black Psychologists.

Guided by the principle of self-determination, these psychologists set about building an institution through which they could address the long neglected needs of Black professionals. Their goal was to have a positive impact upon the mental health of the national Black community. Their objectives were: (1) To organize their skills and abilities to influence necessary change, and (2) To address themselves to significant social problems affecting the Black community and other segments of the population whose needs society has not fulfilled.

To date, The Association of Black Psychologists is the leader and international resource for addressing the psychological needs of African people in the Diaspora. Our research publications, assessment techniques, and other products establish the Association as the recognized authority for providing practical solutions to the day-to-day circumstances of our people. We collaborate with other Afrocentric organizations in Social Work, Law, Medicine, and related social service disciplines to formulate or influence the development of policy to ensure positive solutions to the challenges that impact Black people.

The ABPsi provides professional certification, training, and development for our membership and other qualified professionals to ensure that a compassionate, Afrocentric approach is utilized in healing Black people. The Association has grown from a handful of concerned professionals into an independent, autonomous, and international organization.