What is AGPA?

The American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA) is the foremost professional association dedicated to the field of group psychotherapy, operating through a tri-partite structure:

• AGPA, a professional and educational organization
• Group Foundation for Advancing Mental Health, its philanthropic arm
• International Board for Certification of Group Psychotherapists, a standard setting and certifying body. 

This multidisciplinary association has over 2,000 members, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, clinical mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, pastoral counselors, occupational therapists and creative arts therapists, many of whom have been recognized as specialists through the Certified Group Psychotherapist credential. 

The association also has local and regional societies located across the country. Its members are experienced mental health professionals who lead psychotherapy groups and various non-clinical groups.  Many are organizational specialists who work with businesses, not-for-profit organizations, communities and other “natural” groups to help them improve their functioning.

Mission Statement

The American Group Psychotherapy Association is a dynamic, thriving community of mental health professionals of all disciplines dedicated to advancing knowledge and research, and providing quality training in group psychotherapy and other group interventions, consultation and direct services nationally and internationally.

The Association is a unique blend of practitioner and direct services:

• Promoting quality group psychotherapy care as a primary method of treatment that is clinically sound, cost-effective and accessible;
• Advancing group psychotherapy training and research;
• Providing intervention and outreach to diverse communities nationally and internationally based on group psychotherapy principles and established protocols;
• Providing a network of peer support that serves the professional needs of group practitioners; and
• Advocating for quality care on behalf of its members, clients/patients and the public.