Presidential Task Forces

Co-Chair: Judith Armstrong, Ph.D
Co-Chair: Tyson Bailey, Psy.D. ABPP

This group explored and identified the range of methods for assessment the sequelae of trauma in both children and adults, as well as assessment in international settings. A goal of this group was the development of comprehensive materials to guide psychologists conducting assessments in a range of settings.

Chair: Elizabeth Carll, Ph.D

Forced migration due to wars, conflict, and persecution worldwide continues to unfold, with the number of people displaced within their country or having fled internationally has reached unprecedented levels recorded by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).  In response to this humanitarian crisis, an APA interdivisional initiative was developed to create a database of volunteer psychologists and mental health specialists as there did not appear to be a cadre of trained psychologists for services to the overwhelming numbers in need. The Network includes psychologists with experience working with refugee, immigrant, and IDP populations in the US and abroad, as well as those interested in training, and conducting research. The database also includes relevant organizations and agencies working with refugees and immigrant populations.  Webinars are provided for volunteers and others. This interdivisional project was initiated, in part, by an APA interdivisional grant (Divisions 56, 35, 52, 55). Additional Divisions are now collaborating and others are also welcome.

Chair: Christine Courtois, Ph.D. ABPP

This group is a collaborative effort with the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation. The goal of this task force is to provide practicing clinicians and other health professionals guidance on the treatment of complex posttraumatic conditions that result from repetitive and chronic interpersonal trauma over the lifespan, specifically but not limited to developmental trauma beginning in childhood. Watch the division listservs and social sites for announcements, as the guidelines will be available in 2016.