APA recognition and safety disputes for Jewish psychologists

The American Psychological Association (APA) has faced increasing pressure regarding the professional representation and safety of Jewish and Israeli mental health practitioners.

In August 2026, the APA postponed a vote for the second time that year on whether to recognize the Association of Jewish Psychologists (AJP) as an Ethnic Psychological Association. While a coalition of existing ethnic associations opposed the bid on the grounds that most Jewish Americans identify as white, groups such as the Anti-Defamation League argued that recognition is necessary due to rising antisemitism within the profession.

Concurrently, mental health professionals and patients have reported heightened identity-related pressures. Practitioners have noted a trend of self-censorship, feeling compelled to hide their affiliations or distance themselves from Israel to maintain professional acceptance. In response to these concerns, over 4,000 individuals and 80 organizations have petitioned the APA to implement measures to safeguard Jewish and Israeli psychologists in their professional environments.