The American Academy of Psychotherapists (AAP) is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community that develops the person of the therapist through authentic interpersonal engagement. To that end, and through a shared community responsibility, we are committed to providing a respectful environment for all, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexuality, socioeconomic status, religious or political affiliation, ability status, age, size or appearance or other personal characteristics. It is vital that all participants in AAP-sponsored events and activities work to uphold an ethos of mutual respect, non-violence, non-discrimination, and anti-racism. Dangerous, threatening, or exploitative harmful behavior toward others by an AAP member or participant at an AAP event will not be tolerated and may result in action(s) taken against individuals who engage in this behavior.
At each conference AAP authorizes two AAP members to be Ombuds to help attendees throughout the conference. The Ombuds will provide support and guidance and an informal confidential space for attendees who want help or a confidential consultation in response to adverse experiences. The ombuds may assist in exploring options to resolve conflicts, safety concerns, and other problematic issues. If actions beyond support or exploration of options are requested, the ombuds may consult with I&C Chairs, Ethics Chair, or the PEP Chair. When talking with ombuds, the attendee can choose to keep their identity and/or the identity of the person(s) they are having difficulties with anonymous.
An AAP member who has experienced harmful interpersonal behavior may also choose to file a formal PEP Report. When responding to PEP reports, AAP prioritizes respecting each person’s safety and confidentiality while also protecting the AAP environment. Participants may direct reports to the PEP Chair, Elena Scher, Elenaschertherapist@gmail.com, or to the AAP Ethics Chair, Penelope Norton penelope.norton@gmail.com. For those who prefer to have an outside professional consultation, Elena Scher can direct you to our external PEP consultant. AAP’s Executive Council has contracted with an external PEP Consultant to offer a confidential reporting option to AAP participants who feel uncomfortable making an internal PEP report.
CONFIDENTIALITY: If you wish this report to be confidential, you may so indicate. This means we may contact you for verification or further information, but we will not name you to the person you are reporting unless you provide explicit permission. The initial report will be kept confidential if you so wish until there comes a time that sharing information is needed to address the problem, and you agree to the process of following through on the report.
