Important moments in CPA history
1931
The Connecticut Valley Association of Psychologists (CVAP), a forerunner of CPA, was formed to provide an opportunity for meeting and discussion among the psychologists in the central area of Connecticut.
1943
CVAP formed committees to organize a statewide society in Connecticut and to draft legislative proposals to be taken up by the new society.
1944
As a result of CVAP’s action, the Connecticut State Psychological Society (CSPS) was formed. Membership requirements were Connecticut residence, doctoral degree, one year of recent psychological experience, and endorsement by two members. CSPS became the twelfth state society to affiliate with the American Psychological Association.
1945
First legislation in the United States involving psychologists’ certification was passed in Connecticut. This law provided that a board of three psychologists appointed by the governor receives and acts on all applications for certification in the state.
1957
Associate member class was added to CSPS.
1963
The Connecticut Psychological Association, Inc. (CPA) was formed by merging the Connecticut State Psychological Society (CSPS) and the Connecticut Valley Association of Psychologists (CVAP).
1969
CPA achieved passage of a licensing law to replace certification.
1975
CPA achieved “freedom of choice” legislation, which provided for third party payments for the professional services of licensed psychologists.
1976
CPA hired its first executive secretary and regained representation on APA Council.
1977
CPA held its first forum on psychology in higher education.
1978
Fairfield County psychologists organized an informal group.
1980
A “sunset” provisions for the Connecticut Board of Examiners of Psychologists was defeated.
CPA purchased its first computer system and introduced a referral service.
1983
CPA members voted to increase the president’s term of office to two years.
1986
“Diagnose and treat” language was added to the list of functions which psychologists are qualified to do by state statute.
1987
CPA held its first annual convention at the Summit Hotel in Hartford. Also, the first Annual Retreat is held under the leadership of Catherine Acuff.
1988
CPA hired its first executive director and established a Central Office.
1989
CPA achieved passage of new legislation strengthening the privileged communication statute for psychologists.
1990
CPA developed its organizational structure, adding regions and directorates.
1991
CPA moved the Central Office facilities to a four-room suite and increased staff, membership, and membership services.
1992
CPA expanded its membership, initiated an agreement with the Red Cross for provision of mental health emergency services, expanded its programs, including referral service, and developed a strategic plan. Contributions to CPA’s political action committee reached a record $9,000.
1993
Legislation, allowing psychologists to issue emergency certificates authorizing that certain persons be examined for purposes of emergency commitment, was passed. The legislature conducted a study on hospital privileges for psychologists. CPA established a Colleague Assistance Committee. APA granted 2-year preliminary approval to CPA to sponsor continuing education. CPA organized the Council of Connecticut Mental Health Providers as a result of the CPA convention theme of “Building Bridges.” CPA Central Office was moved to larger quarters in East Hartford.
1994
The CPA Convention was the most successful in association history, with more than 300 attendees. CPA hired a Director of Professional Affairs, with financial assistance from an APA grant. The University of Hartford established a fellowship program for a second year graduate student at Central Office.
1995
A hospital privileges bill was passed, allowing psychologists full staff privileges. The CPA continuing education program offered five major events and continuing education credits.
CPA received its five-year full approval as an APA approved continuing education sponsor.
A Marketing Committee was established.
CPA received a national award for outstanding achievement from APA Division 31 (State Affairs).
CPA became an active member in four coalitions organized to achieve legislative victories.
CPA obtains hospital practice legislation for psychologists and forms Hospital Privileges Implementation Committee.
1996
Connecticut selected by APA as one of two national test markets for APA Public Education Campaign and receives $12,000 grant.
PC/LLC legislation passed by both houses of state legislature.
1997
CPA instrumental in passing Mental Health Parity for serious mental illnesses.
1998
CPA moved from a free-standing central office system to a management firm for ongoing operation of the Association. This move allowed the association to use a larger staff of highly trained professionals, providing more specialized, efficient, cost-effective, and responsive service to the membership.
CPA receives APA-CAPP Grant for $20,000 to support legislative agenda.
1999
Comprehensive Mental Health and Substance Abuse Parity becomes law.
2000
CPA launches Psychologically Healthy Workplace Award.
2001
CPA establishes Student Division. Board position is established for Student Representative, elected by student affiliates and serving with full voting privileges on the Board.
CPQ (Certificate of Professional Qualification) for licensure mobility becomes Public Act 01-86.
2002
Diversity: Received APA Grant and created Diversity position on CPA Board of Directors; supported successful Anti-bullying bill in the legislature.
2003
CPA is awarded 2003 APA’s Division 31 SPPA Diversity Program Award for outstanding Accomplishments in Diversity Programming.
Connecticut Psychological Association Educational Foundation is established. Renamed the Connecticut Psychological Foundation in 2012.
2004
CPA establishes Early Career Division.
CPA Children and Youth Committee plan Anti-Bullying Conference and Family Nights.
2005
CPA represented by three members on the Lieutenant Governor’s Mental Health Cabinet.
CPA succeeded in getting the Medicare carrier in Connecticut to recognize the Health and Behavior CPT Codes.
CPA granted an appointment to the DMHAS Board by the Governor’s Office.
Have a milestone to add? Email the Webmaster with details.