British Columbia Psychological Association (BCPA)

Since 1938, the BC Psychological Association (BCPA) has represented psychologists in British Columbia. It is a voluntary body and is committed to advancing psychology and the psychological well-being of all British Columbians. Our administrative offices are in Vancouver, BC.

In 1989 the Psychologists Act was amended, and the British Columbia Psychological Association was renamed the College of Psychologists of British Columbia. On January 1, 1993, the College of Psychologists’ sole function became the regulation of the profession of psychology. 

The professional interests of psychologists then became the purview of BCPA and a new organization was incorporated under the Society Act using the College’s former name, the British Columbia Psychological Association. The Health Professions Act was introduced in the mid-1990’s and psychology became a designated profession under the Health Professions Act on January 1, 2000.

BCPA provides professional development and networking activities for members, publishes the BC Psychologist, and operates a province-wide referral service. BCPA seeks to maintain relationships with government with the goal of expanding the role of Registered Psychologists in BC’s health care system and contributing to public policy.

By supporting initiatives such as the Psychologically Healthy Workplace Awards, the BC Psychological Association hopes to promote the value of psychological health and wellness not just in the workplace, but in every aspect of our lives.