Issuu

PAA • 30 YEARS 1996–2026

2025 - 2026 ANNUAL

REPORT

Listening. Learning. Responding.

Strategic Plan 2020-2025 Our Logo Story

William E. Hanson Ph.D., R.Psych

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO ONE PAA: Listening, Learning, Responding 2025/26 was a year of listening, learning, and responding. It was also a year of action. After my first year as PAA’s CEO, I’m energized by the insight, generosity, and commitment of PAA’s 4500+ members. Together, we are strengthening our foundation while sharpening our focus on what members and Albertans need most. That is why PAA’s mantra has been meaningful and measurable change in 2025/26. We listened carefully through multiple member- and interested-party surveys, consultations, Community of Practice discussions, meetings, and countless individual conversations. These conversations reinforced something important: trust and credibility aren’t a given, they’re earned through action. This year, we used survey data to identify gaps, test new approaches, and measure whether PAA is making a difference. Insight to action, that’s our philosophy.

“We will keep listening intentionally, learning openly, and responding decisively.”

Advocacy was central this year. PAA advocated on a range of issues, including the regulation of counselling therapists, EPPP, psychology training and supervision issues, professional wills and centralized file storage, Alberta Bills 9 and 13, the forthcoming Care-First program, first-responder claims, and psychologists’ place within Alberta’s evolving four-pillar healthcare system. We also advocated for low-cost professional liability insurance and increased mental health coverage. We met with the Ministry of Mental Health and Addiction at “the Ledge,” Recovery Alberta, Primary Care Alberta, CAP, AHS, and other healthcare leaders, while contributing opeds and public commentary on the benefits of psychology and mental health care.

All actions this past year were grounded in PAA’s 2020– 2025 Strategic Plan:

PAA’s advocacy work extended to reconciliation and public impact. We supported relationship-building surrounding CAP and Siksika Nation’s MoU, and continuously emphasized cultural humility, harmony, and meaningful Indigenous partnerships. We revived PAA’s provincial conference, absent since 2019, creating another valuable opportunity for psychologists to connect, learn, and engage.

Advocate for Psychology's Unique Value Focus on PAA's Membership Value Enhance the Development of Psychologists Across Career lifespan Promote the Psychological Health of all Albertans Ensure Financial Sustainability

We added membership value related to the day-to-day realities of psychologists’ work lives. Additionally, PAA and national partners worked on two particularly important initiatives: (1) enhanced professional liability insurance options and (2) access to affordable extended health/mental health and dental benefits in Alberta.

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO - CONTINUED Leadership & Strategic Planning As the largest provincial, territorial, or state psychology association in North America, PAA’s reach, impact, and leadership extends far and wide. In 2025/26, I was honoured to be elected Chair of Canada’s national association of psychology associations (CPAP), and to participate in the ACPRO–CPA Steering Committee on training and education nationally. This past year, I was also part of CAP’s Diagnosis and Assessment Task Force, Provincial Psychology Professional Practice Council, Alberta’s Allied Health & Rehab Strategic Coalition, Healthcare Associations of Alberta Executive Leadership Forum, and the State, Provincial, and Territorial Affairs Executive Council. 2025/26 prepared us for what comes next, as PAA marked 30 years as a stand-alone, independent organization. Through months of strategic reflection, consultation, and Board leadership, we developed PAA’s 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, which centers on:

Importantly, PAA’s modified mission is elegantly simple and straightforward: “To connect and empower psychologists in Alberta.” None of this happens without people. At year’s end, I extend deep gratitude to outgoing President Dr. Quintina Bearchief Adolpho, R.Psych., whose wisdom, perspective, and leadership strengthened PAA and prepared us for the next chapter. I also thank outgoing Board members Dr. Sandra Dixon, R.Psych., and Tamara Austin, R.Psych., for 6years of most-excellent service, stewardship, and commitment to PAA, its members, and the field of psychology. To our members, volunteers, Board and staff, I say, ‘Thank You.’ In the coming year, we will keep listening intentionally, learning openly, and responding decisively. We will also keep acting and pursuing meaningful and measurable change and further building an association worthy of your trust.

Professional Excellence Member Value Advocacy and Access to Psychological Services Reconciliation & Social Responsibility Collective Leadership

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

PAA acknowledges we are on Indigenous land. We do this to strengthen the awareness of the presence, and rights, of all First Peoples. We do this to recognize the history of colonialism and its impact on the Indigenous Peoples of this land. We do this as a transformative act in response to Indigenous erasure. We do this in respect of the need for meaningful change toward reconciliation. And we do this to weave Indigenous presence into our systems and processes. Lands in and around Alberta are traditional meeting and traveling routes for diverse Indigenous peoples, including the Cree, Dene, Stoney-Nakoda-Sioux, Blood, Blackfoot Confederacy Nations, the Métis Nation of Alberta, and many others. Their vibrant histories, languages and cultures continue to influence our vibrant communities, and whose footsteps have marked these lands for centuries. In recognizing the contributions and importance of Indigenous Peoples, we take a necessary small step towards a clear and overt commitment to embody the promises and the challenges of Truth and Reconciliation.

PRESIDENT’S NOTE Dr. Quintina Bearchief-Adolpho R.Psych

It has been an honour to serve as the Board Chair for PAA over the past year. The role has been both demanding and deeply fulfilling. During this time, the Board worked tirelessly to hire a new CEO, clarify executive roles, advance updates to our bylaws and policies, develop a new 5-year strategic plan, and work closely to support organizational transition and growth. As my term ended, I find myself reflecting not only on what we accomplished but also on what this role has meant to me personally. When I was about nine years old, my parents stopped at a KOA for the night. I was super excited because I loved camping, because it meant adventure. One morning, while waiting for my mother by the sinks in the shower building, I overheard two women talking. One asked why my mother was taking so long. The other looked at me and said, “Because she’s a dirty Indian.” That moment stayed with me for a long time. Serving as the first Indigenous President of PAA, the largest psychological association in North America, is something I never could have imagined as that little girl. But this is not just my story. It is a story of resilience, of change, and of what becomes possible when people who were once excluded begin to see themselves represented at the table. My father attended a residential school, where he endured experiences that no child should ever face. My mother was sent to Charles Camsell Hospital, where she was subjected to experimentation that resulted in the removal of one of her lungs. I know this because I saw the scars etched across her back. My parents carried immense trauma, yet they did the best they could. They taught me perseverance, strength, and values that continue to guide me. For that, I will always be grateful. Although they tried to protect me, they could not shield me from everything. Like many in our communities, I did not escape the impacts of intergenerational trauma. And yet I come from strong ancestors. I believe Creator guided my path and placed people in my life who encouraged me to pursue education, even when I struggled to believe in myself. 04

“Please know that what you do has a meaningful impact. It shapes lives, strengthens communities, and contributes to a healthier society.” Along that journey, I met my husband, who has been my unwavering support for more than 30 years. Together, we raised six children, two of whom were born while I was in graduate school, and now we are blessed with seven grandchildren. Those years were not easy. There were late nights, financial strain, and many moments of uncertainty. Completing my dissertation was one of the greatest challenges I faced, especially as writing did not come easily to me. I also spent many nights worrying I would not pass the EPPP, an exam I did not even know existed when I first entered graduate school. In some ways, that may have been a blessing. After graduating, we returned to Alberta so I could spend time caring for my parents. I believed I would finally have that time with them, but soon after, they passed. With all of these experiences, I never imagined myself sitting on this Board, let alone serving as its President. For Indigenous psychologists and students, representation matters. Leadership matters. Seeing yourself reflected in these spaces matters. It affirms that you belong here, too. This past year has not been without its challenges, including some personal ones. Through it all, I have been deeply grateful for my colleagues' patience, kindness, and support. Serving alongside this Board has truly been a meaningful experience. I am proud of what we have accomplished together and sincerely appreciative of the care and dedication each member has brought to this work. In particular, I would like to recognize and thank the following: Dr. Bill Hanson and the PAA staff have shown amazing focus, leadership, out-of-the-box thinking, passion, and organization.

PRESIDENT’S NOTE - CONTINUED Tamara Austin: Thank you for your wisdom in rural and Indigenous psychology, and for the warm welcome you extended to me at our very first meeting. Sandra Dixon: Thank you for your academic insight and for your contributions to measuring and strengthening our board culture. Carmen Bellows: Thank you for your governance expertise and leadership. Your intelligence is exceptional, matched equally by your humility. Rashmani Chakrabarty: I continue to be impressed by your knowledge, insight, and exceptional communication skills. Lisa Kaldenbach: Thank you for your professionalism, dependability, and commitment to excellence. Christopher Pawluk: Thank you for your invaluable support and expertise. We would not have accomplished key initiatives this year, including the CEO evaluation, without your contributions. Dr. Allison McNeil: Thank you for your leadership, your expertise in assessment, and your ability to lead with grace.

Stacey Steele: I am deeply grateful to have served alongside you. Your kindness, compassion, work ethic, and unwavering support have meant more than I can express. I pass the torch with full confidence that the organization is in excellent hands. I also want to acknowledge the work so many of you do every day, often quietly and without recognition. Supporting others in the ways that psychologists do is not easy, particularly when you may not always receive the support you need. Please know that what you do has a meaningful impact. It shapes lives, strengthens communities, and contributes to a healthier society. I encourage you to continue forward in whatever ways are sustainable for you.

YOUR WORK MATTERS!

WHO WE ARE & WHAT WE DO Psychologists’ Association of Alberta (PAA) is the voluntary body that: advocates for consumers of psychological and mental health services advocates for psychology in Alberta informs the public and the media PAA supports initiatives that seek to enhance health and well-being in our province: having an active communications strategy operating a province-wide referral service providing professional development and networking opportunities for members 2020–2025 Strategic Goals Advocate for psychology's unique value Promote the psychological health of all Albertans Enhance the development of psychologists across career lifespan Focus on PAA's membership value Ensure financial sustainability

2026-2030 STRATEGIC GOALS During 2025–2026, PAA developed a new five-year strategic plan as part of a period of organizational transition and growth. Pillar 1: Professional Excellence and Ethical Leadership Pillar 2: Member Value Across the Career Lifecycle Pillar 3: Advocacy, Public Impact, and Access to Care Pillar 4: Equity, Reconciliation, and Social Responsibility Pillar 5: Collective Leadership and National Collaboration Read more online... 05

STRATEGIC GOALS 2020–2025: RETROSPECTIVE

Listening. Learning. Responding. Advocate for Psychology's Unique Value (pg. 8) Focus on PAA's Membership Value (pg. 10) Enhance the Development of Psychologists Across Career Lifespan (pg. 16) Promote the Psychological Health of all Albertans (pg. 20) Ensure Financial Sustainability (pg. 22)

As healthcare and professional landscapes evolve, PAA is actively refining its strategic vision to better support our members and serve Albertans. Direct member feedback from surveys and ongoing dialogue continues to drive our organizational priorities and how we allocate resources. Self-reflection is never easy; active listening is even more difficult. But together, they form the foundation of our commitment to our members and the broader community. The transition from PAA’s 2020–2025 Strategic Plan to the 2026–2030 Strategic Plan marks a shift in perspective. While the plan that just concluded established fiscal stability and defined "what we need to do," the 2026–2030 framework elevates our mission to a vision-led mandate focused on what we want to be and the impact we want to have. Our core mission remains the same: strengthening and supporting psychologists, and serving and advocating for the mental health needs of Albertans. As PAA begins to action the 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, we want to take a look back on what we’ve accomplished the past five years.

FISCAL YEAR APRIL 1, 2025 – MARCH 31, 2026

PRESIDENT Dr. Quintina Bearchief Adolpho, R.Psych

PRESIDENT-ELECT Stacey Steele, R.Psych

AUDIT COMMITTEE CHAIR Chris Pawluk, R.Psych

MEMBER-AT-LARGE & BOARD CUSTODIAN Rashmani Chakrabaty, R. Psych

MEMBER-AT-LARGE & BOARD CUSTODIAN Tamara Austin, R.Psych

MEMBER-AT-LARGE Dr. Sandra Dixon, R.Psych

MEMBER-AT-LARGE Carmen Bellows, R.Psych

MEMBER-AT-LARGE Lisa Kaldenbach, R. Psych

MEMBER-AT-LARGE Dr. Allison McNeil, R. Psych

PAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS 07

ADVOCATE FOR PSYCHOLOGY'S UNIQUE VALUE

Provincial Advocacy & Government Relations PAA met with Alberta’s Minister of Mental Health and Addiction’s senior leadership team and Chief of Staff. Key themes included psychologists as first points-of-contact, integration of psychology across healthcare pillars, supervision and practicum infrastructure needs, Indigenous-led mental wellness partnerships, and role clarity in counselling therapist regulation. Dr. Hanson has joined the sub-committee on counselor regulation. The meeting was professional, collaborative, and solution-focused and lasted twice as long as scheduled/expected. Follow-up materials and requests are being offered to the Ministry. Notably, Minster Rick Wilson spoke at the 2025 Gala. Dr. Hanson’s local and national leadership roles include Chair of CPAP, member of CAP’s Diagnosis & Assessment Task Force, and participation in the CPA– ACRPO Summit on Education & Training in Canada. Photo from left to right: Dr. Harpreet Gill, PAA Director of Professional Affairs, Angela Sargent, PAA Governance Officer, Jay Ernst, Senior Policy Advisor, R-Jay Melnichuk, Chief of Staff, Dr. Hanson, PAA CEO, Katelyn Lomax, Ministerial Assistant

Forthcoming Position Statements

PAA is finalizing Position Statements regarding Bills 9 and 13, grounded in evidence, ethical review, governance oversight, and solution-oriented framing.

ADVOCATE FOR PSYCHOLOGY'S UNIQUE VALUE National Presence PAA had a strong presence at CPAP’s national board meeting, including a private tour of CPA Headquarters in Ottawa, and APA’s Practice & SPTA invitation only Leadership Conference (PSLC) in Washington, DC. PSLC related to engagement in membership and governance best practices, workforce advocacy, interjurisdictional mobility discussions, and public education campaigns related to professional identity. Drs. Hanson, Gill, Bearchief-Adolpho, and Dixon attended, as did PAA’s Governance Officer, Ms. Sargeant. Dr. Hanson and PAA’s Audit Chair, Chris Pawluk, attended CPAP.

A Position on the EPPP On September 6, 2025, PAA’s Board of Directors unanimously approved the following: PAA officially takes a middle-ground position regarding the EPPP. It support a maximum of six total EPPP attempts during CAP's five-year provisional registration period. Formal remediation must occur after the fourth failed attempt. A seventh final/terminal attempt could be considered upon re-application to CAP with documented evidence of additional training, including at least 12.0 graduate-level course credits in foundational areas such as research methods, biopsychology, cognitive-affective bases of behaviour, social psychology, or psychology of individual differences. The position considers research evidence, regulatory norms, member input, candidate fairness, public protection and limitations of the EPPP. Read more online...

FOCUS ON PAA'S MEMBERSHIP VALUE New Member Benefits

Modernizing the Member Experience New Member Benefits Member feedback helps shape the benefits we offer through our provider partnerships and the professional support we aim to deliver as an Association. In response to what we heard through our member surveys and ongoing conversations, we launched 4 new affinity partnerships with benefits focused on practical support for members and their practices: Psych-Guard Consentia Owl Practice Helcim Our goal at PAA is to support psychologists, affiliates, and students through resources tailored to each career stage. PAA members receive benefits relating to professional ethical guidance, identity, advocacy, support, professional development, communication, advertising, and discounts. Member discounts include services for personal and professional lives, such as professional liability, home, and auto insurance, discounted practice management and operations software, discounted advertising, exclusive health and wellness rates, centralized file storage, and preferred travel rates. We also offer discounted, accredited, and responsive CPD to meet the needs of our members and the field. 10

New Website and Member Portal Streamlined Membership Renewals & Upgrades Public Facing Branding Initiative Focused Advocacy and Engagement Our Logo Story 2025 Awards Gala and Winners Relaunched Annual Conference

New Website and Member Portal During the year, PAA launched a modernized website and member portal, improving collaboration, security, membership management, event registration and connections with peers across Alberta. We continued to update and improve functionality and ease of navigation, helping members access PAA programs, services, resources and newly expanded benefits more quickly and intuitively. We are listening to the feedback provided by users and are making improvements, some of which include: Enhanced security and privacy: Stronger safeguards for member information. Custom subscriptions: Greater control over how and when members receive communications. Improved community connections: More effective ways to engage with peers across Alberta.

FOCUS ON PAA'S MEMBERSHIP VALUE Streamlined Membership Renewals & Upgrades PAA membership connects you to a province-wide community of more than 4,000 professionals who share a commitment to psychology and its impact on people and communities. Members gain access to professional development, networking, mentorship, practical resources, exclusive savings and opportunities to help shape the future of the profession. Membership also strengthens PAA’s collective voice in advocating for psychologists and improved access to psychological and mental health services. To further support members at every stage of their professional journey, PAA introduced optional GOLD and PLATINUM membership upgrades this past year.

Our Staff

These enhanced tiers provide valuable savings and expanded access to: PAA services Ethics consultations Career development and business practice consultations PAA 2026 Conference free for Platinum members Continuing Professional Development opportunities Extended benefits With Basic, Gold and Platinum options, members can choose the level of support, resources and value that best fits their needs and stage of career.

Our team brings PAA’s mandate to life by connecting and supporting psychologists across Alberta. We listen and learn from members’ experiences, priorities and ideas to improve our services and enhance value, advocacy and professional support. Together, we use what we hear to inform our work while advancing psychology and contributing to the future of mental health care.

Dr. William E. Hanson Ph.D., R.Psych, CEO

Jiya Juneja Executive Assistant

Joanna Leung Chief Operating Officer

Angela Sargent Governance Officer

Dr. Harpreet Gill Ph.D., R.Psych, Director of Professional Affairs

Annika Rorem Guidance Officer

Matthew Cairns, R.Psych Director of Career Affairs

Emma McGrath Member Services Officer

Ken Schwanke Director of Communications & Strategic Engagement

Abby Oloriz Resources Assistant 11

FOCUS ON PAA'S MEMBERSHIP VALUE Membership by the Numbers PAA is the largest provincial, territorial, and state psychological association in North America. Members of PAA help shape issues that matter while connecting with and learning from their peers. Members of PAA are engaged: they network, foster lifelong learning by attending workshops, seek out support, market their practices, support advocacy, and contribute to Alberta’s unique psychology landscape. In 2025-2026, we had a total of 4389 members. BMS Liability Insurance The Council of Professional Associations of Psychology (CPAP) and the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) manage the BMS Liability Insurance program, providing psychologists with access to comprehensive professional liability coverage at competitive rates. As a member of CPAP, PAA administers the program for Alberta psychologists, helping members access coverage designed to meet the needs of the profession. Through the program, members benefit from the collective purchasing power of psychology associations across Canada and reliable liability protection.

1,000

Full Members

1,870

Provisional

919

Early Career

771

Student

518

Lifetime

177

Out of Province

Professional Affiliate

Psychological Assistant

Non-Practising

4,389

Total Members

FOCUS ON PAA'S MEMBERSHIP VALUE Communities of Practice 0

2000

4000

Indigenizing Psychology

4058

Clinical/Counselling Psychology

4058

Social Justice, Equity & Diversity

4058

Private Practice

3609

School Psychology

3608

Rural, Remote, & Very Remote Practice

3607

Registered Psychologists

2754

Supervision

1968

Psychologists in Training Professional Aﬃliates

1244 60

Participants

Data reflects a change in how communities are assigned. Previously, members had to actively join eligible communities; now, members are automatically enrolled and can opt out. PAA is considering three new communities of practice in 20262027.

New Member Benefits Member feedback continues to guide how we strengthen the value of membership. In response to what we heard through our member surveys and ongoing conversations, we introduced four new benefits focused on practical support for members and their practices. Psych-Guard: Provides secure record management, storage and destruction services beyond retirement or death, reducing the burden on friends and colleagues while providing greater peace of mind. PAA Members receive 15% off a clinical executor. Owl Practice: Offers PAA members 20% off their first year on any plan. Existing users can also earn a $100 account credit for each successful referral.

Helcim: Gives PAA members a choice of sign-up bonus to offset initial costs: a free card reader or $10,000 in processing at no cost.

Consentia: Offers PAA Gold & Platinum Members 10% off secure file digitization and client record storage, making physical records easier to manage and access.

FOCUS ON PAA'S MEMBERSHIP VALUE Public Facing Branding Initiative Strategic Alignment and Brand Direction As PAA enters its next operational phase, it has taken steps to refresh its visual identity and align its core communications with the new 2026-2030 Strategic Plan. Following the recent introduction of an updated logo and a short set of brand guidelines, next steps include building out our visual identity and communications approach under the "One PAA” focus - “a unified, trusted, and influential professional association that advances psychology’s contribution to the health, well-being, and resilience of all Albertans.” Key areas guiding PAA communications include: Member Support: Continuing to strengthen connections across the network of over 4,300 Alberta psychology professionals by highlighting existing resources and professional development opportunities.

Lake Louise

Focused Advocacy & Engagement: Maintaining a clear, practical approach to advocacy that reflects member priorities and promotes the expertise of psychologists within Alberta's health ecosystem. Public & Partner Alignment: Improving organizational clarity by clearly communicating PAA's role in public education, advocacy, and referral services. Identity Rollout: Progressing with the rollout of updated visual elements and core messaging to ensure consistent organizational representation. By focusing on these priorities, PAA ensures its communications and branding efforts foster organizational stability while delivering reliable and meaningful support to our members and the communities we serve.

Our Logo Story Grounded in History. Focused on the Future Since 1996, PAA has been the independent voice for psychologists in Alberta, operating as a standalone professional association distinct from the College of Alberta Psychologists. Over the last 30 years we have grown, adapted, and enhanced what it means to be a PAA member. Reflecting on this milestone, it became clear that PAA had outgrown its original identity and the time was right for a brand refresh that reflects PAA’s work in 2026 and beyond. Representing over 4,000 psychologists at every stage of their careers and every corner of Alberta, the new logo design represents the many facets of psychology, weaving together a diverse foundation of knowledge while staying deeply connected to the Alberta landscape. 14

The design represents an inclusive and connected community of working and learning in every corner of Alberta. At the heart of the new identity is the Psi symbol, an enduring connection to psychology and to PAA's history. Its refreshed form conveys the fluid, interconnected nature of knowledge within the profession, knowledge that continues to grow and evolve across cultures, academic settings and practical applications. The familiar teal inspired by Alberta's iconic Lake Louise also remains a fundamental part of the PAA identity. Retaining this distinctive colour creates a visual connection to our past while giving the brand a fresh, contemporary expression. Read more online...

FOCUS ON PAA'S MEMBERSHIP VALUE Dr. Keith Dobson Pettifor Lifetime Achievement Award

2025 Award Winners The 2025 Awards Gala, Illuminating the Journey, was an elegant evening of celebration that brought together over 200 guests, including the Minister of Mental Health and Addiction, Minister Wilson, his Chief of Staff Jay Ernst, and Ministerial Assistant Katelyn Lomax. It was an unforgettable evening honoring Alberta's Newly Registered Psychologists and our Awards winners. The PAA Awards Adjudication Committee received 22 nominations for the 2025 awards, honoring six welldeserving psychologists from across Alberta. This dedicated committee meets three times a year to review existing award nomination criteria, award applications, and new and upcoming categories.

Dr. Gina Wong Excellence in Teaching Psychology

Dr. Tiffany Beks Doctoral Dissertation Award

Anita Harder Excellence in Clinical Supervision Award

Dr. Gina Ko Psychologist of the Year Award

Awards Adjudicating Committee: Dr. Bill Hanson, Dr. Emma Climie, Dr. Jessica Van Vliet, Dr. Erik Wikman, Dr. Stu Hoover, Dr. Sally MacLean, and Dr. Sandra Dixon. Katherine Archibald Master's Thesis Research Award

2025 Awards Gala On October 3, 2025, PAA hosted its annual Awards Gala with over 200 attendees. The event brought together key partners including the Minister of Mental Health & Addiction, the CAP Registrar and Council President, board members, award winners, and newly registered psychologists. The Gala was well-received and fostered a strong sense of community and connection among members and partners alike.

25 a 20 Gal

Gala 2025

ENHANCE THE DEVELOPMENT OF PSYCHOLOGISTS ACROSS CAREER LIFESPAN Professional Guidance Program PAA’s Professional Guidance Program provides guidance to registered psychologists and registered provisional facing ethical dilemmas as well as encourage ethical decisionmaking and practices. Psychologists facing an ethical dilemma or clinical concern have access to a library of resources and are offered the opportunity to discuss their concerns with the Director of Professional Affairs or a Practice Advisor. The mission of this program is to enhance professional practice, circumvent problems, and educate psychologists on ethical standards and practices and how to apply them. Consultations In 2025/2026, PAA responded to 314 requests, providing resources to support ethical decision-making and connecting members with experienced Practice Advisors and the Director of Professional Affairs. Consultations with the Director of Professional Affairs increased by 37% compared with 2024/2025. The Professional Guidance Program offers 1.0 Continuing Education Credit for full paid consultations with the Director of Professional Affairs. Members can also access brief phone consultations for urgent or quick inquiries. The most common topics in 2025/2026 were: File Management and Release of Information Confidentiality Private Practice

Thank you to our volunteer Practice Advisors for their significant contribution to the PAA!

New Requests by Topic Area File Management and Release of Information Confidentiality Private Practice General Legal General Ethics Assessment Other Conflict of Interest and Dual Roles Reporting Supervision Minors Informed Consent Professional Boundaries Competence Treatment

Consultation Requests Year over Year 300

295

314

250 200 150 100 50 0

2024-2025

2025-2026

19% 14% 10% 9% 8% 7% 7% 6% 6% 4% 3% 3% 2% 1% 1%

ENHANCE THE DEVELOPMENT OF PSYCHOLOGISTS ACROSS CAREER LIFESPAN Career Affairs Matthew Cairns, R. Psych, was hired as PAA’s Director of Career Affairs. Notable PGP CPD Events On September 19, 2025, Dr. Harpreet Gill and Dr. Jaleh Shahin offered a full day in person workshop, “Ethical Practice and Financial Sustainability: Navigating the Intersection of Psychology and Business.” On November 3, 2025, the PGP offered the first virtual workshop in partnership with the British Columbia Psychological Association, “Best Practices to Prevent Ethical Pitfalls.” Psychological Services Fund The PAA Psychological Services Funds is the result of a partnership between the PAA, the Edmonton Community Foundation, the Calgary Foundation, and the Canadian Mental Health Association, Alberta Division. On a yearly basis, the Edmonton Community Foundation and the Calgary Foundation disburse a percentage of the funds to the Canadian Mental Health Association, Alberta Division, which in turn uses the funds to pay for psychological services for Albertans who could not otherwise afford them.

Ethics Resources The PGP webpage includes an online library featuring tip sheets on ethic-related topics, an Ethical Dilemma worksheet, and a repository with ethics-related articles for members to access. This year, we added the “Documentation Self-Audit Worksheet” and the “Clinical Supervision Checklist.” Dr. Harpreet Gill’s “Ethics Corner” articles are featured in each issue of our magazine Psymposium. Lunch N Learn The Professional Guidance Program launched the Ethics Lunch N Learn service presentations where our Director of Professional Affairs delivers tailored presentations about best ethical practices on various topics in psychology to private practices. In the 2025/2026 membership year, we offered 5 Lunch N’ Learn Presentations to private practices. Webinars: There are three recorded 1.0 C.E. credit webinars for purchase. Ethical Decision Making Informed Consent. Navigating Ethical Challenges: Professional Opinions in Psychology

In 2025, 11 applicants were approved for funding. The funding covers five counselling sessions or the same maximum equivalency in fees towards an assessment.

Psychology Unboxed. This year, we added two new episodes of the Psychology Unboxed Podcast. Currently seven episodes are on the website for purchase.

This year, we added two new episodes of the Psychology Unboxed Podcast. Currently seven episodes are on the website for purchase. Episode #6: Being an Ethical Psychologist Understanding and Preventing Risks of Complaints Episode #7: Exploring the Ethics and Realities of the Supervision Relationship Listeners will receive 1 C.E. credit for each episode. 17

ENHANCE THE DEVELOPMENT OF PSYCHOLOGISTS ACROSS CAREER LIFESPAN Support Funds Approved: The PAA Benevolence & Indigenous Community Fund PAA Benevolence Fund Purpose The Psychologists’ Association of Alberta (PAA) Benevolence Fund exists to provide compassionate, short-term financial assistance to PAA members experiencing unforeseen personal or professional hardship. The Fund reflects PAA’s commitment to fostering collegial care, ethical responsibility, and mutual support within the profession. It’s a matter of ‘psychologists helping psychologists.’

and allied mental health professionals for three days of learning and connection, with keynotes, workshops, round tables and panel discussions covering professional practice, ethics, jurisprudence and Indigenous-focused education.

PAA Indigenous Community Fund The PAA Indigenous Community Fund advances communitydefined mental wellness and related priorities of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples in Alberta. It also provides confidential, short-term assistance to Indigenous PAA members experiencing acute hardship and/or challenges related to the EPPP. The Fund prioritizes Indigenous-led initiatives and respects community protocols, data sovereignty, and FPIC (Free, Prior, and Informed Consent). PAA appreciates CAP’s financial contribution to the Fund’s start-up.

PAA's Communities received a revamp in January 2026. It is now integrated into PAA's website for easier access and has a similar look to other social media platforms. It is also available to members on the new MyGlue app on mobile phones.

Cultural Humility Workshop PAA and CAP co-sponsored a two-day Cultural Safety and Humility for Psychologists workshop with Beverly KeeshigSoonias, R. Psych and Wilma Spear Chief, R.Psych at Tsuutʼina in Calgary, AB in fall 2025. PAA Conference 2026: Building Professional Capacity This year, PAA planned, developed and promoted its revitalized annual psychology conference. This important new opportunity is designed to equip psychologists across Alberta with relevant knowledge, practical skills and professional connections. Taking place in Edmonton October 1–3, 2026, the conference offers psychologists the opportunity to potentially complete all required Continuing Competence Program hours in one weekend, depending on their chosen sessions. It brings together psychologists, students, researchers, educators 18

Collaboration & Community

Professional Development In the 2025-2026 membership year, our CPD program successfully hosted over 30 live workshops. Two notable offerings that had been free to members were: Cybersecurity for Psychologists: Deconstructing Online Threats and Fortifying Your Cyber Defence facilitated by Kathy Macdonald Unmasking Harm OCD: A Journey from Intrusive Unwanted Thoughts to Healing facilitated by Janet Caryk and Erin Northey. We saw over 100 attendees at both virtual offerings. 2025-2026 Event Attendees: By Event and Course Type Free for Members: 310 Asynchronous Courses: 110 Primers: 543 Virtual Workshops: 434 In-Person Workshops: 238

KEEPING MEMBERS AND THE PUBLIC INFORMED & ENGAGED Psymposium Magazine PAA Psymposium is published four times a year to connect psychologists, share ideas and support the work of the Association and the profession. It is available to PAA members through our website or by subscription, as well as to public subscribers and others interested in the practice of psychology.

Social Media PAA continues to expand its presence across social media, using these channels to share content with members and the broader psychology community. As our social media strategy evolves, we are focused on creating content that is useful, interesting and worth following, from professional news and PAA updates to opportunities for connection and learning. Social media will also play an increasingly important role in promoting our Continuing Competency Program and helping psychologists discover relevant professional development opportunities.

PROMOTE THE PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH OF ALL ALBERTANS Siksika Health Services and CAP Sign Memorandum of Understanding In June 2025, the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta (PAA) helped mark a significant step toward culturally responsive mental health care by participating in a traditional ceremony and memorandum of understanding event involving Siksika Health Services and the College of Alberta Psychologists.

July 25 , 2025 FOR IM MEDIATE RELE

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Photo from left to right: Dr. Jill Turner; Dr. Richard Spelliscy; Chief Ouray Crowfoot; Siksika Health Services CEO Angie Sarsons; Dr. Quintina Bearchief-Adolpho; Dr. Bill Hanson; Councilor Ike Solway.

PAA’s incoming Board President, Dr. Quintina BearchiefAdolpho, also brought valuable clinical and community leadership to the occasion. Through its presence and advocacy, PAA supported a shared commitment to holistic healing, professional partnership, and safe, equitable, culturally appropriate mental health services for Siksika Nation.

PROMOTE THE PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH OF ALL ALBERTANS The gathering opened with a pipe ceremony led by Elder Roger Prairie Chicken, affirming the partnership through Siksika protocol before the formal signing at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park. PAA CEO Dr. Bill Hanson spoke to the importance of doing the right thing for the right reasons, reinforcing the Association’s commitment to respectful, meaningful collaboration. The MOU and traditional pipe ceremony represent a sacred and binding commitment between Siksika Health Services and CAP to advancing reconciliation within psychology. The framework affirms CAP’s respect for the autonomy and sovereignty of the Siksika Nation, while Siksika Health Services recognizes CAP’s regulatory authority over psychologists practising within the community. Together, the organizations are supporting culturally appropriate, safe and trauma-informed psychological practices that respond to the unique health priorities of Siksika Nation members, including intergenerational trauma and grief. Background From 2018 to 2022, PAA and CAP established a joint working group, endorsed by both Boards, to advance truth and reconciliation within psychology. The group focused on Indigenous psychologists and the clients and communities we serve, marking an important step in the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.

ENSURE FINANCIAL STABILITY Audit Committee Chair's Report We are pleased to report to the PAA membership on the financial status of the association for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. PAA's audited financial statements for the fiscal year April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, ended with a deficit of $53,868. The deficit was intentional and budgeted. The board planned for a deficit of $66,019 as a deliberate investment in the association's strategic priorities and in enhanced member services, and the year closed $12,151 better than

that plan. The board directed the CEO to place additional funds into staffing and into the services that support members, most notably by bringing the professional guidance program in house. Revenue grew by approximately 8 percent on the strength of continued membership growth, and the association's net assets stand at just over $900,000. Revenue grew by approximately 8 percent on the strength of continued membership growth, and the association's net assets stand at just over $900,000.

2025–2026 Revenues & Expenditures* Year End: March 31, 2026 Revenues

Expenses

Net Income

$1,307,166

$-53,868

$-1,361,034

ENSURE FINANCIAL STABILITY PAA's continued strong financial position, adequate reserves, and predicted revenue growth provide a solid foundation upon which we can improve services to members, including the continuation and enhancement of professional guidance services, improved referral services, and additional professional learning as seen by the return of an in-person conference. The PAA has several other exciting member services under development. Cash on hand at year end was well in excess of the six month operating reserve the board maintains. As the audit committee, ensuring funds are wisely spent to provide benefits to members in the short, medium, and long term remains the highest financial priority. Following the search announced last year, and in accordance with our bylaws, Rutwind Brar LLP Chartered Professional Accountants served as our auditor for the first time this year and issued an unmodified opinion on the statements. On the Board's behalf, we thank them for their work through the transition, and we again thank Mahon + Associates for their years of service to the association. We would also like to express our deepest thanks to all PAA staff, board members, and key contributors for their prudent and responsible approach to managing our budget and financial resources. Financial statements can be accessed by request. For more information, contact the PAA office. I, Chris Pawluk, Audit Committee Chair of the PAA Board, make a motion to appoint Rutwind Brar LLP to prepare an independent financial report for the upcoming 20262027 fiscal year.

Chris Pawluk, MEd. Registered Psychologist (AB) PAA’s Auditor for the 2026-2027 fiscal year: Rutwind Brar LLP

Statement of Financial Position* As of March 31, 2026 TOTAL ASSETS

$1,723,502

TOTAL NET ASSETS

TOTAL LIABILITY

$902,017

$821,485

*The figures pictured on these pages represent extracted financial details. For complete details, email paa@paaab.ca.

“The 2025/26 budget remains on track - The proposed 2026/27 budget is designed to elevate the Association and reinvest projected revenues directly into member services, career development programming, digital infrastructure, and advocacy initiatives.” Chris Pawluk, MEd. Registered Psychologist (AB) 23

PAA • 30 YEARS 1996–2026