UPDATE: The House Committee on Education and Workforce is launching an urgent investigation into the American Psychological Association (APA) amid serious allegations of anti-Jewish discrimination. This inquiry, announced just moments ago, highlights a growing concern over the treatment of Jewish members within the APA, which represents over 172,000 professionals across the United States.
Committee Chairman Tim Walberg sent a critical letter to APA President Dr. Debra Kawahara, detailing complaints from Jewish members who report harassment and ostracism based on their identity and beliefs. Many members expressed frustration over the APA’s inaction concerning their grievances, emphasizing a culture where Jewish perspectives are marginalized.
The investigation follows a disturbing open letter from Psychologists Against Antisemitism, which raised alarms over a perceived “insensitivity towards Jews” within the APA. The letter noted that the APA has allegedly hosted newsletters that praised Hamas and provided educational credits for conferences featuring speakers that promoted antisemitic tropes and violence against Jews.
Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern, a Harvard Medical School lecturer and member of the American Jewish Medical Association, stated, “The Congressional investigation into the APA was needed a long time ago. Antisemitism has been rising within the mental health field for years.” This sentiment echoes the concerns of Dr. Julie Ancis, who recalled how the APA previously adopted statements that depicted Israel negatively, reinforcing a culture of hostility towards Jewish viewpoints.
The investigation aims to address alarming trends where Jewish clinicians and clients report feeling their pain and fears are dismissed. Dr. Bar-Halpern revealed that Jewish therapists often experience silence or scorn from colleagues when discussing their trauma, while clients expressing fears of antisemitism are met with dismissive remarks. “We are no longer talking about isolated ideological disagreements,” she said, emphasizing the real clinical harms affecting Jewish communities.
As Congress gears up to review evidence, the APA is required to submit relevant documentation by January 2, 2026. The outcome of this investigation could lead to significant changes in APA practices, including enforcing inclusive language standards and addressing harmful rhetoric within the organization.
The urgency of this investigation cannot be overstated. The need for a non-discriminatory mental health care system is critical, and the APA’s alleged failures could have lasting implications for Jewish professionals and clients seeking support. As discussions unfold, stakeholders are hopeful for a reckoning that promotes equitable treatment and accountability.
This situation is developing rapidly, and more updates are expected in the coming days. Stay tuned for further information on this crucial investigation into the APA and its impact on the mental health field.
