Presidents Column: Bridging research and practice
Joe Miles, PhD
As I write this column, it is finally starting to feel like summer! That means that the annual American Psychological Association Convention in Denver, CO (and online) is just around the corner! Our Program Chair, Kristin Miserocchi, has been hard at work all year developing a fantastic program that includes two poster sessions, skill-building workshops, symposia, and critical conversations. I am particularly excited to see how the programs this year reflect critical and timely themes that I believe are central to the future of group psychology and group psychotherapy: Bridging research and practice, mentoring a diverse new generation of group psychologists and group psychotherapists, advancing global perspectives and collaborations I group work, and using the power of group to bring about social change.
This year, one Division 49 program is going to be highlighted on the APA Convention Feature Stage! Dr. Raquel Martin from Tennessee State University will facilitate a Critical Conversation entitled, “The Evolution of Group Psychotherapy to Liberation Ecosystems.” This program will engage participants in a dialogue on how group psychotherapy can be a tool for societal change and liberation. This program is included in the online program, for those who are not able to attend the Convention in person.
The Convention is one of the only times for Division membership to come together to learn from one another about the latest group research, to build new relationships, and to connect with existing colleagues and friends. It is through attending Division 49 events as a student (especially the renowned social hour) that I came to see the Division as a professional home. The shared passion for the theory, research, and practice of group was certainly a draw for me. But it was the interpersonal connections I made with Division leadership and membership that made me want to be a part of this group. So, I encourage those who are attending the Convention to participate in Division 49’s wonderful programs, attend the Fellows Talk and award ceremony, and enjoy the company of other group folks at the social hour.
On an unrelated note, and before I close, I want to thank Vinny Dehili for his service to the Division as the Domain Representative for Education and Training (and his amazing multi-year run as the Division’s APA Convention Program Chair). I know that when the time is right, Vinny will return to Division leadership (and the Division will be lucky to have him). In the meantime, this means that we have an opening for a new Domain Representative for Education and Training. Domain Representatives typically chair the related standing committee (or serve as the liaison between another chair and the Board). Domain Representatives are voting members of the Board, and attend Board meetings (which happen a minimum of twice a year, but typically up to four times). The term for this role will run through December 31, 2027. If you are interested in nominating yourself or someone else for this position, or if you would like additional information, please contact me at joemiles@utk.edu.
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