The Kaiser Permanente Mental Health Training Program (MHTP) proudly participated in the American Psychological Association (APA) 2026 Annual Convention in Washington, DC, joining more than 10,000 psychology professionals, educators, researchers, and trainees from across the country. As a Level 3 Sponsor, Kaiser Permanente highlighted its commitment to advancing psychology education, workforce development, and exceptional clinical training.
The convention brought together 10,363 attendees, creating valuable opportunities to explore emerging trends and innovations in behavioral health care.
Representing Kaiser Permanente’s nationally recognized training program were MHTC’S Leadership team Kathryn Wetzler, PsyD; Jennifer Thom, PhD; Supria Gill, PhD; Maryam Hafezi, PsyD; and Lisa Vine, LCSW. Their leadership introduced many attendees to MHTP for the first time and fostered meaningful conversations about clinical training, professional development, and the future of mental health care.
A standout moment of the convention was the recognition of Supria Gill, PhD, who received a prestigious APA award for her outstanding contributions to psychology education and training. This honor reflects her dedication to trainee success, clinical excellence, and workforce development.
Supporting the leadership team were Project Managers Angela Payton, MBA, and Hayley Ho, PMP, along with clinical supervisors Joanne Lam, PsyD; Matthew Holland, PsyD; Gerald Gonzales, PhD; and Ana Zdravkovic, PhD, and TA Consultants Faith Gove and Ashley Canty. Together, they staffed the Kaiser Permanente booth, connected with attendees, and shared insights about the breadth and impact of the Mental Health Training Program.
As a Level 3 Sponsor, Kaiser Permanente showcased its robust internship, fellowship, and postdoctoral training opportunities while emphasizing its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and innovation in behavioral health care.
The convention also provided valuable opportunities to connect with prospective trainees, academic partners, and psychology professionals interested in integrated care settings. These conversations reinforced Kaiser Permanente’s reputation as a leader in behavioral health training and highlighted the importance of preparing a diverse and highly skilled workforce.
Participation in APA 2026 reaffirmed Kaiser Permanente’s commitment to shaping the future of psychology training through collaboration, mentorship, and clinical excellence. The team returned from Washington, DC, with strengthened partnerships, fresh ideas, and renewed enthusiasm for advancing innovative training experiences. We look forward to continuing this momentum at next year’s conference in San Francisco, California.
