Electronic Winter 2025 | Issue 65

APA Approves Formation of ECP Caucus

By: Jasleen Singh

This fall, the APA Board of Trustees approved the formation of an Early Career Psychiatrist (ECP) Caucus. The charge of this caucus is to elevate the voice, representation, and impact of the next generation of leaders in psychiatry – Early Career Psychiatrists (ECPs) within the APA. Therefore, the caucus would enable ECPs to have a formal space to address emerging issues, coordinate advocacy efforts, and serve as a centralized body to raise awareness of matters critical to ECPs and the broader field of psychiatry.

As outlined per the proposal for the ECP Caucus that was sent to the APA Board of Trustees, "the initial momentum behind this caucus was driven by the leadership of Tanuja Gandhi, Chair of the Membership Committee, whose efforts—supported by the Chair Gail Robinson, MD—led to the launch of the ECP work group. The work group was launched in response to insights from the Committee’s 2022 membership survey, which revealed lower engagement among ECPs compared to RFMs and General Members. We believe that enhancing ECP’s experience and engagement within the APA will foster long-term commitment to the organization and our local district branches, and continued engagement over time. Our collective mission is to ensure that ECPs feel valued, empowered, and well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the future direction of psychiatry. Dr. Viswanathan’s unwavering support for ECPs was also critical in the success of the group and production of a strong report with comprehensive recommendations. Notably, during the 2025 APA Annual Meeting, a session chaired by Dr. Tanuja Gandhi “Top Challenges for ECPs: An APA Workgroup’s Perspective” focused on ECP concerns. During this session, Dr. Viswanathan’s words inspired those in attendance to formalize their efforts and pursue the creation of an official ECP Caucus within the APA. His continued encouragement and mentorship have served as a guiding force throughout this process."

To form a caucus, a minimum of 50 APA members must indicate their written interest in joining. The initiative to form an ECP caucus received unwavering support, with almost 180 members listed in support of the caucus, far beyond the required 50! This initiative could not have been possible without the support of all these members and all those who continue to support and participate in upcoming ECP caucus activities. A special thank you to Dr. Jessica Mayer (Minnesota), and Dr. Sudhakar Shenoy (ECP Trustee-at-Large, APA Board of Trustees) who allowed me to work with them to help move this initiative forward. I am excited to be a part of both, the APA Membership Committee and a part of the ECP Caucus.

Please stay tuned to more information from APA in the coming weeks about the launch of this new ECP caucus. We hope ECPs in Illinois and beyond will join the new ECP Caucus and get involved!