For Immediate Release

Contact: Rob Grant, Communications Director
202.966.7300, Ext. 119
rgrant@aacap.org

Samantha Phillips, Communications Coordinator
202.966.7300, Ext. 154
sphillips@aacap.org

Washington, DC, September 12, 2017 - The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) opposes any legislation or regulation at the state or federal level that would grant psychologists prescribing privileges.

Mental illness and psychotropic medications affect not only the developing brain but all organ systems. Child and adolescent psychiatrists obtain a four-year medical education with a focus on anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology. During the subsequent five years of residency training, child and adolescent psychiatrists receive extensive clinical supervision in evidence-based treatments and management of medications and side effects.

AACAP opposes psychologists prescribing medication because psychologists do not have a medical education that is essential for the appropriate and safe prescription of medications. Read more on AACAP’s position:

AACAP Policy Statement, “Psychologists Prescribing (http://bit.ly/2f2yzqO)”

The necessity and the timeliness of this resource cannot be understated. By declaring a strong stance on this current topic, AACAP aims to improve the health of youth everywhere.

Our policy statements are created to demonstrate the opinions of the organization, based on the input of our member experts.

If you would like to speak to an expert, please reach out to communications@aacap.org.

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Representing 9,200+ child and adolescent psychiatrists worldwide, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) is the leading authority on children's mental health.

AACAP Members actively research, diagnose, and treat mental illnesses affecting children, adolescents, and their families. For more information, please visit www.aacap.org.