The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) is dedicated to ensuring equitable access to mental health resources and compassionate care for all children, adolescents and their families, regardless of their ability and identity.

We embrace and celebrate the diversity of the populations we serve, including individuals from varied racial, ethnic, gender, sexual orientation, ability, religious, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds. This diversity enriches the care we provide, as well as the experiences of our membership, vendors, and partners. Acknowledging these diverse perspectives strengthens AACAP and amplifies our collective impact.

Our work promotes cultural humility in care delivery, addressing systemic barriers, social and economic determinants, and reducing disparities in mental health outcomes. We are dedicated to fostering equity within AACAP by amplifying the voices of our members and ensuring that all perspectives are valued. By prioritizing equity, we aim to create an environment where both our members and those we serve can thrive.

Child and adolescent psychiatrists play a crucial role in transforming children’s mental health by fostering collaboration among healthcare providers, educators, and families. We strive to create spaces where all individuals feel heard, respected, and valued. Belonging is a cornerstone of our practices and policies and is central to our approach, driving both our internal policies and the care our members provide.

We are committed to recruiting, supporting, and retaining a diverse workforce and membership. AACAP stands firmly against discrimination in all forms, including racism, intolerance, sexism, bigotry, and ableism. Through our committees focused on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, we take targeted actions to establish inclusive policies, provide education, and foster accountability.

AACAP reaffirms its unwavering dedication to building an equitable and inclusive future in child and adolescent psychiatry. We invite our members and partners to join us in advancing this commitment and improving the well-being of children and families everywhere.

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The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry promotes the healthy development of children, adolescents, and families through advocacy, education, and research. Child and adolescent psychiatrists are the leading physician authority on children’s mental health. www.aacap.org