Becoming A Fellow or Distinguished Fellow

Why Should I Become An APA Fellow?

Being a Fellow is an honorary designation that was created by the APA Membership Committee and Board of Trustees to recognize early career members who have demonstrated allegiance to their profession and commitment to the on-going work of the Association. Fellows are recognized by their colleagues in the APA as a member of a very select group and are permitted to use the FAPA designation on all of their professional documentation.

Fellow applications require review and comment from the member’s district branch/state association and approval by the APA Membership Committee and Board of Trustees.

The submission deadline for Fellowship applications is September 1st.

APA Fellowship Guidelines and Application

Why Should I Become a Distinguished Fellow?

Distinguished Fellowship is awarded to outstanding psychiatrists who have made significant contributions to the psychiatric profession in at least five of the following areas: administration, teaching, scientific and scholarly publications, volunteering in mental health and medical activities of social significance, community involvement, as well as for clinical excellence.  Distinguished Fellow is the highest membership honor the APA bestows upon members.

What are the requirements to be nominated for distinguished fellow?

• Not less than eight consecutive years as a General Member or Fellow of the APA.
• Certification by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Canada, the American Osteopathic Association or equivalent certifying board.
• Nomination is initiated by your local District Branch/State Association.
• Three letters supporting your nomination must be received from current Distinguished Fellows or Distinguished Life Fellows.

The General Member or Fellow should be an outstanding psychiatrist who has made significant contributions in at least five of the areas listed below:

1. Certification by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Canada, the American Osteopathic Association or equivalent certifying board.
2. Involvement in the work of the district branch, chapter, and state association activities.
3. Involvement in other components and activities of APA.
4. Involvement in other medical and professional organizations.
5. Participation in non-compensated mental health and medical activities of social significance.
6. Participation in non-medical, non-income-producing community activities.
7. Clinical contributions.
8. Administrative contributions.
9. Teaching contributions.
10. Scientific and scholarly publications.

To be nominated for Distinguished Fellow status, contact your local district branch/state association for information regarding the Distinguished Fellow process.

Courtesy of APA