Nope. Cross-neurotype collaboration is the way to go. We need each other's strengths and to assist with each other's challenges. When we share the same values, we are an amazing force! Also, check out the name: LOAP = League of Autistic Psychologists. AC= Affirming Colleagues (strictly speaking, it should have been LOAPPAC but that's silly.)

At the moment, yes. Once we have established the RAP (Register of Affirming Psychologists), Associate Membership will open up. Associate Membership is for Provisional Psychologists, Allied Health Professionals, and Advocates with Lived Experience of Autism and/or ADHD.

Because Psychology operates in a unique political and clinical space (for better and for worse). Psychology has perpetuated the medical model and a particularly ethnocentric approach to mental health care; we have a lot of work to do. LOAPAC was born of my (Yael's) anger at my own profession. Rather than leave, I committed to being part of the change from the inside. "Love the one you're with", as they say.

This is a tricky one to answer because there will always be overlap; human experience doesn't fall into neat, totally separate categories. Speech difficulties might have a psychological or neurological component. Physical disability might be associated with psychological distress. Nevertheless, I believe we each bring our specific skills to the table and we should develop excellence in our respective fields. Sure, I can administer a Sensory Profile, but I can't unpack it like an OT. And I don't think I should learn to!

Fair question! The bigger the membership, the more clout we will have to achieve our aims. The more money coming in, the more we can afford wonderful member benefits and events. From the start, you will gain the RAP (Register of Affirming Psychologists), then there will be the Directory of Affirming Service Providers (DASP!). Webinars, downloadable resources, the Accreditation Course (optional but advised), and most of all COMMUNITY!

For 2024, Yael has invited members to volunteer to participate in peer-review sessions, similar to a Board. Depending on how many members apply, the idea is that for Big Decisions (like accreditation), a group of peers will meet (all applications will be de-identified).

Hopefully one day!