Psychology at the table: Voices of elected officials and advocates

Psychologists have generally not considered advocacy a significant part of their professional activities. At the same time, federal and state public policies create laws and regulations that significantly impact the profession and the public. This article encourages psychologists to become involved in public policy and describes various methods for becoming engaged. Examples of psychologists who have devoted significant aspects of their professional careers to participation in public policy making are given. Congressman Alan Lowenthal's journey from psychologist to U.S. Congressman is described. Also included are reflections and recommendations from a psychologist who serves as an elected school board member, a state psychological association advocacy leader, and the American Psychological Association's Congressional Government affairs director. Public sector psychologists are especially encouraged to engage in political advocacy and to use their experiences to inform policymakers about psychology research and practice. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).