Introduction to the Iranian Psychological Association

The Iranian Psychological Association (IPA) was re-established in 1995 with the approval of the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology, aiming to advance, promote, and expand the field of psychology. Today, with over 47,000 members, it is the largest scientific psychological association in the country. Since its inception, the IPA has focused on creating a platform for scientific synergy, supporting credible research, and organizing the professional activities of psychologists.

National evaluations have consistently recognized the IPA as a leading association in the humanities, awarding it the top ranks (A and A+) for fourteen consecutive years by the Commission and Council of Scientific Associations. The IPA has also received numerous honors, including the Farabi International Festival Trophy, certificates of appreciation from ISESCO and UNESCO, and a presidential commendation.

Over time, the Association has established—or is in the process of establishing—numerous specialized divisions, including Women’s Psychology, Sport Psychology, Health Psychology, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Psychology of Religion, Ethics and Spirituality, Industrial-Organizational Psychology, Counseling Psychology, History of Psychology, Educational Psychology, Philosophical-Theoretical Psychology, Trauma and Crisis, Behavioral Neuroscience, Psychology of Culture and Art, Aging Psychology, Social Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Psycho-oncology, and Exceptional Children. Furthermore, branches have been established in various provinces, creating a dynamic structure that allows for precise identification of professional needs and comprehensive planning to enhance knowledge, professional ethics, and service quality in psychology.

Organizing extensive scientific events is one of the IPA’s distinguishing activities. Conferences, symposiums, workshops, meetings, and webinars have served as valuable opportunities for presenting new research, exchanging experiences, and fostering scientific collaboration. To date, ten editions of the “Iranian Psychological Association Congress” have been held, with the 11th National and first International Congress scheduled for 2026, focusing on “Critical Psychology.” Previous congress themes have included New Perspectives in Psychology (2010), Psychology Serving Science and Society (2012), Healthy Individuals and Society (2015), Interdisciplinary Studies and Applied Psychology (2017), Cognition and Technology (2019), Trauma Psychology (2021), Psychology and Social Issues (2023), and the Age of Digital Psychology (2024).

The IPA has also established several scientific awards, such as the Dr. Ali-Akbar Siyasi Award for outstanding doctoral dissertations (three rounds), the Dr. Reza Zamani Award for laboratory research (two rounds), and the Dr. Saeed Shamloo Award for leading clinical researchers (one round).

An innovative initiative of the IPA is the formation of the “Association’s Senior Scholars Society,” now in its third year. This society, comprising distinguished senior psychologists, holds monthly scientific meetings and actively participates in reviewing and guiding important professional and disciplinary topics.

The Association’s scientific journals include:

International Journal of Psychology (IPA) – 36 issues published;

Contemporary Psychology (Biannual) – 35 issues published;

Psychology Knowledge (Biannual) – 18 issues published;

Clinical Health Psychology – 1 issue published.

Additionally, several academic journals in psychology are published with the IPA’s support.

The IPA has played an active role in both natural and human-made disasters, contributing through public calls, collaboration with governmental institutions, issuing statements, and providing specialized content for psychological crisis management. Other key activities include revising university curricula in psychology, addressing professional issues, and enhancing the efficiency of related structures such as the Organization of Psychology and Counseling. Nearly 200 scientific events have been conducted, including monthly lectures, the “Saturday Nights with the IPA” program, scientific competitions, and other gatherings, significantly promoting psychology and strengthening the university-community connection.

Recently, the IPA launched the “Psychological and Counseling Services Center”, providing professional counseling and therapeutic services with experienced specialists. Additionally, training courses, workshops, skill-building programs, and live scientific sessions have strengthened psychologists’ capacities. The student branch supports young professionals’ participation and growth.

A major focus of the IPA is expanding international scientific collaborations. The Association strives to develop international research connections, participate actively in global forums, and facilitate cooperation with overseas academic institutions, extending its impact beyond national borders and fostering the exchange of experience and global scientific collaboration.

Collectively, these efforts have established the IPA as a reputable, leading, and influential institution, advancing mental health and promoting psychological knowledge nationally and internationally through the dedicated involvement of its members, researchers, and professionals.