How to Be a Leader in Your Practice and in OPA
Leadership in psychology is not defined by titles or formal positions. It is reflected in the everyday choices psychologists and psychological associates make to support clients, strengthen their communities, elevate professional standards, and contribute to the field as a whole. Within clinical practice and within the Ontario Psychological Association (OPA), leadership means taking initiative, sharing knowledge, and acting with integrity and compassion. Every clinician, regardless of career stage, has opportunities to lead in meaningful ways.
Leadership Through Mentorship and Guidance
One of the most enduring forms of leadership in psychology is mentorship. Guiding trainees, early career members, and peers strengthens the entire profession. Mentorship can include supervising graduate students, offering consultation to colleagues, or supporting interns and practicum students as they step into clinical roles.
OPA supports leadership in mentorship by offering opportunities for psychologists and psychological associates to connect across career stages. Members can participate in committees, sections, and working groups where they can share expertise, offer practical guidance, and model professional values. Leadership through mentorship does not require extensive experience. Even students and early career members can lead by sharing resources, organizing peer groups, or contributing to student networks. Information on getting involved is available through OPA’s member engagement page.
Mentorship builds a culture of learning and support, which is foundational to strong psychological practice. It ensures continuity of knowledge and fosters a sense of belonging for new professionals entering the field.
Leadership Through Innovation and Initiative in Practice
Leadership also appears in the ways clinicians adapt their work to meet the needs of the people and communities they serve. Innovation in practice can take many forms. It may involve developing new programs for underserved groups, integrating evidence based digital tools into therapy, or exploring novel approaches to treatment guided by current research.
The American Psychological Association highlights the importance of leadership development within psychological practice and research. Their programs and insights emphasize the value of initiative, creativity, and continuous learning in shaping effective leaders. Leadership through innovation often begins with small changes that ultimately improve access, quality of care, and professional standards.
Clinicians also lead by modeling ethical decision making, engaging in thoughtful reflection, and prioritizing client wellbeing even in challenging circumstances. Leadership in practice includes the emotional labor of maintaining boundaries, supporting diverse populations, and working collaboratively within interprofessional teams.
Opportunities to Lead Within OPA
OPA offers a wide range of avenues for leadership that are accessible to psychologists and psychological associates across all stages of their careers. Leadership opportunities are available through:
Sections and Interest Groups
Members can join groups that align with their areas of practice, such as clinical, school, health, or neuropsychology. These smaller communities provide leadership opportunities in planning events, shaping priorities, and facilitating discussion.
Committees and Working Groups
OPA committees address crucial areas such as advocacy, continuing education, diversity, and student engagement. Serving on a committee allows members to contribute directly to OPA’s strategic direction.
Continuing Education and Training
Members who present at conferences, develop workshops, or share their expertise as facilitators help shape professional learning across the province. Find events and workshops here.
Advocacy and Policy Influence
Leadership within OPA often involves participating in advocacy campaigns that impact mental health policy and public awareness. Members can lend their voices to initiatives that influence systemic change and advance the profession.
For members interested in exploring leadership roles, information is available here.
Inspiring Action and Advocacy
Effective leadership inspires others to take action. Within clinical settings, this may involve encouraging peers to adopt trauma informed practices, promoting inclusive care, or supporting colleagues through consultation and collaboration.
Within OPA, leaders amplify the collective voice of psychology by participating in public campaigns, contributing to policy consultations, or sharing research and expertise through association platforms. Harvard Business Review discusses how leadership often begins with small acts of initiative and thoughtful communication, offering practical insights for professionals across fields, read more here.
By engaging in advocacy, clinicians help ensure that psychology remains visible, relevant, and accessible to the public. Leaders make space for diverse voices in the profession and help shape a mental health system that reflects the needs of Ontarians.
Leadership Across Career Stages
Leadership evolves throughout a professional journey. A student may lead by coordinating study groups, initiating research projects, or contributing to student associations. Early career psychologists might spearhead community programs, supervise trainees, or develop innovative services. Later career clinicians often lead through policy influence, systems level advocacy, teaching, or serving on boards.
Every stage brings unique strengths. OPA values leadership from members at all levels because each contributes to a strong and vibrant profession.
Leadership as a Shared Responsibility
Leadership in psychology is not defined by status. It is grounded in action, reflection, and commitment. Every member of OPA has the opportunity to lead by modeling professional integrity, supporting colleagues, advocating for the public, and contributing to the growth of the field.
By stepping into leadership roles, formal or informal, psychologists and psychological associates help ensure the profession remains ethical, innovative, and responsive to the evolving needs of Ontarians.